Hubs, aka Kevin, finally picked up a book I rec’d and read it – the whole thing. Then he picked up five more. Today, hubs is here to talk about his experience and I believe the words “I admit defeat” are spoken loud and clear ;) Take it away Kevin.
I tend to read in large spurts because I read a book that particularly interests me, and then follow that with a few other novels until I get too busy. I personally read mostly sci-fi or thriller novels, most notably I am a big Stephen King fan. Having read his most recent novel, I was kicked into my reading gear and was left in a rather difficult situation. Over drinks, a friend recommended a fantasy series to me which I readily purchased on Amazon. Having two profound strikes against me in the Smexy household – first, being a man and second, being an average reader (meaning I don’t complete more than a dozen novels per year), Smexy intercepted the package and told me that I wasn’t allowed to take a recommendation from a friend if I refuse to read a book she has recommended to me. So being forced to read a book that I didn’t necessarily desire reading, and the reality that I am in fact a very stubborn individual, I fully expected to slog through the book and move on to read the series I was awaiting. Obviously, the recommendation was coming from a well versed veteran of reviewing, and most important, a book she held under high acclaim. I took the novel and forced myself to start reading.
The novel, Moon Called by Patricia Briggs, was the first book I had read which dabbles squarely in an Urban Fantasy world of Vampires, Werewolves and Fae. I have to admit: expecting to trudge through a book and instead finding myself immediately sucked into a story I was truly enjoying made the process all the more entertaining! The novel was exciting, with twists and turns that kept my mind rapt in the story, and my focus keen for the next step. The characters which were well crafted, and alluring, with their own quirks and conflicts, made the story and plot-line addictive. So much so, in fact, that instead of my planned denial of my favoritism toward the novel (obviously because that would mean that smexy wins), I had to admit defeat.
Mercy Thompson, although an interesting character, and someone who would always be there to protect you in a time of need, wouldn’t necessarily be the best friend to have. She has a profound way of attracting trouble from the worst of the nasties! I should know, after I wrapped up Moon Called, I couldn’t resist the urge to move forward onto the next (and yes, the next and then the next and then the next). I personally loved each of the novels and the ongoing storyline (and yes, I cannot wait until the next one!). The constant ongoing internal battle (within Mercy’s mind) between Adam vs Samuel. My vote is with Adam here, Samuel, although a strong lead was a bit too whimsical at times to take him as a serious Alpha. Plus, I think Adam has a far better sense of humor :). Adam’s obvious issues with being the Alpha and maintaining control over the pack (even when they are all just sitting around eating milk and cookies). Zee, and the depiction of the Fae and their absurd rules about being Thanked. That rule itself has made me evaluate most of what I say now for fear of becoming a slave to some Fae folk unintentionally. Which is why I have to say to Smexy: ‘I enjoyed the book, and the whole series for that matter. It is much appreciated.’, careful not to accidentally thank her. I mean, yes, I am married to her and have known here for most of my life but if there is one thing I’ve learned from this series its, you never know.
One final important factor that made this series so worthwhile was the way Briggs offers bother conversational humor between characters as well as the more memorable situational humor. I won’t ever forget the scene (from Bone Crossed) which places Mercy, in Coyote form, cascading out the door of Uncle Mike’s dragging the magical trap which had caused a sudden ferocious rise in the pack violence inside. Trailing her and shattering the door frame and the surrounding wall is a fae (Snow Elf), who, after the trap is removed, is detailed later hopelessly picking up debris that he left in his wake. I couldn’t help but laugh, thinking of the bewildered expression on his face.
After I was forced to announce defeat, I accepted the duty of reading one more of Smexy’s Favorites: Mind Games by Carolyn Crane. I have to admit, this was another excellent read. I don’t want to give anything away for readers who have not yet picked up this book, but I highly recommend this first in a trilogy. The entire basis of the logic behind the book had me hooked instantly. A cast of characters, each with their own debilitating mental illness, turned into a sort of super hero mental squad to fight Evil doers. The world is inhabited by humans and more-than-human "highcaps", people with excessive mental abilities giving them phsychological powers like telepathy, telekinesis and mind manipulation. The story starts out on the heroine, Justine Jones, and her continual battle dealing with her health fears (she believes she is dying of a rare brain disorder). While dining with her boyfriend, she meets Packard, a "highcap" with the ability to read peoples psychological weaknesses. He is the lead of a team of humans, each with similar anxieties, which he has trained to "zing" their anxiety into another person, and in turn disillusion them. The end result of the "zinging" is a rapid mental weakening of the target, and an instantly gratifying feeling that numbs the fears of the owner. Hired by people to punish criminals, the team fights crime in a brand new way. I simply cannot wait for the next part of this trilogy!
Thanks Kevin! I should mention that when I asked Kevin what he would rate Mind Games, he told me 4.5/5 – he took a half point off because there was a sex scene. Oh hubs. We still have a long way to go. ;)
I think these are two great series for guys to read. Kevin didn’t mention this, but he also just started Spider’s Bite by Jennifer Estep. See- he can’t help himself when it comes to the Urban Fantasy genre now ;) I also have Ilona Andrews, Jim Butcher and Laurell K. Hamilton waiting for him.
Hey Kevin… Welcome to the dark side and our world.
Those are two rocking series that you started with… Mercy and team are a firm fav of mine…
I agree with you on Briggs writing.. it does hold you…
Thanks for the morning chuckles – Smexy I bow to you getting Husb onboard….
Now you WILL have someone to discuss all those alpha heroes with…
Now to work on getting him to love the romance bit….
E.H>
Aww, you're a better man than most! I have a couple hundred books laying around, as well as a lot of ebooks, and my husband would never touch any of them with a ten foot pole.
So that's so awesome that you took Mandi's advice and actually liked what you read. Surprise, right? Here's to hoping you find more awesome books to enjoy!! :)
Briggs is a gateway drug. You start with the 'Mercy' series, and next thing you know you're dabbling in a little Jeannifer Estep, trying an Ilona Andrews book, having a go at some Ann Aguirre… and before you know it you're devouring Jeaniene Frost's latets and biting your nails for the next JR Ward.
It is a slippery slope into the world of Urban Fantasy addiction. Be warned!
P.S. – how funny that hubs didn't apprecitae the smut. Men really must be visual creatures while us women prefer a little more depth :) Surely Jeaniene Frost's 'chapter 32' will change his mind!? Surely!
This made me smile from ear to ear. Not only because it gives me hope for my own hubs ;) Although the half point off for the sex scene is troubling *g*
I loved how Kevin kept calling you Smexy, Mandi. High five for your succes, hun! :D
I have offered to even READ out loud to my husband and he refuses me. *sigh* This post gives me hope that just maybe one day he will be curious enough to pick up one of my books. One day…
Such a great post. :)
Great post Mr. Smexy! Mandi–You should give him the Downsider Ghosts books too! I am letting hubs read those…eventually. ;)
Yeah Mandi, you constant suggesting…um, I mean your encouragement and love have finally convinced Kevin to post on your blog — and what a post!
Kevin, you are quite the writer. You need to post more often ;) You must try the Kate Daniels books next — I find they have a very similar style to the Mercy books. Jason has only read the "Curran's point of view" stuff but he liked it (I printed it and "accidentally" left if in the bathroom one day)…that gives me hope that maybe he'll pick them up. Doubtful though — if he were to read Ilona Andrews, how on earth would he find time for his gaming?!
And 4.5 for Mind Games because it has a sex scene?! lmao! Too funny…
You're going to hand him over to LKH?? LOL!! :)
I am loving Mind Games, Kevin! Can't wait to finish it…
It wasn't simply due to the sex scene, honestly! I was just too engrossed in the story and didn't need all the excess of detail when I wanted to know what was going to happen next. So I was forced to skim, its just a coincidence that it was skimming specifically over the sex scene…. um.. yeah, thats the ticket… yeah ;)
Pfffft…sure hubs, sure.
You are so lucky! It took months to get my hubs to read my own stuff! :) Excellent reviews!
Love your new look!
My hubs really likes this series (he's asked me a few times in the past month when is the next "coyote girl" book coming out!). I hadn't thought about giving him Mind Games – good call! I did give him Some Girls Bite but he hasn't had time to read it yet….
LOL wonderful post Mr Smexy! This must be the month of the hubs because mine actually read a review of mine and wanted to discuss it with me. I told him he had to read the book first.
Def. try the Kate Danial's series. I'm a plot girl more then a romance girl and that is my all time fav series.
I love the new look! For a minute there, I almost thought I was at the wrong place. :) If your hubs can get through the Mercy Thompson series, then I can too…officially going to add it to my list of series to read now. That was a great post!
Mandi all I can simply think to say is ***ALL HAIL QUEEN SMEXY MANDI*** Honey, I bow to you. You two have a powerhouse of a relationship. And I think it *Yep you guessed it* Rocks Freaking Apples!!!!
That is awesome Kevin, that would pick up Smexy's books and read and tell us about it. My hubs will not touch myself if it was to save his life. Maybe to use as fire material yeah, lmbo. So my hat off to you Kevin for reading and appreciating and telling us about it.
You two rock the world!!!!
First, I love the new look! Fiction Vixen did a great job!! That was a great guest post by your hubs, and if he can get through the Mercy Thompson series, then so can I!
I definitely want to hear if Mr. Smexy reads LKH:)
Great post!
A guy… took off half a point because the book had a sex scene?!
O_O
Kudos to your Hubs!!! I couldn't get my Hubs to pick up any of my books to save my life. He is so totally against it all! And I really get a kick out the fact that he deducted points for sex scenes.
Hi, I really enjoyed this post by Kevin. I've just started reading Patricia Briggs' "Mercy" series, so his review came at a good time. And I had never heard of "Mind Games" but his description made it sound interesting, too, so I will keep a look out for it.
I also thought his introduction was rather amusing — about his Amazon package being intercepted and withheld until he read an urban fantasy book!
I stumbled upon Jim Butcher's "Dresden Files" series a little over a year ago and second the recommendation that Kevin give them a try. While I am not a guy, they have a very "guy" quality to them that I think would appeal to him. But be forewarned, Kevin, it's a long series (12 books published so far); fortunately I can honestly say that each book gets better than the last. (Not much there in the way of sex scenes to distract you, either.)
–Jenna E.
YEAH!!!!!!!!!!!!! GO HUBS, GO HUBS!
I am totally showing this to my hubs in the hopes of getting him to read these books too. Thank you for sharing your perspective with us Kevin! I love the Mercy series so much and it's so cool seeing it thru a guy's POV.
I just finished Mind Games last night and like Mandi it's definitely one of my faves of 2010. Again, nice to see it from a guy's POV.
You're a lucky girl. I couldn't even bribe the BF to hold an urban fantasy, let alone read one.
Loved reading the review from a guy's POV. Any more Hubby Reviews scheduled for the future?
"careful not to accidentally thank her" ROFLMAO!!!
Very nice review Kevin. You really need to read the Downside Ghost series by Stacia Kane. Really.
*waves* Hi Mr. Smexy.
I'm saving, bookmarking, printing this review and super gluing this to my husband's xbox. Getting hubs to read one of my books is a goal of mine and I will not rest until he does so ::fist of triumph::
He! Smokin' I'd just be happy if DH would read ANY book! Doesn't even have to be something I like. :D LOL! Well done Mr. Smexy!
Tee hee-hee…Mr Smexy is a Smut-Skimmer. Now your poor UPS man is really going to be scared what with BOTH of you wild-eyed at the door wainting for deliveries! Smexy owes her Hubs a really nice bottle of whiskey.
If Kevin takes a half point off for a sex scene I just wonder how many points will be left at the end of one of Laurell K Hamilton's books? It might be the first review to end up in negative territory! : )
Helen
Sarah, I second the Whiskey recommendation! Heck, after a few shots I might reconsider my stance on skimming… ;)
I must add, btw, this is the first time I can recall not only having my face appear ON Smexy, but appearing ABOVE the Smexy Men :)
Now you need to share the BDB love with him! That I would love to see him review!
EH – It is fun to talk books with him..who knew?? ;)
Karra – LOL..he was surprised. It took him awhile to actually admit he liked them :)
Danielle – Oh lord…I might save chp 32 for a long time…
ERR – LOL..he doesn't call me Smexy at home ;)
Mar – LOLOL..hey, we've been together since we were 14 – we are now 32..it took awhile!
Kindelicious – I know!! He needs the Downsider books!!!
Julie – I think your hubs inspired my hubs to post ;)
Smash – Well – the first 10 in LKH..they are decent..right? LOL
J.A – LOL..he wouldn't read your own stuff? Now, that is bad :)
Patti – Hubs better realize I'm reading River Marked FIRST!!! :)
Tori – I have Magic Bites sitting out for him :)
Colette – Oh def – you will LOVE this series!!
Cecile – LOLOL….well..I'm careful with what I give him. You make me giggle!
Anna – LOL..He already said he doesn't like the title of the first book, Guilty Pleasures. But early Anita is good guy stuff IMO ;)
Chris – LOL…maybe he would have added extra points if it had been F/F??
Heather – LOL…maybe one day for your hubs :)
Jenna – It's true I took him Amazon box away :) And I have heard the most wonderful things about Dresdan…really must start that series myself!
Pamela – LOL…all of our hubs could start their own book club! ;)
FV – Speaking of Downside – today is the day!!!! City of Ghosts is OUT!
KC – Don't mention the Xbox!!! You will distract the hubs. That Xbox is attached to him. SHHHHH ;)
Dara – I used to say that about Kev too :)
Sarah – Oh, I see Kev already likes your suggestion!
Kevin – Dude – you made it higher than Brandon Flowers today. But only for today. *hides*
Amy – omg – that would be hilarious..but I can't see him reading it. If he started to make fun of it there would be a battle ;)
"he doesn't call me Smexy at home ;)"
LOL! I didn't think so. :)
Maybe I should start?
snort
*chuckle* Maybe you should, Kevin. In the bedroom for starters. ;)
I wouldn't mind a growl like Adam can do. Connect with your inner werewolf hubs!
What?
First, what is this, I hardly knew where I was, the place looks awesome Mandi :D
Secondly..you got hubby to write a post, wow!
Oh please tell me your secrets Kevin on how I can get my bf to read a book. I do have Moon Called.
lol
It sounds like Kevin's never going to be able to escape book recommendations now! Are you still holding the books from his friend hostage? ;)
You got hubs to read a few Urban Fantasy books, like them and write a post – you are all kinds of awesome ;)
My hubby won't even read the books I write, not even the m/f stuff. Though I have made him sit down and pretend to listen when I wanted his opinion on a scene (and 'pretend' is the operative word there). lol
I suppose I cannot escape the book recommendations any further – especially since they proved to be so worthy. The good news, she did give me the series I ordered off amazon (Brent Weeks – Night Angel Trilogy). I actually read Mind Games between books 2 and 3 of the NAT. Hmm… now all I have to do is intercept the mail when she gets the next Mercy Thompson or Mind Games…. hmmm :)
Wow, what a great post! Kevin, you have a talent with the written word. Loved how you described the series. And as I've just finished Iron Kissed recently, I'm right there with ya on the series.
I think the In Death series is another awesome one, although it's up to what now, 30, 31 books? Might be a bit intimidating, but maybe you could do the Mr. Smexy challenge of 2010 – 2013?
Excellent reviews. Know that you are not alone as a male reader of UF :)
I think EH said it best:
Hey Kevin… Welcome to the dark side and our world.
Great review of the books – loved your takes on them! Am so hanging out for River Marked!
Hi Kevin! I enjoyed your review and it's always nice to see a man admitting defeat to his wife! *grins*
My hubs reads stuff like Terry Pratchett and he's been recently into pulp/sci-fi books based on Warhammer 40,000 but he's a definite NO on the romance. I dont' see there's any chance of that changing before hell freezes over!
Glad you enjoyed the books Kevin and Way To Go Mandi!!
Mandi and Kevin: Thank you so much! That was a wonderful post and an excellent review. Smexy: it's time to get him as a regular!