The History Major by Michael Phillip Cash

A Brief Summary:
Waking up and knowing something is wrong is how Amanda started her freshman year. She woke up after a night out with friends, and a terrible fight with her boyfriend. Now she has her first class... history.
My Review:
I really enjoyed this book. While it's not Michael's typical story its really good. It has his signature world building, and complex characters all in a neat little package.

I loved the way different little bits of history was weaved into the story. With the idea that we must learn history so we don't repeat our mistakes.

I also really liked the twist that came at the end (no I'm not going to spoil it for you).

I received this book in exchange for my free and honest review.

Natsume's Book of Friends Volume 1 by Yuki Midorikawa

A Brief Summary: Natsume can see yokai, spirits, his grandmother could two. She tricked them into giving her their names, binding them to her with her Book of Friends. Now Natsume is giving the names back, and protecting the book from the yokai that want it.


My Review:
I really enjoy this series. It is very episodic because it was originally featured in magazines, so the beginning of each chapter is very similar in case you encountered it partway through. Personally my favorite character is Nyanko-Sensei. He's extremely snarky, acts like he doesn't care, and is extremely powerful although he doesn't show it often. This makes him a good foil to Natsume who is very kind and willing to go out of his to help the yokai.

This manga has a very strong Japanese influence, no surprise there, I just mean it gets a little weird sometimes. Things that are normal there are sometimes quite unusual to us in the western world.

Personally I really enjoyed it and can't wait to read more of the series.

Pokergeist by Michael Phillip Cash

A Brief Summary:
Clutch always wanted to win the International poker series, and when he got close he lost and died. Enter Telly Martin a down on his luck poker newbie. Desperate to win the Series Telly meets Clutch's ghost, and they unwillingly partner up. Will Telly's luck turn around? Will Clutch finally win the series? Read and find out.
My Review:
This is a really quick, easy read with bonus points if you like poker. The prologue tells of Clutch's last's game alive, then the first chapter introduces you to Telly. After that the book moves quickly, developing a partnership and straining other relationships.

This book switches prospective between Telly, Clutch, and a few assorted people in there lives. From the assorted my favorite was Telly's fiancee Gretchen. She's sweet and lovable, but is in a bad position at work.

Of the two main characters I preferred Telly. He's the nice guy that just wants to do what's best for everyone. Clutch on the other hand is well... a narcissist, he cares more for himself and the game than anyone else.

All in all a good book that I'd be happy to recommend.

I received this book compliments of NetGalley in exchange for my free and honest review.