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2013 Reading Challenge
Jen (That's What I'm Talking About) has
read 0 books toward her goal of 75 books.
New-To-Me Authors
2013 reading goal:
15 new-to-me authors.
1) Stacy Gail
2) Heather Massey
3) Sidney Bristol
4) Ann Mayburn
5) Thea Harrison
6) Virna DePaul
7) Mary Quast
8) Molly Harper
9) Eleri Stone
10) PJ Schnyder
11) Kait Ballenger
12) Denise L. Wyant
13) Lucy Monroe
Sunday Snippets
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Monday, January 31, 2011
Celebrating... Lara Adrian
Welcome to Week #1 of my Month of Celebrating.
Today I want to tell you about one of my favorite authors: Lara Adrian. She was one of the first paranormal romance authors I discovered. Her Midnight Breed Series books are on my “auto-purchase” list. The mythology--vampires (Breeds) are descended from a vicious alien race that landed on earth years and years ago--is so unique and intriguing. What I love about her stories is that the hot romance and overall story arc are coupled with exciting action and adventure.
After I became active on Twitter, Lara was one of the first persons I followed, and the first author to follow me back. *Squee* On different occasions, we tweeted back and forth and shared stories about books and living in New Hampshire, where we both have resided the past 10 years. I eventually had the opportunity to meet Lara in person (for more on this event see my post HERE). She was so thoughtful and kind to this fangirl.
Lara has been a big part of my first year blogging. She always answered my questions and helped spread the word on my reviews of her books and other fun things I did this first year. She was my first author interview. She is not only one of my favorite authors, but she is an amazing lady.
To help me celebrate my one year BLOGIVERSARY and my upcoming 40th birthday, Lara has generously donated a signed copy of her latest release: Taken By Midnight (my review HERE). Thank you, Lara!! The rules for giveaway are listed below.
I hope you all are enjoying this MONTH OF CELEBRATING! I know I am!! Be sure to enter my $40 Birthday Gift Card giveaway as well. For more information, please go HERE. Once again, thank you all for making my first year of blogging such a success!
1) Contest is open from Monday January 31, 2011 to Friday February 4, 2011 at 11:00 PM EST.
2) In order to enter, you must leave a comment telling me who one of your favorite authors is at the END OF THIS POST.
3) Please also leave your email address so that I may contact you if you win. (If you prefer not to leave your email, you may send it to me confidentially.)
4) You do not have to be a follower of my blog, but it is appreciated.
5) Winner must be 18 years of age.
6) Each person that leaves a comment and follows the rules for the giveaway will receive an entry for the giveaway - only one entry per person.
7) Winner will be selected from all eligible entrants using random.org.
8) The winner will be announced on my blog on Saturday February 5, 2011. Winner will have one week to contact me or another winner will be selected.
9) The contest is open to US, Canadian and INTERNATIONAL mailing addresses.
Today I want to tell you about one of my favorite authors: Lara Adrian. She was one of the first paranormal romance authors I discovered. Her Midnight Breed Series books are on my “auto-purchase” list. The mythology--vampires (Breeds) are descended from a vicious alien race that landed on earth years and years ago--is so unique and intriguing. What I love about her stories is that the hot romance and overall story arc are coupled with exciting action and adventure.
After I became active on Twitter, Lara was one of the first persons I followed, and the first author to follow me back. *Squee* On different occasions, we tweeted back and forth and shared stories about books and living in New Hampshire, where we both have resided the past 10 years. I eventually had the opportunity to meet Lara in person (for more on this event see my post HERE). She was so thoughtful and kind to this fangirl.
Lara has been a big part of my first year blogging. She always answered my questions and helped spread the word on my reviews of her books and other fun things I did this first year. She was my first author interview. She is not only one of my favorite authors, but she is an amazing lady.To help me celebrate my one year BLOGIVERSARY and my upcoming 40th birthday, Lara has generously donated a signed copy of her latest release: Taken By Midnight (my review HERE). Thank you, Lara!! The rules for giveaway are listed below.
I hope you all are enjoying this MONTH OF CELEBRATING! I know I am!! Be sure to enter my $40 Birthday Gift Card giveaway as well. For more information, please go HERE. Once again, thank you all for making my first year of blogging such a success!
Rules for the giveaway:
1) Contest is open from Monday January 31, 2011 to Friday February 4, 2011 at 11:00 PM EST.
2) In order to enter, you must leave a comment telling me who one of your favorite authors is at the END OF THIS POST.
3) Please also leave your email address so that I may contact you if you win. (If you prefer not to leave your email, you may send it to me confidentially.)
4) You do not have to be a follower of my blog, but it is appreciated.
5) Winner must be 18 years of age.
6) Each person that leaves a comment and follows the rules for the giveaway will receive an entry for the giveaway - only one entry per person.
7) Winner will be selected from all eligible entrants using random.org.
8) The winner will be announced on my blog on Saturday February 5, 2011. Winner will have one week to contact me or another winner will be selected.
9) The contest is open to US, Canadian and INTERNATIONAL mailing addresses.
Sunday, January 30, 2011
Sunday Snippets #43
Archangel’s Consort by Nalini Singh
Berkley Publishing
January 25, 2011
...Come, Elena.
I can’t land there. I’ll brain myself.
He almost laughed and he had not thought he could do that after the sentence he’d just delivered. I will catch you.
That she didn’t question him after that, simply changed trajectory so that she flew into his arms... it broke him. Then it reformed him anew. “Elena,” he whispered into her hair as he crushed her to him.
She wrapped her arms around him, his fragile consort with her incredible will and her refusal to surrender. “Tell me,” she whispered.
And he, and archangel used to keeping a thousand secrets, told her.
Friday, January 28, 2011
A Month of CELEBRATING!!
Who wants to help me do a little celebrating?
Let me explain. TODAY, January 28, 2011, my blog, That’s What I’m Talking About, is one year old - it’s my BLOGIVERSARY! But wait... there’s more. In one short month on February 27, 2011, I will be celebrating my 40th birthday. YIKES! Yes... I will be the big 4-0! But no hiding for me - I want to celebrate!!
In the past year, my blog has blossomed and I have enjoyed every moment. I have had the opportunity to read over 80 books and stories, interview 17 authors, and give away several books and other fun stuff. My blog has grown to over 380 followers. Plus my blog has a review team now, with the addition of B. I am very thankful that I have the opportunity to share my love of reading with so many people. I want to let you know that YOU have made a difference during this first year of blogging. Each one of you that has stopped by and read a review, made a comment, followed my blog, tweeted about a post... all of you have supported me and my blog, and for that I am extremely thankful!
In order to celebrate both my one year blogiversary and my 40th birthday, I am planning a big ol’ blogging party! Today is the KICKOFF event - my 1 year blogiversary. During the month leading up to my birthday, I plan to feature guest posts from fellow bloggers that have made a difference to me during the past year. In addition, some of my FAVORITE AUTHORS have generously donated some wonderful prizes for weekly giveaways.
Week 1: Jan 31 - Feb 4
Lara Adrian Giveaway - Signed Copy of TAKEN BY MIDNIGHT
Week 2: Feb 7 - Feb 11
Nalini Singh Giveaway - Signed Copy of PLAY OF PASSION
Week 3: Feb 14 - Feb 18
Larissa Giveaway - Signed Copy of DEMONICA book (winner’s choice) PLUS assorted swag
Week 4: Feb 21 - 25
Meljean Giveaway - Signed Copy of ALL SIX GUARDIAN SERIES full-length books
BUT WAIT that’s not all... Since I will be turning 40 this year, I wanted to do something extra special for my readers. SO I will be giving away a $40 Gift Card to an online bookstore (Amazon, Barnes & Nobel, Borders or Book Depository) to one lucky person. That contest STARTS TODAY, January 28, 2011 and runs until 11:00 PM EST on Saturday February 26, 2011.
Rules for $40 GC contest: You MUST fill out the entry form HERE. One entry per person. You do not have to be a google friends connect follower of my blog, but if you are, you get one extra entry (see form for details). Contest is open internationally. Winner will be selected using random.org. I will announce the winner here on my blog on my birthday - February 27, 2011.
I am really excited about my Month of Celebrating, and I’m so thankful to all of you that have helped make this possible!
Thank you and happy reading!
Thursday, January 27, 2011
Review: Archangel's Consort
Archangel’s Consort Author: Nalini Singh
Release Date: January 25, 2011
Publisher: Berkley Group
Guild Hunter Series Book #3
ISBN: #978-0425240137
Genre: Paranormal Romance
Format(s): paperback (352 pgs), e-book
I received a ARC copy of this book from the PUBLISHER for the purposes of an honest review.
From the author’s website:
Vampire hunter Elena Deveraux and her lover, the lethally beautiful archangel Raphael, have returned home to New York only to face an uncompromising new evil…
A vampire has attacked a girls’ school—the assault one of sheer, vicious madness—and it is only the first act. Rampant bloodlust takes vampire after vampire, threatening to make the streets run with blood. Then Raphael himself begins to show signs of an uncontrolled rage, as inexplicable storms darken the city skyline and the earth itself shudders.
The omens are suddenly terrifyingly clear.
An ancient and malevolent immortal is rising. The violent winds whisper her name: Caliane. She has returned to reclaim her son, Raphael. Only one thing stands in her way: Elena, the consort who must be destroyed…
A vampire has attacked a girls’ school—the assault one of sheer, vicious madness—and it is only the first act. Rampant bloodlust takes vampire after vampire, threatening to make the streets run with blood. Then Raphael himself begins to show signs of an uncontrolled rage, as inexplicable storms darken the city skyline and the earth itself shudders.
The omens are suddenly terrifyingly clear.
An ancient and malevolent immortal is rising. The violent winds whisper her name: Caliane. She has returned to reclaim her son, Raphael. Only one thing stands in her way: Elena, the consort who must be destroyed…
What I’m talking about:
Picking up shortly after the conclusion of second Guild Hunter book (Archangel’s Kiss) this story opens with Hunter-born-made-angel Elena Deveraux back in her home town of New York. She is a different person than when she left - now an immortal angel, and we are witness to the adjustments she must make as she reclaims her Guild Hunter life and reacquaints herself with old friends.
As vampires all over the world begin to rebel and take human lives, Elena and her Archangel mate, Raphael, must work together to determine if the cause is Raphael’s millennia-old mother rising from her 1,000 year hibernation. As they investing the growing crimes, Elena is torn between her loyalties to her human friends and her immortal lover.
One thing that I absolutely love about this story is that becoming an immortal does not give Elena a golden ticket to instantly transform into super-being. The newly-made angel did not gain super-power and an easy life when she was made immortal. She has to train and struggle, learn and overcome with each step. I also enjoyed Elena’s journey as she learned to balance her former ties with that of her loyalty to Raphael. We witness her emotional struggles knowing the choices she has made, learning when to hold her ground and where her heart truly lies.
Watching Raphael learn to adjust to having a consort and sharing his heart was also a joy. While remaining the tough alpha male from the first two books, he learned to compromise for Elena - and only Elena. I loved their banter, heated discussions, passionate love (wait until you read how angels dance!) and serious debate.
As much as I enjoyed Elena and Raphael, I found the overall story not quite as satisfying. The primary focus of the story - the awakening of Raphael’s mother - built for almost 300 pages, with hints of the evil and danger she would bring. Yet when the story finally climaxed, I was a bit let-down by how it played out. In addition, I felt that many of the side stories were left unresolved or had no apparent added value to the plot. I also got a bit annoyed with some of the redundant phrases and ideas that were often used in the story, things like Elena’s “mortal heart” and reminders of Elena’s horrible past.
Overall I was entertained by Archangel’s Consort, even with some of the issues I had with the book. This story is be a must-read for fan’s of the Guild Hunter series, however, I would recommend newcomers not start with the third book. This series revolves around the connections and love between Elena and Raphael, which began in the first book, Angels’ Blood, and I feel is more enjoyable read from the beginning.
My Rating:
Liked it, there were a few issues - recommend (B)
Tuesday, January 25, 2011
Review: Night School
Night School
Author: Mari Mancusi
Author: Mari MancusiRelease Date: January 4, 2011
Publisher: Berkley Trade
Blood Coven Vampire Series, Book 5
ISBN: 978-0425240427
Genre: Young Adult, paranormal
Format(s): Paperback (256 pgs), ebook
I received a copy of this book from the PUBLISHER for the purposes of an honest review.
From the author’s website:
Vampires, Slayers and...FAIRIES? Sunny and Rayne McDonald are about to get SCHOOLED.
After their parents' shocking revelation about their fae heritage and an attack on their lives, the McDonald twins find themselves on the run—forced to hide out at Riverdale Academy , a boarding school for vampire slayers, deep in the Swiss Alps. With no cells, no internet, and no way to contact their vampire boyfriends—the twins are on their own.
Being a vampire stuck in a school full of slayers isn't easy. Especially with no blood substitute stocked on campus. Soon Rayne finds herself succumbing to her bloodlust and losing control—especially around the arrogant, but devastatingly handsome Corbin Billingsworth the Third—who isn't sure whether he wants to kiss her...or kill her.
But when Sunny starts acting strange, Rayne realizes Riverdale Academy may be hiding some deadly secrets of its own—leading to a showdown in Fairyland that may cost the twins their lives.
What B is talking about:
Rayne and Sunny McDonald have just found out that their hippie parents are actually Sidhe, or fairies. Not only that, but the twins’ mother is fairy royalty, and they are fairy princesses! The bad news is that Rayne is really a Goth vampire/vampire slayer working for Slayer, Inc. (but she only slays “baddie vamps”), while Sunny wants to live her life as a normal, human girl. When a band of fairies attack them and their parents, they escape and are hidden away in Riverdale Academy, a training academy for future slayers. They both miss their boyfriends, who are vampires, and Rayne is getting awfully hungry without the synthetic blood she depends on for survival.
I don’t read many Young Adult novels, so this was quite a change from what I’m used to. Bearing that in mind, I had a surprisingly good time reading Night School. Rayne is a flawed protagonist who makes some very serious mistakes, but does her best to deal with the consequences. The events are often erratic, if not Disney World (literally) outrageous, but Mancusi somehow makes it work. I had a “You decided to ride the roller coaster; so you might as well sit up front and put your hands in the air” feeling through a lot of the story, most especially towards the end of the book, when the decisive battle is being fought.
In terms of age-appropriate themes, I believe Night School is suitable for teens aged 15 and above. Sex is mentioned, but none ever takes place in the story. There is some “making out” and perceived infidelity, but the latter is a case of either mistaken identity, in one instance, and survival in the other. There is also some mild language and trendy acronyms/modifications (“WTF” and “effing”), but nothing that isn’t common for the target age range anyway.
The fifth novel in the Blood Coven Vampire Series was good young fun to read, especially as Mancusi liberally pokes fun at more popular current vampiric phenomenon, but I don’t think I would have bought it to read for myself. The teenaged me, however, would probably have been hooked on the entire series, and would likely have enjoyed watching what happens when a strong young woman runs headlong into the reality of her own limitations while bravely defying the perceptions of those around her.
My Rating:
Liked it a lot - recommend (B+)
Labels:
3.5 stars,
Blood Coven Series,
Mari Mancusi,
paranormal YA,
reviews,
YA Literature
|
1 comments
Sunday, January 23, 2011
Sunday Snippets #42
Ex Appeal by Cari Quinn
Wild Rose Press
June 2010
The way things were going, Jenny doubted she’d ever have time for a love life again.Just as well, because she wasn’t looking for a man. Not yet. Maybe not ever, that little annoying voice in her head whispered. It had been whispering ever since yet another failed lovemaking session with Ty had led her to tell him calmly and coolly that maybe things weren’t working anymore.
What had he expected her to do? She’d been juiced up, her blood humming. The flameless candle beside the bed had set the mood for romance, and she’d placed the foil packet on the nightstand with the end neatly snipped off for easy access. She’d been primed and eager for action. Then, right when things were getting good, he’d rolled off her and said “this” wasn’t “doing it” for him.
She was still mortified a month later.
He’d rarely made time for sex anymore to begin with. Somewhere along the way, work had become his lover. His interest in designing comics had far exceeded his interest in her. Still, she’d been hellbent to give him the utmost pleasure and had gone so far as to employ every trick she’d read in Cosmo’s list of 10 Ways to Make Him Beg.
Well, he hadn’t begged. He’d barely moaned.
It didn’t matter now. They were over. Twenty- seven days ago, she’d told him that they should go their separate ways. He hadn’t argued. Of course not. He’d only looked at her for a long moment, then asked if it would be easier on her if he moved out of their apartment. Before she’d had a chance to answer—or to process that he’d made absolutely no effort to dissuade her—he’d gotten up to pack.
Saturday, January 22, 2011
Celebrating...
Just wanted to let you all know that I'm going to be doing some major celebrating very soon...
This Friday, January 28, 2011, is my one year BLOGIVERSARY. But that's not the only event I'll be celebrating. Be sure to stop by on Friday for a MAJOR celebration announcement.
Thursday, January 20, 2011
IAD Discussion: The Warlord Wants Forever
Hello friends and welcome to the first Immortals After Dark 2011 Reading Challenge Discussion. The idea is for this to be an “open thread” to discuss the first IAD story:“The Warlord Wants Forever”
I’ll list a few questions to kick it off, then please follow with your own points, additional questions and general comments. PLEASE keep the discussion the this book ONLY and NO future stories.
Note to those that have not read “The Warlord Wants Forever”: Spoilers *may* be listed below, so beware!
For my review of “The Warlord Wants Forever” please visit HERE.
1) Overall, do you have a good feel for the IAD world and mythology?
2) What did you think about the “forced-consensual” start to Myst and Wroth’s sexual relationship?
3) What was/were your favorite and/or least favorite parts?
Review: The Warlord Wants Forever
“The Warlord Wants Forever”from Playing Easy To Get
Author: Kresley Cole
Release Date: February 2006
Publisher: Pocket Books
IAD Series Story #1
ISBN: #978-141651087
Genre: Paranormal Romance
Format(s): paperback (352 pgs), e-book
From the author’s website:
Nikolai Wroth, once a ruthless human warlord in the 1700s and now a general in the rebel vampire army, needs to find his Bride, the one woman who can render him truly alive. As a turned human, he doesn’t enjoy a heartbeat or breaths and is consequently weaker than fully blooded vampires. He wants his Bride for the power she will bring him and can hardly believe it when his heart beats for Myst the Coveted, a mad, fey, mythological creature.
Myst is known throughout the world as the most beautiful Valkyrie, part chillingly fierce warrior, part beguiling seductress who can “make you want her even as she’s killing you.” She has devoted her life to protecting an ancient, powerful jewel and to fighting the vampires, and she now sees a way to torment one—for with Wroth’s heartbeat comes consuming sexual desire that can only be slaked by her.
She eludes him for five years, but he has finally chased her to ground and stolen the jewel which commands her, giving him absolute power over her. While he possesses it, he can make her do anything, and he plans to in order for her to experience first hand the agonizing, unending lust she’d purposely subjected him to for half a decade. Yet when Wroth realizes he wants more from her and frees her, will she come back to him?
What I’m talking about:“The Warlord Wants Forever” is a sexy romance between a Valkyrie warrior, Myst, and a turned vampire warlord, Wroth. She uses Wroth for information and then makes her escape, yet Myst does not kill the vampire - sworn enemy of the Valkyrie. For five years she cannot forget the warlord she left in misery and constant pain (the reason why he is in pain is pretty clever and humorous). When Wroth finally catches up with Myst in “modern day” New Orleans, he claims her for himself. But can each overcome their pain and prejudice and fall in love?
This first story in the Immortals After Dark (IAD) series is a novella-length tale that outlines the creation of the Valkyries, one of the central races of creatures found in IAD fantasy world. In addition, we discover bits and pieces about other creatures and characters that I’m sure will play a central role in the upcoming books.
The pace of the story is quick - which makes sense giving the shorter, novella-length format. Myst and Wroth’s romance is full of tension, violence and passionate sex. At one point, Wroth claims a sacred prize belonging to Myst which gives him complete and utter control over her. He abuses this power, and although he doesn’t use it to rape her, he forces her to face her lust and desirous feelings for Wroth. This leads into some “force-consensual” sex that is pretty hot.
What I adore about the romance is that when faced with ugly truths about themselves and their situation, Wroth allows their desire and love to come full-circle without the use of his stolen power. The both realize “what is meant to be” and grow stronger because of it.
Overall a promising start to what I hope to be a fantastic series. I love the snarky lines and smexy males. I really think I’m going to enjoy Ms. Cole’s Immortals After Dark!
My Rating:
If you are participating in the IAD Reading Challenge, please leave a link to your review, below. If you wish to discuss the book, please see the DISCUSSION post - link HERE. Thanks!
IAD Reading Challenge... A few notes
Hello friends....
Here is the *crosses fingers* PLAN for the IAD Reading Challenge, which starts tomorrow (for details, click photo link, below)
I am going to do TWO posts - the first will be my review and I hope to include a "Linky Tool" so that anyone else joining in with a review can post their link for all to see.
The second post will be a "discussion thread" where I will ask a few questions and then any one can join in the discussions via leaving a comment.
Thanks for joining me in the reading adventure!
Here is the *crosses fingers* PLAN for the IAD Reading Challenge, which starts tomorrow (for details, click photo link, below)
I am going to do TWO posts - the first will be my review and I hope to include a "Linky Tool" so that anyone else joining in with a review can post their link for all to see.
The second post will be a "discussion thread" where I will ask a few questions and then any one can join in the discussions via leaving a comment.
Thanks for joining me in the reading adventure!
Monday, January 17, 2011
Review: Hellforged
Hellforged
Author: Nancy Holzner
Release Date: December 28, 2010Publisher: ACE Fantasy
Deadtown Series Book #2
ISBN: #978-0441019809
Genre: Urban Fantasy
Format(s): paperback (352 pgs), e-book
I received a copy of this book from the PUBLISHER for the purposes of an honest review.
From the author’s website:
After Vicky banished her demon nemesis to the fiery depths of Hell, she thought life would return to normal. But considering she has a werewolf lawyer boyfriend, a zombie apprentice who’s angling to become a pop star, and an eccentric vampire roommate, what is normal, anyway?
Then the supposedly banished Hellion starts to trespass in Vicky’s dreams—just as several of Deadtown’s zombies are viciously attacked and become really dead. When Vicky realizes she’s the only connection between the victims, she suspects that the demon is somehow working through her dreams to become Deadtown’s living nightmare.
What she doesn’t know is that her old enemy brings with it a force more terrifying—and deadly—than anything she’s battled before.
What I’m talking about:
Hellforged opens with demon hunter, Victory Vaughn and her zombie teen apprentice, Tina, attempting to rid MIT computer labs of a nasty Glitch demon. Of course things don’t go smoothly, but Vicki manages to make the best of the situation. And that is how Vicki rolls.
Soon Vicki’s life takes a turn for the dangerous. Her roommate is seen with mysterious creatures (but denies it), a Hellion is using her dreams to kill zombies, and her Aunt Mab summons her to Wales overnight, telling her of an evil prophesy that involves Vicki. Once in Wales, Vicki meets her “cousin” Pryce who is bent on becoming the king of the demons. With time running out and Pryce freeing evil spirits that kill the zombies, Mab trains Vicki to become a better demon-slayer.
Although I did not read Deadtown, the first book in Ms. Holzner’s series, I did not feel as if I missed a beat (but I hear the book is wonderful). The author does a great job with world-building - making the zombie-infested streets of Boston seem normal. Hellforged builds upon the world created in Deadtown, but does not rely on the actions of the first book when telling the tale of the second book.
I really enjoyed reading Hellforged. Vicki is reminiscent of Buffy the Vampire Slayer with the “chosen one” type prophecy hanging over her head. She is tough-as-nails, but sensitive to the human (and non-human) condition. She is sort of a loner, especially in her emotional connectivity to others, but has a few close friends and family that help her out. I found myself completed engaged by the motives behind her actions and inactions. Her sarcastic sense of humor is woven into her character - not right on the pages, but sly in her comments:
...I thought about what I had to do: Keep from dreaming, read a book written in a language I didn’t understand, and become pure through contamination. Piece of cake.
The plot was smart and exciting; I enjoyed watching Vicki attempt to solve the mystery of the prophecy while trying to keep the world safe. Although it had a bit of familiarity about it, the storyline was original and kept me glued to the pages. There were even a few surprise twists and turns that I didn’t expect. Vicki’s relationship with Mab is special and heartwarming. On the side is Vicki’s love life and a host of other intriguing characters. Hellforged is action-packed, somewhat violent, and overall a great story.
My Rating:
4 stars: Really enjoyed - strongly recommend (A-)
Sunday, January 16, 2011
IAD Reading Challenge... Coming Soon!
Hi Friends!
Just a reminder that THIS FRIDAY January 21, 2011 is the first installment of my Immortals After Dark Reading challenge. The wonderful (so I hear) series is written by Kresley Cole. For more info on the challenge, click the image below.
Just a reminder that THIS FRIDAY January 21, 2011 is the first installment of my Immortals After Dark Reading challenge. The wonderful (so I hear) series is written by Kresley Cole. For more info on the challenge, click the image below.
I will be discussing the first story in the IAD series: "The Warlord Wants Forever" in the anthology PLAYING EASY TO GET. I hope you will join me!
Sunday Snippets #41
Size Matters by Stephanie JulianEllora’s Cave Publishing
September 2010
Carrie woke to pitch black.
She was naked and warm, cocooned between firm, hot silk and soft, warm cotton.
No, not silk. Skin.
Okay, that was interesting. Not bad, just... She didn’t remember going home from the bar with a guy last night.
In fact, she couldn’t remember going to Third and Spruce last night.
And this didn’t feel like home.
What she did feel was safe. And Carrie always trusted her instincts. Before she’d taken the job with the Journal, her father had praised her ability to assess any situation in seconds.
Right now, she sensed the absolute security of her surroundings and the desire emanating from the man—definitely a man—holding her on his lap.
What she couldn’t remember was how she’d gotten here.
She wriggled a little closer to the guy, felt his arms tighten around her and the hard ridge of his erection press against the bare skin of her thigh.
Wow, the guy was huge! Long and thick and... Oh, baby, she really had gotten lucky last night.
Turning her head, she reached out with one hand and encountered firm muscle. His arm flexed under her touch as she smoothed her way up to his broad shoulder then trailed her fingertips over his chest.
And rubbed her thigh against that enticing organ. Thank God she’d shaved her legs yesterday. The guy groaned into her hair.
“Carrie...” Oh, good. He remembered her name. Too bad she was drawing a blank on his.
Didn’t matter. Obviously, she’d gone home with him last night. Maybe she was still a little drunk, not just hung over.
But that ache between her legs... Damn it, she wanted sex. Now.
The dark closed so tightly around them, she could barely see his outline but she moved both hands up and up his body until she finally reached his face. Wow, he must be really tall and she meant really tall because she was no slouch.
At five-ten—without heels which she wore anyway because she looked damn good in them—she typically had a few inches on most men. And of course, she was the kind of girl who liked her men big and strong.
Which made sense of why she’d gone home with this one.
Stubble roughened his broad jaw, sending a shiver of lust through her and causing her to rub against his cock again. God, she loved to hear men groan. It made her feel all powerful, like Wonder Woman. Or that FBI chick from Fringe. She loved that show. Hell, she’d marry JJ Abrams in a heartbeat. The guy had a better imagination than most of the yahoos she worked with.
And she worked with some of the best in the field. Granted, the field wasn’t huge but...
With one hand, she traced his lips, pushing the other into his hair. The guy had lots of it. Down to his shoulders, at least.
Another point in his favor. She must’ve thought she’d hit the lottery last night. Wherever that had been.
And who cared about that now? Shifting around was a little difficult in the dark and she didn’t want to hurt anything vital—namely that gorgeous erection—but with a little help from him, she wound up with her knees on either side of his thighs as he sat upright, her hands on his cheeks and her mouth descending on his.
He seemed surprised at first, his body freezing into stillness, but when she licked at his lips, he got with the program and kissed her back. And great freaking Jesus, the guy could kiss.
His tongue dove into her mouth and twined around hers while his hands grabbed onto her hips and pulled her even closer.
God, he was huge. And she didn’t just mean his cock. Pressed against him the way she was now, she got a better sense of his size.
Her breasts were cushioned against a chest so broad and muscular, the guy had to be built like John Cena, the professional wrestler one of the girls at the Journal had a crush on.
His abs felt like a washboard, which she discovered when she pressed forward to rub her mound against his cock, looking for some relief for the tension in her body.
He broke away from her kiss, but his hips rose slightly, rubbing his cock almost where she needed it to go. Just a little to the left and he’d rub against her clit.
“Whoa, Carrie.” His hands tightened on her hips but didn’t push her away. “Are you sure you’re feeling okay?”
Hmm, maybe she’d had more to drink last night than she remembered. But he was so nice to ask.
“I feel fine.” She trailed one hand down his chest, fingers brushing against the tip of his cock. “And you feel amazing.”
She wished she knew his name but didn’t want to embarrass herself or him by asking for it. Later, after she satisfied this urge to jump his bones, she’d figure it out.
Right now...not caring so much.
Especially when she wrapped one hand around his cock and realized her fingers didn’t meet.
Thank you, Goddess of...well, whatever goddess handled huge guys with accessories to match.
Friday, January 14, 2011
Review: Hexbound
Hexbound
Author: Chloe Neill Release Date: January 4, 2011
Publisher: Signet
Dark Elite Series Book #2
ISBN: #978-0451230799
Genre: Young Adult, paranormal
Format(s): paperback (256 pgs), e-book
I received a copy of this book from the PUBLISHER for the purposes of an honest review.
Please welcome Guest Reviewer Stacy of Stacy’s Place on Earth. She graciously agreed to read and review today’s book.
Stacy’s Summary:
In book 2 of Chloe Neill's YA Dark Elite series, we once again meet up with our young intrepid heroine, Lily Parker, and find out what she's been up to. It's only been a few weeks since she first arrived at Chicago's St. Sophia's school for girls, and in such a short time, she's become quite acclimated to her new school, her restrictive school schedule, and has even found a best friend in her colorful roommate, Scout Green. And oh yeah, she's spending time working on her newly discovered magical powers...
Patrolling the underground tunnels at night for signs of the darker forces, Lily spends these occasions with other teens who have similar abilities, like Scout, and some of the boys from the nearby boys' school, Montclare Academy, such as hottie Jason Shepherd and Jason's best friend Michael Garcia. Defending their world from the Reapers is only part of an Adept's job. They also have to master unique gifts that have just a limited shelf life in order to protect the innocent. During one night while patrolling, the gang come across a hideous group of creatures they've never seen before, and it forces them to use their powers without much preparation, but fortunately things work out and no one is seriously hurt. Yet they are now aware of a brand-new danger to the Enclave, and must figure out who and what they are dealing with before they can destroy it.
Along the way Lily and her friends encounter warring vampires, budding romance, and an enemy who may not be what he seems....
Stacy’s thoughts:
I really enjoyed the first book in the series, Firespell, and was pleasantly surprised to find the young characters sharp, mature, and incredibly likable, so naturally I was pretty excited when Jen asked if I'd like to review Hexbound.
This time around however, I found the tone to be a little too "goody goody" and that was a bit frustrating when you take into consideration the circumstances these teens faced, even in just their ordinary, everyday lives. Yes there are a lot of good, decent kids out there, but even the best kid can rebel on occasion, and I wanted to see these teens really test their boundaries. Granted, I'm sure there are restrictions placed on writing a YA story, as well as the author's own personal comfort level with language, but at times the dialogue just seemed to be more immature than that of your typical teen. Not that I wanted to read a bunch of mumbling, sullen replies - their obvious intelligence and maturity in the first book was so refreshing - but it was grating at times to read some of the verbal exchanges. I'll admit it: I wanted a little more angst! I don't even think I came across a "hell" or a "damn" through the whole book, not from one person, and that to me was jarring to have such clean, safe language, especially from a group of teens. I wanted someone - Scout! - to just let loose one day with some shocking profanity. I think that would have been highly entertaining.
That being said, the story did progress rather nicely into new and exciting directions. There's the inevitable moments when even the best of friends keep secrets from each other. There are new enemies to battle, crushes to juggle amidst schoolwork and magic, people who are not what they seem at all. Lily is still not sure what to make of her parental situation, so it makes her wary of adults and putting her trust in them. She's slowly navigating through a potentially romantic situation but trying not to let it distract her from more pressing issues, like dodging the spoiled popular girls who have it in for her, working on her firespell with dubious instruction from the other side, and managing to stay under the radar of Head Mistress Foley. Just a day in the life of one magical Lily Parker.
I always find the background of the story to be fascinating, so when there are passages involving the rich history of St. Sophia's, I was all happy, whether it's based on fact or not. Creating an extensive timeline for a book using actual events or linking them to real places intrigues me greatly as well. The architecture of the old buildings and the ways that can be utilized to tell a story enhances my reading experience significantly. Ms. Neill certainly whet my appetite and engaged my desire for a much closer look at a city I dearly love.
And let there be sequels! Ms. Neill left us a lot of intriguing fodder for future books, and I'm dying of curiosity to know so many things, such as the extent of Lily's magic, the intentions of the Reapers, Lily's romantic future, the history of St. Sophia's and Head Mistress Foley's association with Adepts. I'll be interested to see how relationships develop and evolve, how characters will be tested and inevitably changed, and what other secrets Chicago has in store for our young group of heroes. Bring it on!
Stacy's Rating:
Thursday, January 13, 2011
Review: Mercy Blade
Mercy Blade
Author: Faith HunterRelease Date: January, 2011
Publisher: ROC/Penguin Group
Jane Yellowrock Series, Book 3
ISBN: #978-0451463722
Genre: Urban Fantasy
Format(s): Paperback (320), ebook
I received a copy of this book from the PUBLISHER for the purposes of an honest review.
From Goodreads:
Jane Yellowrock is a shape-shifting skinwalker − and a vampire killer for hire. But lately she’s found herself taking blood money from the very vampires she used to hunt...
Things are heating up in the Big Easy. Weres have announced their existence tot he world, and revived the bitter tensions that run between them and their old enemies: vampires. As a trusted employee of Leo Pellissier, Blood Master of the City, Jane finds herself caught in the cross fire.
When Jane is attacked by a pack of marauding were-wolves, she is thankful for the help of a mysterious stranger named Girrard. He explains that he used to be Leo’s “Mercy Blade,” a sacred position charged with killing vampires who have gone insane. What Jane doesn’t know is why this powerful assassin left New Orleans − or, more troubling, why he’s now returned. It’s definitely not to make Jane’s life easier...
What B is talking about:
Jane Yellowrock is a “Skinwalker,” and the last of her kind. At the beginning of the book, she and her boyfriend have packed up her belongings from her home in the Appalachian Mountains and are preparing to move her back to New Orleans where she will continue in the employ of Leo Pellissier, Master Vampire of the City. Were cats and wolves have announced their presence to the world, and some of them are looking for revenge. Throw in a new, mysterious player with abilities Jane’s never encountered before, and things quickly become more complicated and dangerous than Jane could possibly be prepared for.
Mercy Blade is the third in the Jane Yellowrock series, but the first in the series that I’ve read. It’s also decidedly not a romance. Hunter does a good job introducing all the key players, as well as providing adequate background, early in the story so I felt invested in the novel fairly quickly.
Hunter also uses the first person narrative form to full advantage, and kept me right with Jane as she navigates her way through what turns out to be a very intriguing whodunit. I was stumped most of the way through the narrative, but I’m not sure if I’d have been quite as surprised if I’d read the previous two books in the series, Skinwalker and Blood Cross. The revelation was a somewhat disappointing, but I thoroughly enjoyed all the twists and turns the story took to get me there. Jane’s relationship with her boyfriend also left me a little cold, but that’s due to my familiarity with paranormal romance, rather than anything lacking in Hunter’s storytelling.
Mercy Blade is a well-constructed urban mystery that was fun to read. It’s fast-paced and intelligently written, and Hunter is pleasantly stingy with her breadcrumbs throughout the novel. If you’ve already read the first two Jane Yellowrock novels in the series, I believe you’ll enjoy this one just as much. As a new reader, I will definitely go back and pick up the first two as soon as I get the chance.
My Rating:
Really enjoyed - strongly recommend (A-)
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