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2013 Reading Challenge
Jen (That's What I'm Talking About) has
read 0 books toward her goal of 75 books.
New-To-Me Authors
2013 reading goal:
15 new-to-me authors.
1) Stacy Gail
2) Heather Massey
3) Sidney Bristol
4) Ann Mayburn
5) Thea Harrison
6) Virna DePaul
7) Mary Quast
8) Molly Harper
9) Eleri Stone
10) PJ Schnyder
11) Kait Ballenger
12) Denise L. Wyant
13) Lucy Monroe
Sunday Snippets
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Wednesday, April 11, 2012
Review: Want
Want
Author: Ann Mayburn
Release Date: Jan. 16, 2012
Publisher: Decadent Publishing
1 Night Stand Series
ISBN: #978-1613331966
Genre: Contemporary, Erotic Romance, M/M
Format(s): e-book
Book Source: Publisher
About the book:
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Construction foreman Cody McPherson always considered himself as straight as they come. That is until he finds himself falling for the handsome stonemason, Sam Denham, who constantly occupies his thoughts. He wants Sam, badly, and can’t get the man out of his mind. Worse yet, he isn’t even sure if Sam is gay. When he finds out that Sam has signed up with a dating service searching for a guy who looks exactly like him Cody is even more eager, and confused than before.
Sam can’t believe that he’s developed a huge crush on his obviously straight co-worker. Even worse, the job that allowed him to see Cody on an almost daily basis has ended and he desperately misses his buddy in a way that goes far beyond just friendship. In an effort to soothe his aching heart and body, he tries to get a blind date with someone like Cody so he can pretend for just one night that he holds Cody in his arms.
When Cody himself shows up as Sam’s blind date, he is at once elated and afraid of having his heart broken by just another straight guy looking to sample the gay life. He wants to be so much more than Cody’s 1Night Stand and if he’s given the chance, Sam will do anything to prove that love doesn’t discriminate based on gender.
What B is talking about:
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Want is a sweet, delightfully erotic short story that is a perfect addition to the 1 Night Stand series. I absolutely adored reading about Sam and Cody. Both are grown, successful, down-to-earth men who are strong enough to pursue what they want, yet have lived enough to doubt that they will find it. While both have had experiences with the opposite sex (to vastly different degrees), they want each other and no one else.
Sexually, Sam and Cody are hot. Despite a somewhat awkward walk to the elevator in the beginning, Mayburn doesn’t waste much time with a drawn out learning curve for these men. Instead, she gives their mutual desire, curiosity, and enthusiasm free reign. They are well matched and willing, the attraction they feel for one another having already built to roar during everyday interactions from the recent past. Once they decide that a 1 Night Stand is exactly what they both want, they don’t hold back, and the story just gets better and better from there.
As with any story where brevity is a factor, Want has a few instances of unavoidable convenience, but they are considerably fewer than in many other short stories I’ve read. While there’s no doubt that Cody and Sam will end up together, Mayburn gives both men adequate space for their uncertainty to bloom, thereby making their happy ending even more satisfying. Although I feel like I’ve barely begun any real exploration of the many stories in the 1 Night Stand series, Want is absolutely one of my favorites, and I highly recommend it as a quick, enjoyable addition to any M/M collection.
B’s Rating:
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Enjoyed - strongly recommend (A-)
Purchase Info:
Labels:
Review: A Hint of Frost
A Hint of Frost
Author: Hailey Edwards
Release Date: April 17, 2012
Publisher: Samhain Publishing
Araneae Nation, Book #1
ISBN: (ASIN) B0065TF8Q6
Genre: Fantasy/Paranormal Romance
Format(s): e-book
Book Source: Author
About the book:
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When the head of the Araneidae clan is found poisoned in her nest, her eldest daughter, Lourdes, becomes their clan’s new maven. If her clan is to survive, she has but one choice: she must marry before her nest is seized. All she needs is a warrior fierce enough to protect her city and safeguard her clansmen. Such a male is Rhys the Cold.
Born the youngest son of an impoverished maven, the only things Rhys has to his name are his sword and his mercenary reputation. His clan is starving, but their fondness for the flesh of fellow Araneaeans makes them unwelcome dinner guests. Torn between loyalty to his clan and fascination with his future bride, Rhys’s first taste of Lourdes threatens to melt the cold encasing his heart.
Amid the chaos of battle, Lourdes’s sister disappears and is feared captured. Lourdes and Rhys pursue their enemies into the southlands, where they discover an odd plague ravaging southern clans as it travels north, to Erania. Determined to survive, Lourdes will discover whether she’s worth her silk or if she’s spun the thread by which her clan will hang.
Warning: This book contains one mercenary hero with a biting fetish, one determined heroine who gets nibbled, and an answer to the age-old question, “What does dragon taste like?” Matricide and sibling rivalry are available upon request. The house special is revenge, best served cold.
What VampBard’s talking about:
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A Hint of Frost, the newest title in Ms. Edward's catalogue, begins the Aranea Nation series. Lots of great world-building going on in this title. If you're into conspiracy theories, dragons, and alternate universe beings, this is a series you'll want to get into from square one!
Spider people. Whoda thunk... I wasn't even the slightest bit creeped out, either! When Lourdes, the new 'Queen' of Araneidae learns of the death of her parents, she snaps into action. She seems to be one of those people that's able to compartmentalize and get done what needs doing. No matter what the cost is to herself. After all, she's the leader of her people, and she needs to do whatever she can to keep her clan safe. Doesn't matter if she's happy or not. When the Araneidae people were betrayed by the clan that swore to protect them, Lourdes didn't hesitate to align herself with another clan that would be able to keep her people safe. Lots of selfless acts. Little did Lourdes know, the man to which she was betrothed would worm his way into her heart from their first meeting.
Rhys, who has been promised by his mother to Lourdes in consideration for riches and armor, actually is a sweet guy. He's very protective of Lourdes, and does not pressure her for any reason. It's rather refreshing to read about a true gentleman that values his virtue as well as that of his lady. It was interesting to see his reactions as protector as intense as they were from the beginning of the story. The primal growling and biting was a bit erotic, and actually helped the reader see that the couple were becoming more and more entwined.
The rising action for A Hint of Frost appeared to be the search for Lourdes' sister, thought to have left the stronghold of the familial home in an effort to hide her involvement in her parents' death. Prior to the binding ceremony taking place toward the end of the story, her trial is held, and we don't see her consequences for her actions actually unfold during this title. During the hunt for Lourdes' sister, Rhys is injured and nearly dies. It is only because of the involvement of his home clan, and his cousin, that Rhys survives.
While we could see Lourdes and Rhys' sexual tension building throughout the story, it felt like the ending was little more than wham-bam-thank-you-ma'am. The actual consummation of their union, while they had both been emotionally tied to the other, fell to the final scene in the story. (Those reading the e-book edition will note that the last 10% deals with the physical act and excerpts from other titles – and not just those by Ms. Edwards.) I was hoping that there would be more to the story.
Overall, A Hint of Frost is a great title to what promises to be a great series by Ms. Edwards. I look forward to seeing where the next title leads us.
VampBard’s Rating:
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Liked it a lot - recommend (B+)
Purchase Info:
Tuesday, April 10, 2012
Review: If I Fall
Please welcome Angela, who brings you today’s Guest Review of...
If I Fall
Author: Kate Noble
Release Date: April 3, 2012
Publisher: Berkley Sensation
The Blue Raven #4
ISBN: #978-0425247112
Genre: Historical Romance
Format(s): Paperback (352 pgs), e-book
Book Source: Publisher
About the book:
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After a duke's betrayal, the resilient Sarah Forrester reinvents herself as the Golden Lady: society's leading light, the beautiful and witty life of the party. It's all a façade of course-one that protects her from another intimate disloyalty. When her old friend, Lieutenant Jackson Fletcher, returns to London, he is determined to rediscover the true and trusting Sarah he once knew. It'll take more than a kiss and a promise. It might even call for an innocent and necessary deception.
Then Jackson is enlisted to help capture the lead suspect in a murder— a man who happens to be Sarah's most ardent suitor. Jack must continue the deception, and weathering this newest and gravest betrayal will be Sarah's ultimate test. But as Jack's passion for her grows, he must also reveal his own secrets. And as the killer turns his attention to his pursuers, more than love and trust is put at risk.
What Ang is talking about:
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Overall I enjoyed this book. The characters were fun and engaging and the story line fun. The relationship between Sarah and Jack is a classic historical romance relationship complete with all the issues that accompany a woman of wealth finding a husband.
The reason for it's B rating is that I felt like there was too much going on in many places. This book has more O'Henry twists than O'Henry himself, which rather than adding to the story line distracted from it. Because of the fact that every time I thought I’d come to a point where things were closing up another twist is thrown your way, it nearly felt like a way for the author to lengthen the novel when it didn't need. Add to that all side story lines and characters floating around the novel (i.e. the Blue Raven, murder and espionage, Lady Whitford and Bridget), and I would lose track of the main story line for a moment or two, necessitating either a reread by the reader or a recap by the author, which I found frustrating. Any one or even two side stories would have been plenty but piling them all into one novel was a bit of an over kill.
Despite its flaws, or maybe because of them, this book was a fun distraction, and I think anyone picking it up would likely enjoy the time spent in London for the Season.
Angela’s Rating:
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Liked it, but I had some issues - recommend (B)
Purchase Info:
Monday, April 9, 2012
AAD Author Spotlight: Trinity Blacio
Hello Readers! Today I bring you romance author Trinity Blacio. Trinity has been writing professionally for eight years. Currently she has available titles from Freya’s Bower, and Ravenous Romance, with more to come. She is always excited to be writing, hearing from readers, and helping fellow authors.
One of Trinity’s strongest beliefs is that no matter how small or big an author is, they should always help each other in the profession. With this idea in mind she has created a place where authors, editors, publishers, and anyone in the publishing business can come together to help each other.
For more about her Yahoo Group, click HERE.
She also works a full time job outside the home which she shares with her two children. When Trinity has time you can find her reading all sorts of romance novels. But as you have figured out her favorite are Dark Fantasy, Erotic, Menage, Erotic Horror.
Trinity is a featured author attending Author’s After Dark in New Orleans. For more information about AAD2012, click HERE.
Also, keep reading to learn more about Trinity’s newest release, Charmed By My Masters, and enter to win a copy of the first two books in her Running in Fear series: Escaped and Abandoned! GIVEAWAY details are below.
Please help me welcome Trinity to That’s What I’m Talking About. Take it away Trinity...
Coffee, Writing, Coffee
Are you a coffee drinker? Do you drink tea? The one thing I notice most among writers is the IV attached to one’s arm, filled with coffee. Up and down the arm moves, in-between typing away at the next story that is due to their publisher.
Out of coffee? Run for the hills. Or if you really want to make an author’s day, buy her coffee. Going to meet an author ask her where the closest coffee shop is to her home. I bet she knows. I’m sure they will even tell you what is his or her favorite flavor are.
Now me, you’ll find me in my rocker recliner, coffee on my table next to me and laptop in my lap. I usually brew two pots of coffee a day. Mind you husband and daughter have some too. If there is no coffee Mom is right down the street with coffee. I can still remember as a child, my mom and aunts all around the table playing cards and drinking their coffee.
I even have one of those old fashion coffee pots you can place on an open fire to brew. I’m already if the power goes out, just need to get a generator for the laptop then I’ll be all right.
Recently I started the dreaded diet and exercise craze. Well, there was one thing I knew I would not give up my coffee. I’ll even give up my diet Pepsi, but don’t touch the coffee or someone is going to lose a limb.
The next time you meet an author, ask her if she wants a cup of coffee. If they are like me their eyes will glaze over, she’ll lick her lips or they could even drool if it’s been a while. Author=Coffee=Writing=Happy!
What’s new with me? I have a new series, Bound By Witchcraft. The first book is Charmed By My Masters. More on my new book, below.
Thank you so much, Trinity! You can find Trinity online at:
More about Charmed By My Masters
(Bound by Witchcraft, Book 1)
Master Flade, or Dietrich Flade to those whom knew of him personally, died in 1589 during the beginning of the witch trials. Tried as a traitor, he was reincarnated as a warrior and a warlock, to protect witches and warlocks. Gifted from the god’s, Flade’s powers surpass those in his region. Only thirteen chosen were given such an honor. The only problem is eternity can be a long time by alone. He only wished is to have that special someone stand beside him, to embrace every night in the throes of passion that only he can provide.
Gray Strongwolf has been Dietrich Flade’s right-hand man for over thirty years, and has watched the man rule with an iron hand. The first day on the job he knew without a doubt his life would be tied to Master Flade, but how, the powers would not tell him. A quiet man, but deadly when protecting those who ask for sanctum, Gray watches and waits for his destiny to be revealed to him and his friend.
Jax Jagar, alpha to his pack and mate to Blair Sinclair, tracks her journey toward the Rapturous Celestial Sanctum in New York. Every time he is close enough to touch her, Blair slips through his fingers. Blair’s enemies follow her to closely for Jax’s comfort. Jax had no doubt her ass will be red when he gets done paddling it for putting herself in so much danger. The only thing going his way is that his friend, Master Flade, will protect her until he gets there. Magic or not, she is his!
Blair Sinclair, born a natural witch who comes from one of the most powerful families, is on the run. Thrust into the role of mother and father at a young age for her kind, Blair is determined to save her family even if it means sacrificing herself.
Can the three warriors claim their little witch, Blair, and protect her from those who would use her gift for evil? Will Blair trust her men with her body and heart, and will Master Flade finally have his dream submissive and companions by his side for eternity?
GIVEAWAY Thank you, Trinity, for stopping by That’s What I’m Talking About. Trinity is graciously giving away the first two (2) e-books from her Running in Fear series: Escaped and Abandoned. Please leave your comments for Trinity by Wednesday April 11, 2012, at 9:00 PM EDT to be eligible for the contest. One entry per person, the winner will be selected from eligible entries using random.org. Contest is open internationally; please leave your email address so I can contact you. Thank you to Trinity for this great giveaway!
Trinity will also be at Lori Foster’s Gathering on June 1-2, 2012 for more information visit here.
Cincinnati Marriott North 6189 Mulhauser Road West Chester, OH 45069-4842
April Book Giveaway
mycutegraphics.com
Hello readers... Happy April. I hope that your April showers are bringing you some early May flowers. Here at the Twimom household, my Baby Girl turned 6 on Easter Sunday, and I’m feeling a bit sad that she’s growing up so fast!
Now It’s time for our April Book GIVEAWAY! How do these titles sound?
Set #1
Tall, Dark & Dead by Tate Hallaway
Sierra Falls by Veronica Wolff
Werewolf in Seattle by Vicki Lewis Thompson
Set #2
Doubletake by Rob Thurman
The Thirteenth Sacrifice by Debbie Viguie
Magic Unchained by Jessica Andersen
Two lucky winners will win some great April releases.
The Rules: To be entered, please leave a comment telling me what your favorite flower is AND which book set (1 and/or 2) you prefer if you win (I will do my best to accommodate the winners’ first choice). You do not need to be a google friends connect follower of my blog, but it always appreciated. Also, I appreciate all 1+ an other shares that are out there! Contest is open from April 9, 2012 until Friday April 13, 2012 at 9:00 PM EDT. If your email is not part of your profile, please leave it so I may contact the winners. One entry per person. Contest is restricted to US and Canadian mailing addresses only. Two (2) winners will be selected from eligible entries using random.org. I am not responsible for items lost in the mail.
Thanks and Happy Reading!
Sunday, April 8, 2012
Sunday Snippets #99
Red’s Wolf
Author: PJ Schnyder
Publisher: Decadent Publishing
Released: August 28, 2010
“Jason.” She didn’t know if she whispered his name or shouted it. She only wanted – wanted him with every cell of her body so badly she began to tremble.
He froze then, his head shot up and turned towards the door. A moment of tense silence, and then he turned to drop a light kiss on her forehead before disentangling himself and striding toward the door. Clutching the edge of the counter, her knees pressed together and her body tense from the interruption, she scowled. Needless to say, she was less than happy. Freaking understatement. “What?”
“We’ve got a visitor.” He tossed the words over his shoulder as he unlatched the door and swung it open.
A burst of frigid air swept in as the open door revealed Bradley standing there with a basket. He grinned, his eyes searching the room and immediately fastening on Carri. “Brought you a snack from Jenna, with lunch for later.” He stepped in and paused, his nostrils flaring as he took in the scents in the room.
She flushed in embarrassment. The whole scent thing really had her at a disadvantage. Then she straightened, seeing Jason’s face turn blank. She wasn’t ashamed of what they were doing, and wanted to be sure Jason knew it. “Thank you Bradley, but you really didn’t have to. Jason would have taken care of me.”
“Right.” Bradley said the word slowly, his eyes turning golden as his temper rose up in his face and a snarl grew in his throat. “The stray shouldn’t be ‘taking care’ of you. That’s something for one of the pack.”
Jason said nothing, but his eyes turned silver, his posture coiling in subtle preparation as he faced Bradley.
Oh no, they were not about to have a fight over her right there in the surveillance tower.
Friday, April 6, 2012
Review: Protector's Mate
Protector’s Mate
Author: Katie Reus http://katiereus.com/
Release Date: April 1, 2012
Publisher: Harlequin Nocturnal Cravings
Genre: Paranormal Romance, Novella
Format(s): e-book
Book Source: Author
About the book:
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After two years in a war zone, werewolf Felicia Serna has finally returned to find another pack has taken over her territory…and the new second-in-command is the very man who haunts her fantasies.
Alaric has wanted Felicia from the moment he laid eyes on her, and now he’s ready to claim her. When a threatening shifter begins stalking them, he’s determined to protect her…even if it means putting his seduction on hold. But even in the heat of danger, their red-hot passion cannot be denied.
What I’m talking about:
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Felicia is a wolf shifter that was betrayed and hurt by her own pack. She fled overseas to use her nursing skills in a war zone. After her service is up, she sneaks back home, hoping to make a quiet life for herself. Alaric, second command of Felicia’s new pack, has lusted after Felicia for years - always keeping a distance since she was too young to commit to the mating call. (We meet Alaric in the first book, Destined Mate.) Knowing that he cannot live without Felicia, he picks her up at the airport, and the pair come under attack.
This second novella in Ms. Reus’s unnamed shifter series starts of with a bang and keeps going. Without the need of much world-building (although you don't need to read first novella), Protector’s Mate jumps right into the romance between Alaric and Felicia. We learn about the current situation and the characters’ pasts organically - either through scene building or since we are privy to both Alaric and Felicia’s point-of-view, we get insight into their pasts via internal thought process. The story flows smoothly, which is critical for a novella-length story.
Basically they both lust for the other. I love that Alaric has known from the moment he met Felicia that she was his mate, but he held off claiming her or bringing her to his pack because of her age (19). He didn't trust himself not to claim her, so gave her space. So swoon-worthy. I was instantly invested in the couple and enjoyed reading how they let go of their pasts to move forward together.
The couple comes together so perfectly. Their first kiss is equal parts steamy, sweet and romantic. And the smex is hot! Both characters are strong yet vulnerable. Felicia has been mentally and emotionally broken by her former pack and leader. Yet she gives herself an attitude "adjustment" as Alaric makes his advances on her. She went from "why would anyone want me" to "not sure why, but he does want me so I am going to open up and enjoy it." That never seems to happen in romances - and I admire the strength and fortitude Felicia demonstrates time and time again throughout the story.
Other than the focus on the primary couple, there is external conflict and a few bad guys. It’s just enough to add action and minor tension to the storyline, but it doesn’t take away focus from the love story. This is just as it should be for a novella-length story.
Protector’s Mate is a quick read, free of major road bumps, and an all-around enjoyable story. It is sexy with just enough tension for the shorter length.
My Rating:
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Enjoyed - strongly recommend (A-)
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