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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
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Showing posts with label New-to-Me Author 2013. Show all posts
Showing posts with label New-to-Me Author 2013. Show all posts
Monday, July 1, 2013
Review: After Dark by Gena Showalter & Kait Ballenger
After Dark
Author: Gena Showalter
Release Date: June 25, 2013
Publisher: Harlequin
ISBN: #978-0373778256
Genre: Paranormal Romance
Format(s): Paperback (# pgs), e-book
Book Source: Publisher/ Author
About the book:
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The Darkest Angel (Lords of the Underworld #4.5)
Winged warrior Lysander has been alive for centuries, and yet he's never known desire-until he meets Bianka. Spawned from the bloodline of his enemy, the beautiful but deadly Harpy is determined to lead the untouched Lysander into temptation. He may try to evade her attempts, but even the most iron-willed demon assassin can resist for only so long....
Shadow Hunter (Execution Underground #0.5)
Vampire hunter Damon Brock's first assignment with the Execution Underground is Rochester, New York, a city crawling with the undead. But he isn't the only hunter in town gunning for vamp blood. Tiffany Solow is fierce and ruthless when it comes to slaying the monsters that destroyed her family-and she works solo. But being alone is no longer so desirable when she meets the mysterious hunter who wants more than just her turf. As they work to massacre the local covens, the line between good and evil blurs when they are forced to decide between their lifelong beliefs... and their newfound hearts.
What I’m talking about:
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Note: The Darkest Angel was originally released as part of the Heart of Darkness Anthology, published by Harlequin in December 2009. I did not read the story at this time; however, I read and reviewed the book on GoodReads in January 2010, and this was my review:
The Darkest Angel by Gena Showalter
This is a fabulous tale set in Gena's Lords of the Underworld series. The primary characters are Lysander, a heavenly angel, and Bianka, a wicked Harpy. We met Bianka in a previous novel. Their story is fun! The romance is wonderful, and the novella sets up some of the story line for the next novel. This is a must read for any Lord fans.
My Rating: 4 stars
Shadow Hunter by Kait Ballenger
The Execution Underground is an elite group of genetically enhance humans trained to track and kill all things supernatural. Upon acceptance into EU, each hunter is given a serum injection that gives longer life and increased strength and healing abilities. Damon is a hunter for EU, determined to kill the evil vampire Caius in revenge over the death of fellow hunter and best friend, Mark.
Tiffany Solow is working undercover as a (blood) Host for Caius. She is the baby sister of Mark, and like Damon, she is determined to destroy Caius for his roll in Mark’s death. She also blames Mark’s best friend, only known as “B” to her, for his death because B left Mark during battle to hunt down vampires. B (aka Damon) and Tiffany have a history as letter-writing friends who have fallen for one another, even though they’ve never met.
Shadow Hunter opens with a bang and the action rarely slows down. Although both Damon and Tiffany are focused on bringing down Caius, there is a big mystery concerning what appears to be new behavior from vampires. The story really picks up as the mystery becomes more involved and complex, creating an engrossing tale.
Damon and Tiffany experience immediate lust and a deep attraction for one another. The heat between the pair is smokin. However, I did get briefly annoyed that Damon kept reminding himself that Tiffany is Mark's little sister, and therefore, he should leave her alone. Luckily, his desire for Tiffany overrides his sense of honor for his friendship with Mark, and the pair give into their passion. Also, I was frustrated that Damon keeps the truth of his identity, and later what happened to Mark, from Tiffany.
One thing I enjoyed about Twilight Hunter is that this PNR is about humans falling in love, and all of the paranormals are bad guys. That doesn’t happen much any longer. It is a refreshing change of pace.
I do feel it necessary to warn readers, without spilling spoilers, that Twilight Hunter has a HUGE cliffhanger at the end of the book. The story didn't finish, and that is such a huge pet peeve of mine, especially since this is listed as a PNR (paranormal romance). The entire story was well-developed, especially for the shortened length; however, the ending felt like a nightmarish Urban Fantasy (UF).
Bottom line... Although there was a lot of information presented in the front end of the book, overall the story read smoothly, the romance was well-developed, and the action was exciting. The initial tension between Tiffany and Damon was fun to read. However, the book ended with too much unresolved for my liking, and I sincerely hope issues get wrapped up quickly.*
My Rating: 3 Stars
*I had the chance to correspond with the author about how this book ended, and I am happy to report that subsequent books in this series will have traditional paranormal romance HEA endings. She also told me that Damon and Tiffany will have a book in the future.
My Rating:
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Liked it - recommend (B+)
Purchase Info:
Labels:
Monday, June 24, 2013
Review: Bite Me by PJ Schnyder
Bite Me
Author: PJ Schnyder
Release Date: June 24, 2013
Publisher: Carina Press
London Undead #1
Genre: Paranormal Romance
Format(s): e-book
Book Source: Author
About the book:
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Few people walk the streets of London since the zombie outbreak, but that's not an issue for Seth. As a werewolf, he can handle himself and save humans reckless enough to take a nighttime stroll. While on patrol he comes across a group of people under attack. The one woman brave enough to take a stand against the zombies catches his eye—and not just because of her way with a gun. Learning the beautiful woman is homeless and fends for herself only intensifies his urge to protect and care for her.
Maisie can't help but admit that she's attracted to her werewolf rescuer. She's drawn to Seth's strength and ferocity, and finds herself opening up to him in ways she never imagined, even though she's determined to not rely on Seth or anyone else. She doesn't want another person to get hurt—or die—for her sake. She has enough scars, physical and emotional, from the last time…
But when Seth realizes something is drawing the zombies to Maisie, there may be nothing he can do to save her…
What I’m talking about:
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Enjoyable, entertaining, fun! All words I use to describe Bite Me by PJ Schnyder. The first book in her new London Undead series sets the stage for what promises to be an interesting new series. The book describes a modern day London that is run down and desolate since a zombie epidemic started some time in the past, prior to the start of this story. The zombies are those from myth and legend - mindless, decaying creatures that seek out fresh "meat" in an endless quest to quench its hunger.
Left in London are those who didn't have enough money to escape before the quarantine, zombie-hunting "tourists" and those who profit from the "tourism." Somewhere along the way, werewolves also outed themselves to the humans. The werewolves work with the human police to help eradicate the zombies, as they are immune to the zombie virus and exceptionally strong.
Seth is the alpha of the local London wolf pack. He has an easy, unspoken relationship with the local constables, working in tandem to keep the streets safe. Under Seth, and one of his confidants, is Danny, a werewolf scientist trying to uncover what causes zombieism. While out on rounds one night, Seth comes across a captivating young woman, full of spirit, trying to save a family from some unusually fast and well-orchestrated zombies. After helping her with the rescue, Seth escorts Maisie to her clinic, where the pair become fast friends. They also indulge a bit in their immediate and intense attraction.
Bite Me focuses much of the story on the budding relationship between Seth and Maisie. Theirs is a passionate, yet sweet romance. Maisie was crippled in the past after a zombie attack, and her affliction brings out Seth’s need to protect and take care of her, even though he knows she is more than capable. At first it was sweet how much he wanted to help her, but I have to say, having Seth carry Maisie everywhere began to be a bit off-putting after a while. She is a grown women who can obviously hold her own and has balls made of steel. So why so much carrying?!
Regardless of Seth’s “pampering,” the pair share an intense attraction. They have that immediate "I need to rip all your clothes off and start sexing you up now" kind of powerful draw. Yet Seth remains the consummate gentlemen when he shows extraordinary restraint after Maisie gets him all worked up. I enjoyed their moments together - both the sweet and the sexy.
Wrapped around the love story is the mystery of why groups of zombies have become more systematic in their attacks. The wolves notice that instead of mindless creatures that feed as the opportunity presents itself, they are coordinating attack efforts and searching out prey. Trying to figure out the cause and who is masterminding the strikes, especially as it hits close to home for Maisie, adds a bit of thrill to the story.
All-in-all, Bite Me is a delightful story that hits all the important aspects I enjoy when reading: humor, a bit of intrigue, and a sweet romance with a bit of fire. Ms. Schnyder has created an interesting new world with hints of so much more to come. I look forward to finding out more about the werewolves, but also I want to know who is controlling the zombies and why. I strongly recommend this title for those looking for an entertaining new paranormal series.
My Rating:
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Enjoyed - strongly recommend (A-)
Saturday, May 25, 2013
Saturday Conversations 05/25/2013
New-to-me Authors...
When my dear friend Mama Kitty asked if I'd like to help celebrate her 30th birthday, I said "YES!" So I wrote a post, complete with a giveaway, about reading "new-to-me authors." These are authors that I've not read before.
I’ve made it a personal challenge to read new-to-me authors. This is my second year of doing my own mini-reading challenge at my blog. Last year I read over 20 new-to-me authors. Some are relatively big names like Shiloh Walker and Jennifer Estep, who had been on my TBR list for a while. While others like Rebecca Royce and DL Jackson, I picked up because their work captured my eye. I’ve also picked up new-to-me authors via gifted books and freebies from book conventions. It’s fun to try a new author, especially when you find one that becomes your next auto-buy author!
So in celebration of Mama Kitty’s birthday, I’m offering one (1) lucky person an e-copy (Nook or Kindle) of My Wicked Valentine by Ann Mayburn, a new-to-me author I read earlier this year. This is the first book in her Club Wicked series, a contemporary BSDM romance series. For more information, please see my review HERE.The contest is happening at MamaKitty's site (NOT HERE). So if you'd like to read more about new-to-me authors and enter the contest, please visit her site MK REVIEWS.
Do you like to read new-to-you authors? Stop by MK REVIEWS and tell me about it!
Thanks for stopping to chat!
Friday, May 24, 2013
Review: A Witch's Handbook of Kisses and Curses by Molly Harper
A Witch's Handbook of Kisses and Curses
Author: Molly Harper
Release Date: May 28, 2013
Publisher: Pocket Books
Half-Moon Hollow #2
ISBN: #978-1451641851
Genre: Paranormal Romance
Format(s): Paperback (368 pgs), e-book
Book Source: Edelweiss
About the book:
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Nola Leary would have been content to stay in Kilcairy, Ireland, healing villagers at her family’s clinic with a mix of magic and modern medicine. But a series of ill-timed omens and a deathbed promise to her grandmother have sent her on a quest to Half-Moon Hollow, Kentucky, to secure her family’s magical potency for the next generation. Her supernatural task? To unearth four artifacts hidden by her grandfather before a rival magical family beats her to it.
Complication One: Her grandfather was Mr. Wainwright and the artifacts are lost somewhere in what is now Jane Jameson's book shop.
Complication Two: her new neighbor, Jed Trudeau, who keeps turning up half naked at the strangest times, a distraction Nola doesn't need. And teaming up with a real-life Adonis is as dangerous as it sounds, especially when he’s got the face of an angel and the abs of a washboard—can Nola complete her mission before falling completely under his spell?
What I’m talking about:
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Nola, a witch with mediocre talent but potential to be more, moves to Half-Moon Hollow, Kentucky from Ireland after one too many "nudges" from her deceased Nana. She leaves behind her doting boyfriend and the safety of her family with the purpose of recovering four magic items that her Nana entrusted to her lover from years ago--Nola’s unknown grandfather.
Immediately Nola earns the trust of and makes friends with the locals, who are critical in Nola’s quest to find the lost items. In addition, Nola befriends her hunky neighbor, Jed, who lives in the other half of Nola's rental home. Jed’s sexy body and easy-going nature has Nola second guessing the “normal” boyfriend she left back home.
I am a first time reader of Ms. Harper’s books, and I can say with certainty that A Witch’s Handbook of Kisses and Curses will not be my last! I completely enjoyed Ms. Harper’s writing style, humor, and world-building. Although this book falls within a series, which is a spin-off of another one of her series, I never felt lost or that I was missing critical back story.
A Witch’s Handbook is told from the first person POV of Nola, which gives it a “chic lit” feel, but it’s not dumbed down or overly silly. After a rough childhood (horrible mother!) and armed with the desire to “be normal,” Nola tries to hide who and what she truly is. However, she is intuitive and smart, and coming to The Hollow allows her to discover this for herself. I enjoyed watching Nola laugh with her new friends/family and learn to love herself and all the quirks that come with being a McGavock witch. Her sense of humor is outstanding (for example calling an opossum trapped in her cupboard a “rodent of unusual size”), and her nature is light and fun.
At the center of the tale is the need to recover the four everyday “magical” items. We learn that these items hold the key to keeping the Kerrigans, who are the "black magic" members of the McGavock family, from gaining power over Nola’s family and wrecking havoc in the world. The story includes a bit of mystery as strange things start happening around Nola, to include a break in of the bookstore formerly owned by her deceased grandfather. Adding to the tension is a looming deadline before which Nola has to locate the items. Altogether, it created a bit of excitement, suspense and tension which had me constantly trying to figure out the who, what and why’s.
Probably the best thing about the book is the troupe of locals who become Nola’s adopted family. The banter with local vamps Andrea and Jane lend humor to the tale, but also allow us to see different sides of Nola. Andrea’s husband, Dick, is another source of comic relief, stemming from his silly actions when dealing with Nola. Then there is Jed, who has a “devil may care” attitude one moment, while in the next, he leaves flowers for Nola at her windowsill. Watching their romance develop was sweet and sexy. I adored Nola and Jed, and I loved how she helps him with a “family problem” that is pretty humorous. In the end, the story chronicles how everyone comes together in friendship and love, which makes this book such a feel good read.
The entire story was well-scripted, thoughtful and humorous. From the process of searching for the artifacts to the budding friendships with Jane, Andrea, and the rest. Her flirtatious nature with Jed, and her humanity work at the local clinic. I also enjoyed the slow uncovering of Nola’s childhood memories, to include how horrible her mom was and conversely, how loving her father was.
A Witch’s Handbook of Kisses and Curses is a wonderful story! Although overall the book is light and fluffy, the humor and plot are sharp, making this a worthy read. I enjoyed almost every moment of the story, smiling on the inside and out. It wasn't deep or emotionally gripping, but fun and warm. It is entertainment for the sake of joy. There was an interesting and exciting plot behind the fun, and the humor made me chuckle several times over, possibly recognizing it as something I would do or say. Everything was well-written, with no loose ends or side stories left dangling. I most certainly plan to visit Half-Moon Hollow again.
My Rating:
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Loved it - enthusiastically recommend (A)
Thursday, May 9, 2013
Review: Crow Magic by Mary Quast
Crow Magic
Author: Mary Quast
Release Date: April 24, 2013
Publisher: Decadent
1 Night Stand series
Genre: Paranormal Romance, Novella
Format(s): e-book
Book Source: Publisher
About the book:
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Lucy Richards is tired of being timid around men. Hoping to overcome her fears and feel like a real woman, she turns to Madame Eve to find a man who will fulfill that goal. Eve arranges a one-night stand with a handsome Shawnee shaman who will teach Lucy to use her womanly power and take her to unimaginable heights.
Shape shifter Seth Crowe is a Keeper of the Spiritual Law who carries souls from darkness to light, and enjoys using his body to accomplish his magic.
Tucked away in the Castillo Poconos Resort, Seth helps Lucy find spiritual and sexual freedom, never dreaming he might find his own mate in the bargain.
What I’m talking about:
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Our story opens with Seth (aka Tecumseh), who is a caretaker of sorts for lost souls. He is the Crow of legend, leading a solitary and lonely life. In order that his own soul does not fill with darkness, he needs to find his mate. Knowing this, him mom and brother ambush Seth and set him up on a date via Madame Eve’s 1 Night Stand (1NS) because his brother Kam had much success with the dating service.
After a history of abuse, Lucy feels awkward around men and is not comfortable with her own sexuality. She hopes that Madame Eve and 1NS can help her overcome her fears and maybe find something she feels is missing from her life.
Crow Magic is a story filled with spirituality and self-awareness. The author uses Native American culture and beliefs to spin her own tale of romance centered around inner peace and freedom. While I found much of the culture presented entertaining, at times I felt the spirituality of the story was heavy-handed and overshadowed the romance.
In the beginning of the book, Lucy finds herself alone with an attentive crow at the secluded resort. She begins a dialogue with the alert bird that was a bit goofy and silly. Personally, I'd be freaking out if a crow pulled out my hair band and stared at me. However, after a while, her odd behavior is attributed to a history of abuse and the scene makes more sense in that light.
The overall “courtship” between Seth and Lucy was based on her spiritual and sexual awakening. Seth uses his powers to free her mind and body, allowing her to become centered and at peace with her own self. Because of this, I felt that the story wasn’t very romantic in the traditional sense of the genre. However, Seth realizes almost immediately that his connection to Lucy is deeper than that of previous charges, so he pursues her more intimately.
Overall, Crow Magic is an enjoyable story with an interesting concept. It is filled, and at times overfilled, with spiritual awakening, using sex as part of the process. The connection between the primary couple isn't as steamy as in other 1NS stories, because the focus of the relationship is equally physical and spiritual. I liked that Lucy was able to shed her past and let out the awakened spirit inside of her. I think that those with an interest in Native American culture will enjoy this novella; however, if you are turned off by spirituality, you probably won't like the novella as much.
My Rating:
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Liked it, but I had some issues - recommend (B)
Reviews in the Series:
Friday, May 3, 2013
Review: A Vampire's Salvation by Virna DePaul
A Vampire’s Salvation
Author: Virna DePaul
Release Date: April 22, 2013 (reissue)
Publisher: Loveswept
Beyond Human #1
Genre: Paranormal Romance, Novella
Format(s): e-book
Book Source: NetGalley
About the book:
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Francesca Marie Stewart has never wanted any man as much as she wants Jake Rios. His chiseled body and dark, intensely masculine energy draw her like a moth to a flame. But Frankie has been burned before, and now a mysterious figure from her troubled past has resurfaced with a terrifying new threat. Can she trust Jake not only with her heart but with her very life?
Jake’s hunger to possess this beautiful redhead goes beyond searing desire. He’s a vampire, and his very existence depends on bonding with a mate. He aches to ravish Frankie, but he must take it slow—for what he will ask of her will require profound sacrifice even as it gives her unimaginable pleasure. And once he has claimed her—body and soul—Jake will go to any lengths to protect her.
What I’m talking about:
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Francesca Stewart enjoys her position on staff with California’s governor. She has an impeccable work ethic, and her support of green initiatives makes those she stands with very successful. But Frankie is lonely, and after suffering a bad relationship in her youth, she is reluctant to make any type of romantic connection in her adult life. However, Frankie lusts after Jake Rios, head of the governor’s nighttime security and considers what it would be like to go out with him.
Jake recognized Frankie as his mate within moments of joining the governor’s team. Realizing he needs gain Frankie’s friendship and trust, vampire Jake reigns in his alpha-nature and takes things slow. However, when he realizes Frankie’s life is in danger, he can no longer sit on the sidelines.
A Vampire’s Salvation is an entertaining novella that kicks off Ms. DePaul’s Beyond Human series which involves a group of vampires hoping to “come out” from hiding and join society. Jake Rios is optimistic that by working with a progressive governor with ambitions for the White House, he can reveal himself and his kind to the public someday. Although this novella doesn’t touch much on this storyline, I liked the idea and hope that there will be future titles that progress the story forward.
The heart of the novella revolves around the quickly developing love between Frankie and Jake. Due to the short nature of a novella, their relationship goes from zero to happily-ever-after in sixty seconds flat. Their initial encounters are fierce, filled with a hunger that is hot. I liked learning up front that Jake genuinely cares for Frankie and wants to take it slow. I adored reading Jake's POV as he headed to Frankie’s door for their second date. It was sweet and romantic to learn how much he wants Frankie but is willing to let her call the shots. But what made the scene was his reaction about seeing Frankie all dressed up, subsequently losing all sense of control. Her reaction:
I’ve unleashed something wild, was Frankie’s first thought when Jake moved toward her.
Thank God, was her next one.
Again, due to the shortness of the story, things progressed quickly, which left me feeling a bit cheated on the development of their relationship. After only two days together, they profess love, which rubbed me the wrong way a bit. In addition, Frankie adjusts rather quickly to the idea Jake is a vampire, and forgiveness came a bit too easily for my tastes. Unfortunately, when the author only has so many pages, things will move along rapidly at times.
In the end, A Vampire’s Salvation is a delightful novella. The story is sexy and fast paced, with a touch of suspense. The concept of the series is enjoyable and entertaining. I do think the story would have been a bit better with more length and development, and I'm not a fan of the immediate "I love you," so that brought it down a little for me. However, I am looking forward to reading a second story, knowing that there is much more to this political game than what was presented in this novella. The epilogue has me hooked for round two!
My Rating:
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Liked it - recommend (B+)
Wednesday, April 24, 2013
Review: Rising Darkness by Thea Harrison
Rising Darkness
Author: Thea Harrison
Release Date: April 2, 2013
Publisher: Berkley
Game of Shadows #1
ISBN: #978-0425248454
Genre: Urban Fantasy, Romance
Format(s): Paperback (304 pgs), e-book
Book Source: Publisher/ NetGalley
About the book:
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In the hospital ER where she works, Mary is used to chaos. But lately, every aspect of her life seems adrift. She’s feeling disconnected from herself. Voices appear in her head. And the vivid, disturbing dreams she’s had all her life are becoming more intense. Then she meets Michael. He’s handsome, enigmatic and knows more than he can say. In his company, she slowly remembers the truth about herself…
Thousands of years ago, there were eight of them. The one called the Deceiver came to destroy the world, and the other seven followed to stop him. Reincarnated over and over, they carry on—and Mary finds herself drawn into the battle once again. And the more she learns, the more she realizes that Michael will go to any lengths to destroy the Deceiver.
Then she remembers who killed her during her last life, nine hundred years ago…Michael.
What I’m talking about:
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The story opens with a dream of a life from the very distant past, in a “galaxy far, far away,” although our heroine, Mary, doesn’t realize this until later in the story. She dreams of a criminal escaping and of comrades dying in one life to be reborn in another in order to find him and bring justice. To try and shake the dream and the stress of her life as an ER doctor in a nearby hospital, she goes for a run. When she thinks she sees and hears the wind talking, Mary becomes even more confused and a little concerned, starting to question her sanity. However, when her ex-husband (but still good friend) tries to get her to the doctor, she runs from the appointment and his help.
Rising Darkness unfolds slowly, giving the reader different point-of-views and sides to the same story. We learn about our hero, Michael and meet “Grandmother,” along with a few humans who know some of the secrets hidden among the naive population of Earth. I was a bit confused for a while, trying to piece together all of the sections and understand what had happened in the past and what it meant for this book. Although the story is revealed gradually, it is mostly necessary to convey the rather involved backstory and history of Michael, Mary and their companions. As the story progresses and the reader becomes more familiar with the nuances of the tale, the pace picks up a bit.
Mary is one of the original aliens/beings that transcended time and space to chase after the evil being who escaped to Earth; however, she has no clue who she is. After meeting a friendly psychic, experiencing an unexplainable encounter with the Virgin Mary and surviving a frightening confrontation with some deadly men, Mary beings to think that there is something more going on. I adore how the author has Mary compare her situation to that of Sarah Connor in the movie The Terminator as she begins to process what is happening to her. It was very relevant because it’s something we all do in our every day lives - relate our situation to something we’ve seen in a TV show or hear in a song. It was a well written sequence in the book.
Whereas Mary was always a little frantic, for over half of the book, Michael appeared emotionless and stoic. It was enjoyable to get some answers via Michael’s POV about halfway through the book when we finally became privy to his inner feelings about finding his long-lost mate. It was sorely needed because 1) Mary doesn't recognize him and 2) his actions seem so cold and calculated.
Overall the mythology behind the Game of Shadows series is interesting and unique. However, this first story dragged on for most of the book. While there was need to relate an intricate backstory to the reader, at times it was too confusing and/or not able to hold my interest. Mary and Michael had little emotional connection for the majority of the book; although they did manage to create a small spark closer to the end of the story. In addition, I was not satisfied with the conclusion of Rising Darkness. It’s not a cliffhanger per se, but it sort of just ended at a “break in the action,” and the journey is far from over. I just never could fully care about the characters, even though I liked the premise.
My Rating:
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Finished it - take it or leave it (C)
Wednesday, February 27, 2013
Review: My Wicked Valentine by Ann Mayburn
My Wicked Valentine
Author: Ann Mayburn
Release Date: Feb. 12, 2013
Publisher: Loose ID
Club Wicked #1
ISBN: #978-1623002541
Genre: Contemporary Romance, BDSM, erotica
Format(s): e-book
Book Source: Author
About the book:
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Lucia Roa needs a miracle to keep her fledgeling event planning business from going under. When she gets word about the opportunity of a lifetime to do a Valentine's Day party for an elite club in Washington D.C. she jumps at the chance, only finding out that the party isn't for just any club, it is for the premier private BDSM club, Wicked. Desperate for a chance to make the social and professional connections that this job would offer, she agrees to a most unconventional business arrangement with the handsomest man she's ever met.
CEO Isaac O'Keefe swore off relationships years ago after having his heart broken and his bank account emptied by his gold digging first wife. He thought he'd managed to keep his heart under lock and key, but when Lucia walks into his office he is instantly drawn to the fiery beauty in a way he's never felt before. He convinces Lucia to take the position as event planner for Wicked's Valentine's Day Party, but in order to make the event a success, something he needs to happen to secure his place on the board at Wicked, he must give her a crash course at all the dark pleasures BDSM has to offer. What starts out as a business partnership quickly turns into something more as Lucia breaks down every wall around his heart without even trying. Isaac must then make a choice, push Lucia away and continue to live a safe, but lonely life, or open himself up again to the greatest pain and pleasure in the world. Love.
What I’m talking about:
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Lucia Roa is excited, but extremely nervous, for her interview to plan a major party for the rich and powerful Isaac O’Keefe. She is going in blind, at the urging of her mentor, Mrs. Florentine, not knowing who or what the party is for. So when Isaac tells Lucia that the party is at a BDSM club and that she’s too young and inexperienced, Lucia is determined to prove he’s wrong. And within a few pages, Isaac is determined to bring Lucia into the fold - with him showing her the ropes (pun intended).
The pair set up an unconventional business arrangement where they work on the party together, and Isaac teaches Lucia about the BDSM lifestyle. He pretends to be her Master in the club, and she is to do as he asks so that she will better understand the clientele at the club.
My Wicked Valentine is a delightful, sexy romance. Lucia is fresh, young and full of positive energy; I couldn’t help but get wrapped up in her charisma. She brings both an innocence and perceived life experience into the picture, which balances Isaac’s jaded heart perfectly.
The beginning of the story felt a little jumbled to me. The interview at the start was confusing because one minute Isaac was trying to talk Lucia out of the job, and the next moment he was doing everything he could to keep her. In addition, I felt their initial “arrangement” was a little too unconventional to work, plus their first two forays into Club Wicked felt stiff and awkward. And although I loved that Isaac was upfront that Mrs. Florentine (a friend from the club) was trying to set him up with Lucia, I felt there were too many personal issues going on to make the business aspects of the relationship successful. It just felt odd to me.
However, as the story progressed it really began to gel for me. Isaac goes off to run his company, which leaves Lucia to do her job as an event planner. I liked seeing them both do their respect jobs and give one another space. I also enjoyed getting POV from both characters, keeping me in the loop as to their budding feelings for the other. But it was when someone attempts to blackmail Lucia into leaving the job that I really began to connect with the couple. Isaac steps in and works hard to make things right - including meeting up with her parents. One of the best scenes occurs between Isaac and Lucia’s dad, who knows Isaac’s reputation with the ladies. Scenes such as this allow for deeper understanding of the characters, therefore increasing my connection with them.
Of course the couple has issues, mostly because Isaac creates distance. Whether it is because he feels Lucia deserves better or he’s scared of getting hurt, he turns his feelings off and on like a kitchen faucet. I admire that Lucia stands up for herself and doesn’t let Isaac get away with dragging around his emotional baggage.
Overall, My Wicked Valentine is a enjoyable little romantic story. The characters are likable and easy going. I love that there isn't any major drama. Sure, Isaac is jaded from his wife, but he's not messed up. And Lucia is happy. I simply adore her. She learns what it means to be a submissive while discovering why it is appealing for her and how it turns her on, but she never gives up her inner fire or changes herself. I love that Isaac respects and fosters that in her. Plus the mystery of who is blackmailing Lucia adds just enough tension to the story without overshadowing the love story.
Anyone new to the current BDSM “erotica” trend and wanting to try it out, My Wicked Valentine is the perfect choice. The sex is steamy but still fairly tame. The romance is real, light and fun. And as Isaac introduces the young Lucia to the lifestyle, a new-to-the-genre reader will get an education as well.
My Rating:
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Enjoyed - recommend (A-)
Wednesday, February 20, 2013
Review: A Kiss for A Cure by Sidney Bristol
A Kiss for a Cure
Author: Sidney Bristol
Release Date: Feb. 4, 2013
Publisher: Lyrical Press
Fuller Center #1
Genre: Sci-fi Romance, Novella
Format(s): e-book
Book Source: Publisher
About the book:
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What’s a girl to do when her parents gift her with a man for Christmas?
Caught between two kingdoms, Jordan has given up the privileged world of intergalactic court life to become an interstellar biologist researching space sharks. Unexpectedly saddled with a husband from a race who are rumored to be sex fiends, her life is yanked in a direction she doesn’t want.
But Cai isn’t human and he must have the emotional feedback of a mate in order to survive. Charged with protecting Jordan, can he win her heart and keep her safe from harm?
Will they survive the challenges that arise…sexual, emotional and political? Time is ticking away and it’s not on their side.
What I’m talking about:
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Living alone on a space research center, Jordan didn’t plan to do much for the Christmas holidays. In addition, as the illegitimate daughter of two powerful parents (who were forbidden to marry) from neighboring kingdoms, Jordan is used to being alone. So when Jordan discovers that the package from her parents contains a male - a husband none the less, she doesn’t know how to respond.
Cai is from a race of people that requires emotional feedback and physical intimacy in order to survive. Agreeing to marry Jordan seemed like an ideal opportunity to Cai, and he can’t understand why Jordan finds the situation so appalling. Now he’s stuck between wanting Jordan and wanting to give her the freedom she desires.
I completely adored A Kiss for a Cure. The opening sequences as Jordan watched her “present” open to reveal a man were priceless. The humor was subtle but stellar. Lines like “Sane people did not receive men in boxes for Christmas from their parents,” made me smile and sometimes laugh out loud.
I am a science-nerd at heart, and sci-fi is my first love. I totally geeked out over the wonderful play-by-play as Jordan attempted to scientifically break down Cai and his race's need for physical and emotional feedback. Her responses as a scientist and her need to find a “cure” were perfectly played. The premise behind the story and Cai’s “condition” was well thought out and presented to the reader in an effective and entertaining manner.
The story is full of wonderful descriptive scenes such as the pair’s trip to the space reef (yes, there are sharks in space!). In addition, it is light-hearted scenes such as the reef excursion that allow the couple to develop their friendship. Not only is it fun to read, but the tender moments permit for an emotional connection between the reader and the characters.
Because Jordan has had a strained relationship with her parents most of her life, the conversation she has with her mother about Cai is especially touching. Ms. Bristol finds an effective way to convey important facts needed to further the story and blends it with an emotional punch that drew me even further into her world.
Overall, A Kiss for a Cure is a wonderful little story. The characters are well developed in the confines of a novella. The plot is expertly crafted with an enjoyable blend of humor, romance, science and action. The scientific premise behind the story was well planned and not hokey in the least. I adored Jordan and Cai right from the get go, and the ending was ideal for this couple. I hope that Ms. Bristol makes a return trip to The Fuller Center soon.
My Rating:
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Enjoyed - strongly recommend (A-)
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