Charlie Courtland

Four stars, and I will explain why. I totally enjoyed byself while reading this book. Nevertheless, much felt like fantasy. I don't like fantasy - so why did I enjoy this book so much? Well, I did. I cannot explain it other than saying it moved me and the descriptions were vivid and the horror bits were truly horrid and I also frequently laughed out loud. I believe if there had been an author's note clearly explaining what was fact and what was fiction I may have given it 5 stars. I am the reviewer; I need an author's note. I need to KNOW for sure what is what. Then I could have sat back and enjoyed both parts, the fact and the fiction. Without the author's note I was continually wondering is this fact, is that fiction? In the end it feels more like fantasy simply because I cannot know for sure. I need to know. That is who I am! I will definitely read the next book as soon as it comes out!!!… (mehr)

Joe Parker grows jalapenos. Spicy ones too. The secret to Joe’s spicy jalapenos is the compost he makes with the help of the sheriff and few other people in town. Then Vera shows up. The sheriff offers her protection in exchange for information. And Joe is that protection. How can Joe continue his operation if Vera is constantly around snooping? And why are things all of suddenly going seriously wrong? As Joe and Vera become closer, who can say what will become of the spicy jalapenos and their secrets.
Upon reading the first few pages, I realized that this book isn’t your grandmothers “who-done-it” tale of mystery, deceit and death. Courtland writes a story that is both wholesome and gruesome. A contradiction that somehow fully satisfies the reader. She also delves into human nature. Are humans good or bad; right or wrong? I enjoyed this book. Joe isn’t your average guy. And his problems aren’t run of the mill. I highly recommend this book, especially for anyone looking for a not so average tale!… (mehr)

The story of Amara and the Countess Elizabeth Bathory' continues. This sequel picks up where the first one left off, with Elizabeth and Amara racing to Venice seeking the estate of Vlad Tepes, Elizabeth's ancestor. While in Venice, love comes calling. Elizabeth falls for an impoverished painter, and Amara reconnects with her former flame, Count George Drugeth. After returning to Catchice, Elizabeth starts experimenting with beauty elixers, as well as poisons. Accused of illness by the court, Elizabeth is confined to her estate and continues her dark work. When her results start piling up, Amara must distance herself from those she loves in order to survive the impending justice.
This book continues the adventures of Elizabeth and Amara. Told by Amara, readers get a glimpse into the life of Elizabeth without the story being all about the Countess. The story is fast paced and doesn't focus on Elizabeth's alleged crimes. Like Amara, I found myself drawn to Elizabeth, while being repulsed. I felt Amara's loneliness is being a soldier's wife.
This book was wonderful, but left my mind open to many questions. After pondering the book for a few days, I wonder if there will be a trilogy or if the story will end where it was left.… (mehr)