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Showing posts with label Jill Myles. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Jill Myles. Show all posts
Monday, June 3, 2013
Review: Fire & Frost Anthology
Fire & Frost
Authors: Meljean Brook, Carolyn Crane & Jessica Sims
Release Date: May 25, 2013
Publisher: self-published
Genre: Paranormal Romance, Steampunk Romance, Anthology
Format(s): e-book
Book Source: Author
About the book:
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Speed Mating by Jessica Sims – Estrella may be going into heat, but she’s determined to remain in control. Just because she’s ovulating doesn’t mean she has to settle for just any man (or his beast). Her sexy alpha’s determined to find her a tiger to take care of her heat and father her child…but no one seems to look quite as good as the man in charge. Will giving in to her need for her alpha ruin her tenuous relationship with her clan or be a match made in heaven?
Conjuring Max by Carolyn Crane – The witches of the world ridiculed and rejected nerdy Veronica for trying to use newfangled computers to enhance old world spellcasting. Well, it’s 1984 now, and she’s perfected her spellcasting computer program. Hey, who needs friends when you can conjure virtually anything…or anybody? So when Veronica makes powerful new enemies, she conjures Max, a pitbull of a cop, to deal with the pesky hitmen who keep coming around. Maybe Veronica can finally get some peace and quiet so she can work on her computer. But tough-guy Max is in no mood to play lapdog to a gorgeous witch.
Wrecked by Meljean Brook – Elizabeth has spent the past five years running from her father; her father’s huntsman, Caius, has spent the past five years pursuing her. But when he finally catches up to her on an airship flying above Europe’s zombie-infested cities, Elizabeth discovers that Caius isn’t the only danger she has to fear—and now that he’s found her, Caius doesn’t intend to let her go…
What I’m talking about:
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Speed Mating by Jessica Sims
Midnight Liaisons series
Estrella is an anomaly in her pack--she is a liger: half tiger, half lion. While she doesn't really fit in with her tiger pack, she is not accepted at all by the lion pack. Estrella had always been told she was sterile, and she believed that right up until she realized that she was going into heat. Now with only a week's notice, she needs to find someone she likes to service her needs and be the father of her child.
The one man she truly desires is her alpha, Vic. But since she thinks he could never be interested, she goes through the motions of dating and looking for a mate.
Speed Mating is a fun and sexy little story. There is a bit of humor and light-heartedness throughout the novella. I liked that the story stayed in Estrella's POV for the duration of the tale because it elevated the tension without knowing Vic’s true feelings. The pair are a joy to watch as they come together.
Bottom line: Cute, sexy shifter story. Lots of fun.
4 stars.
Conjuring Max by Carolyn Crane
Code of Shadows 0.5
Readers of Ms. Crane’s first release in this series, Mr. Real, will recognize Vicky as Alix’s Great Aunt who left Alix all of her worldly possessions - including a computer program that brings to life objects from photos. One need not have read Mr. Real to enjoy this novella.
Vicky is in danger and in hiding from crime syndicate boss, Salvo. She’s used her knowledge of witchcraft and computer programing to bring to life Max, former Chicago police officer recently killed in the line of duty, to be her bodyguard.
The story opens about three months after Vicky first conjured Max. I liked that Max knows he's been conjured from a photo (and the “real” Max is dead). Max is more human that most as he contemplates life, the existence of a soul, falls in love with Vicky, and learns to let go of the daughter he orphaned after his murder.
The opening of the novella is very exciting. We have no idea why Salvo is after Vicky, only that he is relentless in his pursuit. The action is suspensefully written, keeping this reader glued to the pages. In addition, the book has a heart and tackles powerful emotions. The concepts of life, death and love are wonderfully interwoven into the thrilling tale.
The story switches POV between Vicky and Max. We learn of their mutual yet secret desire and admiration for the other. I loved how Vicky pushes Max and how Max teaches Vicky to learn to let go. As the story progresses you learn how perfectly matched the pair is. It's lovely to see the give and take between the individuals.
Bottom line: Exciting action with heart. As a fan of Mr. Real, I enjoyed “history lesson” about how the computer codes came to be.
4 stars
Wrecked by Meljean Brook
Iron Seas series
Five years ago, Elizabeth Jannsen ran from her powerful father, who subsequently sent highly-trained hunters to collect her and bring her home. Caius Trachter was the only one to ever capture her, but she was able to make a dangerous escape. (2 years prior to the start of this story.)
Now Elizabeth's father has caught up to her, and she must make a quick exit. Little does she know that Caius is watching, nor does she know that he has loved her since the day he met her.
I must share with you that I am completely in awe of Ms. Brook’s storytelling and of the tales she spins. She is simply a master at her craft. Wrecked is no exception, further cementing the Iron Seas series as one of the Top 5 series among the current romance genre.
Elizabeth has every reason to run from her father, and when you find out why, I imagine your jaw will drop just like mine. Knowing that she has little chance to escape Caius, Elizabeth makes the decision to trust the man that once tried to turn her in. The pain and heartache, loneliness and internal torment of both Elizabeth and Caius is portrayed with an absolute care for detail. Elizabeth loves her father, but he is a madman and she cannot see a way out of her situation without someone's death. She wants to trust and believe Caius, but she isn't certain how. This creates emotional conflict and amazing tension. The emotional depth of the novella is on par with a story two to three times its length.
In addition, the details of the ship, voyage and world are wonderfully woven into the tale. The action--hunt and chase--are thrilling and suspenseful.
The story reaches beyond the two primary characters without stretching thin the plot of and time allotted to the primary tale. For example, I adore Captain Harker who is the captain of the ship on which Elizabeth attempts her escape. He is a supporting character with a ton of integrity. His actions give Elizabeth the ability to trust another human. It is endearing how he cares for her in his own polite way.
The ending of the story was “perfect” for the situation and again brought forward an array of emotions, but this time a bit different from the earlier scenes. It was a touching, albeit simple, way to wrap up the tale... perfect.
I absolutely loved this novella. *sigh* I cannot say enough about how great the Iron Seas series is. This novella is a stand alone and can be enjoyed by all. It is a sweet romance, suspenseful action, exquisite steampunk world and all around wonderful story.
Bottom line: Amazing adventure full of rich detail and complex storytelling that will blow you away.
5 stars
Overall, Fire & Frost offers three wonderful tales, each very different, but all exciting, romantic and fun!
My Rating:
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Enjoyed - strongly recommend (A-)
Reviews in the Series:
Midnight Liaisons
Code of Shadows:
Iron Seas:
Friday, December 28, 2012
Year in Review - 2012
Here we are at the close of another year. This year my goal was to focus more on reading and less on the mechanics of blogging, and I’m happy to report it was a success! Emotionally and mental I was in a much better place, finding time to read and enjoying writing the reviews. I am happy to report that the total number of books read this year was 97 books, up 33 books from last year! My original goal was to read one book per week, but up’d the goal to 65 books (one more than 2011). I blew that goal out of the water!
I had also challenged myself to read new-to-me authors this past year. Originally, I thought about one new author per month, for a total of 12 in the year, but when I realized I would exceed that rather quickly, I up’d that goal to 24 new-to-me-authors. I ended up reading 30 new-to-me authors! I am really proud of this accomplishment and plan to try and get at least 12 more new-to-me authors in 2013.
Having the more relaxed mental attitude also helped with blogging. I am pleased to report that I published over 460 posts in 2012, up over 100 from 2011! My review team kept me busy! We added a new feature in late September called Saturday Conversations, a place where we take the time to chat about the things going on in our lives. On the downside, I finally said goodbye (for now) to my long-running Sunday Snippets weekly post back in October 2012, after the 124th post!
I really have enjoyed blogging and discussing books with all of you. Although visitors were down in 2012, I know I have a great group of loyal readers, and I thank you each of you from the bottom of my heart. My blog is a labor of love, and I’m happy to share it with you all! Below is my TOP TEN for 2012... How did 2012 go for you? What were your favorite reads during the year?
10) My friend and sometime guest reviewer, Ang, came on board as a permanent member of the That’s What I’m Talking About review team. Ang enjoys reading historicals and contemporaries - creating a better balance of romance here at the blog.
9) I enjoy doing giveaways here at That’s What I’m Talking About, and the discovery of Rafflecopter has made giveaways so much easier for me! I love that it manages the entries and picks the winner/s for me, but I also enjoy all of the options, like tweeting about the giveaway.
8) Did anyone else notice the increase in Self-Published Authors this past year? I had the opportunity to read and showcase both newbie authors, but also some of my long-time favorites went the route of self-publishing in 2012. Whether by choice or due to circumstances, the decision to self-publish was a-okay with me. I enjoyed books from Shiloh Walker, Carolyn Crane, Jill Myles and Allyson James - all self-published. And this trend to self-publish was at the center of a question I asked at the Lori Foster’s Reader-Author Get Together, bringing a true cricket moment, but many laughs for my friend Dren and myself!
7) It seems that every year there is at least one big book in a long-running series, one that everyone can’t wait to read (can anyone say Qhuay 2013?!). In 2012, there were two such books for me. First was the climatic conclusion to the (first story arc of) Midnight Breed series by Lara Adrian, and a book for the long-tormented hero, Chase. We finally got to read his book, Darker After Midnight, and it did NOT disappoint! Not only did the book chronicle Chase’s journey of redemption and love, it also ended with an amazing twist that will completely reboot the series when it returns in February 2013. 2012 also was the year that Paris finally finds love in The Lords of the Underworld! Gena Showalter’s keeper of Promiscuity, Paris, has been pining for Sienna since the beginning of the series, and in The Darkest Seduction, Paris finally finds peace.
6) Reading so many New-to-Me Authors in 2012 was not only a huge accomplishment, but also such a joy. I found some great new series that have now become “auto-buys” for me. As I mentioned earlier, I hope to continue adding new authors to my bookshelf, but I won’t do it at the expense of giving up books and series I currently read. I think I will be able to squeeze in a few more - because that’s the best way to discover new favorites!!
5) URBAN FANTASY! When I look back at 2012, I realize that I have been reading a lot more urban fantasy titles and really enjoying them (even a bit more than PNR!). My favorites are ones that have a strong heroine, who may be flawed but believes in herself and those around her, coupled with some romance. Long-time favorites like Kate Daniels (and her partner Andrea, who was the main character in one of my favorite books, Gunmetal Magic), Janet Begay (Stormwalker series), Victory Vaughn (Deadtown series) and Madeline Black (Black Wings series), were joined this year by new-to-me characters like Gin Blanco (Elemental Assassins), Kit Colbana (Colbana Files), Drusilla Jaco (Sentinels of New Orleans), and Justine Jones (The Disillusionists).
4) In 2012, I said good-bye to three of my “auto-buy” series. First, Jill Myles ended her wonderful Succubus Diaries series with Succubi Are Forever in April. In November, Larissa Ione released the fourth and final book in her sexy Lords of Deliverance series. Rogue Rider may have the final chapter for the Horsemen, but the world of Demonica will live on when she returns to UGH in 2013 with Reaver’s book! Finally, December saw the final book Alyssa Day’s Warriors of Poseidon series. Long-time readers FINALLY got Alaric and Quinn’s story in Heart of Atlantis.
3) I finally made time to read The Disillusionist series by Carolyn Crane. What. An. Amazing. Series. I cannot not say enough great things about this trilogy which centers around a group of misfits who learn to use their phobias and insecurities to “cure” true bad guys of their vices. The third book in the series, Head Rush, was one of the best books I read this past year and earned a spot as one of my all-time favorites!
2) It is hard to pick a favorite book for 2012... There were several great reads that came out this past year. My top 3 new releases for 2012 are: Riveted by Meljean Brook, Gunmetal Magic by Ilona Andrews, and Darker After Midnight by Lara Adrian.
1) Getting to hang out with some of the most wonderful women and fellow book lovers at both Lori Foster’s Get Together and Authors After Dark NOLA. Not only did I have to opportunity to check in with some of the friends I’d met in 2011, but I finally got to meet in real life several more of my online tweeps. Plus - meeting and hanging out with some amazing authors. I think I went a bit fangirl several times. Connecting with gracious people and making friends with those I have something in common is truly a blessing! I look forward to doing more of the same in 2013!
Thank you all for stopping by and supporting me and That's What I'm Talking About. Joyous New Year and Happy Reading!! Be sure to check back in January when I’m planning a HUGE book giveaway blow out for my 3rd Blogiversary!
Wednesday, May 2, 2012
Review: Succubi Are Forever
Succubi Are Forever
Author: Jill Myles
Release Date: April 19, 2012
Publisher: Self-Published
Succubus Diaries #4
Genre: Paranormal Romance
Format(s): Paperback (coming soon), e-book
Book Source: Author
About the book:
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Tasked by the Archangel Gabriel, Jackie Brighton must find two more lost archangel halos before she's free of her deal. But she's not the only one hunting for the immense power the halos bring, and everyone around her has motives - succubi, serim, and vampire. It's a race to the finish line, and only one person is going to come out on top.
But will Jackie stand tall when even her allies are set to betray her? Noah Gideon is back, and he's never liked taking 'no' for an answer. The mysterious assassin Sophie is helping out, but Sophie has her own agenda. So does Jackie's newest rival, the ancient hetaera Phryne, who wants to use the halos to give a new world to succubi everywhere - one that doesn't involve their masters.
Every immortal wants those halos, but Jackie's not sure they're worth her life, or Zane's freedom.
But she might not have a choice...
What I’m talking about:
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This book is truly a work of love from Ms. Myles to all of the fans of her fabulous Succubus Diary series. It is a fitting close for Jackie’s story and a must read for those that follow this series. IF you have not yet picked up Ms. Myles’ series - do so now and start with the first book, Gentlemen Prefer Succubi. This series is a crazy, fun, sexy tale told from the first person POV of newly created succubus, Jackie Brighton.
The fourth full-length story, Succubi Are Forever, opens with Jackie and BFF, fellow succubus Remy, along with Jackie’s boyfriend, Zane (*swoon*) in the midst of an attempt to find out the hidden location of two lost halos hidden here on Earth. In a previous story, Jackie made a deal with Archangel Gabriel to find the remaining two halos for a boon.
Of course, this is Jackie, and things never go smoothly. Remy and Jackie are kidnapped by a powerful succubus, Phyrne, who feels that all succubi masters are evil and no good. (Succubi are created through a process involving both a vampire and fallen angel / Serim. These two males become the succubi masters and have the ability to control the succubus completely.) Phyrne uses the premise of “freeing Jackie from her masters” to try and find the halos for herself.
Once Jackie and Remy escape, they set off in a race to find the missing halos. Unfortunately for Jackie, the journey involves her Serim master, Noah. In the past, they parted on difficult terms and he is jealous that Jackie chose Zane, her vampire master, over him. The adventure is thrilling and action packed, and the chase for power doesn’t slow down until the very end.
I am going to sum up my feelings about this book with WOW! This book is really good! Jackie has grown up in the past year. She's picked Zane over Noah and is more focused, less whiny. And even throughout this book, we see sides of Jackie that were never really present in previous books. She and Remy make a great team. And the humor... it is abundant. Ms. Myles makes me laugh! Remy is also growing up due to her relationship with Ethan. I just adored the entire gang and couldn’t get enough of Zane/Jackie and Remy/Jackie.
Noah is the perfect jaded ex-lover. His character is aptly written, showing the reader all the reasons why Jackie went with Zane over Noah. He continually compels Jackie to suit his needs. He knows it hurts her when he commands her, and I think he does it because she hurt him in choosing Zane (not to mention the punishment he is receiving for his unknowing part in creating Jackie.) If you were on the fence about Team Noah/Team Zane before this book, I think Succubi Are Forever more than seals the deal!
Zane is still sexy as ever! I am in love!! (For those that missed it, I wrote a love letter to Zane for Vampire Book Club, HERE.) He cares deeply - loves - Jackie, and is so hot - made more so now that he can show his love without fear. His support of Jackie during this book brought new depth to both characters, and I really cannot say enough about how much I adore this couple.
Newcomer badie, succubus leader Phyrne is an ideal protagonist. She is evil and manipulative. Her Vagina Sisterhood (Ms. Myles’ humor is fabulous!) is a mix of both willing and unwilling succubi, but since they are “trapped” by Phyrne, they form a potentially powerful nemesis. She continually gave me the creeps.
Remy is a dear and shines in Succubi Are Forever. She has matured - caring more about her friends than herself... at times! BUT she is still crazy and self-involved. She has retired from the porn industry and is writing her memoirs (under the supervision of straight-laced boyfriend, Ethan). Each chapter has a quote from Remy’s work in progress. The quotes are freakin' hilarious--same with the ever changing name of her book.
The story has several well-planned twists and turns. But there is one - a MAJOR one - that will leave your jaw on the ground (and really, don’t read it at 3:30 in the middle of the night - not good!) I felt the story overall was very strong and fulfilling. The only negative thing I have about the book is that Phyrne disappears a bit too quietly. In my opinion, she wouldn't have taken defeat so easily. However, with that said - Ms. Myles may bring her back in a future story. I would love for some succubi smack-down!
All-in-all, Succubi Are Forever is a wonderful romance and thrilling action-packed ride, full of great twists and a delightful ending. It is an entertaining mix of action, suspense, and heart. I certainly hope Jill gives us more from this series!!
My Rating:
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Loved it - enthusiastically recommend (A)
Reviews in the Series:
Gentlemen Prefer Succubi Book 1
Succubi Like It Hot Book 2
My Fair Succubi Book 3
Succubus, Interrupted Book 3.5
Tuesday, February 14, 2012
Review: Wild and Steamy
Wild and Steamy
Release Date: Aug. 3, 2011
Publisher: self-published
Genre: Steampunk, Paranormal Romance, Urban Fantasy, Anthology
Format(s): e-book
Book Source: Purchased with my own funds
What I’m talking about:
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“The Blushing Bounder” by Meljean Brook (Iron Seas Story)
Summary: While the search for a killer puts Constable Newberry’s life in danger, he faces a danger of another kind: to his heart, by the woman forced to marry him. What will it take for this prudish bounder to convince his wife to stay?
Twimom’s Take: If you are a fan of Meljean’s Iron Seas series, you will enjoy this brief look into Detective Inspector Mina Wentworth and Constable Newberry’s first case. However, if you’ve never read the series, this is a perfect introduction to Meljean’s Iron Seas. Newbury is so sweet, and I love the inspector and Newberry’s relationship. It is an easy story to follow and has a satisfying plot for the novella length.
Rating: 4 stars: Enjoyed - strongly recommend (A-)
“Vixen” by Jill Myles
Summary: Miko’s denied her were-fox nature for far too long and turned her back on her vixen heritage. But when she meets two very sexy cat-shifters, she has to decide if she truly wants to give up on her frisky side, or embrace it. Because the were-fox in her doesn’t want to choose between both men…it wants them both.
Twimom’s Take: This is a cute, stand alone shifter story by one of my favorite authors. The three main characters had great chemistry and dialogue. The story is enjoyable, full of fun and play. And oh, by the way... it is a HOT as hell menage.
Rating: 4 stars: Enjoyed - strongly recommend (A-)
“Kitten-Tiger & the Monk” by Carolyn Crane (Disillusionists Story)
Summary: Sophia Sidway, Midcity’s most dangerous memory revisionist, seeks out the mysterious Monk in the wasteland beneath the Tangle turnpike, hoping for redemption…but it turns out that the Monk is not all that pious, and the turnpike is no turnpike at all.
Twimom’s Take: OMG! I am totally hooked on Ms. Crane’s urban fantasy series! The mythology is very original and different than anything I’ve read before. I wish now I’d started at the beginning of the series (this novella takes place between 2nd and 3rd books.) I am going to be reading the series ASAP! I was not lost - and the story is fine as a stand alone, but Sophia made references to people and events that I wonder if I would have known about had I read the first two books.
Rating: 4.5 stars: Loved it - enthusiastically recommend (A)
My Rating for the Book:
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Enjoyed - strongly recommend (A-)
Friday, February 3, 2012
Love Letters: Zane
Today I'm guest blogging at Vampire Book Club where I'm Talking About my love for ZANE (Succubus Diaries Series by Jill Myles). Stop by and say hello. And swoon with me!Happy
Friday, December 30, 2011
Quickie Review: Succubus, Interrupted
Succubus, Interrupted
Author: Jill Myles
Release Date: Nov. 2011
Publisher: by author
Succubus Diaries #3.5
Genre: Paranormal Romance, novella
Format(s): e-book
Book Source: Free read from Author
About the book:
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Remy's a carefree, easygoing immortal...with a secret. She made a deal with her masters - in exchange for a hundred years of freedom, she'd give them a hundred years of servitude. Pretty sweet deal...until it's time to pay up.
Now, she's about to become enslaved again, and it's up to Jackie to step in and save the day. But will Zane help her? Or will he be happier without Remy at Jackie's side?
What I’m talking about:
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This is a great little story for fan’s of Ms. Myles’ excellent Succubus Diaries. This is not a stand alone, so if you haven’t read this series, please start with the first book, Gentlemen Prefer Succubi (review HERE).
When her BFF (and really, her only girl friend) Remy, has to turn herself over to her controlling, egotistical master for a hundred years of servitude, the normally (mostly) self-centered Jackie takes charge to free Remy.
I love seeing this side of Jackie: she is tough, determined and mad-as-hell. With her own life mostly in order, Jackie is a different gal - not a damsel in distress, but a heroine in her own right. But the best part is seeing Zane *swoon* and Jackie together. Their love has blossomed without the stress of love triangle hanging over their heads.
This short story is a must for fans of this fabulous series.
My Rating:
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Enjoyed - strongly recommend (A-)
Purchase Info:
Succubus, Interrupted (The Succubus Diaries)
Labels:
4 stars,
Jill Myles,
novella,
paranormal romance,
quickie review,
Succubus Diaries
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comments
Monday, May 30, 2011
Quickie Reviews: Island Heat & Wicked Games
Today I am doing quickie reviews for 2 of Jill Myles self-published titles. The books are available at Amazon, Smashwords and All Romance for next to nothing... so what are you waiting for?
I received an e-copy of these books from Jill for the purposes of an honest review.
Island Heat Release Date: February 28, 2011
Publisher: self-published
Genre: Paranormal Romance
Format(s): e-book
From the author’s website:
On a business trip to Bermuda, realtor Diana Holcomb's small plane goes down over the ocean, a victim of the infamous Bermuda Triangle.
Diana wakes up to find herself on a deserted island...that really isn't all that deserted. First, a gigantic dinosaur tries to eat her. Then she's captured by cavemen, and just when things are looking their worst, she's rescued by none other than a gorgeous man with the body of an Adonis and the jungle skills of Tarzan.
Salvador's been stranded on the island for a very, very long time without a woman. A very, very long time. And now that he has Diana, he intends to claim her for his own...
What I’m talking about:
Poor Diana... always looking for the next commission, this realtor has her hands full with her latest client. When he invites Diana on a business trip to the Bermuda Triangle, she didn’t realize it would be for funny business. But once the plane crashes, Diana has to forget all she knows and embrace island life.
This story is Jurassic Park meets LOST. There are dinosaurs, cavemen, and remnants of past (??) survivors that date back centuries. Salvador is generous, adorable and alpha... just how I like my men! Diana is a bit whiny, needs help managing her anger, and slaps and swats Salvador entirely too often. But I suppose I could cut her a break since she’s just been dropped onto this crazy island. There are some great moments of humor in the book. Island Heat is a cute story with a fairly substantial plot line and character development. There are some enjoyable twists and turns, and the ending, while predicable, was satisfying.
My Rating:
Liked it, but I had some issues - recommend (B)
Wicked Games Release Date: March 2011
Publisher: self-published
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Format(s): e-book
From the author’s website:
Abby Lewis never pictured herself on the survival game show, Endurance Island. She’s just not the ‘survival’ type. But when her boss offers her a spot on the show and the opportunity of a lifetime, she packs her bags and heads to the tropics to be a contestant. Once in the game, though, it’s clear that Abby’s in over her head.
No one’s more competitive than sexy, delicious – and arrogant – Dean Woodall. Sure, he’s clever, strong, good at challenges, and has a body that makes her mouth water. He also hates Abby just as much as she hates him. That’s fine with her; she’ll just ignore the jerk.
But the rules of Endurance Island are working against them. Abby and Dean are teamed up – alone – on the beach. It’s either work together, or go home. Stuck with no one's company but their own, they learn they might just make a good team after all.
And Abby learns that with just a little bit of kindling, the flames of hate can quickly turn to flames of passion…
What I’m talking about:
I’m going to start this review by saying I am a bit surprised how much I enjoyed this story... First, I hardly ever read (and enjoy) contemporary romance and second, I am NOT a fan of Survivor - I don’t even watch reality TV. But leave it to Jill to create such a likable book.
Abby is a pretty good lead - she is unsure of her capabilities, but never quits. She is basically forced onto this show, but makes the most of the situation, even surprising herself and others with her ability to win. She can be a little childish at times, but it didn’t really bother me. Dean is another sexy, gentle lead male. He is in it to win the game, but ends up with a greater prize than he could imagine.
I love that although the story is told in the first person POV from Abby, at the beginning of each chapter, we get a blurb from Dean’s “diary.” So readers are completely aware that he is falling for her, while she has no clue. I think that may be part of the reason I got a little frustrated with Abby, because she was so quick to believe the worst in people when she got voted off the island, and she wasn’t aware of what was going on behind the scenes.
Wicked Games is a sweet and fast-paced contemporary romance with good character development and substantial plot lines. Abby and Dean are HOT together (let me tell you I was sweating during the shower scene)! Even with the misunderstandings and horrible "Survivor" conditions, the two make a great couple that you can help but route for. All-in-all, a very enjoyable read.
My Rating:
Enjoyed - strongly recommend (A-)
Tuesday, January 11, 2011
Author Interview - Jill Myles
Today I have the honor of bringing to you one of my favorite authors and tweeps, Jill Myles. Jill has been an incurable romantic since childhood. She reads all the ‘naughty parts’ of books first, looks for a dirty joke in just about everything, and thinks to this day that the Little House on the Prairie books should have been steamier. (Now you see why I *heart* Jill?!)
After devouring hundreds of paperback romances, mythology books, and archaeological tomes, she decided to write a few books of her own – stories with a wild adventure, sharp banter, and lots of super-sexy situations. She prefers her heroes alpha and half-dressed, her heroines witty, and she loves nothing more than watching them overcome adversity to fall into bed together. Please help me welcome Jill to That’s What I’m Talking About.
Twimom: Jill, welcome and thank you for stopping by.
Jill: Thank you! I’m happy to be here.
Twimom: Congratulations on the release of My Fair Succubi (my review HERE), your third book in the Succubus Diary Series. What were your inspirations for creating a story about the creation of a succubus using a vampire and fallen angel?
Jill: First, I should tell you how I work. You know how they say ‘spaghetti to the wall’ method? That’s kind of how I write. I throw stuff on the page and hope that it turns into something cool. Sometimes it really, really doesn’t, but sometimes it works out well. For the Succubus Diaries, I had a couple of different concepts swirling around – mostly fallen angels and vampires. And I thought to myself, well, if I want both of those in the story, it has to make sense. So I had to really think hard as to how they would all pull together. Inspiration hit when I was at a restaurant with my sister, and I realized that a succubus was the perfect ‘between’ character to be torn between the two parties.Twimom: Great writing method - it works for you!
So... In your current release, your heroine, Jackie, makes a choice between her two hot males: Angel Noah and Vampire Zane. Without giving away anything, can you tell me which of the two characters is your favorite? Was one easier to write than the other?
Jill: It’s hard because I don’t have a favorite of those three. I really enjoy all three of them. That being said, I try to flip between the heroes for each book to showcase them. So book 1 was a mix of the two men, book 2 was more Noah centric, and book 3…well, I won’t spoil it for you!
Twimom: Writing love triangles can be difficult, I imagine. When you started writing the series, did you always know with whom Jackie would end up? Did you find yourself waffling the outcome or pulling for one side or the other? Have you had many readers speak out for “Team Noah” or “Team Zane?”
Jill: Actually, writing a love triangle was totally a bad call for me, because I keep trying to have her pick both. ;) It’s easy to write an indecisive character when you’re a totally indecisive author! In all seriousness, when I created both men, I didn’t want one to be obviously ‘better’ than the other. A lot of the time, it’s painfully obvious who the heroine should be with in the love triangle, and I really wanted to mix that up a little. Whoever she doesn’t pick isn’t going away, of course – she is tied to both men whether she likes it or not, and the relationship will continue to adjust.
Twimom: Well, I’d love to pick both... Noah and Zane sandwich *evil grin* Can you tell my readers what’s up next for Jackie and the gang?
Jill: I can’t say yet! Or can I say, more of the same? More adventure, more jokes, more hot guys, more sex…
Twimom: That’s allowed. I have to tell you I really enjoyed how you ended My Fair Succubi and I’m looking forward to new adventures! On twitter you’ve mentioned other works in progress. Can you tell me a little about any upcoming releases and/or plans?
Jill: This is actually probably the worst time frame for me to talk about stuff because dates are still being ironed out! I have a new series (but the old series isn’t going away!) that is more romance than the Succubus Diaries. These books are about human girls that work at a dating agency for supernaturals. It’ll be a good leaping-in point for people that want to try my writing but aren’t sure they’re into fallen angels and vampires. No firm details yet, just that the first book is coming out in 2011.
Twimom: Oh, what a fun premise! I can’t wait to read it!
I always like to ask authors about their reading habits... What was your favorite read in 2010? What types of books do you enjoy reading?
Jill: I’m a big fan of Meljean Brook and so THE IRON DUKE totally blew me away. I think I read DEMON BLOOD about four times this year too. And I adored Kresley Cole’s DEMON FROM THE DARK. Ooooh, and Loretta Chase and Kristan Higgins and Lisa Kleypas’s books this year. Basically I read a little bit of everything in romance, along with a little bit of YA and horror.
Twimom: Glad to know I’m not the only Meljean stalker fan out there! What upcoming release are you most excited to read?
Jill: SHADOWFEVER!!! (cue foaming at the mouth) I read the FEVER series earlier this year and it just blew me away! I can’t wait for this book! After that, I’m really excited for Kresley Cole’s next that hits in February, and Meljean Brook’s next Guardian book, and Ilona Andrews’s next Kate Daniels book and…
Twimom: Hmmm... your list of books looks a lot like mine for 2011! Jill, once again thank you so much for taking the time to tell my readers a little bit about yourself and your writing. As always, it was wonderful chatting with you.
Jill: You are always a pleasure to talk to, Jen!
Readers: You can find Jill on line at
Her Website: http://jillmyles.com/
Her Blog: http://jillmyles.com/blog/
Twitter: http://twitter.com/jillmyles
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