Book Review: Kudzu for Christmas by Emilie Eklin Khair

Kudzu for Christmas is a picturebook by Emilie Eklin Khair.  The Kudzu game was created during a long drive to school, but now everyone wants to play. Join Sam and Andy and the rest of the gang as they search for cool creatures, friendly beasts, and even their favorite pets in the twisted Kudzu vines. And when winter weather takes the green away, maybe the crazy creatures YOU find will end up hiding in your OWN Christmas tree!

Kudzu for Christmas is an interesting picture book. Kudzu is a vine that is very invasive and grows quickly. While the vines climb trees, utility poles, and buildings they create shapes and shadows that can frighten, or become part of shape finding games. When the winter months come the vines disappear from the normal spots and are missed by those that have included the vines in their games and routines. However, their mother has saves some of the greens and created Christmas ornaments to continue the games in the tree. A sweet and interesting story, but one that I think children that have the vine, or a similar one, in their area will understand most. It was a good story, with artwork to match, but I think it was just okay. 

Early Book Review: A Whole Latte Murder (Java Jive Mystery) by Caroline Fardig

A Whole Latte Murder is the third book in the Java Jive Mystery series by Caroline Fardig and is currently scheduled for release on November 8 2016. While the character and personality dynamics are laid down in the previous books, I think the actual mystery portion of this book will be accessible to readers weather or not that are up to date with the series. If you want to understand the love lives of the main players, then you will need to read the books in order. The first book is Death Before Decaf and the second book is Mug Shot.

Juliet's personal and professional lives have recently received an extra jolt of energy. Her romance with the hunky detective Ryder Hamilton continues to simmer, and business at Java Jive has never been better. But her good mood quickly turns as stale as day-old espresso when she finds out that Ryder has been promoted to his precinct's homicide division. With him risking his life to catch the worst kind of criminals, Juliet's growing sense of unease ignites when a local college student goes missing. Suddenly every Nashville resident is on high alert, especially Juliet's neighbor Chelsea. Juliet does her best to calm the girl's nerves, but her worst fears are confirmed when she finds Chelsea dead. Even though she tries her best to stay out of it, Juliet's involvement puts a strain on Ryder's first homicide case. The situation soon becomes even more personal for Juliet and her best friend Pete Bennett when one of their employees disappears during her shift. As a killer lurks in the shadows, Juliet, Pete, and Ryder seek out a double shot of justice.

A Whole Latte Murder is quick moving with lots of changes for Juliet. Once again Juliet stumbles across a dead body, investigates with well meaning friends, irritates or beguiles the police, and gets herself in a whole pile of trouble. I like that Juliet continues to grow and change as a character, getting more mindful of how her investigation might effect those around her- and fearing for the safety of others more than for herself. I liked that several relationship questions are raised, examined, and dealt with during the book- although there is plenty of room for further changes in that front. I like that despite the danger, and general insanity that seems to surrounds Juliet, she talks to people and hashes out problems rather than just letting them fester or magically disappear. There are some exceptions, but she seems to be taking more and more responsibility for her actions and relationships. She is just as flawed and imperfect as the rest of us, but she is willing to admit it- even if she does not want to. As a bonus, I did not guess the full extent of the final twists, and was glad to be somewhat surprised by the big reveal, and then a few more times as everyone had to survive the ordeal. A fast, fun, and exciting read.

A Whole Latte Murder is just as intense and action packed as the previous books. I think Juliet got herself into even more danger this time around. An entertaining read that had me turning pages well past my bedtime.

Book Review: Dare You To Run (Unbroken Heroes) by Dawn Ryder

Dare You To Run is the second book in the Unbroken Heroes series by Dawn Ryder. I did not read the first book in the series, Dangerous to Know, but I felt like each book can be read on its own and enjoyed. There is a underlying story arch, but I caught up to that pretty quickly.

For Vitus Hale, only one mission has ever gone wrong. All he had to do was rescue a beautiful woman from her kidnappers. But falling hard into bed—and into love—with the stunning innocent was not part of the game plan, and when she leaves him in the dust, Vitus has nothing but a blemished record and a hardened heart. Now, after three long years, his beauty has finally come back into his life—and this time, failure is not an option. Damascus Ryland knew from their first steamy embrace that stoic warrior Vitus Hale is the only man for her, but when her power-hungry Congressman father offered her an ultimatum—sever ties with Vitus, or he dies—Damascus knew she had to walk away to save the man she loved. But now, three years later, a new threat is closing in on her—and tossing Vitus right back into her life. Damascus needs to keep her love for him locked in her heart if she is to keep him safe, but the old flame that burned between them is still as vibrant and hot as ever. Now, Damascus and Vitus must risk it all to find their freedom, and embrace their love.

Dare You To Run is a high action romance that start off with our main players already well aquatinted. The back story is covered well, as are the motives and emotions of both Vitus and Damascus. The dangerous side of politics and power is very clear, and none of the characters are easily defined or put into a box. Even the bad guys think they are doing things for a good reason, although they most often do not agree with it. The interplay between Damascus and Vitus is very well done. The tension between them is palpable, even when they do not want to let go and let each other in. I think all the intrigue; hiding, rescuing, fighting, and so on is well done- but there were moments when I felt like there was just too much Ryder wanter to cover in the book. There is not much that could be left out and still have the needed ground work to answer all the hows and whys raised by the book, so maybe it was just me not being in the mood for more intrigue after reading too many romantic suspense novels too close together.

Dare You To Run is a entertaining read, but it did not grab me as much as her Rock Band series. It was still a good read, but I was somehow hoping for even better. 

Early Book Review: The Magician’s Key: The Secrets of the Pied Piper 2 by Matthew Cody

The Magician’s Key by Matthew Cody is the second book in the Secrets of the Pied Piper trilogy. It is scheduled for release on November 8 2016. The first book was The Peddler's Road, which I gave four stars. You do need to read the books in order to understand the characters and storyline. There is a third book promised to conclude the series.

On the Summer Isle, siblings Max and Carter discovered the magical land where the villainous Pied Piper led the children of Hamelin centuries ago. But only Max made it back.  Now she is determined to rescue her brother. To do so, she will have to find the one and only key to the Summer Isle. That key is controlled by Vodnik, a dastardly magician and soul stealer who will stop at nothing to get what he wants.  Meanwhile, Carter must overcome his own troubles back on the Summer Isle. He’s been separated from his friends and left with a very untrustworthy companion: the Pied Piper himself.  Struggling desperately to find each other, Max and Carter encounter a bashful trollson, a daring elf, a seafaring hobgoblin, and the ever-loyal kobold Bandybulb. As their paths converge, they prepare for the most important quest yet: to send the children of New Hamelin home.

The Magician’s Key begins shortly after The Peddler's Road ends. Max in back and searching for a way to save Carter and her friends still on the Summer Isle, while those left behind are struggling with a changing world, the Piper, and Baba Yaga. Everyone has dangers and decisions to face, and most of the hardest moments come when least expected. Betrayal and loyalty and major  components to the story, and keep everyone guessing. I felt like I got a much better understanding of the Piper, Carter, and some of the New Hamelin children but felt like Max's adventures did not offer nearly as much insight. There were many satisfying moments, and plenty of excitement. However, this book did not appeal to me quite as much as the first book in the series. I feel like this book was mostly just the set up for a grand conclusion. It was still an enjoyable read, but since I enjoyed the first book so much, and the other books I have read from the author, I felt a little let down. None of this will stop me from reading the next book, and looking forward to it.

The Magician’s Key is a good follow up to The Peddler's Road, but was not as compelling in the story or action. It was still a solid read, and I am glad I read it. However, like many second books in trilogies it felt more like a bridge between books than a full story in itself. I sill plan on reading the third book, and trust this author not to disappoint with the conclusion. 

Book Review: Death by Pumpkin Spice (Bookstore Cafe #3) by Alex Erickson

Death by Pumpkin Spice is the third book in the Bookstore Cafe series by Alex Erickson. I have not read the two previous books, but think I caught up to the important action pretty quickly. If I had read the other books I would have had a better understanding of the characters and their relationships. 

Bookstore café owner Krissy Hancock would rather spend Halloween serving pumpkin goodies than wearing costumes with Pine Hills’ wealthiest at Yarborough mansion, especially when the soiree shapes up to be more trick than treat, but a date with Will Foster just might be worth it.  A run-in with an old flame, a failed marriage proposal, and a woman is found strangled to death in a room filled with ominous jack-o’-lanterns are just the start of an eventful evening. All signs suggest a crime of passion—but when the hostess’s jewelry disappears, malevolent intentions seem way more likely.  With the estate on lock down and a killer roaming the halls, Krissy must help Officer Paul Dalton investigate each nook, cranny, and guest for answers—while also confronting a few demons of her own. Someone has lots of skeletons in the closet, and Krissy better tread lightly to expose them

Death by Pumpkin Spice is more than the typical cozy mystery. There are the quirky and fun characters that I expect (and loved) and more crimes and twists than I had hoped for. Since I have not read the previous books I did not have the previous knowledge of the relationship dynamics between Krissy and her co-workers, Paul, Will, the ex, and other characters. I really enjoyed the Agatha Christie style set up and the wacky nature of the house. I liked that Krissy is socially awkward and uncomfortable in the social circle she is thrown into here. I thought the mystery was well done, and had just enough red herrings and odd twists to keep me interested without being overwhelming. My only real issue with the read is Krissy's inner dialogue about the virtues of both Will and Paul. I could understand it to a point, it explained how they all ended up there and gave an extra dramatic element, but I think there was just too much of her mental waffling between the two when no one was actually pushing her to make a decision or make a move.

Death by Pumpkin Spice is a entertaining read that is full of twists and turns. There is more going on than I expect from a cozy mystery, and the characters and action kept me guessing throughout. My only issue was the almost- but not quite- love triangle. 

Book Review: Curse of the Were-Hyena by Bruce Hale

Curse of the Were-Hyena is the first book in the Monstertown Mystery series by Bruce Hale. Mr. Chu, the coolest teacher ever, has developed some very unusual habits, like laughing hysterically for no reason, sniffing people's homework, and chasing chickens. When best friends Carlos and Benny decide to find out what's happening to him, they get caught up in some moonlight madness. And it looks like just the beginning of the weirdness that has arrived in the town of Monterrosa.

Curse of the Were-Hyena is an entertaining read that will appeal to a wide audience. Carlos and Benny each get into a good amount of trouble as they do their best to save their teacher, unravel the mystery, and not become were-anything in the process. I like that they are fully aware of what they are doing and that the adults are not foolish. The adults might miss some things, but are not the clueless cutouts that are often found in children's books. Carlos' family is facing big changes, which gives the story an undercurrent of him trying to find his place in light of a younger sister with big things going on. Benny might be a little to reliable for the goofy option, but I still know people that think like his, so i still found his character to be realistic. The family dynamics play a role, and change as the story continues, which adds an extra dimension to the story. The mystery and supernatural elements kept me on my toes, and held a couple surprises for me. I was pleased to actually have some of the final twists to be unexpected, and in some cases completely so. While not a perfect story, it was well worth the read and I think  it will become a favorite series for many reluctant readers.

Curse of the Were-Hyena is a fast and fun story that will be a hit with middle grade readers. I think this is a series that might encourage more reluctant readers in that age range to follow the series and explore reading a little more.

Book Review: Dojo Surprise by Chris Tougas

Dojo Surprise is a picturebook written and illustrated by Chris Tougas. The six little ninjas of Dojo Daycare and Dojo Daytrip are back for a third adventure. Here they are planning a surprise birthday party for their master. Stealthy as ever, the ninja girls and  boys tiptoe around without a noise (or so they think) as they prepare for the celebration. Meanwhile, the master is spooked by the noises and shadows he senses around him. Is there a dragon over there? It’s a total dojo scare!

Dojo Surprise is another fun and boldly illustrated picturebook for every little ninja. The students are trying to be stealthy in their party prep, but keep startling their master, although he is still not aware to what exactly is going on. I am rarely a fan of the 'unaware adult" that seems so prevalent in children's books, I would like to hope that here it is because the little ninjas are so well trained, but I do not quite buy it. However, I do think that it will highly entertain in a storytime or any read aloud settling. The artwork and thoughtfulness of the ninja students does overtake some of my misgivings- it is still a fun read that will make many young readers smile.

Dojo Surprise is a fun rhyming book for a good laugh and quick read. 

Book Review: Betrayed by a Kiss (An Unlikely Hero) by Kris Rafferty

Betrayed by a Kiss is the first book in the An Unlikely Hero series by Kris Rafferty. Marnie Somerville is sure Dane MacLain is just another bad guy. Her job as resident investigator at Whitman Enterprises is to track down the owners of delinquent accounts, but something about Dane’s case is off, and Marnie can’t resist a good mystery. The secret files and cover-up she finds after hacking her boss’s computer are more than she expected, and now she’s fleeing her former employer, right into Dane’s arms. Former detective Dane MacLain has spent the last year gathering intel against Whitman Enterprises, the company he believes responsible for his wife’s death. When a beautiful and intense woman shows up with information, Dane is willing to accept all she has to offer, especially when the help comes in such a sexy package. Caught in a deadly cat and mouse chase, Dane must do everything he can to protect Marnie as they run for their lives.

Betrayed by a Kiss is fairly fast paced, with plenty of danger and action. Marnie had been trying to go straight, only to discover that the company she worked for was worse than anyone she had worked with while she was growing up. Dane is a former cop that just cannot let go of the wrongs he knows exists, and whats to prove that they exist. They have each been through betrayals and danger in the past, but when Marnie tries to save Dane's life they end up working together to bring down Whitman Enterprises. I liked that we get to see Dane's daughter and sister, and that there is plenty of action and danger to keep things moving alone. I also like that Marnie seems to be a very complex character. She has a serious past and some crazy connections, but sometimes I felt like there must have been a previous book of something to connect people that seemed important to the story and had backstory that was not included in this story. The tension between our main players was high, and the intentions and decisions believable. It all fit together well, but I just did not connect to the characters or story, and found myself skimming over bits of the high action just to get to the resolution faster. I am not sure why the disconnect, there was nothing I can point to. It is perfectly possible it was my mood weather than the fault of the material.

Betrayed by a Kiss is one of those books that had everything, and should have been fantastic, but I just never really got invested in. There was nothing really wrong with it, but I never connected with the characters for some reason. It could have been just not the book I was in the mood for when I read it. I still cannot put my finger on what did not click for me. 

Early Book Review: To Burp or Not to Burp by Dr Dave Willians, Loredana Cunti, Theodore Key

To Burp or Not to Burp: A Guide to Your Body in Space by Dr Dave Willians and Loredana Cunti, with illustrations by Theodore Key is a children's nonfiction book currently scheduled for release on October 11 2016. Of all the questions astronauts are asked by kids, the most frequent one is “How do you go to the toilet in space?” This book answers that question, but many others about the effect of zero gravity on the human body like; How do you brush your hair in space? What happens when you sweat? What does food taste like? The best thing is that the answers are provided by Dr. Dave Williams, a NASA astronaut who speaks from first-hand experience. Written for kids ages 7 to 10, this book uses age-appropriate language to explain the different phenomena that astronauts encounter during a mission. The bright, colorful pages, short blocks of text accompanied by photos and humorous illustrations make this a very attractive choice for young readers. The opening message from Dr. Dave empowers kids to follow his example by believing in themselves and following their dreams.

To Burp or Not to Burp is a perfect book for readers that love space, and those that like to tell joke or learn about bodily functions- and most kinds fit into at least one of these categories. I am not surprised that the most common question asked of astronauts pertains to bodily functions, and am glad that I can answer these questions (or offer the book) when my kids or library patrons ask. There are cartoons and photographs to illustrate the information in the book, and the text is well organized and written in a conversational manner with humor and fun little tidbits I never thought about before. I think readers will enjoy the fact that the book was written with reference to first hand knowledge, rather than in a more textbook style. at no point does the text talk down to readers, in fact it encourages them to work hard and work toward achieving their dreams. The read was fun and highly informative. I think many reluctant readers might use this book as a jumping off point to explore more books about science and the astronauts mentioned in the book.

To Burp or Not to Burp is a book that balances the weird aspects of human biology and the wonders of space travel. well organized facts, humor, and a tone that entertains but does not talk down to readers will keep readers interested. Well down all around. 

Book Review: Baba Yaga by An Leysen

Baba Yaga is a picturebook that was written and illustrated by An Leysen. Once upon a time, in a land far away from here, lived a girl named Olga. Olga lived with her father in a beautiful house, and they were very happy together. Until Olga’s father one day fell in love again but his new wife was cruel and mean. And her sister Baba Yaga, who lived in a dark forest, was even meaner. Baba Yaga was a real witch! There was a rumor she was fond of children on her plate! One day Olga’s stepmother sent her to Baba Yaga. What was she supposed to do now?

Baba Yaga is a retelling of the classic Slavonic myth. Olga is a sweet girl put in a bad situation, a common start to fairy tales world wide. I have heard different tales about Baba Yaga over the years, and I found this version to be simple enough to share with younger readers than most of the versions I have read. The illustrations are lovely and add a great deal to the atmosphere of the story, and included details that enrich the story. This would be a wonderful addition to a classroom unit of fairytales and legends, or just for sharing. It is a little text heavy, which is necessary to tell the story, so I would label this an older picturebook or one to share.

Baba Yaga is a wonderful version of this classic tale. I think the illustrations are what really sold it to me, with their soft ethereal feel. A delightful book for sharing a fairy tale that some might not be familiar with.