Saturday, December 29, 2012

Review: Shadow Walker (Stormwalker #3)

Winter descends on the town of Magellan, and new evil comes to call.

Shadow Walker, by Allyson James, is the third novel in the Stormwalker series. It is winter season in Magellan, Arizona, a high-desert town where the paranormal is normal. Hopi County sheriff Nash Jones is chasing stormwalker Janet Begay down a lonely highway in the desert when the ground collapses beneath them. After tumbling two hundred feet into an underground cavern, she manages to escape with unconscious Nash from her dragon shape-shifter boyfriend, Mick. However, she can't get out of her mind that something dark and dangerous wants her underneath those caverns.

After Mick checks out the sinkhole, his behavior becomes strange and erratic. He has become "touched by shadows", becoming a clear danger to Janet and her friends. Meanwhile, a new county inspector is intent on shutting down her hotel business. Janet must also deal with two other surprises -- her Navajo grandmother takes up residence near her and her elusive younger sister who shares the same Beneath powers. Without much time, Janet must free Mick before she loses him forever.

Janet faces her greatest danger when an evil force enslaves the love of her life. The tables have turned: she must rescue Mick before he becomes a danger to dragons and humans alike. Unwilling to sacrifice both her hotel business and her love for Mick, she journeys with her friends to put an end to the shadows.

This was a very entertaining novel with action, romance, and suspense. Janet is very brave to confront a powerful evil witch to save Mick's life. The power of love is an amazing beauty, and Allyson James captures it perfectly in Mick and Janet's relationship. Overall, I enjoy it and can't wait to read the next novel.

Stay tuned for the next novel in the Stormwalker series, Nightwalker.


Friday, December 28, 2012

Bloodlines: Original Beginning from Adrian's Perspective

If you read the first book, Bloodlines, by Richelle Mead, you will learn that the author had originally planned to write the new series from Adrian's perspective. Well, that changed when Sydney became the protagonist. Nevertheless, Mead provided her fans with this exclusive peak at the original beginning of Bloodlines. If you want to know what happened to Adrian after his relationship ended with Rose Hathaway, check out the original chapter below. I must warn it is truly heartbreakening: Bloodlines - Original Chapter One

Thursday, December 27, 2012

Review: First Drop of Crimson (Night Huntress World #1)

Because once the first crimson drop falls, they will both be lost.

First Drop of Crimson, by Jeaniene Frost, is the first novel in the Night Huntress World books, a spinoff series within the same world of the Night Huntress books featuring Cat Crawfield and master vampire, Bones. The story takes place a year after the events in At Grave's End and Destined for an Early Grave. Denise McGregor became a widow after her human husband died in a gruesome and terrifying ghoul attack. As a result, she wants no part of the supernatural world as she tries to resume a normal life. The night is not safe for mortals, and Denise knows all too well what lurks in the shadows.

Unfortunately, her family has a dark secret. An ancient ancestor stumbled upon dark magic and became an immortal shapeshifter. He escaped his demon master, who has marked Denise as prey. The demon orders Denise to find her missing ancestor if she does not want to suffer more human loss in her family. She turns to Spade, Bones' best friend and a mysterious master vampire, for help. He has walked the earth for centuries vowing never to love another human again. He grudgingly accepts her request, and travels across continents to search for clues on her missing ancestor. What Spade does not realize, though, is Denise may arouse his deepest hungers. Before she can become his mate, they must survive the nightmare together.

This spin-off book exceeded my expectations with a surprising twist. I was afraid that the author would go the cliche route with Spade turning Denise into a vampire against her will. In that case, there would have been no originality in the plot. Instead, Denise made the choice to become a supernatural being so that she can live an eternal life with Spade. That was both romantic and innovative on the author's part. The beginning is dull, but it becomes more interesting in the second half of the book. The other main cast--Bones, Cat, and Mencheres--make cameo appearances and help Spade with the critical mission.

I am delighted that Frost made this spin-off series so that fans of the Night Huntress series can get a flavor of the supporting cast. After reading five back-to-back novels about Cat's adventures (who finally turns into a vampire), it was time for a change. Denise and Spade share painful secrets but with their resilience they will make a great couple. Overall, I highly recommend this novel.

Stay tuned for the next novel in the Night Huntress series, Eternal Kiss of Darkness. This spin-off book focuses on Mencheres's love life.


Review: xxxHOLic (2006-2011)

xxxHOLic (2006) is a Japanese horror anime based in contemporary Japan. It include 24 episodes and three original animated videos (OAVs): Shunmuki, Ro, and Adayume. It also takes place in the same universe as Tsubasa: RESERVoir CHRoNiCLE.

The plot focuses on Kimihiro Watanuki, a high school student with a cursed gift: he has the ability to see evil spirits (yokai and ayakashi). In addition, these spirits are invisible to others and have a strong attachment to him. One day, he stumbles upon a shop that grants wishes. He meets a mysterious witch named Ichihara Yuuko, and requests to have his ability to see spirits removed. She claims to have the means to end his torment, but she never works for free. The price, according to Yuko, must be of equal value. Therefore, as payment, he temporarily becomes Yuko's part-time employee, doing small errands and household chores.

Meanwhile, Himawari Kunogi, Watanuki's love interest, and Shizuka Domeki, a classmate who Watanuki detests, occasionally join him in his work as per Yuko's request. The three become increasingly close despite Watanuki's annoyance with Dōomeki. Although Watanuki becomes happy with the new friendships he makes, he becomes concerned about Yuko, promising he will try to grant her wish. As the series continues, Watanuki becomes more adept with the spiritual world during each supernatural encounter.

Later in the show, there is a crossing plotline with the concurrent series, Tsubasa: RESERVoir CHRoNiCLE. It is revealed that Yuko was accidentally frozen by a powerful wizard, Clow Reed. As the magic binding her immortality begins to fade, Yuko also loses her ability to maintain the shop's magical existence. Before she dies, she tells Watanuki that he will no longer have to see demons. However, he chooses to retain his ability with his now fully-grown magical powers and becomes the shop's new owner.

If you are a fan of the Japanese manga artist group, Clamp, xxxHOLic (pronounced "Holic") is a good supernatural anime to watch with its balance of light and dark moments. With a mixture of horror and comedy, the plot is very imaginative and mind-blowing. After the first season, the anime becomes inspiring, beautiful, and heartbreaking when Yuko's ultimate fate is revealed. The Clamp illustrations are memorable due to their striking designs: patterns built into the images, highly detailed hair, heavily stylized eyes, elongated limbs, and elaborate clothing. It may seem slow in the beginning, but it becomes entertaining after several episodes. I highly recommend the anime. It should be available to rent and buy on DVD.


Opening Song: "19sai" by Shikao Suga


Monday, December 3, 2012

Review: Summer Knight (The Dresden Files #4)

Harry Dresden -- Wizard: Lost items Found. Paranormal Investigations. Consulting. Advice. Reasonable Rates. No Love Potions, Endless Purses, or Other Entertainment.

Summer Knight, by Jim Butcher, is the fourth novel in the Dresden Files series. Depressed and devastated over his girlfriend's newly acquired taste for blood in Grave Peril, Harry Dresden, the only professional wizard in Chicago, has lost motivation and determination. He has alienated his friends and cannot pay his rent. Although he knows the truth on what happened that ill-fated night, both the vampires and wizards are looking for any reason to end his life.

Just when he thought things could not worsen, the Winter Queen of Faerie pays him a visit. She has an offer that Harry cannot refuse if he wants to free himself of the supernatural hold that his faerie godmother has over him. When he learns of a possible cure for his girlfriend's condition, he takes on the case. All he has to do is find out who murdered the Summer Queen of Faerie's knight and clear the Winter Queen's name.

Harry knows better than to get caught in the middle of faerie politics. But he needs the money and a major breakthrough to resurrect his reputation among the wizards. Until he finds out that the fate of the entire world rests on his solving this case.

Summer Knight was riveting action filled with suspense and fantasy. While this novel was less romantic than its predecessors, the plot was necessary to save Harry from his beleaguering depression. He was a desperate man looking for any opportunity to eliminate doubts among the wizards. While he has friends who believe in him, he also had many enemies who would have not mind trading him off to evil foes.

In order to understand Harry's suspicions, the faerie world in the The Dresden Files is dark and dangerous, unbeknownst to humans in the mortal world. Since this was his most dangerous case, Harry miraculously and courageously solved the murder of the summer knight. Although he loses a lead on the cure for his girlfriend's conditions, I have no doubt that he will find another option in future novels. This plot also gives me hope that Harry (with his strong sense of justice) will develop the strength to carry on and become the best investigator in the supernatural world.

Stay tuned for the next novel in the Dresden Files, Death Mask.

Saturday, November 17, 2012

Review: Jigoku Shoujo (2005-2009)

https://amzn.to/2MTfQdOJigoku Shoujo ~Hell Girl~ (2005-2009) is a Japanese horror anime based in contemporary Japan. It spanned three seasons with a total of 78 episodes.

Season 1 - Hell Girl (2005-2006) 
The show focuses on the existence of a supernatural justice system that allows people to take revenge on the perpetrators through the Hotline to Hell (a website that can only be accessed at midnight) of the mysterious "jigoku shoujo" (literal translation: hell girl). Rumor has it that if you post a grudge there, the Jigoku Shoujo will appear and drag whoever torments you into the inferno. However, those who have the Hell Girl execute their vengeance will also go to Hell when they die. Very little is known about the girl—all we know for sure is that she lives with her equally enigmatic grandmother, that three magical straw dolls accompany and serve her. Shibata Hajime, a freelance journalist, begins to investigate these claims out of curiosity. Not only does he find out that the rumors are true, but he learns his daughter, Tsugume, has a strange connection to Enma Ai, the Hell Girl. Together, they try to end the operation.

Season 2 - Hell Girl: Two Mirrors (2006-2007) 
Ai Enma, her real name, once again returns as the Jigoku Shoujo, who uses the online service, Hotline to Hell, to allow people to post their grudges on their tormentors, sending them straight to Hell. In exchange, the users of the website will end up in Hell after they die. Meanwhile, a mysterious girl with purple eyes called Kikuri appears and seems to have strange intentions towards Ai and the entire online operation.

Season 3 - Hell Girl: Three Vessels (2008-2009) 
After Ai Enma's supposed death, her three helpers, Ichimoku Ren, Wanyuudou and Hone-Onna live out their lives in relative peace. This is suddenly shattered when Kikuri returns to recruit them. Meanwhile, Ai mysteriously reappears from the dead and uses the body of a young schoolgirl, Yuzuki Mikage, to continue the online operation.

Jigoku Shoujo was a popular anime series in the last decade. Revenge, injustice, hatred, and the nature of human emotions are common themes throughout the series. The show also incorporated Japanese mythology and elements of horror. The show was scary enough to frighten me on several occasions, and set the stage to seriously discuss human nature through our desire for vengeance. The sequels would later focus on Enma Ai’s motivations and background. It received such a cult following that a live-action version was produced in Japan. Thus, Jigoku Shoujo has become a must-see classic for anime horror fans.


This anime is available to rent and buy on DVD.


Opening Theme: " Sakasama No Chou ~The Upside Down Butterfly ~" by Snow


Ending Theme: ""Karinui" (かりぬい; "Basting/ Temporary Sewing") by Mamiko Noto

Sunday, November 11, 2012

Review: Biting Cold (Chicagoland Vampires #6)

But Merit is also the prey. An enemy of Chicagoland is hunting her, and he'll stop at nothing to get the artifact for himself. No mercy allowed. NO rules apply. No lives spared. The race is on.

Biting Cold, by Chloe Neill, is the sixth novel in the Chicagoland Vampire series. Merit, a 28-year-old vampire turned against her will, has become acclimated to Chicago's vampire underground. In less than a year, she has become Sentinel (A soldier or guard whose job is to stand and keep watch) for Cadogan House, one of three officially-recognized Chicago vampire residences. As she walks knee-deep into the supernatural community, she discovers more dark--and terrifying--secrets. 

Right before her eyes, her master and lover, Ethan, returns from the dead. Her sweet joy is short-lived when her best friend, Mallory, rogue a witch addicted to black magic, is on the prowl to steal an ancient artifact, Maleficium, that could unleash catastrophic evil and destruction. Both Ethan and Merit must race across the American Midwest before anyone else touches it first. Furthermore, Merit discovers another old enemy is hunting her, and she must do whatever it takes to protect Chicago--and the world--from his uncontrollable vigilante justice.

It has been a while since I have read a Chicagoland Vampires novel. The waiting period was totally worth it. Merit and I are around the same age, so I can relate to her personality. Less than 350 pages, this novel was packed with action, suspense, romance, and sexual intimacy. It was very easy to read, and the plot kept me very engaged. Neill has an excellent young adult novel series that I look forward to reading. The reference to different landmarks also keeps me updated with my undergraduate memories in Chicago. I was disappointed to have finished this novel so soon, but I can't wait for the next release in winter 2013!


Stay tuned for the next novel in the Chicagoland Vampire series, House Rules.


Thursday, November 1, 2012

Review: Grave Peril (The Dresden Files #3)

Harry Dresden -- Wizard: Lost items Found. Paranormal Investigations. Consulting. Advice. Reasonable Rates. No Love Potions, Endless Purses, or Other Entertainment.

Grave Peril, by Jim Butcher, is the third novel in the Dresden Files series. Harry Dreseden is the only professional wizard in Chicago. He has faced some pretty terrifying foes in his career so far -- giant scorpions, crazy vampires, and psychotic werewolves. Despite the dangers in his job, he has always managed to defeat the enemies.


A new case has him searching all over the city, and he has no clue what is the cause behind it. The spirit world has gone postal! Ghosts all over Chicago are causing trouble, and it takes more than simple exorcism spells to defeat these lost souls. These ghosts are tormented, violent, and deadly. Someone--or something--is wreaking havoc across the city.


To make matters worse, his fae godmother has re-entered his life. She wants Harry to fulfill his end of the deal: his soul in the Nevernever land. However, too much trouble is happening for Harry to leave behihnd his friends and the love of his life. When his colleagues become victims to this deadly magic, Harry will need all the help he can get before his soul is taken for good. He will face former and powerful enemies who don't mind preparing an early grave -- with his name attached to a tombstone.


This is one of the longer novels in the Dresden Files series, but I enjoyed the plot very much. It was a perfect Halloween treat. It contained every supernatural element you could imagine -- ghosts, fae, vampires, you name it. Butcher introduces a new main character whom I hope to read more in future novels. While Harry tries to play the hero figure, he is not entirely successful when the person he loves falls victim to the supernatural. Torn by his love and profession as a wizard, he will spend the next cases trying to find a cure so that she can return by his side. This is a sad cliffhanger, but it forces Harry to take his job seriously. This series continues to keep me on the edge, and I cannot wait to pick up the next novel.

Stay tuned for the next novel in the Dresden Files series, Summer Knight.


Tuesday, October 23, 2012

New Adult Series: Age of X (Richelle Mead)

Are you a major fan of Vampire Academy and its spinoff, Bloodlines?

Richelle Mead is launching a new adult paranormal/science fiction series, Age of X. The first novel's title is Gameboard of the Gods. It has the popular appeal of the Hunger Games, but includes her usual traits of sexy, irresistible characters and relentless action and suspense. I am looking forward to reading this new series! The official release date is June 4, 2013.

This is the official description below from her Facebook fan page:

In a futuristic world nearly destroyed by religious extremists, Justin March lives in exile after failing in his job as an investigator of religious groups and supernatural claims. But Justin is given a second chance when Mae Koskinen comes to bring him back to the Republic of United North America (RUNA). Raised in an aristocratic caste, Mae is now a member of the military’s most elite and terrifying tier, a soldier with enhanced reflexes and skills.

When Justin and Mae are assigned to work together to solve a string of ritualistic murders, they soon realize that their discoveries have exposed them to terrible danger. As their investigation races forward, unknown enemies and powers greater than they can imagine are gathering in the shadows, ready to reclaim the world in which humans are merely game pieces on their board.

Gameboard of the Gods, the first installment of Richelle Mead’s Age of X series, will have all the elements that have made her YA Vampire Academy and Bloodlines series such megasuccesses: sexy, irresistible characters; romantic and mythological intrigue; and relentless action and suspense.



Tuesday, October 16, 2012

Review: Gunmetal Magic (Kate Daniels #6)

"Some people have everything figured out--Andrea Nash is not one of those people. After being kicked out of the Order of Knights of Merciful Aid, Andrea's whole existence is in shambles."

Gunmetal Magic, by Ilona Andrews, is the first novel in the world of Kate Daniels. The story centers around Andrea Nash, former knight and best friend of Kate Daniels. Her secret is out: she is a bouda shapeshifter, and she's a rare breed--a beastkin. All her life, ANdrea worked her way up the Order, but a forced retirement disrupted her identity. Fortunately, she is putting her life back together by working for Kate's new private investigative firm, Cutting Edge.

When several shapeshifters are found dead at a dig site, Andrea has been assigned to solve the murder case/ Unfortunately, she must work with Raphael Medrano, former lover and the male alpha of Clan Bouda. When the investigation leads her team to new superantural sections of Atlanta, she needs all the help and expertise she can get to fight this dangerous enemey. Because dealing with Egyptian gods, Norse legends, and other unknown magic is beyond her comfort zone.

I had mixed feelings about this novel because Andrea Nash was a side character in the Kate Daniels world. After I read a couple of chapters, I became hooked on her character. Andrea suffered a horrible childhood, but trained herself to become an invincible fighter and survivor. Her story--both her life with the Order and the Pack--is both commendable and courageous. Furthermore, she found love and made peace with her shapeshifter side. I enjoyed this novel very much.

The book also includes the novella, Magic Gifts. Next month, I will update this post with a short review. Overall, the Kate Daniels Universe is amazing to read. I also believe this series gets better with every new release.

Stay tuned for the next novel in the Kate Daniels series, Magic Rises.



Thursday, October 4, 2012

Review: Firewalker (Stormwalker #2)

Janet Begay's Crossroads Roads has attracted the supernatural from the day it opened. Witches, Changers, and a mouthy magic mirror have decided to make it their home. But a new, dark power is rising--this time inside Janet herself.

Firewalker, by Allyson James, is the second novel in the Stormwalker series. Janet possesses two powers inside her: her Stormwalker gift from her Navajo grandmother and the Beneath magic from her evil goddess mother. Her sexy dragon boyfriend, Mick, knows the terrifying magic can overwhelm Janet at any moment, but he vowed to protect her from the other dragons who want her dead. With Mick set to trial for disobeying the dragon council's official orders, Janet must behave to not rouse suspicion that she's a danger to humankind.

When a mysterious corpse is found near the Crossroads Hotel, Sheriff Nash Jones suspects Janet--after all, her magic is both unstable and powerful. While Janet has an alibi, even she cannot be sure that she didn't commit the crime. Now, both Janet and Mick must investigate who is really responsible for the murder. Before they can do that, Janet must learn how to control her burgeoning powers. If she shows any sign of weakness, the dragons ("firewalkers" in Native American folklore) and supernatural guardians from Native American folklore will come after her with one strike. Her time is running out.

This is another wonderful addition by Allyson James. Filled with mystery, sexy romance, and adventure, he author pushes the protagonist, Janet, to come to terms with her dual powers. Janet has the choice to give up her Beneath magic, but she realizes that it is part of who she is and doing so could kill her. She wins the trust of friends as she faces the biggest decision in her life. The supernatural world also gets more complicated when Janet discovers an evil secret lurking in the community.

If you have the chance, please read the Stormwalker-inspired novella, "Double Hexed", in Hexed. The short story narrates Cassandra's background. It is also highly recommended to read after Firewalker. Stay tuned for the next novel in the Stormwalker series, Shadow Walker.

Tuesday, September 25, 2012

Lost Girl Third Season Premieres January 2013

Looking for a supernatural show loosely similar to Blood Ties (2007)? I highly recommend Lost Girl , the popular Canadian fantasy show about a sexy succubus who learns how to juggle both fae politics and life as a private investigator in the human world. From the Huffington Post:

Good news for fans of the Fae: The Huffington Post has exclusively learned that Syfy has renewed "Lost Girl" for a third season, which will arrive on the network in January 2013.

Canadian fans may already be aware that the frisky drama, which chronicles life in an underground community called the Fae, had been renewed north of the border several months ago, but the Syfy renewal means that American "Lost Girl" fans won't be left behind as the 13-episode third season unfolds.

The 22-episode second season of "Lost Girl," which stars Anna Silk as a succubus named Bo, is currently airing on Syfy on Mondays, but as of July 20, the supernatural drama is moving to Fridays at 10 p.m. ET.

Thursday, September 20, 2012

Review: Fool Moon (The Dresden Files #2)

Harry Dresden -- Wizard: Lost items Found. Paranormal Investigations. Consulting. Advice. Reasonable Rates. No Love Potions, Endless Purses, or Other Entertainment.

Fool Moon, by Jim Butcher, is the second novel in the Dresden Files series. Harry Dresden is the only professionally-trained wizard in Chicago. His investigation business has been slow, and it's been months since he has heard from the Chicago Police Department's Special Investigations Unit. He's also on bad terms with Karrin Murphy, CPD Lieutenant and sometimes accomplice. Just when it looks like he cannot afford his next meal, a murder comes along that requires his supernatural expertise.

At the scene of the crime, Harry discovers a brutally-mutilated corpse that is almost unrecognizable. Worse, there were animal markings that resembled those of a wild dog or wolf. The killing also took place on the night of a full moon. After seeing these three clues, Harry can guess where this case is headed. Thus, he will need all the manpower he can assemble if he wants to make it out of this one alive in one piece.
This is another fantastic addition to the Dresden Files series. Harry finds himself in a complex web of murder and mayhem that eventually proves too magically overwhelming for him. With his close companions and allies, he is able to solve the mystery and live another day. Butcher's storytelling skills are superb, and the main cast feels work well together. This novel also fits nicely with upcoming Halloween.

Stay tuned for the next novel in the Dresden Files series, Grave Peril
.

Saturday, September 15, 2012

Review: Romeo x Juliet (2007)

Romeo x Juliet (2007) is a Japanese romance anime based on William Shakespeare's adaptation of Romeo and Juliet. It is a story of a young and tragic love set in the futuristic aerial city of Neo Verona. It contains 24 episodes. This show contains 24 episodes.

Fourteen years ago, Leontes Montague and his men led a bloody coup and murdered all of the members of House Capulet. However one survivor, Juliet, was able to escape thanks to a group of Capulet loyalists.

In the present, the Montague family rules the kingdom with an iron fist and oppresses anyone who opposes their rule. Juliet, now a 16-year-old girl, fights against House Montague's oppression by becoming a masked vigilante known as "The Red Whirlwind." She is unaware that she is the last descendent of the House Capulet family. While attending the Rose Ball hosted by the Montagues with a friend, Juliet meets Romeo, the Montague prince. Both of them deeply fall romantically in love at first sight.

Unlike his father, Romeo is a kind and humble man who is opposed to his father's cruelty and shares many ideals with Juliet. Unfortunately for them, Capulet loyalists are planning a rebellion to overthrow House Montague while Leontes is obsessed with destroying the threat of House Capulet permanently. As these star-crossed lovers face many challenges and adventures together which will strengthen their love, an ancient secret hidden within Neo Verona is slowly revealed.

“Two households, both alike in dignity
In fair Verona, where we lay our scene
From ancient grudge break to new mutiny
Where civil blood makes civil hands unclean.
From forth the fatal loins of these two foes
A pair of star-cross'd lovers take their life
Whose misadventured piteous overthrows
Do with their death bury their parents' strife.”

― William Shakespeare, Romeo and Juliet


Although the anime borrows mostly from Shakespeare's story, the manga adaptation differs extensively from the original. So, I was intrigued to see where the producers and screenwriters were heading with this romantic tragedy. The story takes place in a mythical medieval realm, and a great enchanted tree (Escalus) supports life on Neo Verona. The tree of life is a mystical concept alluding to the interconnection of all life on our planet. Various fantasy- and science fiction-based anime, in particular, have used this symbol (e.g., Sailor Moon R, Nadia: The Secret of Blue Water, Neon Genesis Evangelion, and Genesis of Aquarion).

The show did not disappoint. It was very focused, energetic and The writers incorporated characters from other Shakespeare plays as a nice twist. There were a lot of action and romantic narratives in the first half, and the fantasy element became more prominent in the second half of the anime. I also loved Lena Park's version of "You Raise Me Up" (both English and Japanese versions). She made this Josh Groban hit song sound so both innocent and romantic. In 2009, Romeo × Juliet was dubbed into English and released by Funimation Entertainment.

Overall, I highly recommend this anime adaptation.


Inori ~You Raised Me Up~ (Japanese Version)


Inori ~You Raised Me Up~ by Lena Park (English Version)


Tuesday, September 11, 2012

Review: Stormwalker (Stormwalker #1)

"When lightning strikes, passion ignites..."

Stormwalker, by Allyson James, is the first novel in the Stormwalker series. It takes place in Arizona near the Death Valley region. Half-Navajo Janet Begay is a Stormwalker who is capable of controlling the raw elemental power of stormy weather. Its power is so immense that sometimes it threatens to overwhelm her. Felt like an outcast in her own family, her escape was her prized motorcycle, chasing the storms and finding the truth about her mother's death. When she meets Mick, a dark-haired, blue-eyed muscular hiker, she discovers that he can absorb and calm down the power raging inside her. Eventually, she falls in love with him, and both explore new depths of sex and passion that reach unimaginable levels.

After traveling the country, Janet returns to Arizona to settle and establish a hotel business in the desert town of Magellan (Hopi County). She receives a request to investigate the disappearance of the police chief's daughter. Unfortunately, the barren land is full of vortexes, gateways that connect the human world with the mystical realm of Beneath. It is also where Janet's evil mother lays trapped and ready to escape. After encountering skin-walkers and discovering more deadly mysteries, Janet receives assistance from unexpected allies: a shape-shifting coyote god; a talking magic mirror; Nash, the law-abiding sherff who can't wait to arrest her; and her boyfriend, Mick, whose true identity still remains unknown to her. Mick can control fire, and Nash can absorb any form of magic without breaking a sweat.

Ultimately, Janet must trust her friends when she ventures into a land where no human has survived alone. She must also decide in which world does her happiness exist. She is about to face the greatest danger ever: defeating her mother.

I stumbled across the Stormwalker series when I finished a novella by Ilona Andrews (Kate Daniels series). The Janet Begay character seemed interesting and similar to another Native American-based fantasy series (Mercy Thompson by Patricia Briggs). I have also visited Arizona, and desert scenery can be beautiful and mystical. I am always excited to explore different characters in their respective environments to expand my knowledge about and appreciation of the supernatural.

Overall, I am glad I took a chance on this novel. Janet is a strong, beautiful girl who wants to find acceptance and peace with her own powers. The main cast seems fresh and intriguing. The action was excellent, and the sexual scenes were not over-done. There are many twists and angles that smoothly fit together like a puzzle near the end. I definitely look forward to reading more novels in this riveting series.

Stay tuned for the next novel in the Stormwalker series, Firewalker
.


Thursday, September 6, 2012

Supernatural Season 8 Resumes October 2012

Folks, it's Supernatural time again! The eighth season will premiere on Wednesday, October 3, 2012 at 9:00 EST on the CW Channel. There is also speculation from screenwriters that this highly-acclaimed horror TV show won't end until season 10.

Although this is my humble opinion, I think Supernatural should have ended at season five. The show is currently on life support to please a cult-like fanbase that is gradually dwindling each year. The plots have become more convoluted and downright silly at times. This is the first year where I was more excited to watch the second premiere of Grimm (!).

Time is running out on Supernatural unless the producers and screenwriters can produce an incredibly genius plot for Sam and Dean. More main characters keep dying each year. Can another challenging case help the Winchester brothers remain relevant among other prime-time TV shows?

Saturday, September 1, 2012

Returning to Graduate School

Major update: This fall, I will intensively focus on finishing my master's degree. In the meantime, I will post less frequently (one post every 4-5 days) for the next eight months. Stay patient! I will resume my normal posting schedule in spring 2013.

Tuesday, August 21, 2012

Review: Deadlocked (Southern Vampire #12)

It's vampire politics as usual around the town of Bon Temps, but never before have they hit so close to Sookie's heart.

Deadlocked, by Charlaine Harris, is the twelfth novel in the Southern Vampire series. The events of Dead Reckoning—particularly the death of the despicable but powerful vampire Victor—have consequences for part-fairy Sookie Stackhouse and her vampire friends. When Sookie’s vampire husband, Eric Northman, summons her to his Shreveport home to welcome his guest, King Felipe de Castro and his entourage, she is shocked to find Eric feeding on another (younger!) woman in his bedroom.

Later, someone contacts the police when the woman Eric fed from turns up dead with a broken neck on his front lawn, putting Eric and Felipe’s entourage under suspicion.
With the help of ex-boyfriend Bill Compton, Sookie is determined to to clear Eric’s name. Meanwhile, Sookie learns more about the magical item her late grandmother left behind for her—the cluvier dor. Legends say that this treasure is the last of its kind on earth and whoever possesses it can grant the owner’s true wishes. She must also try to keep the local fae under control after her kin, Claude and Niall, return to the land of Faery. Someone knows the cluvier dor exist, and is willing to murder in order to obtain it.

The police are on Sookie’s trail, and won’t leave her alone unless someone finds the cause of the woman’s untimely death. Sookie must navigate the complicated hierarchies of werewolf, vampire and fairy politics if she wants to survive another case. Fate also puts her on another test when she must decide what kind of life she truly desires. As loyalties realign and betrayals are unmasked, Harris sets the stage for the final mystery.

Harris created another wonderful mystery that unravels more secrets and reveals the true insidious nature of the supernatural community in Louisiana. While no one likes Sookie getting snagged into cases that have often endangered her safety, I have learned more about Sookie's desires and concerns than in any previous novels. Surprisingly, there is little romance and sexual prowess in the novel, but it was not missed since Sookie had to keep herself out of jail. Readers will also be shocked to learn whom she uses the cluvier dor to save. I also believe the incidents in Deadlocked became the ultimate turning point in determining how Sookie and her supernatural friends will proceed in the final showdown.

I noticed many readers felt disappointed with the last few novels in this series. Is it starting to wane? Yes, but this is appropriate. Harris has entertained me with the world of Sookie Stackhouse for over ten years! Her books have inspired the HBO hit television series, True Blood. All good things have to come to an end at some point. Sookie is not only getting older but is also becoming wiser as she learns how to navigate the complicated politics of the supernatural community. She starts to consider her own happiness for the right reasons, and it is time that she makes a decision on whom she chooses as her companion. The conclusion in Deadlocked reveals what lies ahead for her as she starts to realize deep down her own true feelings. Therefore, while I am not totally happy about this series drawing its final curtain next year, the timing makes perfect sense with regards to Sookie's character.

Stay tuned for the final novel in the Southern Vampire series, Dead Ever After.


Saturday, August 18, 2012

The Stir: Top 10 Sexiest Vampires of All Time

Check out this list of the top ten sexiest vampires of all time from The Stir. It lists actors and actresses from popular TV shows and movies in the 1980s, 1990s, and 2000s. Ah, the memories.
Sure they have the power to break your bones with one squeeze, or send you into the world of the undead with a quick nip to the neck, but it's hard to resist the sexual prowess of vampires. Here are 10 vamps we'd totally fang bang...


Wednesday, August 15, 2012

Review: Storm Front (The Dresden Files #1)

Harry Dresden -- Wizard: Lost items Found. Paranormal Investigations. Consulting. Advice. Reasonable Rates. No love potions, Endless Purses, or Other Entertainment.

Storm Front, by Jim Butcher, is the first novel in the Dresden Files series. The novel centers around the protagonist, Harry Dresden, a trained wizard private investigator and consultant to the Chicago Police Department. Whenever the police has a case that involves supernatural elements, they come to him for answers. When the police seek Harry's assistance in a double homicide committed with the most blatant forms of black magic, it is his job to investigate who is the new wizard in town and why are witnesses dropping dead like scenes from a horror film. Meanwhile, he must also prove his innocence in front of the wizard council who are always looking for a legitimate reason to execute him for good. Can Harry defeat the black magic before it attacks his friends and eventually consumes his soul?

After many recommendations from friends, I finally decided to take on the Dresden Files. It is hard to believe Butcher has been writing this series since 2000. Storm Front was a delightful novel. Harry Dresden is a sympathetic character who struggles with human world realities but has the courage and stamina to protect friends. He is a real wizard who trained and . I look forward to other supernatural adventures he encounters as a private investigator. No longer seen as the black sheep within the wizard community, Dresden can look forward to the future. Of course, I certainly have a lot of catching up to do within the next year. Lastly, I always like to read a paranormal novel based in Chicago because I completed my undergraduate studies in the Windy City. I love to recollect my alma mater memories.

Stay tuned for the next novel in the Dresden Files, Fool Moon
.

Sunday, August 12, 2012

Review: Trinity Blood (2005)

Trinity Blood (2005) is a Japanese science fiction anime that takes place in a futuristic setting where there is peaceful co-existence between vampires (Methuselah) and humans (Terrans) in the post-Armageddon era. This show contains 24 episodes.

The Methuselahs are a major political and military force who continue to wage war on the "Terrans," as they call the human inhabitants of Earth. The Vatican, based in Rome, is a major military power determined to protect humans from major enemies. The Methuselahs have their capital in Byzantium, which is surrounded by a field of particles to filter out UV radiation, thus protecting the Methuselah population.

In order to protect the humans from the Methuselah, the Vatican has to rely on other allies to counter the situation. The protagonist, a priest called Peter Abel Nightroad, travels through the countries as a representative for the Vatican. However, he is also part of "Ax", a special operations group controlled by the Cardinal Catherina. Abel's secret identity is feared among the vampire population: he is a Crusnik, a genetically-engineered vampire who drinks the blood of other vampires.

Meanwhile, an unknown rising power, the Rozen Kreuz, threatens to disturb the peaceful co-existence and bring about another apocalypse. When an independent kingdom loses their beloved Queen, actions are taken quickly to find the "Star of Hope" who can restore order and peace between the Terrans and Methuselahs. Abel's encounter with a young girl called Esther and his quest to find his missing twin brother, Cain, will also determine the future of Earth.

Many years ago, I was excited to watch this series on television stations like Cartoon Network (aka Adult Swim). But somewhere long the way I got busy with schoolwork and had to set aside this show. Fast forward almost six years later, I have finally finished this anime. Trinity Blood is both entertaining and mysterious. The creator used extensive research to develop a future that weaves smoothly both religion and the supernatural.

The idea of a vampire that feeds on other vampires is a new concept. Abel, who wants to atone for his sins from the Armageddon era, has the absent-minded professor appearance but can turn into a blood-sucking intimidating power in his Crusnik form. As a representative for the Vatican, Abel is able to use his position to search for the Star of Hope and investigate the whereabouts of his missing twin brother, Cain. The action is intense and filled with religious metaphors. Nevertheless, I thought the ending seemed incomplete because Abel never found happiness. His journey still continues...to defeat Cain.

I still recommend this anime for fans who like a science fiction twist about vampires. When the author, Sunao Yoshida, died unexpectedly of a lung blockage in 2004, his friends and family pushed for this popular story to become an anime adaptation. Their efforts paid off very well. The music is also fantastic (BUCK-TICK also sang the opening theme for Nightwalker: Midnight Detective.) Enjoy the show!


Opening Theme: "Dress (BLOODY TRINITY MIX) by BUCK-TICK


Ending Theme: "Broken Wings" by Tomoko Tane