The Taker by Alma Katsu

When Lanore McIlvrae walks into St Andrews ER, Luke's life is changed forever. Though she is deemed dangerous, Luke spends the overnight shift talking to her, though she is deemed a dangerous killer. She tells him her story starting two hundred years ago. As a girl, she was in love with the town founder's son. Determined to have him at any cost, she watches as he falls in love with all the other town girls. Sent away, she comes upon Adair, who takes her in. But Lanny can't forget  Jonathon and is determined to have him, no matter the cost. This historical thriller explores the depth of love and its price. 

Having heard wonderful things about Ms. Katsu's The Taker, I was eager to begin reading this novel. And it didn't disappoint. Lanny is a mesmerizing character, even when she is at her worst. Spoiled and amorous Jonathon is one of the men readers love to hate. He is selfish and conceited, however as a reader I feel Lanny's attraction to him. I loved the other characters, and how they blend into the novel. The action leaves you sitting on the edge of your seat. Very good book!!

The Goddess Chronicle by Natsuo Kirino

Namina is a small girl living on the Island of Sea Serpents. She is the Yang to her sister, Kamikuu's Yin. When her sister is declared to be the next Oracle, the sisters' lives change. Kamikuu is sent to live with their grandmother, the current Oracle. There she will train to become the Priestess. Namina stays at home and starves, while bringing her sister the island's delicacies to eat.  Soon Namina falls in love with Mahito, a tainted boy. When Namina's grandmother dies, Kamikuu becomes the Oracle and Namina's fate begins to take shape. She is to serve the Goddess of Darkness, watching over dead bodies. She will never marry and will live her entire life in isolation. Her life is just beginning as it is tragically ended.

Izanami is the Goddess of Darkness. Her love for her husband has turned to rage. Dying while giving birth to his child, Izanami was sent to the Underworld. Her husband came to find her, but was revolted by her appearance. Locking her in the Underworld, he now roams the world loving many women. 

This is a gorgeous retelling of an Ancient Japanese myth. Touching on some of the most basic human emotions, The Goddess Chronicle tells a powerful story. Love and betrayal are strongly featured. I loved this book. A LOT!! The prose is gorgeous and the characters are entrancing. I highly recommend this book!! One of my favorites this year!! 

I received this book from the Publisher in exchange for my honest review. Thank you!