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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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Thursday, September 13, 2012
Author Interview & Giveaway: Bec McMaster
Today I have the honor of bringing to you author Bec McMaster. Bec lives in a small country town in Victoria, Australia, with her boyfriend, two budgies with a thirst for flesh, and a beautiful dog named Kobe. She grew up either with her nose in a book or writing, and she never understood why other people didn’t get to watch ‘all the movies in their heads.’ Following a lifelong love affair with fantasy, she discovered romance at the age of sixteen and hasn’t looked back.
When she’s not writing she likes to read, go hiking with her boyfriend, pour over travel brochures, and go to the gym. She’s addicted to travel and loves to set her books in foreign places. She says that it’s the next best thing to traveling there. One day she vows to see the entire world, whether it’s by plane, paper or imagination.
Bec’s new Steampunk title, Kiss of Steel debuted this month with Sourcebook Publishing. Please help me welcome Bec toThat’s What I’m Talking About.
Twimom: Bec, welcome and thank you for stopping by.
Bec: Hi! Thank you for having me!
Twimom: On your website you state that other than a writer, you’ve wanted to be an archaeologist, a travel agent, paleontologist, biologist, librarian and horse manager. So... was there a winner? Did you get a “day job?”
Bec: I did. I always wanted to study Creative Writing at University, but succumbed to the ‘get a real job’ lure and studied Biology instead. I love Biology, but the idea of being trapped in a lab for many years began to feel a bit stifling, so I ended up going into beauty therapy. I’ve always wanted to travel, so I figured getting a job in a trade would make it easy to find work anywhere.
Then three years ago, I decided it was time to do something I really wanted to do. I began a course in tourism, but just as I finished the course I sold Kiss of Steel and well… Tourism was always number two on the list.
Its funny how things come full circle. I could have saved a lot of time if I’d just listened to my instincts. Or maybe it was meant to happen the way it did.
Twimom: And you want to see the entire world... what a wonderful aspiration! What is the most exciting/exotic local you’ve visited in real life? What is the number one place you’d like to visit if you had the financing?
Bec: There are so many places I’ve been that I’ve loved, but two of the most exotic would have to be Russia and Turkey. I loved the spice markets and bazaars in Istanbul, but my absolute favorite place was Russia. Russian history fascinates me and I could wander through museums or palaces all day.
If I could go anywhere in the world – money being no object… Wow, that’s a tough one to pick! It changes frequently, but I have always wanted to spend a month or two in Egypt. I’m not a cruise ship/five star hotel kind of person, so the idea of sleeping beneath the stars on a felucca on the Nile, or scuba diving in the Red Sea appeals. And of course, more museums, temples, palaces…
Twimom: So... Steampunk! Kiss of Steel is the debut title in your new London Steampunk Series. Please tell us more about the world you’ve created and what to expect in the first book.
Bec: Kiss of Steel was so much fun to write. Set in my steam-fuelled world of London, where the City is ruled by the aristocratic Echelon and people pay their taxes in blood, it’s about a young woman on the run from a dangerous duke. Honoria Todd seeks safety in the slums of Whitechapel with her brother and sister, and a secret the Duke of Vickers would kill to get his hands on. The only one she can turn to for protection is Blade, the notorious Devil of Whitechapel, who has his own plans for Honoria – and Vickers.
Twimom: There are many types of stories that fall under the steampunk genre... How would you describe your world? Romance? Mystery/suspense? Do you get into the nitty-gritty of how the gadgets all work, or are the gadgets more part of the scenery? (I’m an engineer, I love gadgets!)
Bec: Kiss of Steel is a mix of paranormal romance and steampunk and should also appeal to historical romance lovers.
There are three basic classes in my London; the blue bloods of the Echelon, the humans who serve their needs and mechs, those that were forced by circumstance to take an artificial limb and are considered less than human because of it. After the French guillotined their blue blood aristocracy, the British Echelon sat up and took notice. To prevent the same uprising in Britain, they created an automaton army that keeps the humans and mechs in their place. There are a lot of steampunk elements that revolve around the world; the draining factories where the blood gathered in the taxes is stored, the enclaves where the mech’s live and work and some secret research the anti-blue blood humanist movement is involved in. Of course, this will all be explored more in subsequent books as there can’t be steampunk without the punk!
As for gadgets, Honoria’s father was a scientist who created all manner of weapons for the Duke of Vickers before he died. Honoria has access to all of his knowledge – which she will need. I need to know how the gadgets work (it’s the same with the paranormal aspects), so there is enough description for readers to know what each gadget is and does, but not pages and pages of it.
Twimom: Other than your Steampunk series, do you write any other genres?
Bec: I do! I love anything speculative and paranormal, so if something catches my interest I write it. I love to write Paranormal Romance and I have a few Urban Fantasy ideas bubbling away. The two main characteristics you’ll find, no matter what genre I write is that it’s often fast-paced adventure and I love to really develop the world-building.
Twimom: I always like to ask authors about their reading habits... What types of books do you enjoy reading? What is your favorite read so far in 2012?
Bec: Again, I read what I write. Mainly steampunk romance, paranormal romance, fantasy, sci-fi, UF or some paranormal-based YA. I don’t have a lot of time to read, so I tend to buy more than I can get around to. My TBR pile looks like that hoarders show.
As to books that blew my mind in the first half of 2012 – the Downside Ghosts series by Stacia Kane (UF), Daughter of Smoke and Bone by Laini Taylor (YA), Firelight by Kristen Callihan (PR) and Alliance Forged by Kylie Griffin (Fantasy Romance).
Twimom: What upcoming releases are you most excited to read?
Bec: I just bought Riveted by Meljean Brook and Archangel’s Storm by Nalini Singh. I’m also halfway through The Iron Wyrm Affair by Lilith Saintcrow. September seems to have a heap of fantastic titles out.
Twimom: Oh yes! I agree! (By the way, Riveted is my favorite read so far of 2012!)
Bec, thank you so much for taking the time to tell my readers a little bit about yourselves and your writing. It was wonderful chatting with you.
Bec: Thank you so much for having me! It’s been fun.
You can find Bec McMaster on line at
About Kiss of Steel:
He craves her like no other…
Honoria Todd has no choice. Only in the dreaded Whitechapel district can she escape the long reach of the Duke of Vickers. But seeking refuge there will put her straight into the hands of Blade, legendary master of the rookeries. No one would dare cross him, but what price would he demand to keep her safe?
Ever since Vickers infected him with the craving, Blade has been quicker, stronger, almost immortal—and terrified of losing control of the monster within. Honoria could be his perfect revenge against the duke…or the salvation he never dared to dream of.
GIVEAWAY: I have one (1) copy (one winner) of Kiss of Steel to giveaway here at That’s What I’m Talking About. Thank you to Sourcebooks (www.sourcebooks.com) for sponsoring the giveaway of Bec McMaster’s debut steampunk title. To enter, please use the RAFFLECOPTER entry form, below. Winners restricted to US and Canada mailing addresses, only. Contest open from September 13, 2012 until September 19, 2012 at 12:00 AM EDT. One (1) winner will be selected from the eligible entries. Book will be sent to winner by the publisher.
a Rafflecopter giveaway
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Wednesday, September 12, 2012
Review: Playing to Win by Jaci Burton
Playing to Win
Author: Jaci Burton
Release Date: Sept. 4, 2012
Publisher: Berkeley Trade
Play by Play Series #4
ISBN: #978-0425247839
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Format(s): Paperback (320 pgs), e-book
Book Source: Publisher
About the book:
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Football star Cole Riley is notorious for doing as he pleases—on the field and off. He parties hard and fights harder, but if he doesn’t clean up his act, his career is over—so Cole reluctantly agrees to work with image makeover consultant Savannah Brooks. He’s not used to being told what to do, especially by some (admittedly hot) Southern belle. As for Savannah, she’s not convinced she can transform this cocky (and aggressively sexy) force of nature. But she’s determined to give it her best shot.
When the sparks start to fly, Savannah lays down the ground rules: no personal complications. If she can turn off the tingle she feels every time Cole gives her a hot stare with his gorgeous baby blues, he can turn off his desire as well. But for two people determined to have it all, a hands-off policy can only last so long before one of them yields.
What Nima’s talking about:
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The fourth installment of Jaci Burton’s Play-by-Play series, Playing to Win, is worth picking up just to stare at the cover. Fitness model Jed Hill once again lends his “hip dents” or “hip dips” to ignite our imagination of what main character Cole Riley might look like in the flesh. In an interview with About Happy Books, Burton said of Hill’s previous appearance on her book The Perfect Play, “Of course, who can deny the appeal of a hot, sweaty guy on the cover of a book, right?”
If you can tear your eyes away from the cover, (or maybe the cover away from the book so you can pin him to your pillowcase) to actually open the book, Cole Riley comes to life. I liked Cole. I didn’t always understand how his past produced his current behavior because he was a good guy at heart from a good family. His family seemed to keep him grounded, but he had this apparent need to act out and it didn’t feel genuine. Savannah’s need to keep a professional distance from Cole made more sense.
Parts of this single-afternoon-read were clearly formulaic, but not in a way which I can really fault. It felt more like I could predict what was coming next just from the pacing of the relationship rather than Burton following a mandated script. I admit it did lack a certain intensity; there is no real major conflict that must be resolved other than the two main characters needing to get over themselves. When it finally does get off the ground, the relationship between Cole and Savannah isn’t just steamy, it’s creatively steamy. There are few word choices that I could live without, but they were just blips rather than hang-ups for me.
I was pleased that there was some actual football in this tale. I think it’s a failing of a book with a defined profession that never appears as a part of the plot when clearly, it’s a part of that person’s life. Burton does bring on some football. As the wife of a football coach, I could have even handled a little more, maybe even as a point of conflict??? Nevertheless, I’ll definitely read the next one. I like this community of characters.
It’s not necessary to have read the first three books before reading Playing to Win, but readers who have will enjoy seeing characters they know pop up. You can read an excerpt HERE.
Nima’s Rating:
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Enjoyed - strongly recommend (A-)
Purchase Info:
Tuesday, September 11, 2012
Review: Dragon's Moon by Lucy Monroe
Dragon's Moon
Author: Lucy Monroe
Release Date: Sept. 4, 2012
Publisher: Berkley
Children of the Moon #4
ISBN: 978-0425246627
Genre: Paranormal Romance
Format(s): Paperback (336 pgs), e-book
Book Source: Publisher
About the book:
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When Eirik, the only living dragon shifter, and prince of the Ean, killed her brother, Ciara was left alone to face her prophetic dreams. Now, in order to find the wolves’ sacred stone and save all the Chrechte from destruction, she needs her rival’s help.
Eirik was only protecting the children of his people, but that day in the forest left a mark on him as well. Controlling his dragon’s fire is the most difficult thing he’s ever done—until he and Ciara are forced to face not only their shared tumultuous past, but a hallowed bond stronger than they realize. As avowed adversaries and predestined mates, their quest ushers them into a world of great danger, and a passion hotter than the dragon’s fire.
What VampBard’s talking about:
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Jumping into Lucy Monroe's fourth book of her Children of the Moon series was no big deal- I wasn't lost, and Ms. Monroe provided enough background that I really didn't notice that it was the fourth title in the series. However, now that I've been introduced to the world of her shifter clans, picking up the first three titles in the series sounds like an awesome idea. *adds three more titles to the ever-growing TBR list* I must admit, I'm a sucker for Gaelic and men in kilts. Dragon's Moon definitely didn't disappoint on either account. Pop in some shifters and some romance – Ta Da! - it's a book I'm gonna lurve! The over-arching theme that was intricately woven throughout the book speaks to the masses: One cannot allow the past to define who (or what) they are today; and certainly cannot define one's happiness.
With Dragon's Moon, we got a two-fer in the romance department. The dominant romantic story line, that of Eirik and Ciara, was definitely the center of the story. I thoroughly enjoyed the way Ms. Monroe developed her mythology for the Chrechte people, and their mating rituals. I think the fact that Ms. Monroe presented a pair of mated males within the story instantly won her points with me, as well. I was also pleased with the way in which she defined the roles of and within the shifter races through the course of the story. This was a very well-developed world, and the rules of the world were followed throughout, never giving me a reason to go back and read a passage (well, except those I simply wanted to experience again!).
Right from the beginning of the story, we know that there's conflict regarding Eirik and Ciara:
Never before had she felt such a connection with another. Her wolf whispered a word she refused to hear, her mind whirling with thoughts she was determined never to have. (p. 26)
Ciara, the brave heroine of our story, denies her heart from the start of the story. With her history, she's been emotionally barren for the past seven years. Now, she is learning how to feel, and it scares her. Orphaned, then taken in by the Sinclair clan, Ciara has been like a daughter to the laird and his wife. She's a second mother to their twin sons. They treat her as family and call her daughter, though she's been unable to reciprocate the feelings, as well as return the familial titles to those that love her. Until Eirik saves her life, as he and his people approach the castle of the Sinclair:
But it was not the hard ground that broke her fall. Sharp talons curled around her body, warm scales that felt like living chain mail pressed against her face and suddenly she was not falling, but flying upward. In the arms of a dragon.
That was the last her tormented mind could take. Ciara welcomed the black oblivion as it came. (pg. 26)
This was the couples' first introduction. They're one of those 'fated' couples. You can tell from their interactions as well as the way their special talents interplay with one another from their initial meeting, and throughout the book. Even when one or the other are trying to deny the fact that they're meant to be together. Ciara is especially adept at this form of denial, believing she doesn't want a mate nor children, as she cannot bear to endure the grief she felt with the deaths of her brother and mother. Fortunately, Ciara does go-with-the-flow, and she grows into herself, as well as the one destiny has chosen for her to be. Ciara's is a lovely story, wrought with honest emotion, as well as self-esteem issues.
Eirik, the prince of the Ean, has brought part of his clan to the Sinclair stronghold. The Ean, forest dwellers, are no longer safe in the woods as they had been previously. Their numbers grow too large; they will surely be unable to secret away the settlements necessary to house their people. Eirik delivers volunteers to several clan that welcome the Ean with open arms. He is, however, riddled with secrets of his own that may be entirely too powerful to allow him to open his heart to love, no matter how much he desires it. Blessed (or cursed) with sharing his soul with both a raven and a dragon, Eirik is not a man with which one should trifle. While he is a fierce warrior, and loved by his people, Eirik is determined to ensure the safety and peace that he wants for his people. Even at tremendous personal cost.
We're lucky we get to see both Ciara and Eirik's point-of-view throughout the story. We get to know what they're both thinking, and I found myself secretly cheering when one or the other would have a revelation regarding the other. One of the things that I loved most about the couple was the way in which Eirik's dragon was the one that could protect Ciara from her dreams, allowing her much-needed sleep.
On a quest for a fabled healing stone for their 'tribe', Ciara wasn't truly aware that she had a destiny to fulfill, until Mairi – battered and bruised – arrived, convincing Ciara that she was 'the one'. I really enjoyed this part of the world-building! Ms. Monroe clearly outlined both Ciara and Mairi's roles in the recovery of the fabled stone, and I was easily able to identify their roles, after their full values were revealed.
Lais was Eirik's best friend, and his 'second'. It was a smidge predictable that he would have the bonding urge with Mairi, but I like the way it was presented. What I wasn't too keen on was Lais' self-depreciating attitude regarding his worthiness due to his past. *eyeroll* Don't guys know that what they did in the past doesn't define who they will be tomorrow?!?! *sigh* Lais. Wake. Up. You're an awesome dude, and Mairi would be lucky to have you.
Most of the conflict in the story was surrounding the stone. There was one skirmish to which the reader was privy prior to the cave on enemy lands. I'd call this an intellectual conflict, because most of the conflict/resolution within the story was centered around thoughts and impressions. I liked it!
Over-all, I felt Lucy Monroe's Dragon's Moon, possessed an intriguing plot-arc, and the characters were believable. Ms. Monroe, however, expertly wove the silken threads of two love stories in the midst of a brilliantly crafted shape-shifter world. Her balance between the couples as well as the inevitable points-in-time that would arrive to hijack blooming love, is nothing short of spectacular.
VampBard’s Rating:
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Enjoyed - strongly recommend (A-)
Purchase Info:
Monday, September 10, 2012
Review: Wrayth by Phillipa Ballatine
Wrayth
Author: Phillipa Ballantine
Release Date: Aug. 28, 2012
Publisher: ACE
Book of the Order #3
ISBN: #978-1937007751
Genre: Fantasy
Format(s): Paperback (320 pgs), e-book
Book Source: Publisher
About the book:
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In the Empire of Arkaym, the Order of Deacons protects and shelters the citizens from the attacks of the unliving. All are sworn to fight the evil forces of the geists—and to keep the world safe from the power of the Otherside…
Although she is one of the most powerful Deacons in the Order, Sorcha Faris is still unable to move or speak after her last battle. Even her partner, Merrick Chambers, cannot reach her through their shared Bond. Yet there are those who still fear Sorcha and the mystery of her hidden past.
Meanwhile, Merrick has been asked to investigate a new member of the Emperor’s Court. But when Sorcha is abducted by men seeking Raed Rossin, the shapeshifting rival to the throne, Merrick must choose where his loyalties lie.
What I’m talking about:
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Welcome back to Ms. Ballantine’s amazing world of Arykham. It’s been two months since the explosive ending to Spectyr, the second Book of the Order. We discover that our heroine Sorcha has been in a catatonic state since those events, only able to move her eyes and push emotions through the bond with her Sensitive partner, Merrick. Her not-quite ex-partner and ex-husband, Koyla is hanging on to their weak bond, attempting to usurp her bond with Merrick. Raed Rossin, Sorcha’s lover and rightful heir to the throne, is off searching for his treacherous sister, possibly never to return. And Merrick, who is still recovering from losing his first love, has been spending a lot of time with the Emperor's sister, the Grand Duchess Zofiya. All of this frustrates Sorcha beyond capacity because she cannot take charge of herself, let alone help those she loves. But wait... there’s more! Sorcha’s first partner, Garil, and Raed’s first mate, Aachon, kidnap Sorcha so that she can lead them to Raed. If you are confused... keep reading!
The opening of the story is full of immediate and intense action. There is no learning curve in Wrayth, and because of this, I highly recommend reading the first two books before jumping into this one. (Also, this series is one of the best out there and you would be remiss if you didn’t read it from the start.) The book follows our three main characters, Sorcha, Merrick and Raed, allowing the reader insight from each character’s POV. Because all three heroes are involved in their own subplot the story is constantly shifting around, which can cause minor confusion to both the reader and the characters. Also, the heroes feel lost and annoyed, each being on their own, especially since they have learned to work together and heavily rely on their special three-way bond.
I was also a bit confused at the beginning, but that was more due to reader issues that the book itself. As I’ve stated in my reviews of the first two books from this series, Ms. Ballantine’s world is an elaborate one, full of rich and intricate details with a unique mythology. The events that occur build upon each other, from the opening paragraph of the first book, to the conclusion of this story. In other words, a lot goes on and one needs to pay attention. Although the author does her best to remind the reader what has happened to date, I was frustrated that I couldn’t remember everything from the earlier books. (I have already decided I’ll be doing a re-read before the next book!) Just like its predecessors, this book is packed with twists and turns, non-stop action and a great deal of story. In other words: PAY ATTENTION!
The primary storylines find our three heroes each fighting their own battles. In order to be revived from her comatose condition, Sorcha makes a deal with a geistlord that leaves her (and the reader) a bit uncomfortable (you know it's going to come back and bite her in the rear!). Raed has been captured by another geistlord, the Wrayth (think creepy version of Star Trek TNG Borg), and he has struck a bargain with the Rossin (the geistlord that shares his body) so that they can work together to survive. Finally, Merrick discovers that a very dangerous man has the ear of the Emperor, but before he can warn anyone is accused of kidnapping the Grand Duchess. I will tell you that for much of the book I felt hopeless. Yet, this is a good thing! I was so caught up in the storylines that I empathized with the character’s plights. I was extremely nervous almost the entire time, and couldn’t put the book down.
I’m not going to try and recap more of the elaborate and spectacular plot of Wrayth, but understand that eventually the heroes make their way back to each other, which makes this reader happy, giving me hope again. I also am grateful that many of the loose ends from the previous two books are brought together, giving explanation to much of what’s been going on.
The continued character development is so satisfying, and probably the best thing about this series. Starting with the first Book of the Order, the characters and their relationships have always been the heart of these books, endearing themselves and this series to me. They have all gone through so much, with each step adding to the whole. In Wrayth we learn more about Sorcha’s mysterious past, which is exciting in its own right. However, it’s Sorcha’s fortitude and how she reacts to the situations that allow her character to shine. Similarly, observing Raed and the Rossin in action together as they make “deals with the devil,” allows both halves of this man to stretch and grow. Just when you think that maybe Raed has figured out how to live with the Rossin, Ms. Ballantine tosses in a twist that has me worried for Raed. Finally, Merrick, the novice Sensitive takes center stage in Wrayth as her learns he can stand on his own two feet without Sorcha to protect and guide him.
In conclusion, there is just so much to love about Wrayth, especially for fans of the series. The action is intense, with a step up in suspense and intrigue. The character development progresses by leaps and bounds. Finally, the overall story arc is peaking, and with only one book left in this series, let me assure you that you will be itching for its release the moment you finish reading Wrayth.
My Rating:
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Loved it - enthusiastically recommend (A)
Reviews in the Series:
Sunday, September 9, 2012
Sunday Snippets #119
Author: Simon R. Green
Secret Histories #6
Publisher: Roc
Released: June 5, 2012
REVIEW HERE
"Things just get better all the time," said Molly. "So, what now?"
"We need answers," I said. "We need hard information as to exactly what went down here and who was behind it. Someone out there will know. Someone always knows. But where do we go to ask? Time was, we'd have just dropped into the Wulfshead Club, that celebrated supernatural water hole, paid for a round for the house, and they'd have been lining up to tell us everything we needed to know. But I'm pretty sure I'm persona non grata there, after the ... recent unpleasantness."
"You mean when you completely lost control, beat up everyone who got in your way and half killed your old friend the Indigo Spirit?" said Molly. "Oh, hell, yes, Eddie. They're still talking about that, and not in a good way. You are banned from the Wulfshead for life, Eddie Drood and possibly even longer than that."
"But that's just Eddie Drood," I said, craftily. "I could still sneak in as Shaman Bond, couldn't I?"
"I wouldn't," said Molly. "I really wouldn't. Take it from me: That boat has sailed. Far too many people in that place now know Eddie and Shaman are the same man. No one's actually given you up yet, but you can bet good money there'd be a race to drop you right in it if you were to push your luck. Give them time to calm down, and they might let you back in as Shaman. But right now the very least they'd do is set the hellhounds on you and blow your secret identity right out of the water."
"But they will calm down?" I said. "Eventually?"
"Who can say?"
I looked at her thoughtfully. "You could always..."
"No, I couldn't," said Molly. "I'm banned, as well, just for knowing you."
"Ah," I said. "Sorry about that."
"Don't be! I'm not. Never cared much for the Wulfshead, anyway. Bit too elevated for my tastes. And it's gone so upmarket these days... so up itself it's practically staring out its own nostrils. And the bar prices suck big-time."
I smiled. Molly can be very loyal in her own way.
Friday, September 7, 2012
Review: Showtime by Chloe Kayne
Joining VampBard for her review today, is her daughter, DramaTeen (DT...although she won't qualify for long...). DT is an undergraduate student of psychology, ultimately pursuing a doctoral degree in psychiatry. She likes to read for fun, but doesn't often get the opportunity.
Showtime
Author: Chloe Kayne
Release Date: Sept. 14, 2012 (expected)
Publisher: self-published
Marvelle Circus #1
ISBN: 9781300109
Genre: YA Historical Romance/Suspense
Format(s): according to the author’s website, the book will be available in hardcover, paperback & ebook
Book Source: Author
About the book:
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The grandeur of the traveling circus is at its peak in the early 1920s when sixteen-year-old Laila Vilonia is searching for an escape from her bleak future. Behind the gates of the legendary Marvelle Circus, she is thrust into a mysterious world she never knew existed—a paradise populated with outcasts. It’s in this glamorous new home that Laila sparks a controversial romance with notorious sideshow performer, "The Disappearing Man," and learns just how dangerous her new life can be.
Touring the picturesque eastern coast of America, Laila’s immersed in friendship, vaudeville, festivals, sequins, and serial killers. But behind the curtain, a sadistic plan is brewing that will crack the very foundation upon which she’s become so dependent.
What VampBard’s talking about:
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VB: As I was reading Showtime, by Chloe Kayne, I did like her use of language. The vocabulary was great for me – fed my linguistic side. The plot moved, and kept the reader interested in the story by providing the perfect amount of detail to propel the reader through the story. Until the end.
DT: I did like the vocabulary, but at times it was awkward. Sometimes she chose a big, impressive word when another, simpler word, would have worked. It was kind-of like an SAT study guide. I thought the story was really mysterious, so you'd want to keep reading to find out what happened. Ms. Kayne had GREAT timing for revealing facts! Additionally, Showtime kind of felt like a modernized period piece to me. There's pros and cons to that. It was relatable, but if you're searching for a good historical, this probably isn't for you.
VB: Showtime, to be followed by a sequel entitled Spotlight, was pretty awesome, albeit light in the romance department for my tastes, for ninety percent of the title. However, the ending totally ruined the story for me, leaving me wondering whether said ending went with this book or another. Oh, and I wondered where the three pages went that would have further expounded upon the climax of the story. While I read an ARC, there were multiple instances of inappropriate verb usage, and some homonym issues. I'm hoping these are covered in the final publication, however, and haven't factored into my rating.
DT: Yeah. I didn't run into any of that stuff. I totally disagree with you, Mom. I thought it was an awesome cliff-hanger, I wished I could just jump into the next book.
With those things covered, on with the show! Let's talk about the awesome characters Ms. Kayne created.
VB: Jodelle, who initially shunned our main character, Laila, ended quickly shifting into best friend role. I was a bit befuddled by her relationship with Ethan, however. We also saw a lot of James, who I thought would end up in a love triangle with Laila and Dex. Surprise! Didn't happen. We also had Dex's twin, Seth, as a minor character as well. I'm not quite sure what to think about Seth. We didn't really get to know him too well. Lastly, there's Vivan. I'm definitely not a fan of her girly games.
DT: I thought they were really good characters. Each of them, except Dex and Seth, were real-world people.
VB: Laila, our gutsy heroine, was pulled into the circus life to circumvent her horrible situation. She was being raised in a bordello, as her mom was a prostitute and her dad was committed to an asylum after a failed suicide attempt. When the circus opened near her town, Laila and a friend were outside the gates, and her friend was beaten to a pulp and nearly drown at the hands of others – thugs in their town – because she owed them money. This activity was what landed Laila in the circus, courtesy of their security team. While Laila lied about her guardian situation, she did have bouts of regret regarding leaving her mother, and she did wonder how her friend fared. After joining the circus, Laila managed to graduate high school and definitely had her situation improved with the position she received within the circus. To remain spoiler-free, watch Laila's situation evolve during the last quarter of Showtime. One thing to watch: she is kidnapped and quite heroic near the end of the book. However, the situation with her kidnappers confused me. I'm not sure whether she was simply beaten or whether she was raped. I really liked Laila as a character, and enjoyed watching her develop into a confident, self-assured young lady.
DT: I don't think she's raped! They only said they were GOING to rape her!
VB: Dex, the disappearing man from the sideshow, became Laila's love interest. Clouded by hearsay regarding his past, Dex was tender and sweet, as well as quite protective of Laila. It wasn't beyond him to beat someone up that threatened her. Dex and Laila had tension and heat between them, however, during this title, it remained a chaste relationship – not uncommon for 1918. There were places in which Ms. Kayne could have ramped up the heat, however, we're dealing with teens here, and I'm not quite sure readers would be comfortable with that.
DT: I would be comfortable with that. Then again, if this is a YA demographic, I don't really qualify. I really liked Dex and Laila's relationship. It's intense. Kinda like the Twilight books – I'm magically drawn to this person. But at the same time, I'm a bit tired of the dark, brooding character always being the compelling love interest. I'd like some more original traits.
VB: Over all, I'd have to say I enjoyed the roller coaster ride on which Ms. Kayne sent her readers during Showtime. The believable characters and great plot concept definitely kept my interest. P.S. - check out the author's pic on her website (the ABOUT tab)... to me, she looks like Kat vonD! Even my other teen, SpellingQueen, agreed with me!
DT: Agreed! I simply couldn't put this book down. I read it in, like, a night.
VampBard’s Rating:
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Liked it, but I had some issues - recommend (B)
DramaTeen's Rating:
Enjoyed - strongly recommend (A-)
Purchase Info:
Not available at this time. Check the author’s website for updates!
Thursday, September 6, 2012
Where will you be in 2013?
I started looking at all of the “romance conferences” that will be offered in 2013. The good news: there are lots of choices and opportunities. The bad news: there are lots of choices and opportunities.
For me, the date of the conference is the most critical aspect when selecting a conference to attend. I have commitments with work and family that limit my availability, and some of the bigger conferences fall during times I cannot attend.
Next I look at several factors when making a decision...
- Will there be authors attending that I enjoy reading?
- What is the overall size of the conference?
- What is the author-to-reader ratio?
- Are there forums/workshops that appeal to me as a blogger or reader?
- What is the cost? Are meals included? What is hotel like?
- Where is the local - have I been there before?
- Are any of my fellow bloggers and/or tweeps attending?
So far these are the cons I’ve researched for 2013...
Conference
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Location
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Dates
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Registration Cost
|
RWA
|
Atlanta
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July 17-20
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$525/$600 (non-members)
|
RT Booklovers
|
Kansas City
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May 1-5
|
$469
|
RomCon
|
Colorado Springs
|
June 21-23
|
$200
|
Lori Foster RAGT
|
Cincinnati
|
June 6-9
|
(last year) $50
|
AAD
|
Savannah
|
August 15-18
|
$254.19
|
Readers & Ritas *
|
Texas
|
November
|
$100-$125
|
BEA
|
New York City
|
May 29-June 1
|
Prices vary depending on category of attendee.
|
Ellora’s Cave
RomantiCon
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Canton, OH
|
October
|
$250-$325 (2012 prices)
|
Olde City New Blood
|
St. Augustine, FL
|
February 8-10
|
$40
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SO... Where will YOU be in 2013? What conferences are you looking forward to attending? Is there a con you will be attending that I didn't mention? What factors do you look at when choosing a conference? I hope to see you in 2013!
Happy Reading!
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