Adieu 2017 – Hello 2018

My reflection on the past twelve months will be a bit different from the one, I´ve done last time around this time of a year. 2017 has turned out to be a year I am glad that it will be over in a few hours. 
Like every year as soon as December arrives, people go nuts. Christmas Eve is coming, presents need to be bought or created and as soon as the first snow is falling, the chaos is perfect.

Best Authors Of 2017

During 2017 I discovered some new-to-me-authors like Kristina Ohlsson, Erin Watt or Sarina Bowen. I read many more authors but narrowed them down to a list of ten. You might miss the one or the other name, but I chose them for the books I´ve read and who impressed me the most.

Since a few months I like to discover new authors, though I am not always happy with the covers, their books have when it comes to the German edition. And I am sure I wouldn´t have read Raphael Montes thriller if I had gone after the English cover.

Best Books Of 2017

This year I got my Best Books-post done earlier than last year. It was no question of time or energy, it was more a question whether the last book I´ve read would be one that needed to find a place on this list or not.

It has been a really great year in reading books and I am already looking forward to the new books that the one or the other author will have coming out in 2018.

My Best Books of 2017 contains new releases, older books, some I read in English, some in German.

Come Sundown by Nora Roberts

As an old NR fan (in age and years) I had to have this. I guess her entire fan base was eagerly awaiting this new book. And when the cover got revealed, it was clear to see that the author had made some changes in her life as an author.

Come Sundown*
Author Nora Roberts

Publisher St. Martin´s Press on June 6, 2017

Genre Novel

Pages 466

Format Hardcover

Source Purchased

Goodreads

The Bodine ranch and resort in western Montana is a family business, an idyllic spot for vacationers who want to ride horses in the apple-crisp air or couples holding weddings under the wide-open sky. A little more than thirty thousand acres, it is home to four generations – and behind the scenes, Bodine Longbow does all she can to keep things running with the help of her siblings, the staff, and the new hire, Callen Skinner. But not far away, an aunt Bodine has never met lives in her own twisted version of a family, one no one knows about, one she never chose. Years ago, Alice was a rebellious eighteen-year-old who ran off looking for freedom and adventure. Now she cowers in fear, rarely seeing the sunlight, her mind shattered by a man who views her – and her offspring – as his rightful property. The Longbows don´t talk about Alice anymore. Many quietly presume that she is long dead. Then a young bartender leaves the resort late one night, and Bo and Cal discover her battered body in the snow. It´s the first sign that danger lurks in the mountains that surround them, and it will not be the only murder to unnerve this peaceful town. But the greatest shock is yet to come when Alice returns – and the threat that follows in her wake will test the bonds that hold Bodine to this place and these people, and thrust her into a darkness she could never have imagined.

Thoughts

But don´t ask me why it took me so long to read it. I have no clue why I put it first on my tbr and looked at it for so many months, before finally starting to enjoy it. 

Love Around The World Challenge

This challenge came to me earlier this year. My blogger friend Isa at Mikku-chan tagged me to show the world some love.

Originally this post has looked a bit different. But after a night of sleep and re-reading my words again, it didn´t felt right to publish it, so I started again from scratch.

Sweet Tomorrows by Debbie Macomber

The last novel from the author´s Rose Harbor Inn series. And one, I didn´t read within a couple of hours. In the end, I was not sure about it, and it took me some days to write this review.

Sweet Tomorrows*
Author Debbie Macomber

Rose Harbor Series #5

Publisher Ballantine Books on December 27, 2016

Genre Novel

Pages 416

Format Softcover

Source Library
Goodreads

Nine months ago, Mark Taylor abruptly left Cedar Cove on a perilous mission to right a wrong from his past. Though Mark finally confessed his love for her, innkeeper Jo Marie Rose is unsure if he´s ever coming back. The Rose Harbor Inn barely seems the same without Mark, but Jo Marie can´t bear to lose herself in grief once more. Determined to move forward, she begins dating again, and finds companionship when she takes on a boarder who is starting a new chapter herself. Recovering from a twice-broken heart, Emily Gaffney, a young teacher, is staying at the inn while she looks for a home of her own. Having given up on marriage, Emily dreams of adopting children someday. She has her eye on one house in particular – with room for kids. Although Emily´s inquiries about the house are rudely rebuffed, her rocky start with the owner eventually blossoms into a friendship. But when the relationship verges on something more, Emily will have to rethink what she truly wants and the chances she´s willing to take. The inn seems to be working its magic again – Emily opening herself up to love, Jo Marie moving on – until Jo Marie receives shocking news.

Thoughts

You want to know why I feel mixed about this last Rose Harbor Inn book, then keep reading.

News - The Versatile Blogger Award

It is crazy: I got a new award!

It happened some weeks or better said months ago, but I hadn´t the time until now, to write a post about it and give back the honors. How great, I am totally happy.

Good, 2017 is running out and I underestimated the time I´d have left to post such wonderful things and how time-consuming Christmas can be, totally. As if that time of a year wouldn´t happen every year. Well, I hopefully am able to learn and schedule my time next year in December a bit better.

But for now, I don´t wanna bother you with my time-problem and give you instead a bit of an insight into me, as a person. So keep reading, and you will learn more.

Merry Christmas & Happy Holidays

Christmas, the fifth season of the year. A time meant to be special. Filled with anticipation, preparations, decorating, baking cookies, some of us buy their Christmas presents, others tinker them and some of us might do nothing at all.

Yes, this time of a year is special in many ways.

Some of us will spent the weeks until Christmas Eve with lots of work, stress and with the feeling that there isn´t enough time to get everything done.

Das Mädchen Im Eis by Robert Bryndza

Somehow, I got fascinated by the cover. Not only that it is the same the original book shows, but also in the same color style and when you hold it in your hand and move it a bit, you can see some ice glitter – nice effect.

Das Mädchen im Eis*
Author Robert Bryndza

Detective Erika Foster #1

Translation Charlotte Breuer, Marion Matheis, Norbert Möllemann
Original Title The Girl in the Ice

Publisher Penguin on September 11, 2017

Genre Crime

Pages 430

Format Paperback

Source German Publisher
Goodreads

Eight months have passed since Detective Erika Foster´s last mission, which ended in disaster and cost her husband his life. But it is time to look ahead. The daughter of one of London´s most powerful families was murdered, and Erika does her utmost to find the culprit. As she fights against the demons of her own past, she is facing a merciless killer. (personal translation)

Thoughts

My very first book by the author and my first thriller about Detective Erika Foster. 

2018 New Release Challenge – Sign-Up

I am signing- up for this challenge again and hope that it´ll be as much fun to do as the last two years were.  The challenge will be hosted by Lexxie at (un)Conventional Bookviews.

I am planning on reading books like I do every year so the next year won´t be any different from this current one. The only exception may be, that I might not read as many new releases, as I have been reading the past years.

But I don´t think that that will change the fun and with that in mind, I am looking forward to going in again and see how it will turn out.

2018 Beat The Backlist – Sign-Up

I found this challenge by accident while scrolling through the internet. Somehow, I landed on Austine´s blog NovelKnight and became aware of it.

Waiting On Wednesday #56 – Eine Unbeugsame Braut by Simona Ahrnstedt

is a weekly event originally hosted by Jill at Breaking the Spine. This meme is a place that spotlights upcoming releases that we´re eagerly anticipating with pure joy.

For whatever reason Jill is not blogging since August 2016 but her meme is still going on. Hope everything is ok and she will be back soon! Until then, I am joining Tressa at Wishful Endings and her meme Can´t-Wait Wednesday.

Weihnachten In Briar Creek by Olivia Miles

Another book I won by surprise. And it turned out to be a wonderful Christmas read. Lots of snow, lots of Christmas decoration and lots of cookies, that´s for sure *smile*

Weihnachten in Briar Creek*
Author Olivia Miles
Briar Creek Series #5
Translation Yvonne Eglinger
Original Title Christmas comes to Main Street*
Publisher LYX on September 29, 2017
Genre Novel
Pages 366
Format Softcover
Source Giveaway

Goodreads

If Kara Hastings wants to save her little bakery from ruin, she must win the Christmas deco contest of Briar Creek. Nate Griffin she was just missing. The arrogant – and outrageously attractive – city dweller competes against her with his aunt´s bed and breakfast. Unfortunately, he is known for always getting what he wants. He can not stand Christmas! Kara tells the Grinch to fight – even if that makes her heart melt with every encounter…. (personal translation)

Thoughts

This was my first book written by the author. And for sure not the last. 

The Christmas Book Bloggers Tag

I saw this a little while ago over at Between My Lines and liked the idea of it very much. Though I am not much of a Christmas person, my place still isn´t decorated and this year I haven´t even put an advent wreath on the table.

If you want to see what other bloggers wrote, who do The Christmas Book Bloggers Tag as well, just look on social media for the #TheChristmasBookBloggersTag or follow their blogs – and mine of course *smile*

Beautiful Secret by Christina Lauren

This is a series I kind of fell in love with from the first moment. The author duo created not only some fantastic characters, but also wonderful stories about them.

Beautiful Secret
Author Christina Lauren
Beautiful Series #4
Publisher Gallery Books on October 14, 2015
Genre Love-Women-Erotica
Pages 388
Format Paperback
Source Purchased
Goodreads

When Ruby Miller´s boss announces he´s sending her on an extended business trip to New York City, she´s shocked. As one of the best and brightest young engineers in London, she knows she´s professionally up to the task. The part that´s throwing her is where she´ll be spending a month, up close and personal, working alongside – and staying in a hotel with – Niall Stella, her firm´s top urban planning executive and The Hottest Man Alive. Despite her ongoing crush, Ruby is certain, Niall barely knows she´s alive – until their flirty overnight flight makes him sit up and take notice. Not one for letting loose and breaking rules, recently divorced Niall would describe himself as hopeless when it comes to women. But even he knows outgoing California-girl Ruby is a breath of fresh air. Once she makes it her mission to help the sexy Brit loosen his tie, there´s no turning back. Thousands of miles from London, it´s easy for the lovers to play pretend. But when the trip is over, will the relationship they´ve built up fall down? 

Thoughts

I still remember how much I laughed during reading Beautiful Bastard, how great I was entertained during that read.

Ain´t She Sweet by Marie Force

Another nice read of the author´s Green Mountain series, no doubt here. But as you will read in my review, I have some things that I am missing.

Ain´t She Sweet*
Author Marie Force

Green Mountain Series #6

Publisher Berkley on April 26, 2016

Genre Novel

Pages 320

Format Paperback

Source German Publisher*

Goodreads

Charlotte “Charley” Abbott has gone out with every guy under thirty-five in Butler, Vermont – except for one. Tyler Westcott´s attempts to date her maybe determined, and frequent, but Charley can´t stand how he acts like he knows her better than she knows herself. So, when Tyler turns up at the running club Charley joins to train for a marathon, she´s almost ready to quit before she even gets started. Tyler knows that behind Charley´s prickly personality and dismissive attitude is a sweet woman he wants in his life. And when Charley suffers an injury while training, Tyler is ready to prove that the perfect man for her has been right there all along … 

Thoughts

Don´t get me wrong here, I LOVE this series, and will continue reading the books until the last book. 

Susannah´ s Garden by Debbie Macomber

I don´t know what I´ve expected from this novel. This book is so different from the other Blossom Street books and with a tone in it, I don´t think of when I want to read a Debbie Macomber novel. 

Susannah´s Garden*
Author Debbie Macomber
Blossom Street Series #3
Publisher Mira on April 20, 2010
Genre Novel
Pages 384
Format Paperback
Source Library
Goodreads

When Susannah Nelson turned eighteen, she said goodbye to her boyfriend, Jake – and never saw him again. She never saw her brother, Doug, again, either. He died unexpectedly that same year. Now, at fifty, Susannah finds herself regretting the paths not taken. Long married, a mother and a teacher, she should be happy. But she feels there´s something missing in her life. Not only that, she´s balancing the demands of an aging mother and a temperamental twenty-old daughter. Her mother Vivian, a recent widow, is having difficulty coping and living alone, so Susanna goes home to Colville, Washington. In returning to her parents´ house, her girlhood friends and the garden she´s always loved, she also returns to the past – and the choices she made back then. What she discovers is that things are not always as they once seemed. Some paths are dead ends. But some gardens remain beautiful …

Thoughts

It was a bit of a surprise, that the structure of this novel was totally different from the one, the first two books show.

Waiting On Wednesday #55 – Everless by Sara Holland

is a weekly event originally hosted by Jill at Breaking the Spine. This meme is a place that spotlights upcoming releases that we´re eagerly anticipating with pure joy.

For whatever reason Jill is not blogging since August 2016 but her meme is still going on. Hope everything is ok and she will be back soon! Until then, I am joining Tressa at Wishful Endings and her meme Can´t-Wait Wednesday.

Die Fabelmacht-Chroniken-Flammende Zeichen by Kathrin Lange

The jacket design is awesome. I fell in love the moment I saw it and now live in my hands it looks even prettier.

Flammende Zeichen*
Author Kathrin Lange

Die Fabelmacht-Chroniken #1

Publisher Arena on June 19, 2017

Genre Children 14+

Pages 409

Format Hardcover

Source Publisher

Goodreads

It has long existed in the streets and alleys of Paris: the fabled power, a gift carefully guarded for generations. Anyone who owns them can rewrite reality. But Mila suspects nothing, as she fled after a quarrel with her mother to Paris. Until she meets the mysterious Nicholas, who dominates the gift like no other. And although Mila has never seen him, she knows his innermost. Because she already writes about him as long as she can think. When Nicholas´ family begins to hunt down both of them, she learns that he too has written about her – with dangerous consequences. A battle of stories about love and death flares up. (personal translation)

Thoughts

This new YA novel by Kathrin Lange reminded me a bit of her Heart-Trilogy. The plot is full of secrets, very mysterious and with two main figures who complete each other perfectly.

Blutzeuge by Tess Gerritsen

Since many years I am a huge fan of the author. And her Rizzoli & Isles series is one of the most loved series I have on my shelves. So, of course, I wanted to read this new book about Jane and Maura and see how their new case would turn out.

Blutzeuge*
Author Tess Gerritsen

Rizzoli & Isles Series #12

Translation Andreas Jäger
Original Title I Know A Secret

Publisher Limes on November 20, 2017

Genre Thriller

Pages 409

Format Hardcover

Source German Publisher
Goodreads

In Boston, the body of a young woman is found – in the open palms her eyeballs. The mutilation happened post mortem, as is clearly stated in the autopsy. But the exact cause of death remains unclear. A short time later, the body of a man appears – arrows stick out of his chest, which were also placed there only after his death. Both were victims of the same perpetrator, otherwise there seems to be no connection between them. Boston Police Detective Jane Rizzoli is puzzled until a trail leads her to a decades-old case of mistreatment in a Catholic nursery. (personal translation)

Thoughts

And that end …. I can´t remember a book in this series, that had ended the way this one does. 

It´s Only Love by Marie Force

For some reasons, I keep reading this series, although the past three books weren´t really mine. Maybe it is because I hope that the author will go back to her fun and charming style she used to have in the first few books of the Green Mountain series.

It´s Only Love*
Author Marie Force
Green Mountain Series #5
Publisher Berkley on November 3, 2015
Genre Novel
Pages 320
Format Paperback
Source German Publisher*
Goodreads

Ella Abbott has long been secretly in love with Gavin Guthrie. A few recent encounters have only added to her infatuation, especially the kiss they shared at her sister´s wedding. It doesn´t matter to Ella that Gavin is in a bad place. He says there´s no hope for a future with him, that he has nothing to offer her. But all Ella cares about it the love she feels. It´s been seven long years since Gavin lost his brother. He´d kept himself under control and moving forward until his brother´s beloved dog died and his brother´s widow re-married. Since then, he´s been drinking, fighting, and even getting arrested. It seems the only time his demons leave him alone is when Ella is around. Gavin knows it wouldn´t be fair to drag Ella into his darkness, but when she inserts herself into his life, what choice does he have but to allow her to soothe his aching heart?

Thoughts

This fifth book was again, not as good as the start of this series has been. But nevertheless, I read it.

Follow Friday #31 – Highlight November 2017

Launched by Sonja of A Bookshelf Full Of Sunshine, continued by FiktiveWelten with a new logo.

The blog action is for lively communication between bloggers, a good network and should be fun. Duration of the question: Friday to Thursday. Rules. No registration required.

This week I am doing a little exception from the usual FF. No, not the Highlight itself. That goes as usual. But I totally missed posting my choice of book for this at the end of November – life has gotten crazy lately – and thought I am presenting it now. 

A Good Yarn by Debbie Macomber

In this series, the author obviously remains true to her pattern of three women and their knitting teacher while going through some rough times in their lives.

A Good Yarn*
Author Debbie Macomber

Blossom Street Series #2

Publisher Mira on April 29, 2014

Genre Novel

Pages 379

Format Paperback

Source Library

Goodreads

Lydia owns a knitting shop on Seattle´s Blossom Street. In the year since it opened, A Good Yarn has thrived – and so has Lydia. A lot of that is due to Brad Goetz. But when Brad´s ex-wife reappears, Lydia is suddenly afraid to trust her newfound happiness. Three women join Lydia´s newest class. Elise Beaumont, retired and bitterly divorced, learns that her onetime husband is reentering her life. Bethanne Hamlin is facing the fallout from a much more recent divorce. And Courtney Pulanski is a depressed and overweight teenager, whose grandmother´s idea of helping her is to drag her to senior´s swim sessions – and to the knitting class at A Good Yarn. 

Thoughts

That is, in one novel, wonderful to read about, no doubt about that.

And I Love Her by Marie Force

A family with ten kids. Well, those kids aren´t kids anymore. At least not all of them. But I have to say, that the author has changed her way of writing about the Abbott´s. And with that, I mean the tone and how the plot is presented. But see for yourself.

And I Love Her*
Author Marie Force
Green Mountain Series #4

Publisher Berkley on March 3, 2017

Genre Novel

Pages 336

Format Paperback

Source German Publisher*

Goodreads

As the chief financial officer, Hunter Abbott manages the family´s various business interests while “fixing” things for the people he loves. But the one thing he can´t fix is his undeniable attraction to Megan Kane. Instead, Hunter is prepared to do whatever it takes to show Megan that he´s the man for her. Megan´s sister rocks her with the news that she and her husband are moving overseas, leaving Megan truly alone. With her sister – and her job at the diner- going away, Megan finds herself leaning on the sexy, button-down accountant who isn´t afraid to lay it all on the line for her. But Megan has watched too many people she loves leave her. Can she risk her heart on Hunter?

Thoughts

I am a huge fan of the Green Mountain series, and the first books were one thrilling read. 

Waiting On Wednesday #54 – Irgendwas Von Dir by Gayle Forman

is a weekly event originally hosted by Jill at Breaking the Spine. This meme is a place that spotlights upcoming releases that we´re eagerly anticipating with pure joy.

For whatever reason Jill is not blogging since August 2016 but her meme is still going on. Hope everything is ok and she will be back soon! Until then, I am joining Tressa at Wishful Endings and her meme Can´t-Wait Wednesday.

Magonia by Maria Dahvana Headley

That cover got me from the moment I saw it. Holy hell, what a color-and-motive-combination. But I am not so sure if I would have read it anyways, if I´d known what it was with all the birds. Still getting goosebumps when I think of all those scenes where they are playing a key role in it.

Magonia*
Author Maria Dahvana Headley
Magonia Series #1

Publisher HarperCollins on April 28, 2015

Genre Children 14+

Pages 320

Format Hardcover

Source German Publisher
Goodreads

Aza Ray Boyle is drowning in thin air. Since she was a baby, Aza has suffered from a mysterious lung disease that makes it ever harder for her to breathe, to speak – to live. So when Aza catches a glimpse of a ship in the sky, her family chalks it up to a cruel side effect of her medication. But Aza doesn´t think this is a hallucination. She can hear someone on the ship calling her name. Only her best friend, Jason, listens. Jason, who´s always been there. Jason, for whom she might have more-than-friendly feelings. But before Aza can consider that thrilling idea, something goes terrible wrong. Aza is lost to our world – and found, by another. Magonia. Above the clouds, in a land of trading ships. Aza is not the weak and dying thing, she was. In Magonia, she can breathe for the first time. Better, she has immense power – but ahs she navigates her new life, she discovers that war between Magonia and Earth is coming. In Aza´s hands lies fate of the whole of humanity – including the boy who loves her. Where do her loyalties lie?

Thoughts

I don´t know what I was expecting, but surely not what I was getting. 

The Shop On Blossom Street by Debbie Macomber

The author is a guarantor for nicely written novels set in a beautiful setting and with some well-created characters. I like her books because I can read them almost overnight.

The Shop on Blossom Street*
Author Debbie Macomber
Blossom Street Series #1
Publisher Mira on April 30, 2013
Genre Novel
Pages 400
Format Paperback
Source Library
Goodreads

Lydia teaches knitting to beginners, and the first class is How to Make a Baby Blanket. Three women join. Jacqueline Donovan disapproves of the woman married to her only son, but knitting a baby blanket would be a gesture of reconciliation. For Carol Girard, the baby blanket brings a message of hope and she and her husband make a final attempt to conceive. A tough-looking Alix Townsend is learning to knit her blanket for a court-ordered community service project. These four very different women, brought together by the age-old craft of knitting, make unexpected discoveries – about themselves and each other. Discoveries that lead to friendship and acceptance, to laughter and dreams. Discoveries only women can share …

Thoughts

Yes, and this book was no exception.

Beautiful Player by Christina Lauren

After I had read the first two books of this series about three years ago, I couldn´t wait for the third book being published in Germany and bought this as soon as the original edition was available. The cover somehow reminded me of that, the first had and though I am not much of a fan the green color concerned, this one kind of looks good.

Beautiful Player*
Author Christina Lauren
Beautiful Series #3

Publisher Gallery Books on October 29, 2013

Genre Love-Women-Erotica

Pages 402

Format Paperback

Source Purchased

Goodreads

When Hanna Bergstrom receives a lecture from her overprotective brother about neglecting her social life and burying herself in grad school, she´s determined to tackle his implied assignment: get out, make friends, start dating. And who better to turn her into the sultry siren every man wants than her brother´s gorgeous best friend Will Sumner, venture capitalist and unapologetic playboy? Will takes risks for a living, but he´s skeptical about this challenge of Hanna´s … until the wild night his innocently seductive pupil tempts him into bed – and teaches him a thing or two about being with a woman he can´t forget. Now that Hanna´s discovered the power of her own sex appeal, it´s up to Will to prove he´s the only man she´ll ever need.

Thoughts

I have to admit it, that for me, the best book of this series, so far, is still the Beautiful Bastard. 

Waiting On Wednesday #53 – Ewig Wir-Deathline by Janet Clark

is a weekly event originally hosted by Jill at Breaking the Spine. This meme is a place that spotlights upcoming releases that we´re eagerly anticipating with pure joy.

For whatever reason Jill is not blogging since August 2016 but her meme is still going on. Hope everything is ok and she will be back soon! Until then, I am joining Tressa at Wishful Endings and her meme Can´t-Wait Wednesday.

Stahlblaue Nacht by Tetsuya Honda

One of the many beautiful surprises, that showed up in my mailbox this year. Tetsuya Honda is a bestselling author in Japan and his series about Reiko Himekawa (this is the book Soul Cage) is about the life and work of a female Homicide Detective.

Stahlblaue Nacht*
Author Tetsuya Honda
Reiko Himekawa Series #2
Translation Irmengard Gabler
Original Title Soul Cage
Publisher Fischer TB on November 23, 2017
Genre Thriller
Pages 432
Format Paperback
Source Publisher
Goodreads

A severed hand, but no body. But a big pool of blood. For Reiko Himekawa and her team, the investigation into the case of the architect Takaoka is extremely difficult. Where is the corpse? When Reiko shows the missing person´s picture to an old friend, it gets even more complicated. Because he claims that the man in the photo is not Takaoka at all. But who is it then? And where is Takaoka? (personal translation) 

Thoughts

Originally, I wasn´t sure if I wanted to continue with this series. But when it was in my mailbox and I had it at home, I thought why not give it another try.

Lord Of Shadows by Cassandra Clare

Maybe my expectations were way too high after the thrilling first book of the The Dark Artifices Trilogy. Or I´d expected something different. I don´t know. All I know is, that this second book couldn´t live up to it. 

Lord of Shadows*
Author Cassandra Clare
The Dark Artifices #2

Translation Franca Fritz, Heinrich Koop
Original Title Lord of Shadows-The Dark Artifices
Publisher Goldmann on October 9, 2017

Genre Fantasy

Pages 828

Format Hardcover

Source German Publisher

Goodreads

The young shadow hunter Emma Carstairs has avenged her parents, but she finds no peace. Because the friendship with her parabatai Julian has become love – a relationship that has brutal consequences according to the laws of shadow hunters. In order to protect Julian and herself, Emma, therefore, takes up Julian´s brother Mark. Mark, who lived with the fairies for five years and whose loyalty is not really clear. Especially as unrest prevails in the underworld. The fairies had to bow to harsh conditions after the Dark War and covet. Emma, Julian, and Mark must fight for what they love – before it´s too late and a new war breaks out … (personal translation)

Thoughts

I am glad that the cover of the German edition looks the same as the original edition does. 

Ohne Ausweg by Kathrin Lange

To be honest, after reading the second book of this series, I wasn´t sure if I wanted to continue reading this series. But now that I have, I am very glad I did. Want to know why? Keep reading *smile*

Ohne Ausweg*
Author Kathrin Lange
Faris Iskander Series #3Publisher Blanvalet on December 19, 2016
Genre Thriller
Pages 443
Format Paperback
Source Publisher
Goodreads

The Muslim special investigator Faris Iskander has become an undercover agent: Because an Islamist organization plans poison gas attacks on Berlin, Faris is put in jail. Because terrorist leader al-Sadiq is in custody there – if Faris succeeds in pretending to be an Islamist and gaining Sadiq´s trust, he can provide much-needed information to the LKA. But while Faris is forced behind bars to credibly prove his terrorist intentions, his team is desperately chasing Sadiq´s assassin outside. Then the first poison gas attack happens. And as more and more people die in the capital, Faris discovers that a far-right organization is also planning an assassination. A hopeless fight on two fronts begins … (personal translation)

Thoughts

Kathrin Lange YOU ROCK! This thriller is breathtaking, heartbreaking and haunting from the first to the last page.

Vier Zauberhafte Schwestern Und Die Unsichtbare Gefahr by Sheridan Winn

A wonderful book for children age 9 and up. A few years ago, I stumbled across this beautiful series, with magically created covers at my library. There are silver stars sparkling all over the cover motive and the painting is so sweet and adorable *sigh*

Vier zauberhafte Schwestern und die unsichtbare Gefahr* 

Author Sheridan Winn
The Sprite Sisters Series #10

Translation Katrin Weingran
Original Title The Sprite Sisters The Power Of Four

Illustration Franziska Harvey

Publisher Fischer KJB on November 23, 2017

Genre Children 9+

Pages 333

Format Hardcover

Source Publisher

Goodreads

It is spring, and the four sisters Flame, Marina, Flora, and Sky should prepare for their exams. But in Cantrip Towers, weird things happen: An invisible intruder sneaks through the corridors trying to steal the magical powers of the family. How should the sisters fight an enemy they do not see? They make a risky plan and go into great danger. Only with combined magic powers can they survive this adventure. (personal translation)

Thoughts

If you are looking for a series where love, loyalty and the values of a caring family are held high, then this series is what you are looking for. 

Bird And Sword by Amy Harmon

I am not sure which cover I like most. The one the German edition is showing or the one, the English edition has. Both are so unique and beautiful in their very own way. One thing I DO know. The Bird and The Sword (its original title) is a novel that will polarize its readers.

Bird And Sword* 

Author Amy Harmon
The Bird And The Sword Chronicles #1

Translation Corinna Wieja
Original Title The Bird And The Sword

Publisher LYX on October 26, 2017

Genre Novel

Pages 396

Format Softcover

Source Publisher

Goodreads

At age five, Lark had to watch her mother being executed. With the last breath, she took her daughter´s voice and power of words. Because magic is a mortal sin in Jeru. Thirteen years later, the young King Tiras appears at the court of Lark´s father to remind him of his fidelity to the war. He takes the voiceless young woman hostage with him. At first, Lark fears the king, but she quickly realizes that Tiras is just as free as she is, and that love may be the only weapon that can break their chains.

Thoughts

And with polarizing its readers I mean that some of us will be swooning over the moon over this story while others will probably ask what is so special about this novel? Keep reading and you´ll find out how I think about it.

Waiting On Wednesday #52 – Girl In Pieces by Kathleen Glasgow

is a weekly event originally hosted by Jill at Breaking the Spine. This meme is a place that spotlights upcoming releases that we´re eagerly anticipating with pure joy.

For whatever reason Jill is not blogging since August 2016 but her meme is still going on. Hope everything is ok and she will be back soon! Until then, I am joining Tressa at Wishful Endings and her meme Can´t-Wait Wednesday.

Girl Online Going Solo by Zoe Sugg

A nice book that is written in the typically Zoe Sugg way. For me a wonderful closing of this trilogy.

Girl Online Going Solo*

Author Zoe Sugg
Girl Online Series #3

Publisher Atria Keywords on November 22, 2016

Genre Children 12+

Pages 336

Format Softcover

Source German Publisher*

Goodreads

As Penny starts the school year she´s ready to face the world – alone. Noah has gone off the radar after ending his world tour early, and no one, including Penny, knows where he is. So, when she accepts Megan´s invitation to visit her performing arts school, it seems like an opportunity to make some new friends. Helping everyone else seems to be the right remedy – Elliot needs her friendship more than ever, and she meets Posey, who she can really help with her stage fright. But is charming Scottish boy Callum the right kind of distraction? And can Penny truly move on when Noah´s shadow seems to haunt her around every corner? 

Thoughts

If you are in for an easy to read a novel with some beautiful scenes and nice created figures who aren´t that profound, then this is definitely your book. 

King´ s Cage by Victoria Aveyard

One of the very few books I know where the title is actually saying what the book is all about. But again, I like the cover of the English edition way more than the ones the German editions are showing.

King´s Cage* 

Author Victoria Aveyard
Red Queen #3

Publisher Harper Teen on February 7, 2017

Genre Children 14+

Pages 528

Format Hardcover

Source German Publisher*

Goodreads

Mare Barrow is a prisoner, powerless without her lightning, tormented by her lethal mistakes. She lives at the mercy of a boy she once loved, a boy made of lies and betrayal. Now a king, Maven Calore continues weaving his dead mother´s web in an attempt to maintain control over his country – and his prisoner. As Mare bears the weight of Silent Stone in the palace, her once-ragtag band of newbloods and Reds continue organizing, training and expanding. They prepare for war, no longer able to linger in the shadows. And Cal, the exiled prince with his own claim on Mare´s heart, will stop at nothing to bring her back. When blood turns on blood, and ability on ability, there may be no one left to put out the fire – leaving Norta as Mare knows it to burn all the way down.

Thoughts

I love the blue, silver, white and red of this cover. A bleeding crown, how fitting.

Gotteslüge by Kathrin Lange

This thriller was a bit disappointing. Or maybe my expectations after the fantastic first book of this series were just way too high.

Gotteslüge*

Author Kathrin Lange
Faris Iskander Series #2
Publisher Blanvalet on March 16, 2015
Genre Thriller
Pages 413
Format Paperback
Source Publisher
Goodreads

What at first looks like a hostage-taking turns out to be a case of far-fetched personal dimensions for Faris: A man armed with an explosive belt delivers a message to him. It reads: “Next time you will press the trigger.” Faris can save his own life as the bomb explodes. But he does not know that an old enemy devised a devilish plan for him. And this adversary does not shy away from abduction or cold-blooded murder. After all, he wants to witness how Faris himself becomes an assassin … (personal translation)

Thoughts

I expected the main figure who had - again - to fight his personal demons. And there is a lot of that in this book.

Einsam Bist Du Und Allein by Mary Higgins Clark

This is the German edition of All By Myself, Alone. And despite the fact, that I am obviously not reading this series in its chronological order, I enjoyed this novel with Alvirah and Willy. A nice and easy to read thriller.

Einsam bist du und allein* 

Author Mary Higgins Clark
Alvirah And Willy Series #11

Translation Karl-Heinz Ebnet
Original Title All By Myself, Alone 

Publisher Heyne on September 25, 2017

Genre Thriller

Pages 347

Format Hardcover

Source Publisher

Goodreads

After a private drama gemstone expert, Celia urgently needs a break. Relieved, she accepts the invitation to lecture on a cruise ship. There she befriends Lady Em, a rich old lady with an invaluable emerald necklace. Three days later, in the middle of the high sea, Lady Em is found murdered – and the chain has disappeared. Celia is determined to clarify the facts. Even if the list of suspects is getting longer. And even if she can no longer be sure of her own life aboard. (personal translation)

Thoughts

Until a few weeks ago, I wasn´t even aware that this series exists. Well, that sounds now a bit awkward. As a huge MHC fan, I probably should have known it. 

Carlotta-Internat Auf Klassenfahrt by Dagmar Hoßfeld

A nice to read book about Carlotta and what she experienced with her classmates on her trip to Mallorca. An English title could sound like this: Boarding school on a school trip. But don´t count on it *smile*

Carlotta-Internat Auf Klassenfahrt*

Author Dagmar Hoßfeld
Carlotta Series #7

Publisher Carlsen on July 28, 2017

Genre Children 10+

Pages 249

Format Hardcover
Source Publisher

Goodreads

In the eleventh grade, traditionally Castle Prinzensee does a course trip. Carlotta flies to Mallorca with her Spanish course. She is looking forward to the free time with her friends and to many new photographs of the Mediterranean. Summer, sun, palm trees, friends – and lots of time to waste! Isn´t that totally awesome? Jonas is less enthusiastic …(personal translation)

Thoughts

I am not sure how many books this series will have, but from my point of view, there shouldn´t be much more. Why I say that? Keep reading, and you´ll know *smile*

Twisted Palace by Erin Watt

The right image is everything in the world the Royals live in. Even when that means that you have to pay people money to solve the bad things you´ve done.

Twisted Palace* 

Author Erin Watt
The Royals Series #3

Publisher Everafter Romance on October 17, 2016

Genre Novel

Pages 370

Format Softcover
Source Library

Goodreads

Ella Harper has met every challenge that life has thrown her way. She´s tough, resilient, and willing to do whatever it takes to defend the people she loves, but the challenge of a long-lost father and a boyfriend whose life is on the line might be too much for even Ella to overcome. Reed Royal has a quick temper and even faster fists. But his tendency to meet every obstacle with violence has finally caught up with him. If he wants to save himself and the girl he loves, he´ll need to rise above his tortured past and tarnished reputation. No one believes Ella can survive the Royals. Everyone is sure Reed will destroy them all. They might be right.

Thoughts 

But when it comes to a murder, no money in the world can save your butt. 

AMANI - Verräterin Des Throns by Alwyn Hamilton

The cover of Traitor to the Throne (its original title – you can see the cover at the end of this review) isn´t as warm and beautiful as the one the first book has. At least when it comes to the German edition. But with all the dark blue, black and sparkling gold, it kind of looks nice.

AMANI – Verräterin des Throns* 

Author Alwyn Hamilton
Rebel of the Sands Series #2

Translation Ursula Höfker
Original Title Traitor to the Throne 

Publisher cbt on September 11, 2017

Genre Children 14+

Pages 535 

Format Hardcover

Source Publisher

Goodreads

Amani, rebel, and daughter of a Djinni, has been fighting alongside the rebel prince for months when she is being betrayed to her worst enemy – the Sultan of Miraji. Although Amani is deprived of her magical powers, she risks her life smuggling crucial information to the insurgents outside the palace – because the rebellion must win at all cost. But the more time Amani spends as the prisoner of the Sultan, the greater her doubts become. Is she really on the right side? Or is she just a traitor? (personal translation)

Thoughts

Yes, after reading Rebel of the Sands, I had to read this second one as well. 

Broken Prince by Erin Watt

After the end of book one, I had to know how the story would continue. Thankfully I had this second book already at home and could start this right away. And wow, the story became better and better …

Broken Prince*
Author Erin Watt
The Royals Series #2

Publisher Everafter Romance on July 25, 2016

Genre Novel

Pages 370

Format Softcover

Goodreads

Reed Royal has it all – looks, status, money. The girls at his elite prep school line up to date him, the guys want to be him, but Reed never gave a damn about anyone but his family until Ella Harper walked into his life. What started off as burning resentment and the need to make his father´s new ward suffer turned into something else entirely – keep Ella close. Keep Ella safe. But when one foolish mistake drives her out of Reed´s arms and brings chaos to the Royal household, Reed´s entire world begins to fall apart around him. Ella doesn´t want him anymore. She says they´ll only destroy each other. She might be right.

Thoughts 

This time, the book starts from Reeds point of view and with a scene that left me shocked at the end of the first part of this series.

Waiting On Wednesday #51 – Queen & Blood by Amy Harmon

is a weekly event originally hosted by Jill at Breaking the Spine. This meme is a place that spotlights upcoming releases that we´re eagerly anticipating with pure joy.

For whatever reason Jill is not blogging since August 2016 but her meme is still going on. Hope everything is ok and she will be back soon! Until then, I am joining Tressa at Wishful Endings and her meme Can´t-Wait Wednesday.

Ivory And Bone by Julie Eshbaugh

A novel that shows the story from a male perspective. Very interesting and different, though I wasn´t convinced in the end.

Ivory And Bone* by Julie Eshbaugh

Ivory And Bone Series #1

Published by Harper Teen on June 7, 2016

ISBN 978-0-0623-9925-0

Pages 384

Format Hardcover

Source Publisher

Goodreads

Hunting, gathering, and keeping his family safe – that´s the life seventeen-year-old Kol knows. Then bold, enigmatic Mya arrives from the south with her family, and Kol is captivated. He wants her to trust him, but hopes of impressing her are ruined when he makes a careless – and nearly grave – mistake. What Kol doesn´t know is that underneath Mya´s cool disdain is a history wrought with loss that comes to light when another clan arrives. With them is Lo, an enemy from Mya´s past who Mya swears has ulterior motives. As Kol grows closer to Lo, tensions between Mya and Lo escalate until violence erupts. Faced with shattering losses, Kol is forced to question every person he´s trusted. One thing is for sure: this was a war that Mya or Lo – Kol doesn’t know which – had been planning all along.

Thoughts

Somehow the thought, that people living in the Stone Age were actually talking and thinking like we are doing it today, was giving me the creeps. 

Cell 7 by Kerry Drewery

I don´t know what I´ve expected from this book. The cover looks great, shows the main figure and the back promises a haunting story that gives us a glimpse into the future.

Cell 7* by Kerry Drewery
Cell 7 Trilogy #1
Published by Hot Key Books on September 22, 2016
ISBN 978-1-4714-0559-4
Pages 384
Format Paperback
Source Publisher
Goodreads

A world where justice and the fate of those accused of murder is decided by the public, but has moved on from the Roman Gladiator “thumbs up or thumbs down” public vote, to a public vote by telephone. If you are voted innocent you are set free; if you are voted guilt you are committed to death by electric chair. Those awaiting their sentence reside in ever decreasing cells, getting smaller each day, until Day 7 and Cell 7, where they hear their fate.
Sixteen-year-old Martha has confessed to killing a famous celebrity. But has she done it? And if not, why has she claimed the murder? Perhaps she wants to show up the flawed and brutal system by sacrificing herself in the hope of a better world … Or perhaps she is protecting somebody else …

Thoughts

Guess my expectations were a little too high. This book, as wonderful as the cover looks like, couldn´t live up to them.

Follow Friday #30 – Highlight October 2017

Launched by Sonja of A Bookshelf Full Of Sunshine, continued by FiktiveWelten with a new logo. 

The blog action is for lively communication between bloggers, a good network and should be fun. Duration of the question: Friday to Thursday. Rules. No registration required.

This week the FF is all about our book highlight for October. I have two highlights I want to share with you. 

If you want to know which one I chose, keep reading *smile*

Paper Princess by Erin Watt

I had this series since many weeks on my reading list, but never took the time to actually get them. Not to mention reading. Until recently. And despite the fact, that I don´t understand what the hysteria about this first part is all about, I read the first three books in one single swoop.

Paper Princess* 

Author Erin Watt
The Royals Series #1

Publisher Everafter Romance on April 4, 2016

Genre Novel

Pages 364

Format Softcover

Goodreads

Ella Harper is a survivor – a pragmatic optimist. She´s spent her whole life moving from town to town with her flighty mother, struggling to make ends meet and believing that someday she´ll climb out of the gutter. After her mother´s death, Ella is truly alone. Until Callum Royal appears, plucking Ella out of poverty and tossing her into his posh mansion among his five sons who all hate her. Each Royal boy is more magnetic than the last, but none as captivating as Reed Royal, the boy who is determined to send her back to the slums she came from. Reed doesn´t watch her. He says she doesn´t belong with the Royals. He might be right.

Thoughts 

Don´t let yourself get fooled by the looks of the covers. There isn´t one cheesy line in here. Okay, you might want to argue about the main characters and how they are created, but that´s about it.

Die Legende Von Shikanoko by Lian Hearn

This book got me the second I saw the cover. As you can see, the German edition is very Asian looking and the red, gold, black and white in combination with the cover motive kind of fascinated me.

Herrscher Der Acht Inseln*
Author Lian Hearn
Die Legende Von Shikanoko #1

Translation Sibylle Schmidt
Original Title The Tale Of Shikanoko – Emperor Of The Eight Islands

Publisher Fischer Sauerländer on August 24, 2017

Genre Young Adult

Pages 578

Format Hardcover

Source German Publisher

Goodreads

“Now is your name Shikanoko – child of the deer.” He put the mask on his face and felt the strength of the deer and the ancient wisdom of the woods penetrate him, and knew that he would never assume a different name.(personal translation) 

Thoughts

It has been a while, some years to be honest, that I´ve read the authors Tale of Otori saga. 

Lyrebird by Cecelia Ahern

I was not sure if this book would be one that fits my taste when it comes to Cecelia Ahern. Yes, the cover is nice and the color combination of the German edition, I actually kind of like. But the novel itself left me with a weird and awkwardly silent feeling.

Lyrebird*
Author Cecelia Ahern

Publisher Harper Collins UK on March 11, 2016

Genre Novel

Pages 432

Format Hardcover 

Source Received from German Publisher

Goodreads

In the south-west of Ireland, rugged mountains meet bright blue lakes and thick forests. Deep in the woods, a young woman lives alone, forever secluded from the world, her life a well-kept secret. She possesses an extraordinary talent, the likes of which no-one has seen before: a gift that will earn her the nickname Lyrebird. When Solomon stumbles into Laura´s solitary existence, her life is turned on its head. Pulled from her peaceful landscape to the cacophony of Dublin, she is confronted by a world desperate to understand her. But while Solomon knows the world will embrace Laura, will it free her to spread her wings or will it trap her in a gilded cage? Like all wild birds, she needs to fly. 

Thoughts

One thing is for sure. This novel is either one you´ll love right from the start or you don´t. There´s nothing in-between.