Follow Me
Grab my feed
Posts
All Comments
Wanna Shop?
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
More Blogs
original images by marin & papaija2008 at FreeDigitalPhotos.com
banner designed by Jennifer from Books Make Me Happy
Showing posts with label Sydney Croft. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Sydney Croft. Show all posts
Monday, May 27, 2013
Review: Deadly Desires by Shiloh Walker & Sydney Croft
Deadly Desires
Author: Shiloh Walker & Sydney Croft
Release Date: May 12, 2013
Publisher: Self-Published
Genre: Military/Suspense Romance, Paranormal Romance, novella
Format(s): e-book
Book Source: Author
About the book:
|
Note: These titles were previously released in the Mammoth Book of Hot Romance. They have been expanded and revised for the digital release.
Don't Walk Away by Shiloh Walker
Ten years ago, former Army Ranger Ethan Raintree made one hell of choice…keep on lying, or tell the woman he loved the truth. He decided to tell the truth, and she threw him out of her life. He never stopped loving her, not stopped wanting her. Celeste Harper finally had everything she wanted—or so she thought. She’d escaped her past. She’d escaped her demons. But she couldn’t escape herself…or the man she’d left behind all those years ago. Looking into his eyes ten years later, she realizes it’s her turn to make a choice—let go of that pain and take him back. Or walk away…and face a future without him.
Code Word: Storm by Sydney Croft
The extremely secret Agency for Covert Rare Operatives (ACRO) is the only thing that stands between the human race and complete chaos. Now, two agents with special abilities, Annika Svenson and Creed McCabe, are sent to stop a man who has harnessed the power of the supernatural world. But Creed and Annika have a history that puts them at odds -- and in closer, hotter contact than they'd like. In this ACRO story, which falls in the series timeline between Riding the Storm and Unleashing the Storm, Annika and Creed grow closer, despite their resistance. And with their lives are on the line, they find they must not only work together, but be together, or risk a terrifying fate that could consume them both...
What I’m talking about:
|
It’s so much fun when favorite authors get together in an anthology! This is the case for me with Deadly Desires. The title contains two short stories, both with a bit of excitement and a lot of steaminess.
Don't Walk Away by Shiloh Walker features Ethan and Celeste. The pair share a passionate history that was torn apart ten years ago when Ethan exposed Celeste’s father as a drug lord. Although she tossed him out of her life, he continued to stay in the shadows and never stopped loving her. When the pair finally reunite, everything, including years of pent up passion, explodes.
This is a wonderful short story, rich and full despite its length. The entire tale focuses solely on our two primary characters, zeroing in on one pivotal event in the lives of Celeste and Ethan. Ms. Walker packs the space full with intensity and fervor. Although the reader knows little about the characters, there is enough written to cause me care for the couple and cheer for their union. Overall, this is a really good read.
My rating: 4.5 Stars.
Code Word: Storm by Sydney Croft is the second story in this exciting anthology. The tale takes place in the ACRO universe and centers around Creed and Annika, two of the primary characters from the series. When the story opens, the couple already have a short history, one which Annika is trying hard to forget. The pair must work together to defeat paranormal targets in order to stop a madman behind some horrendous crimes. The situation is tense, causing heighten emotions.
This story takes place mid-series, so for those that have read the series, it's a nice part of their backstory. However, it can be read as a stand alone novella as well. Creed and Annika are two of my favorite ACRO agents, and I adore them together! Code Word: Storm is simultaneously exciting and sweet, sexy and sultry. The story is a fun PNR/supernatural adventure.
My Rating: 3.5 Stars.
Overall Deadly Desires is an entertaining, exciting anthology written by two wonderful authors.
My Rating:
|
Enjoyed - strongly recommend (A-)
Reviews in the Series:
ACRO:
Wednesday, May 15, 2013
New Release from Shiloh Walker & Sydney Croft
For those who are regulars here you know how much I LOVE the ACRO series by Sydney Croft. I was overjoyed when I found out that the writing team of Larissa Ione and Stephanie Tyler were reviving Sydney and would be release two novellas this spring.
Well guess what... The first release is out now!! That's right, you can pick up Code Word: Storm now!!
BUT WAIT... there is more!!!
It gets better! I just learned that the release also contains a novella from another one of my favorite authors, Shiloh Walker! Her novella, Don't Walk Away is included in the new release, Deadly Desires. These are two stories originally published as part of the Mammoth Book of Hot Romance.
For more details, see Shiloh's website.
I'm off to go pick up my copy now!!
Well guess what... The first release is out now!! That's right, you can pick up Code Word: Storm now!!BUT WAIT... there is more!!!
It gets better! I just learned that the release also contains a novella from another one of my favorite authors, Shiloh Walker! Her novella, Don't Walk Away is included in the new release, Deadly Desires. These are two stories originally published as part of the Mammoth Book of Hot Romance.
For more details, see Shiloh's website.
I'm off to go pick up my copy now!!
Wednesday, March 21, 2012
What Makes a Good Gateway Book?
In case you haven’t heard any of the recent online and on-the-air discussions surrounding Fifty Shades of Grey by E.L. James, this isn’t one of them! I will tell you, I have not read the book and honestly, I don’t intend to. This isn’t a commentary on Fifty Shades nor a discussion on whether or not one should read the book... I’m in favor of books that get people reading, and that is what this book is doing.
What I am here to talk about is what I hope Fifty Shades of Grey will be for many individuals... a GATEWAY book: a book that brings new readers into a genre. That’s what The Twilight Series by Stephenie Meyer was for me and so many other women. It was my gateway into romance - specifically paranormal romance. Before Twilight, I’d never read a romance in my life. The series was the pathway for (I’m guessing) thousands of women to paranormal romance and urban fantasy.
So I wonder... will Fifty Shades of Grey do the same for some of the so-called “fringe” romances? I’ve had girlfriends that wouldn’t give my blog the time of day ask me about the book because of all of the hype. I’ve been asked for recommendations for more “erotic” or “BDSM” reads. This makes me happy!
A twitter discussion about both Fifty Shades and Twilight with @CarolynCrane and @KatiD prompted the question of what makes a good gateway (or introductory) book? You need something that is well-written and easy to follow. A gateway/introductory book should epitomize the genre without being too hard core. You don’t want to scare away a potential fan before they get used to the genre!
When people ask for recommendations in the paranormal romance genre, I always start with the Psy-Changeling Series by Nalini Singh. I feel that this series is hands down one of the best out there. It’s well-written, the stories are exciting, the romance sexy but not overly erotic, and the amount of paranormal is “just right.” And for folks looking for a vampire-centric story, I refer them to the Midnight Breed Series by Lara Adrian.
For Urban Fantasy, my go-to series is the Kate Daniel Series by Ilona Andrews. It’s just amazing! And after railroading through the Disillusionists Series by Carolyn Crane earlier this year, I’ve added that to my “gateway” books list.
If someone is looking for a little bit of “fringe” in their romance, I recommend the ACRO Series by Sydney Croft. This series is one of my favorites! The sex is definitely more erotic than the average paranormal romance, and the stories showcase both m/m romance and (in one book) BDSM.
Now I’m looking to my readers out there... what books do you recommend to friends that want to try out a new-to-them genre? I’d love to get some ideas for contemporary, historical, and m/m romance. What about outside of the romance genre all together? What makes a book a good GATEWAY book for you?
I look forward to reading all of your answers! Thanks for stopping by and Happy Reading!
Wednesday, September 21, 2011
A Look Ahead in books
With the year almost 3/4 over, we've had some really great books to read in 2011. My favorites so far this year have been:
But there are so many more great books that are still to come! At the top of my WANT list are the following:
Those are only a few of the many books I want this fall!
What have been your favorite books released in 2011? What titles are you still waiting for this fall?
ALSO.... I wanted to point out a new feature at That's What I'm Talking About... Do you see the new "STORE" link in my header? I've created a place at Amazon that includes some of my favorite things. Check it out!
And... don't forget to enter my END OF SUMMER BOOK giveaway, open until September 23, 2011. For details, click HERE.
Thanks and Happy Reading!
But there are so many more great books that are still to come! At the top of my WANT list are the following:
Those are only a few of the many books I want this fall!
What have been your favorite books released in 2011? What titles are you still waiting for this fall?
ALSO.... I wanted to point out a new feature at That's What I'm Talking About... Do you see the new "STORE" link in my header? I've created a place at Amazon that includes some of my favorite things. Check it out!
And... don't forget to enter my END OF SUMMER BOOK giveaway, open until September 23, 2011. For details, click HERE.
Thanks and Happy Reading!
Labels:
Allyson James,
books,
Ilona Andrews,
Larissa Ione,
Meljean Brook,
reading,
Sydney Croft
|
4
comments
Sunday, June 26, 2011
Sunday Snippet #64
Taken By Fire
by Sydney Croft
Bantam DellJune 28, 2011
**NOTE: this SNEAK PEEK comes from an uncorrected galley copy of the book**
“My powers are almost out.”
Thank fucking God. “Keep going.”
“I don’t want to do this anymore,” she murmured. “I’m killing you.”
“No one’s ever died from blue balls,” he said through gritted teeth. “I’ll be fine.”
“You don’t look fine.” Well, no, he wasn’t fine at all. And as she let off the last of her icy blasts, his body was rocked with the most painful urges he’d ever felt. He clawed the ground and tried to breathe, looked any- where but at Mel, and his eyes fell on the waterfall.
His erection was a steel rod and fucking painful. Hell, maybe this would be the best thing for him—a cold shower times a million.
He took off at a dead run, not stopping until he hit the water. Kept going until his body was under the freezing wash and he was shivering.
Bye-bye, erection; hello, hypothermia.
“Stryker—are you okay?” Melanie was asking, from directly in front of him. She’d stripped naked, her skin glistening with crystal water droplets, but she didn’t seem affected by the cold at all. Well, her nipples were pert, hard little buds ... and this wasn’t helping anything.
“You’ll freeze.”
“Um, no. Cold doesn’t affect me. At all.” She glanced down. “Doesn’t appear to be doing you much good either.”
“Fuck. Mel, please, just give me a few minutes.”
But she was in his arms then, her mouth on his, so damned warm and willing, her legs wrapped around his waist. His body felt right against hers, his body continuing to beg for mercy from his arousal in an all-consuming way, until he couldn’t think straight ... couldn’t see straight.
That wasn’t from hypothermia either.
Her fingers wound through his wet hair and his hands held her hips, moved them back and forth, wanting nothing more than to be inside of her, right here and now.
But fuck, he couldn’t. He promised Devlin, and he did not go back on his word.
He pulled back, rested his forehead against hers. “Sorry, Mel,” he said over the slight rushing roar of the water, his voice raw.
Tuesday, June 21, 2011
ARC Review: Taken By Fire
Taken By Fire
Author: Sydney Croft
Release Date: June 28, 2011
Publisher: Bantam Dell
ACRO Series #6 (final book)
ISBN: #978-0385342292
Genre: Paranormal Romance, Erotica
Format(s): Paperback (304 pgs), e-book
I received a copy of this book from the author for the purposes of an honest review.
From the author’s website:
HIS MISSION WAS TO TAKE HER OUT.
BUT DESIRE GOT IN THE WAY.
A product of genetic manipulation, Melanie Milan shares a body with her malevolent sister Phoebe. A sleek, blonde predator with a heart of pure darkness, Phoebe puts their body through the wicked underbelly of sex for thrills—when she’s not igniting her pyrokinetic skills for an evil organization bent on taking over the world. Melanie rarely gets out to play—much less fall in love. But that changes when rival ACRO agent Stryker Wills shows up, with a mission to take out the woman who torched his partner.
An operative with rare abilities, Stryker soon realizes that the woman he’s about to kill isn’t the murderous fire starter he’s hunting. But he does want her. Melanie, with the power to ice anything in her path, is heating things up in ways that are setting his blood on fire. As long as Melanie stays in control, she is his best ally to bring down her sister and stop hellish havoc from being unleashed. Walking a tightrope of longing and hate, Stryker and Melanie begin to understand that true power lies in sweet surrender to each other, to the fire between them, to the erotic adventure that’s joined their hearts and abilities to become their salvation—and perhaps the world’s.
What I’m talking about:
WARNING: This is the sixth and final book from the ACRO Series by Sydney Croft (Larissa Ione and Stephanie Tyler). Although you could read this book as a stand alone... please don’t. This series is so worth a read - it’s only 6 books! (You can read more about the entire series HERE.) Taken By Fire is the PERFECT series finally and you would miss out on so much if you read only this book. With that in mind, this review contains SPOILERS from the first 5 books, so move forward at your own risk!
Taken By Fire takes place less than a year after the dramatic conclusion of the previous book, Tempting The Fire, when ACRO agent Stryker witnessed ITOR (bad guys) agent Phoebe kill his best friend by burning him alive. We discover that Stryker has been hunting Phoebe to bring her to justice. But when he finally locates her, Stryker learns that Phoebe shares her body with her sweet and mostly innocent sister, Melanie. Since it appears that Melanie wants to bring down ITOR as badly as ACRO does, Stryker is ordered to bring the sisters in alive. This begins their heated relationship, and with each passing day, Stryker realizes he cannot hate Melanie for the crimes of her sister, and he allows himself to fall in love.
I joked on Twitter about how hard it is to write reviews for books you love - my solution... here is my review: THIS BOOK ROCKS... READ IT. That is all. Okay, so I need to say more, I know. First, the primary love story of Mel and Stryker... it was so hot! They start out as perceived enemies, neither really wanting to be with the other, but never completely evil to the other. I loved the internal (and external) struggles that they both experience - I could feel Stryker’s turmoil as he attempted to reconcile falling for the (sister of the) woman who killed his partner in cold blood. And poor Melanie - her life controlled by and ruined because of her evil sister and father. She understands why no one will trust her, but it still hurts. When the two finally come together out of lust and pent up desire: WOW! Taken By Fire out does the eroticism of all the earlier stories. (Let me just say that there is an ice dildo involved in one explosive scene and a spatula in another!) Their relationship is really well written - I didn’t feel any sparks between the two in the beginning, and I’m not meant to... they find their way together as they open up to each other and learn to trust.
Now for “everything else...” My favorite couple, Annika and Creed, are fairly front and center. We found out in the last book that Annika is pregnant, and that the ghostly Oz (brother of Creed and former love of ACRO leader, Dev) predicted that if Annika has Creed’s baby she will die. Oh, and Oz’s premonitions are never wrong. I completely adore this couple and how they have come so far since the first book. Being pregnant hasn’t made Annika any softer, but she has matured. I’m not going to tell you what happens; however, be prepared to shed a few tears while on this emotional roller coaster.
Dev... oh Dev. I LOVED Dev and Oz together. Ms. Croft BROKE MY HEART in an earlier book, but now Dev has Gabe. For me, Gabe and Dev never had the strong emotional connection I saw with Dev and Oz, but in Taken By Fire, Dev and Gabe put it all on the line to cement their connection. In addition, Gabe and Dev have some intense and HOT smex, and there is a m-m-m threesome that *fans self* um... you will need to cool off some! And although I am satisfied with how things played out and ended, I still felt more emotional pull between Dev and Oz’s ghost than Dev has with his new love, Gabe. It still was an amazing storyline and I really can’t complain about it one bit.
Taken By Fire wrapped up everything from the first 5 books while giving hope for the future generations. It truly was everything you expect and want from a series finale (and never seem to get). I was emotionally drained by the time I finished... Cursed out the authors a few times... but it was an amazing journey. Every loose was end tied up in a uniquely fitting way. Yes, there are happy endings, but they aren’t forced and did not feel contrived. I’ve said this before, but it is worth repeating: Sydney Croft is a master of sensual story-telling, and the ACRO series is in a league of its own.
My Rating:
Personal favorite - a must read (A+)
(But you must read the ENTIRE series!)
Labels:
5 stars,
ACRO,
erotic romance,
Larissa Ione,
paranormal romance,
Stephanie Tyler,
Sydney Croft
|
2
comments
Monday, February 14, 2011
Celebrating... Larissa Ione
Welcome to Week #3 of my Month of Celebrating!
Today I want to tell you about another one of my favorite authors: Larissa Ione. Larissa is the author of one of the hottest paranormal books series: The Demonica Series. Demonica follows the adventures and romances of sexy demon brothers who run a hospital for paranormal creatures. Fantastically original!
She is also co-author (under the pen-name Sydney Croft) of hands-down one of my favorite series: Agency for Covert Rare Operatives aka ACRO Series. This series is erotica, paranormal, suspense and emotionally-satisfying romance all rolled into one fantastic ride. I liken it to “X-men for Adults.”
One of the great things I adore about Larissa, is that she always makes time for her readers. She is easily accessible via twitter and email. She and I have discussed books, sports, cold weather and fruit flies. Gotta love a diverse author!
Larissa has been a big part of my first year blogging. She always answers my questions and spreads the word on my reviews. She stops by my blog and leaves me comments (which is a total *squee* for me). Not only is she one of my favorite authors, but she is an amazing lady. I look forward to stalking finally meeting her this August in Philadelphia at the Authors After Dark convention.
To help me celebrate my one year BLOGIVERSARY and my upcoming 40th birthday, Larissa has generously donated a signed copy of one of her Demonica Series books (winner’s choice) plus assorted swag. BUT WAIT... that’s not all... She is also donating a copy of her current release (ebook only): Eternity Embraced. SO this week there will be TWO WINNERS! Thank you, Larissa!! (rules for giveaway are 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 February 14, 2011 to Friday February 18, 2011 at 11:00 PM EST.
2) In order to enter, you must leave a comment telling me what one of your favorite book series is at the END OF THIS POST. ETA: sorry folks, forgot to edit this part from last week. Please leave me a comment telling me what your favorite paranormal creature is (and if it comes from a specific book or series). For example... do you *heart* werewolves? Are you gaga for angels?
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 entries using random.org.
8) The winner will be announced on my blog on Saturday February 19, 2011. Winner will have one week to contact me or another winner will be selected.
9) NOTE: The contest for the book and swag is open to US mailing addresses ONLY. Contest for ebook is open to US, Canadian and INTERNATIONAL mailing addresses.
Labels:
ACRO,
blogiversary,
celebrating,
contest,
Demonica,
giveaway,
Larissa Ione,
Sydney Croft
|
56
comments
Wednesday, December 29, 2010
Year in Review - 2010
Welcome to the end of another year. This is my first year blogging, and it was interesting to see how my book list panned out. I read fewer books in 2010 than 2009, but that is understandable now that I’m writing reviews, completing author interviews, blog hopping and chatting with my gals (and guys) and Twitter.
I read 83 books;
Published in 2010:
Stormwalker Series by Allyson James
I really enjoyed blogging and discussing books with all of you. I hope you have enjoyed our time together as well! I've listed some of my highlights and stats from 2010 below. How did 2010 go for you? What were your favorite reads during the year?
Thank you all for stopping by and supporting me and That's What I'm Talking About. Joyous New Year and Happy Reading!!
The Summary:
I read 83 books;I read 21 comic books;
I read 4 partial books (i.e. one novella out of an anthology);
I read 4 free short stories;
I had 1 DNF.
Favorites of 2010:
Published in 2010:
The Iron Duke by Meljean Brook
Magic Bleeds by Ilona Andrews
Published prior to 2010:
Demon Moon by Meljean Brook
Seduced by the Storm by Sydney Croft
New series (2010):
Stormwalker Series by Allyson JamesSeries prior to 2010:
ACRO Series by Sydney Croft
Guardian Series by Meljean Brook
Favorite Non-Paranormal read in 2010:
Decadent Deceptions by Keta Diablo
Favorite Guilty Pleasure:
Black Wade by Franze & Andaerle
So without further ado, here is the LIST for 2010:
Book #1: Heart of Darkness, anthology (January 2, 2010)
Book #2: Wild Thing, anthology (January 3, 2010)
Book #3: Lone Wolf, Teresa D'Amario (Janunary 7, 2010)
Book #4: Shades of Midnight, Lara Adrian (January 9, 2010)
Book #5: Gentlemen Prefer Succubi, Jill Myles (January 11, 2010)
Book #6: Passion Unleashed (2nd read), Larissa Ione (January 16, 2010)
Book #7: Wicked Enchantment, Anya Bast (January 19, 2010)
Book #8: Succubi Like It Hot, Jill Myles (January 21, 2010)
Book #9: Esctasy Unveiled, Larissa Ione (January 24, 2010)
Book #10: Taken, Anya Bast (January 25, 2010)
Book #11: Demon Moon, Meljean Brook (January 28, 2010)
Book #12: Demon Night, Meljean Brook (February 6, 2010)
Book #12.1: “Thicker Than Blood" from the anthology First Blood, Meljean Brook (February 6, 2010)
Book #13: Demon Bound, Meljean Brook (February 12, 2010)
Book #14: Demon Forged, Meljean Brook (February 21, 2010)
Book #14.1: "Blind Spot," Meljean Brook from the anthology Must Love Hellhounds (February 21, 2010)
Book #15: Of Crimson and Collars, Audrey and Stella Price (February 22, 2010)
Book #16: Archangel's Kiss, Nalini Singh (February 25, 2010)
Book #17: Without Reservations, J. L. Langley (February 27, 2010)
Book #18: With Caution, J. L. Langley (March 1, 2010)
Book #19: With Love, J. L. Langley (March 2, 2010)
Books #19.1: Buffy, Season 8 Comic Books: Volumes 26-31 plus Willow one-shot (7 total) (March 5, 2010)
Books #19.2: Angel Comic Books: Volumes 24-27 (4 total) (March 6, 2010)
Book #20: Born of Night, Sherrilyn Kenyon (March 13, 2010)
Book #21: Born of Fire, Sherrilyn Kenyon (March 18, 2010)
Book #22: The Darkest Passion, Gena Showalter (March 22, 2010)
Book #23: Atlantis Redeemed, Alyssa Day (March 24, 2010)
Book #24: Riding the Storm, Sydney Croft (April 1, 2010)
Book #25: Unleashing the Storm, Sydney Croft (April 4, 2010)
Book #26: Lion's Heat, Lora Leigh (April 8, 2010)
Book #27: Seduced by the Storm, Sydney Croft (April 18, 2010)
Book #28: Lover Mine, JR Ward (April 25, 2010)
Book #29: Taming the Fire, Sydney Croft (May 3, 2010)
Book #30: Mortal Temptations, Allyson James (May 8, 2010)
Book #31: She Wolf, Teresa D'Amario (May 11, 2010)
Book #32: Dark Succession, Teresa D'Amario (May 19, 2010)
Book #32.1: "The Faery Prince's Mate" Free novella Teresa D'Amario (May 25, 2010)
Book #33: Magic Bleeds, Ilona Andrews (May 30, 2010)
Book #33.1: The Darkest Facts: A Lords of the Underworld Companion, Gena Showalter (May 30, 2010)
Book #34: My Blood Approves, Amanda Hocking (June 5, 2010)
Book #35: Siren's Call, Devyn Quinn (June 12, 2010)
Book #36: Bound By Rebellion, Christa Paige (June 15, 2010)
Book #36.1: "Succubus Diaries: Foreplay" Free novella by Jill Myles (June 15, 2010)
Book #37: Deadly Fear, Cynthia Eden (June 21, 2010)
Book #38: Black Wade, Franze & Andaerle (June 21, 2010)
Book #39: Sin Eater's Prince, Keta Diablo (June 24, 2010)
Book #39.1: Buffy, Season 8 Comic Books: Volumes 32-35: Twilight Story Arc (4 total) (June 25, 2010)
Book #39.2: "In Sheep's Clothing" Free novella by Meljean Brook (June 26, 2010)
Book #39.3: Angel Comic Books: Volumes 28-33 (6 total) (June 26, 2010)
Book #40: Bound By Deception, Christa Paige (June 28, 2010)
Book #41: The Darkest Lie, Gena Showalter (July 2, 2010)
Book #42: Eve of Samhain, Lisa Sanchez (July 9, 2010)
Book #43: Demon Blood, Meljean Brook (July 13, 2010)
Book #44: Bonds of Justice, Nalini Singh (July 21, 2010)
Book #45: Tempting the Fire, Sydney Croft (July 23, 2010)
Book #46: Decadent Deceptions, Keta Diablo (July 26, 2010)
Book #47: Captive Spirit, Liz Fichera (July 31, 2010)
Book #48: Infinity: The Chronicles of Nick, Sherrilyn Kenyon (August 6, 2010)
Book #49: Dead, Undead, or Somewhere in Between, J.A. Saare (August 9, 2010)
Book #50: Sins of the Heart, Eve Silver (August 14, 2010)
Book #51: Sin Undone, Larissa Ione (August 18, 2010)
Book #52: The Moon: Tigress by the Tail, Teresa D'Amario (August 23, 2010)
Book #53: Sins of the Soul, Eve Silver (August 26, 2010)
Book #54: Cruel Enchantment, Anya Bast (August 29, 2010)
Book #55: Dust, Joan Frances Turner (September 3, 2010)
Book #56: Burning Up, anthology (September 6, 2010)
Book #57: Atlantis Betrayed, Alyssa Day (September 12, 2010)
Book #57.1: read 55% of Where The Rain Is Made, Keta Diablo (September 14, 2010) - DNF
Book #58: Taken By Midnight, Lara Adrian (September 17, 2010)
Book #59: Sins of the Flesh, Eve Silver (September 21, 2010)
Book #59.1: "A Tangled Web," Mercedes Lackey from the anthology Harvest Moon (September 24, 2010)
Book #60: The Iron Duke, Meljean Brook (September 28, 2010)
Book #61: No Mercy, Sherrilyn Kenyon (September 30, 2010)
Book #62: Presumed Dead, Shirley Wells (October 4, 2010)
Book #63: Styx's Storm, Lora Leigh (October 6, 2010)
Book #64: Fearless Desires, Stacey Espino (October 9, 2010)
Book #65: Play of Passion, Nalini Singh (October 10, 2010)
Book #3: Lone Wolf, Teresa D'Amario (Janunary 7, 2010)
Book #4: Shades of Midnight, Lara Adrian (January 9, 2010)
Book #5: Gentlemen Prefer Succubi, Jill Myles (January 11, 2010)
Book #6: Passion Unleashed (2nd read), Larissa Ione (January 16, 2010)
Book #7: Wicked Enchantment, Anya Bast (January 19, 2010)
Book #8: Succubi Like It Hot, Jill Myles (January 21, 2010)
Book #9: Esctasy Unveiled, Larissa Ione (January 24, 2010)
Book #10: Taken, Anya Bast (January 25, 2010)
Book #11: Demon Moon, Meljean Brook (January 28, 2010)
Book #12: Demon Night, Meljean Brook (February 6, 2010)
Book #12.1: “Thicker Than Blood" from the anthology First Blood, Meljean Brook (February 6, 2010)
Book #13: Demon Bound, Meljean Brook (February 12, 2010)
Book #14: Demon Forged, Meljean Brook (February 21, 2010)
Book #14.1: "Blind Spot," Meljean Brook from the anthology Must Love Hellhounds (February 21, 2010)
Book #15: Of Crimson and Collars, Audrey and Stella Price (February 22, 2010)
Book #16: Archangel's Kiss, Nalini Singh (February 25, 2010)
Book #17: Without Reservations, J. L. Langley (February 27, 2010)
Book #18: With Caution, J. L. Langley (March 1, 2010)
Book #19: With Love, J. L. Langley (March 2, 2010)
Books #19.1: Buffy, Season 8 Comic Books: Volumes 26-31 plus Willow one-shot (7 total) (March 5, 2010)
Books #19.2: Angel Comic Books: Volumes 24-27 (4 total) (March 6, 2010)
Book #20: Born of Night, Sherrilyn Kenyon (March 13, 2010)
Book #21: Born of Fire, Sherrilyn Kenyon (March 18, 2010)
Book #22: The Darkest Passion, Gena Showalter (March 22, 2010)
Book #23: Atlantis Redeemed, Alyssa Day (March 24, 2010)
Book #24: Riding the Storm, Sydney Croft (April 1, 2010)
Book #25: Unleashing the Storm, Sydney Croft (April 4, 2010)
Book #26: Lion's Heat, Lora Leigh (April 8, 2010)
Book #27: Seduced by the Storm, Sydney Croft (April 18, 2010)
Book #28: Lover Mine, JR Ward (April 25, 2010)
Book #29: Taming the Fire, Sydney Croft (May 3, 2010)
Book #30: Mortal Temptations, Allyson James (May 8, 2010)
Book #31: She Wolf, Teresa D'Amario (May 11, 2010)
Book #32: Dark Succession, Teresa D'Amario (May 19, 2010)
Book #32.1: "The Faery Prince's Mate" Free novella Teresa D'Amario (May 25, 2010)
Book #33: Magic Bleeds, Ilona Andrews (May 30, 2010)
Book #33.1: The Darkest Facts: A Lords of the Underworld Companion, Gena Showalter (May 30, 2010)
Book #34: My Blood Approves, Amanda Hocking (June 5, 2010)
Book #35: Siren's Call, Devyn Quinn (June 12, 2010)
Book #36: Bound By Rebellion, Christa Paige (June 15, 2010)
Book #36.1: "Succubus Diaries: Foreplay" Free novella by Jill Myles (June 15, 2010)
Book #37: Deadly Fear, Cynthia Eden (June 21, 2010)
Book #38: Black Wade, Franze & Andaerle (June 21, 2010)
Book #39: Sin Eater's Prince, Keta Diablo (June 24, 2010)
Book #39.1: Buffy, Season 8 Comic Books: Volumes 32-35: Twilight Story Arc (4 total) (June 25, 2010)
Book #39.2: "In Sheep's Clothing" Free novella by Meljean Brook (June 26, 2010)
Book #39.3: Angel Comic Books: Volumes 28-33 (6 total) (June 26, 2010)
Book #40: Bound By Deception, Christa Paige (June 28, 2010)
Book #41: The Darkest Lie, Gena Showalter (July 2, 2010)
Book #42: Eve of Samhain, Lisa Sanchez (July 9, 2010)
Book #43: Demon Blood, Meljean Brook (July 13, 2010)
Book #44: Bonds of Justice, Nalini Singh (July 21, 2010)
Book #45: Tempting the Fire, Sydney Croft (July 23, 2010)
Book #46: Decadent Deceptions, Keta Diablo (July 26, 2010)
Book #47: Captive Spirit, Liz Fichera (July 31, 2010)
Book #48: Infinity: The Chronicles of Nick, Sherrilyn Kenyon (August 6, 2010)
Book #49: Dead, Undead, or Somewhere in Between, J.A. Saare (August 9, 2010)
Book #50: Sins of the Heart, Eve Silver (August 14, 2010)
Book #51: Sin Undone, Larissa Ione (August 18, 2010)
Book #52: The Moon: Tigress by the Tail, Teresa D'Amario (August 23, 2010)
Book #53: Sins of the Soul, Eve Silver (August 26, 2010)
Book #54: Cruel Enchantment, Anya Bast (August 29, 2010)
Book #55: Dust, Joan Frances Turner (September 3, 2010)
Book #56: Burning Up, anthology (September 6, 2010)
Book #57: Atlantis Betrayed, Alyssa Day (September 12, 2010)
Book #57.1: read 55% of Where The Rain Is Made, Keta Diablo (September 14, 2010) - DNF
Book #58: Taken By Midnight, Lara Adrian (September 17, 2010)
Book #59: Sins of the Flesh, Eve Silver (September 21, 2010)
Book #59.1: "A Tangled Web," Mercedes Lackey from the anthology Harvest Moon (September 24, 2010)
Book #60: The Iron Duke, Meljean Brook (September 28, 2010)
Book #61: No Mercy, Sherrilyn Kenyon (September 30, 2010)
Book #62: Presumed Dead, Shirley Wells (October 4, 2010)
Book #63: Styx's Storm, Lora Leigh (October 6, 2010)
Book #64: Fearless Desires, Stacey Espino (October 9, 2010)
Book #65: Play of Passion, Nalini Singh (October 10, 2010)
Book #65.1: “Zane’s Tale” Free novella by Jill Myles (October 11, 2010)
Book #66: Lie With Me, Stephanie Tyler (October 16, 2010)
Book #67: Geist, Philippa Ballantine (October 21, 2010)
Book #68: Ghost Town, Rachel Caine (October 24, 2010)
Book #69: Magic at the Gate, Devon Monk (October 28, 2010)
Book #70: Immortal Awakenings, KC Randell (October 31, 2010)
Book #71: The Taming of the Wolf, Lydia Dare (November 4, 2010)
Book #72: Fearless Love, Stacey Espino (November 6, 2010)
Book #73: Promises in the Dark, Stephanie Tyler (November 8, 2010)
Book #74: Stormwalker, Allyson James (November 12, 2010)
Book #75: Firewalker, Allyson James (November 20, 2010)
Book #76: Real Vampires Have More to Love, Gerry Bartlett (November 25, 2010)
Book #77: Beneath the Thirteen Moons, Kathryne Kennedy (November 30, 2010)
Book #78: Black Wings, Christina Henry (December 4, 2010)
Book #79: Blood Moon Betrayed, Teresa D'Amario (BETA READ December 11, 2010)
Book #80: Size Matters, Stephanie Julian (December 13, 2010)
Book #81: The Prince's Groom, KT Grant (December 18, 2010)
Book #82: Wolf Fever, Terry Spear (December 26, 2010)
Book #66: Lie With Me, Stephanie Tyler (October 16, 2010)
Book #67: Geist, Philippa Ballantine (October 21, 2010)
Book #68: Ghost Town, Rachel Caine (October 24, 2010)
Book #69: Magic at the Gate, Devon Monk (October 28, 2010)
Book #70: Immortal Awakenings, KC Randell (October 31, 2010)
Book #71: The Taming of the Wolf, Lydia Dare (November 4, 2010)
Book #72: Fearless Love, Stacey Espino (November 6, 2010)
Book #73: Promises in the Dark, Stephanie Tyler (November 8, 2010)
Book #74: Stormwalker, Allyson James (November 12, 2010)
Book #75: Firewalker, Allyson James (November 20, 2010)
Book #76: Real Vampires Have More to Love, Gerry Bartlett (November 25, 2010)
Book #77: Beneath the Thirteen Moons, Kathryne Kennedy (November 30, 2010)
Book #78: Black Wings, Christina Henry (December 4, 2010)
Book #79: Blood Moon Betrayed, Teresa D'Amario (BETA READ December 11, 2010)
Book #80: Size Matters, Stephanie Julian (December 13, 2010)
Book #81: The Prince's Groom, KT Grant (December 18, 2010)
Book #82: Wolf Fever, Terry Spear (December 26, 2010)
Book #83: I Dream of Genies, Judi Fennell (still reading...)
Labels:
2010,
Allyson James,
blogging,
Ilona Andrews,
Keta Diablo,
Meljean Brook,
reading,
Sydney Croft
|
6
comments
Tuesday, October 12, 2010
Cover Love
This comes from the OH MY GOD I CAN'T WAIT FOR THIS BOOK files...
Larissa Ione and Stephanie Tyler have released the cover for the upcoming (and final *sob*) ACRO book... I give you Taken by Fire by Sydney Croft. For those that follow my blog, you know that I adore this series and can't wait to get my hands on this book...
Isn't this just SO INCREDIBLY HOT? *sigh* June 2011 is a LONG wait!
Larissa Ione and Stephanie Tyler have released the cover for the upcoming (and final *sob*) ACRO book... I give you Taken by Fire by Sydney Croft. For those that follow my blog, you know that I adore this series and can't wait to get my hands on this book...
Isn't this just SO INCREDIBLY HOT? *sigh* June 2011 is a LONG wait!
Monday, July 26, 2010
Tempting the Fire - ARC Review
Tempting the Fire
Author: Sydney Croft
Release Date: July 27, 2010
Publisher: Bantam Books
ACRO Series Book #5
ISBN: #978-0-385-34228-5
Genre: Paranormal Romance, Erotic Romance
NOTE: An Advance Review Copy of this book was provided to me by the author for the purposes of review.
From the author’s website:
EXTREME HEAT. EXTREME HUNGER. A JUNGLE EDEN ABLAZE WITH TEMPTATION..
Shockwaves shoot through the Agency for Covert Rare Operatives (ACRO) when horrific video surfaces from the Brazilian rain forest. A team of Navy SEALs has been nearly wiped out by something sinister and superhuman. Now ACRO agents Sela Kahne and Marlena West head to the world’s most unforgiving jungle in pursuit of a mythical monstrosity with a taste for human blood. And the only path that will take them to the creature runs through two men, each hiding his own dark secret.
Sela is an expert on cryptozoology with a sideline skill that could prove invaluable: when she makes love to a man, she engulfs his innermost thoughts. Teamed with Marlena, Sela makes contact with the lone SEAL survivor, Chance McCormack. Meanwhile Logan Mills, the man who rescued Chance, leads his private company on a hunt that has nothing to do with saving lives. Soon, Sela will put her supernatural charms to work on Logan, determined to extract information about the creature they are seeking. But in this sweat-drenched realm of danger and deception, Logan is more than just a passive target. He has the power to lead a highly-trained seducer into a jungle without any rules, without any limits—and no end to the heat.
What I’m talking about:
This book sizzles from the first page until the end! ACRO veteran agent, Sela, and first time field operative, Marlena, head to the Brazilian rain forest to find out more about the mysterious creature that was filmed attacking a SEAL team, and more importantly stop the para-military group, GWC, that is camped near the attack site, from selling weapons to ITOR (the bad guys). Even though Marlena is sent to seduce GWC head, Logan, she is unexplainably drawn to the loan SEAL survivor, Chance. Meanwhile, as Sela tries to push Logan towards Marlena, she can’t help but fall for his wicked charm and sex appeal.
The story that takes place down in the rain forest is SMOKIN’ HOT and exciting. Each individual struggles with a strong (never felt before) attraction, keeping a personal secret, and trying to discover who to trust. This is a lot to deal with, but added to their issues is the murderous creature that they need to capture or ITOR will kill an innocent hostage. This time pressure adds to the intensity of the moments and makes for a very thrilling storyline. I seriously could not put this book down because every time I thought “I’ll end after this chapter,” something else would happen.
The development of the dual love-interest story lines is captivating. And although they are two individual love stories, everything is woven into an amazing tale. I enjoyed seeing the parallels in each coupling (as mentioned above), but also watching each couple find its unique voice. Marlena and Chance’s story is especially appealing due to her background (which was told in the first 4 books, but summarized sufficiently in this story). Marlena is cursed to never to know a man’s love, and longs to know joy in her broken heart. The authors did a marvelous job developing her character and letting her story play out to its full potential.
One of the many things I love about the ACRO series is that the individual books do not focus solely on one “main” couple throughout the book. In this 5th installment of the series, we have 2 primary couples, plus the on-going relationships between my favorites: Creed and Annika as well as ACRO boss, Dev and newbie Gabe. The story lines for each coupling is perfectly proportioned for the book. Although, I have to admit, the authors tossed in a HUGE bomb for the Annika/Creed story line on page 14 (of the ARC) and did not pick it back up for 160 pages... this was torture for me (but in a delightfully wicked way)! And for those that have followed my reviews on the ACRO books (links to each at the end of this post), you know how much I adore ACRO leader, Dev. I was glad to see more interaction between Gabe and Dev in Tempting the Fire, but I still feel that their emotional connection is lacking somewhat.
In the end, each storyline collides in an amazing battle of good vs. evil. We meet a new ITOR agent that embodies both and are left with a glimpse of what is to come. I, for one, do not know how I am going to wait to find out what will become of ACRO. Sydney Croft is a master of sensual story-telling, and the ACRO series is in a league of its own.
My Rating:
Sunday, July 25, 2010
Sunday Snippets #18
From Tempting the Fire by Sydney Croft
Book release: Tuesday July 27, 2010, so in addition this Snippet is also a
“You can join me, in the name of water conservation,” he called back, imagined her slick, soapy body rubbing his. He’d bet anything she was wild in bed; she was the type--all buttoned-up and serious on the outside, but once she got turned on... she’d probably rake her nails down his back when she came.
Oh. F*cking. Yeah.
He stroked himself harder, the build-up nearly too much, and he forced himself not to bite down on his own arm. She’d probably bite. And scratch. She’d lock those long legs around his waist and tease him by rocking her slick sex, her swollen clit, along the length of his shaft, working her honey all the way to his balls.
Which were drawing up, boiling with come. He imagined her palm cupping them, rolling them between her long fingers as she arched up, finally taking him deep. They’d both shout at the joining, and she might even reach her first orgasm when his cock raked a sensitive place inside.
“Do you think you’ll be ready soon?” she persisted.
“Yeah,” he panted. “Really ready.”
God, she’d be hot and tight - his hips rocked a little as he thrust into his fist.
“Because then we need to discuss the fact that you’re keeping me prisoner...”
Sela in handcuffs in the shower naked with him. “Yeah. Prisoner.” At his mercy, spread-eagle and calling his name...
“Logan, do you hear me?”
“Mmmmmhmmm.”
“Because that’s against the law.”
“Oh, yeah. Against.” Pressed against, her nipples rubbing his chest, her core contracting around him, and f*ck, he was at the edge and he was going over fast.
“Why are you suddenly being so agreeable?” Her voice had turned suspicious and he was seeing the white light behind his eyes. He pumped his hand faster, long strokes from base to tip, adding a twisting motion at the head that made the white light turn blinding.
“Because...it feels...so damned good,” he ground out. Sensation sizzled like a lit fuse down his spine to groin, where the pressure that had been building combusted. His balls tightened and his dick pulsed in his hand and he came, hard and fast, shooting on the floor while the water ran down his back like a soft caress.
There was dead silence on her end, and then, “I hope you enjoyed yourself in there, as that’s the closest you’re ever getting to being with me.”
-----
Be sure to visit tomorrow when I have my ARC review of Tempting the Fire.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
Grab My Button
