Mind Games...Review

From Amazon.com:



JUSTINE KNOWS SHE’S GOING TO DIE. ANY SECOND NOW.



Justine Jones has a secret. A hardcore hypochondriac, she’s convinced a blood vessel is about to burst in her brain. Then, out of the blue, a startlingly handsome man named Packard peers into Justine’s soul and invites her to join his private crime-fighting team. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime deal. With a little of Packard’s hands-on training, Justine can weaponize her neurosis, turning it outward on Midcity’s worst criminals, and finally get the freedom from fear she’s always craved. End of problem. Or is it? In Midcity, a dashing police chief is fighting a unique breed of outlaw with more than human powers. And while Justine’s first missions, including one against a nymphomaniac husband-killer, are thrilling successes, there is more to Packard than meets the eye. Soon, while battling her attraction to two very different men, Justine is plunging deeper into a world of wizardry, eroticism, and cosmic secrets. With Packard’s help, Justine has freed herself from her madness—only to discover a reality more frightening than anyone’s worst fears.


Just a quick little love for this book.



I picked it up at the bookstore the day it came out after finding the author on twitter. Unfortunately for me and the book, I tend to gather faster than I can read 'em. A blessing and a curse (I never run out). And if I'm really honest with myself (sheepish head hang inserted here), I'm not sure I would've picked it up if not for the whole social network interaction shindig.



Then one night, I picked it up. After, reading review upon dazzling review, I had to do it. And once I started, literally, I found myself on a roller coaster I had no desire to get off of.



Heart wrenching, real, intense, and witty...I was hooked. Finished in one night. Disarming.


I'm not a hypochondriac, but I could easily relate to that debilitating feeling that washes over you from time to time. And it made Justine relatable on a level I haven't experienced in a long time. From her need to feel normal, to fit in, find that easy secure place...it was tangible and right there waiting for me.


And Packard and his disillusionists? Finding out that family isn't always related by blood or easy to deal with is a lesson we all have learned. Each one of her teammates has a specialty....something that the normal everyday person would consider a hindrance. But, hey when you get lemons...sometimes you get some kick booty lemonade. You just have to know how to make it.

You see, each disillusionist has something that, in most people perception, is a kind of curse. But, now, they get to use their talents to rehabilitate people who have done bad things. Each assignment is paid for a by a wrong party, either a victim or family member. Talents intermingle in a multi-layered system meant to tear down. And in the end, they should become a better person for it. Good deeds, and all...right?

But, are things what they really seem? Are these things, these projects, really about just doing good...rehabilitating these people? Hmmm...



Packard...sigh...yep. Any man who tries to tell you what you know deep down is the truth but can't accept it in some way will get under your skin. Which can feel good...sometimes.



But, I have to say, I was surprised were the tale led me...in a good way.

I kept reviewing this post...because I felt it was to short. But, my love for this book makes me not want to give away too much. Discovery can rock your socks...


So, if you have a free night...I have a little something for ya. Oh, and pick up some Mongolian barbecue. And stop by to let me know what you thought.