"Moving Target"

Synopsis From B&N.com:

Ani King left her entire life behind when the Russian mafia brutally murdered her family. The Witness Security Program has kept her safe for two years, but with one simple phone call her cover is destroyed—and there is only one man left who can save her.

Protecting the brave, beautiful Ani became more than just a job a long time ago for Deputy Marshal Daniel Parker. And now, just days before the trial where she’s slated to give a damning testimony, the criminals who want her dead are on her trail. To keep Ani safe, Daniel has to keep her close—and her enemies closer. Because soon there’s nowhere for Ani to hide…but in his arms.

Though I love romance novels in general, I've never really been one for contemporary or romantic suspense novels...Until I picked up Chosen Prey, the book that preceded Moving Target. Now, I still don't usually pick up novels with those themes, but Cheyenne McCray is one that I definitely will in the future! Her books have everything: The perfect amount of sex, love, humor, and action go into every one of her books, including Moving Target.

I thought the story was very intense and interesting. The main character, Ani, is being stalked by the Russian mob after they tried, and failed, to kill all of her family two years ago. Ani escaped with her life, barely, but she had to go into the Witness Protection Program immediately after and she's been in it every since, waiting until she could testify against her family's murder. But even in the program, she's soon finding out that she's not one hundred percent safe...from the mob, or from falling on love with the sexy detective, Daniel, who has been the head guy over her case for the past couple of years.

Just when you think that they've managed to escape safely, the story takes another twist and suddenly you find yourself in the middle of another chase, waiting to see what will happen, hoping that neither Daniel nor Ani will be harmed. McCray tells a gripping story that is countered by it's very steamy love scenes.

4.5/5 STARS! Though I'm use to reading historicals and paranormals, McCray's Moving Target changed my opinion a bit, showing me that, with the right story line and writing, romantic suspense/contemporary romances can be just as good! A definite must read for anyone, McCray fans or new comers, and make sure to check out her other book, Chosen Prey,which was the first book of hers that I read and after reading it, she became a auto-buy for me.

~TBQ~

"Vampire Kisses"

Synopsis From B&N.com:

The mansion on top of Benson Hill has been empty and boarded up for years. But a new family has moved in. A family that never ventures out during the day. Who are these creepy people –– especially the handsome, dark, and elusive Alexander Sterling? Or rather, what are they? Could the town gossip actually be true? Are they vampires?

Raven, who secretly covets a vampire kiss, both at the risk of her own mortality and Alexander's loving trust, is dying to uncover the truth.





Though it is technically written/promoted for a teenage audience, Vampire Kisses is a great, light read for anyone who enjoys a book filled with wit and humor, mystery and romance, and of course, the much beloved vampire plot. In short, if you loved Twilight, you will probably enjoy Vampire Kisses , I have to say that I personally still hold Twilight as number one, and probably always will. But that's just me. :)

Though Vampire Kisses can be a bit 'immature' at times *That is how one reviewer put it, though I would never call it that. It's too harsh for a book that, over all, is still a good read!* reminding you that it is told by a teenager for a teenager. But that's the fun thing about VK-- its not always heavy and complicated, but instead it's a lighter, fluffy read. The author, Ellen Schreiber, meant for the story to come out more laugh- out- loud than deep-in-thought-must-save-the-world kind of plots. It's a quick read, really quick. In fact, I finished this book in under 5 hours.

Raven is an interesting character, to say the least. She's never felt like she fits in, and practically from birth she's been obsessed with vampires and all things Gothic related. Her biggest goal in life? To meet a vampire and get turned into one. So when she meets this dark, mysterious Gothic boy that just moved into the deserted Mansion on the hill, it seems like fate is finally making her dream come true. But can she make it work when everyone in town, including her friends and family at first, are still against her and her weird ways? I don't want to spoil anything, so you'll have to read it yourself. But warning-- the ending is a big cliff hanger, and you will want to have the next books at hand because as soon as you finish VK, you will need to find out what happens next!

I think my favorite part in the book, besides some of the melt-into-a-puddle-on-the-floor quotes that Alexander says to Raven, is when Raven decides to screw with her nemisis, Trevor, one of the most popular boys in her school. I was laughing through the whole thing! It makes more sense, and you'll laugh more, if you read it yourself, so I won't say too much about it other than this: Underwear on a locker. Are you scratching your head, trying to figure out what this scene could be? I'll bet you are, but I'm not saying any more about it!

4.5/5 STARS! For a charming and witty vampire romance, Vampire Kisses is the perfect option!


~TBQ~

"Shadow Magic"

Synopsis from B&N.com:

Bestselling author Cheyenne McCray’s Shadow Magic is dark and dangerous. And deeply sensual...

THE SINS OF THE PAST

When Hannah Wentworth temporarily flees her life in San Francisco to join her sister D’Anu witches in Otherworld, she vows to help them conquer the evil bent on destroying the human realm. But the only one who can help her happens to be the king of the Dark Elves. The father to her nemesis, Rhiannon of the D’Anu. And the one man Hannah can never, ever trust...especially because of her dangerous attraction to him.

ARE COMING TO LIGHT…

Garran knows that the beautiful, headstrong Hannah is wary of him for having banished his people to a life underground. But now Garran can right that wrong by helping her and the other gray witches in their dangerous battle in San Francisco—even if doing so means sacrificing the passion he’s found only in Hannah’s arms…

“Cheyenne McCray has created a fabulous new world. You won’t be able to get enough!”—Lori Handeland, USA Today bestselling author

Like the previous books in McCray's Magic Series, Shadow Magic is brimming with love, hot scenes *Really hot-- probably not for the faint of heart, especially since some of the scenes are very graphic and are not between the hero and heroine, but between the evil ones or other minor good characters...Just to warn ya!*, action, suspense, and delicious men. Fighting against evil has never been so good to read!

In between all the action and world saving, the two, Garran and Hannah, create a lot of steam. Not that I'm complaining, mind you, because it wasn't meaningless sex, but something much deeper, even from the beginning. And Garran.. Oh my! Imagine this: black leather pants and boots, a long wicked sword, and chest straps on a very tall and fit man, who happens to have a sexy accent and, oh yeah, did I mention that he is the King of the Dark Elves? Those piercing silver eyes *Shivers*...WOW! He's protective, maybe a bit arrogant at times, but he's also very compassionate with her, almost enough to make you tear up, or at least sigh in pleasure.

Really, for a wonderful combination of a well written paranormal world, filled with action and various creatures, and a very sexy, very passionate love story, Cheyenne McCray is the author to check out! It's better if you read the series in order, but you could probably read them out of order and she still catches you up enough that you are lost. But believe me-- after you read one, you'll be dying to read the next one! I've loved the characters and story from book one, and after each one, I find myself having to choose *or at least try to* which hero is my favorite...It's hard, since all of the main men she puts in the story are irresistible! And if you enjoy these books, like I have, you may also want to check out her other books, including her romantic suspense series starting with Chosen Prey *Loved!*, and her erotica paranormal books *Which I have not read..yet*. You won't be disappointed!

4.5/5 stars! A brilliant combination of lust, love, and action, to name a few, mixed and delivered in a perfect package that will leave you wanting more!

~TBQ~

"Pleasure Unbound"

Synopsis From B&N.com:

In a place where ecstasy can cost you your life . . .

She's a demon-slayer who hungers for sensual pleasure-but fears it will always be denied her. Until Tayla Mancuso lands in a hospital run by demons in disguise, and the head doctor, Eidolon, makes her body burn with unslakable desire. But to prove her ultimate loyalty to her peers, she must betray the surgeon who saved her life.

Two lovers will dare to risk all.

Eidolon cannot resist this fiery, dangerous woman who fills him with both rage and passion. Not only is she his avowed enemy, but she could very well be the hunter who has been preying upon his people. Torn between his need for the truth and his quest to find his perfect mate before a horrific transformation claims him forever, Eidolon will dare the unthinkable-and let Tayla possess him, body and soul . . .

Pleasure Unbound, the first in a brand new series by a newcomer author, Larissa Ione, is a perfect combination of Paranormal Romance and Urban Fantasy. Add to that already perfect mix the steamy *Very, very verrrrry steamy!* sex scenes, the kick-butt action, and yes, even a few laughs and tears, and you have one of the best para-romances out there. And the best part? The series continues with the other two brothers. Unfortunately, those two books do not come out until early next year-- way too long, in my opinion, but I can wait...barely.

The story line is interesting, a fresh take in my opinion. Their world is complex and filled with unique characters and species, from thousands of different kinds of demons to weres and vamps, which only adds to the book, creating a multi-layer story, one that is not flat and 2-D, but instead one that seems 3-D, one that you can reach out and touch any time you want.

Even after you close this book, the characters and their lives will stay with you, both the bad, evil ones that you learn to hate through the story or the ones that you fall in love with, the ones you want to learn more about. Though I fell in love with Eidolon, the hero in this book, his two brothers *Who will, naturally, get their stories next*, were very interesting, both sexy alpha males that need a little TLC from their future mate to help to calm them down a bit, and I think that after their stories come out, I may or may not be changing my favorite hero of the series. For now, E is the one, capable of both hard, fast sex and smooth, slow loving-- a nice combination, in my book!

4.5/5 STARS! I don't want to give too much away, but I will say that Pleasure Unbound will keep you glued to your seat until the very end. You'll find yourself thinking 'Oh, I know what's going to happen next, no problem!' and suddenly BAM, it all changes around and you're not sure who to trust... A very intense plot, filled with everything you could possibly want-- action, love, fantasy/paranormal, passion, humor, suspense, and yes, even a bit of mystery. Wonderful!

~TBQ~

"Dewey: The Small-Town Library Cat Who Touched the World"

SYNOPSIS from B&N.com:

How much of an impact can an animal have? How many lives can one cat touch? How is it possible for an abandoned kitten to transform a small library, save a classic American town, and eventually become famous around the world? You can't even begin to answer those questions until you hear the charming story of Dewey Readmore Books, the beloved library cat of Spencer, Iowa.

Dewey's story starts in the worst possible way. Only a few weeks old, on the coldest night of the year, he was stuffed into the returned book slot at the Spencer Public Library. He was found the next morning by library director, Vicki Myron, a single mother who had survived the loss of her family farm, a breast cancer scare, and an alcoholic husband. Dewey won her heart, and the hearts of the staff, by pulling himself up and hobbling on frostbitten feet to nudge each of them in a gesture of thanks and love. For the next nineteen years, he never stopped charming the people of Spencer with his enthusiasm, warmth, humility, (for a cat) and, above all, his sixth sense about who needed him most.

As his fame grew from town to town, then state to state, and finally, amazingly, worldwide, Dewey became more than just a friend; he became a source of pride for an extraordinary Heartland farming town pulling its way slowly back from the greatest crisis in its long history.




If you look at my library, or if you know me, then you can tell right away that I am a fiction nut, a fantasy obsessed reader, and I rarely, if ever, venture into the non-fiction section. And the few times I do try out a non-fiction book instead of a fiction, it's rare that I find a book that really grabs me and pulls me in, connecting me with the characters and story like fantasy books do. It's not always because the books are bad ones, but they're just not my type of book. But as soon as I picked up Dewey, I was hooked, as much so as if I were reading one of my favorite fantasy books instead of a real life one.

I don't want to give too much away, because I feel that to properly enjoy the story behind Dewey, you have to read and experience it yourself. But I will say that this story was an amazing, inspiring, and yes, tearful, one, told by his owner, Vicki Myron, who is, in my opinion, a wonderful writter and person. She didn't just write about Dewey, she wrote about everything that affected him or that he affected, both locally and nationally, personally and for the general population. It was told from the heart, straight forward and intense, but always true.

Dewey's life started out hard, but that fateful day, when Vicki found him and took him in, everything changed, both for Dewey and for everyone who would come to know him over his almost two-decade span of life. His story really touched me, and I would recommend it to anyone and everyone whom I thought would be able to read it and truly appreciate it. That is to say, someone who is not an animal lover, particularly a cat lover, may think it's a nice story and put it out of their mind, while someone who has grown up with cats all their lives, maybe even experienced a few that could be almost kin to Dewey as far as personality and the way that they touched the person's life, would probably cherish this story.

I've had cats my whole life, and though all of them have touched me in some way, there have been a few that stand out a bit more. Unfortunately, it always seems like those ones are the ones who pass on quicker, or so it seems to us, the owners. Though many of the extrememly special ones in my life have passed on, I still remember them, every special memory, every touch and connection that we had, and yes, sometimes, even years later, I still grieve for them, even though I know that they are still here in a way, and they are no longer in pain. Because of this, I felt an instant connection to Dewey and his story, though I had never met him, or heard of him before this book, and after finishing the story,my only wish was that I could have been able to meet him.

There was one line, the very last paragraph in the book, that really got me, and I think that it sums up everything I feel after reading this wonderful book:

"He's still holding me now. So thank you, Dewey. Thank you. Wherever you are."

Thank you, both Dewey and Vicki, for allow me, and other readers, to enjoy this unique, loving, and very touching story of love, survival, and more than a few laughs.

4.5/5 STARS! An amazing book about a very special cat and a city that pulled together to care for him, only to realize after wards that he was the one that cared for them. A must read for anyone who wants to be inspired and amazed, to laugh and to cry. Watch out, though: The ending is a 10-hanky that will probably have you blinking back tears for a while afterwards *Even right now, I'm not ashamed to say that I am still a little bit red-eyed and sniffly*, even causing you to stop at a few parts to collect yourself before continuing. It's a very powerful story, and one that I hope to be able to pass on to others.


~TBQ~

"Dark Embrace"

Synopsis from B&N.com:

Aidan, the Wolf of Awe, has abandoned the Brotherhood and forsaken his vows. Feared by all and trusted by none, he hunts alone, seeking vengeance against the evil that destroyed his son. He has not saved an Innocent in sixty-six years—until he hears Brianna Rose's scream of terror across centuries, and leaps to modern-day Manhattan to rescue her.…



Brie is a gifted empath who spends her time fighting evil from the safety of her laptop—and fantasizing about the medieval Highlander she met just once. Still, her life is pretty ordinary—until she awakens one night consumed with Aidan's pain and rage. When Aidan suddenly appears and takes her hostage, Brie cannot believe how dark and dangerous he has become. She knows she should be afraid, but instead, she will fight across time for his redemption…and his love

Time travel, magic, sexy Highland Warriors, strong modern women, action, suspense, good versus evil, steamy love scenes, tears, and even laughs--you'll find all of these and more in Brenda Joyce's amazing Master of Time/Rose Trilogy. Sounds like a perfect combination, right? Hell Yeah!

I loved her previous two books, and this one was no different! Aidan, Wolf of Awe, is one of the mysterious and very powerful Master of Times. Though he used to be a good, caring person, all of this changed when his father, an evil demon, killed his son and turned him to the dark side...or so it seems. But when his pain and suffering transcends centuries and thousands of miles, flooding Brianna Rose with the raw feelings, his life will change.. forever.

Despite the fact that everyone says there is no hope, that the Wolf of Awe is a soulless half-demon, much like his father, Brie refuses to believe this. Besides her crush on him, which is quickly escalating into something eerily similar to love, Brie can feel not only his 'evil' emotions but also the ones that hint towards his old self, both of which have given her hope that if she can only heal him, everything will be fine.

If only it was that easy, right? The journey to their happily-ever-after is very difficult and twisted, road blocks popping up all the time. But no worries-- along the way you will enjoy many other amazing scenes, conversations, laughs, and yes, even a few very lusty love scenes that will have you fanning yourself AND sighing at their love, which, though it is not two sided yet *This is before the 'happily-ever-after' part, remember?* and has it's bumps, is still lovely nonetheless. And the struggle between both father *Aidan* and son *Ian* is almost heart-breaking and very intense...In fact, until the very end, you, along with the characters in the book, are not even sure if the two will ever be reunited.... *Oops.. I've said too much. Sorry!*

5/5 STARS! A great story line, written by a wonderful author, and delivered flawlessly, Dark Embrace will keep you sitting on the edge of your seat, anxiously waiting to see what will happen next, and not only between Aidan and Brie-- you'll find yourself meeting old friends from the previous books and new ones that will have their own books soon enough. A delightful and delicious romance filled with paranormal and Highlanders galore! I can't wait until the next book!

~TBQ~

"The Care and Feeding of Pirates"

Synopsis from B&N.com:

What's a lady to do when the pirate husband she thought was dead tries to lure her back into his arms and away from the safe, quiet life she had all planned out?

After reading the second one in Ashley's Pirate Series, The Pirate Hunter, a few days ago, I was hoping that the interesting and 'proper' Honoria, James sister, would have her own story. So when I picked up The Care and Feeding of Pirates and found out she was the heroine of this book, I was happy. Honoria deserved to have her story told.

Here we thought she was this prim and proper unmarried lady when instead we find out that she's married, to a pirate believed to have been killed four years ago but who is actually still alive. And though James referred to her as 'cold' and 'heartless' in the last book *They were never really close, but after this book, they do get a bit closer*, believe me, she is anything but!

The storyline was interesting enough, able to keep me up and reading all night, unlike the previous book, TPH, which I loved, but had a slower start to it. TCFP is the complete opposite-- in fact, a lot of the action happens in the first 30 pages, when Honoria revels to us her 'scandalous' hidden past and then suddenly her 'dead' pirate husband comes back-- and he wants his wife back.

The romance was both steamy and touching, the story had action and adventure and more than a few laughs. And one of the unique things that I enjoyed was the side romance going on between the newly rescued half-sister of Christopher and Henderson, a proper peer who has always been interested in pirates and pirate hunting. Kind of ironic then, that the pirate *Chris's sister* falls for the pirate hunter *Henderson*, something that he points out to her towards the end as they are rowing away.

4.5/5 stars! Yet another great book by an amazing author, The Care and Feeding of Pirates is filled with dashing and dangerous pirates *All in favor, say 'Aye'!*, passionate love scenes, laughs and adventure, and yes, even a few parts in the story were you just might find your eyes getting a bit misty. :) A wonderful treat for any romance reader!

~TBQ~

"Mercury's War"

Synopsis from BN:

Nothing matches Lora Leigh’s latest entry in the series about genetically altered Breeds with feline DNA—and the humans who awaken their desire.

Someone has been slipping the Sanctuary’s secure information to a pharmaceutical company. Now it’s up to Ria Rodriguez to pose as a clerk and uncover the leak. Yet she has no idea of the danger she’s about to encounter—or the passion she’s about to ignite in one of the greatest Breeds ever created.

My Review:

From the very start, I've been hooked, addicted to the dark, sweet Breeds books. Mercury's War is no different. Full of energy, interesting and strong characters, sizzling love scenes and very emotional moments, suspense and even a bit of mystery, Mercury's War, along with all of her other Breeds books, if a perfect read for any romance lover.

 

 

 

Some women who have read Leigh's Breeds books say that they quit the series because they felt that the books kept repeating themselves, the sex scenes were too graphic and occurred too often, and they felt that the mating heat and alpha male heroes sometimes went too close to that fine-line between passion and rape. I understand that each person has their own opinions, and I respect that.

 

 

 

 

But for those of you who see reviews that include any of the above reasons for why NOT to read the book, please, don't listen to them. Or at least give at least one of her books a chance before you say 'I agree with...' Here is what I have to say about this subject:

 

 

Yes, Lora Leigh's books, not just her Breeds Series but all of her books, are very heavy in the explicit erotic sex scenes. It says so in many of the reviews, and that is what she is well known for writing-- amazing, but very steamy, romances. If you can't stand reading books that are this explicit, that's fine *Once again, everyone has their own opinions!*, but make sure that you are not just passing up her books because you are under the impression that by 'explicit and sex-filled' it really means 'Straight-out Erotica/Porno', because I can promise you, it's not. I've read erotica before, from different authors and different genres. In general, erotica is usually 80 percent sex scenes, 10 percent action and 10 percent romance. Of course, this varies depending on the book, the author, and how well written the book is. Now, I'm not trying to diss these books, but I am trying to prove a point, so please, stick with me.

 

 

 

The difference between full out erotica and the unique blend that Lora Leigh does is very important, and if you read one of her books, you should be able to identify the difference. During the love scenes, which may be a bit more numerous than in most regular romances I'll admit, Leigh combines more than just hot sex, more than just demanding desires and wants. She adds in a heavy dose of true, honest-to-goodness love. The hero and heroine are not just humping each other constantly like bunnies, their love making, while very erotic, has emotion to it, beyond simple desire. I can't explain all of the feelings that run through them during these scenes, but if you read it, maybe you'll see what I'm trying to explain. They love each other, the kind of love that fairy tales and happily-ever-afters are made of, and their love is shown through not only words and glances, but also physically. It's not just sex, it's something more, something that I'm sure a lot of us wish that we had, or maybe you already do and you understand.

 

 

 

 

And as far as the alpha males and mating heat...Well, this is another thing that unless you read the books and experience first hand what it's like for the characters, you may, incorrectly, assume that this somehow forces the couple to need each other's bodies. Not true. In fact, Elizabeth, the mate to the very first breed, said such to Ria in Mercury's War. Though I can't remember the exact quote, it went something like this:

"In every mated couple, you see the same thing: love. It's not just a chemical, hormonal, or phenomenal bond between them. No, there is always something deeper there, and you can see it in their eyes. The public can believe what they want, but it's not just something that was artificial forced upon any of us."

 

 

 

Can their protectiveness, their devotion and love for one another sometimes get a little bit hard, (to some it may even seem exaggerated) and almost, but not quiet, out of control? Yes, BUT if you read the whole story, not just these parts where they *usually the male* is about to lose control of his emotions and self-control, you see that he can't harm her because their bond, their mating, goes so deep, involving not only the human part and emotions but also the animalistic needs and nature. Unless we're talking about some of the evil guys in it, the men never rape the women, nor vise-versa. Even if it may seem like they are 'fighting' each other, it's not the same thing. For the Breeds, who are very much in touch with the animal inside of them, mating requires two strong and independent people coming together. The beast doesn't want a weak mate, someone who will let him walk all over her. No, they want someone who will fight back, will challenge them on occasion and spice up their life. Maybe it's just me, but I do not see this as rape of any kind.

 

 

 

And the only thing that all of her books in the Breed Series have in common is the fact that each pairing goes through the intense mating heat, falling in love and producing such spectacular emotions along the way that even the reader feels like they are experiencing it. In Mercury's War, there were many places in the story where I felt so connected to the characters that I felt like I was the character. I wanted to curl up and cry with Ria, mourning my 'lost' mate. I could feel the dark desire surging just beneath the surface, fighting to get free. Lora writes the stories with such emotion and depth that sometimes you can't help but 'feel' them. When she cried for Mercury, I felt like doing the same. When she realized just how deep their love and bond went, I felt it too. Now, I'm not stupid or crazy-- I realize that a book is just that-- a book. But I also know that when an author is able to weave together a world that is so believable, so real and dynamic that you are pulled right into the story and experience it from your eyes, or so it seems, she *or he!* must be a damn good writer! And I enjoy reading books like this, ones that not only pull me into the story but almost make me believe, even if only for a moment before rational thoughts remind me that it's all 'fantasy', that everything is real.

 

 

 

With that said, I'll move on to specifics about why I loved Mercury's War so much.

 

 

 

MW is an AMAZING book, a perfect example of romance writing at it's absolute best. The characters are great, strong and interesting. The paranormal theme is done wonderfully, the Breed world she's created captivating and addicting. As I've said before, the love scenes are powerful, emotionally and physically, and the romance is so touching, so gut-wrenching, heart-breaking, tear-jerkingly intense that you can't help but believe it with all your heart. And as if that wasn't enough, the plot line is always changing, some of the minor characters always switching sides and playing mind games so that you can't see the outcome until it's right there, written in front of you. The story literally takes you on a roller coaster, both emotionally and otherwise, and you'll find yourself enjoying the ride, desperate for more, always wanting more.

 

 

 

5/5 STARS! I do not know what more I can say about this book. It's amazing, beautiful, stunning, incredible, fantastic... The list goes on and on. But don't just take my word-- find out for yourself. I promise, you will be glad you did!

~TBQ~

"The Pirate Hunter"

Synopis from B&N.com:

A widowed woman believes she may have found the key to her hardened heart in the arms of her abductor-a roguish pirate hunter.











Though the story started out a little bit slow, it quickly grew on me. I was hesitant to finish the book because it seemed like it was taking me forever to read it, but after about the first 80 pages or so, I was hooked and I knew that there was no way I could put the book down unfinished. Their love story was too compelling, too interesting, and by the end of the book I was more than happy that I had stuck with it. I cannot wait to go back and read the first book in this series, along with the third one, which I currently have in my TBR pile.

Jennifer Ashley, AKA, Allyson James, is an amazing author, no matter what genre she is writing for. I've read, and loved, all of her books, both historical and paranormal, whether it's filled with pirates or hot Nvengarians *Read her Nvengarian Series and you will know what I am talking about!* her books are always a sure winner! Filled with action and adventure, suspense and humor, wickedly handsome heroes and strong heroines, their love story is always a combination of steamy love scenes and teary 'I Love You' moments. A great combination, made even better by her unique story lines, characters, and writing style in general.

I found The Pirate Hunter to be a thrilling romantic read, touching and passionate, funny and interesting. The hero, James, is a dashing pirate hunter, dangerous and a bit of a tortured hero, which makes for a nice mix. He washes up on an island, where he is found by none other than a long lost love, Diana. She takes him in and cares for him, and of course the road to recovery is laced with passionate kisses and a few of her famous tempertamtrums *She likes to throw things at him!*, providing laughs along the way. But no story is perfect, and their happily-ever-after is threatened more than once by the English, who want to hang James, and his past, which still haunts him. However, it all works out in the end, taking you on a wild roller-coaster ride that brings you safely back to the ground in one piece, the warm and fuzzy feelings included.

4.5/5 STARS! A great story filled with adventure and intense love, both in and out of the bedroom. You may even find yourself blinking back a few tears towards the latter part of the book. A definite must read for any romance fan, and if you love a good heated pirate story than it's even better!


~TBQ~

"One Bite Stand"

Synopis from B&N.com:

He’s a big, bad vampire looking for a one-bite stand.

She’s a big, bad harpy looking for her ticket to the underworld.

Harpies don’t get callbacks. That’s why Daria’s job as night manager of the Woo Woo Inn is the opportunity of several lifetimes. Where better to prove that in the snatch-and-dispatch business she has CEO potential? So what if she doesn’t really fit the corporate image. So what if she has to nurture her inner bitch to compete. And triple so what if she’d rather take Declan Mackenzie to bed than on a one-way, all-expense-paid trip to Tartarus. His sexy blue eyes and hard male body lure her into deep and dangerous erotic waters. With a monster eating guests for its midnight snack, cosmic troublemakers cooking up chaos, and Declan making serious moves on her, this looks like a lot more than a…

ONE BITE STAND

Just like with my previous review on A Taste of Darkness, I cannot help but stress the fact that this book is filled with great sex, great romance, and tons of laughs! It's the perfect combination of all the things you could possibly ask for in a book, and it will leave you wanting more.


If you have not read one of Nina Bang's books yet, I dare you to try one, any of them. If after reading that book, you are not hooked, then... Wait, what am I talking about? Anyone who reads her books becomes hooked. Heck, just picking them up to find out what troubles Sparkles and Graymede will get into next is enough to make you 'hooked'. In fact, I bet that it will not even take the full book to get you hooked!


Okay, back to this book. One Bite Stand *interesting name, by the way* has everything in it: vampires, shapeshifters, werewolves, demons, harpies, gods... You name it. Add to that fun mix the hot and delicious love scenes between Daria and Declan, along with the romance, the laughs, the tears *even though there weren't many teary moments, they were still good!*and the thrill of watching them work together to destroy evil and save the world *literally!*, and you've got an amazing receipe!


The heroine was a harpie, the hero a sexy vampire. Though it may sound like a weird couple at first, once you read their story and get to know them better, you realize that they fit together. They are both strong in character, (No wimpy soulmate for these two!) and they bring out the best in each other, just like a true couple is suppose to do. Through the book we learn more about both of their pasts and their personalities, and there is a whole lot more than mets the eye! For example, both of them have some.. unusual parent combinations. His mother was a vampire, his dad is the evil, and the oldest, werewolf in the world, Fenrir, who is trying to escape his 'prison' and join his father and siblings so that they can destroy the entire world *See, I told you that they have to literally save the world!*. Her mother is a harpy but her and her twin brother take after their father as far as looks-- Apollo, the god. Very interesting story when you add all of that together!


The tear jerker moment of this book was towards the end. I don't want to give too much away, so I'll just say that Daria manages to contact Declan's long lost children *Which he had before he 'turned' vampire at 29, which was probably 800 or so years ago. Mackenzie vampires can only have kids while they are still human, which was why back then they used to marry early and have kids.*, whom he believed to be dead. It was such a sweet moment, that I swear I felt tears in my eyes, which doesn't usually happen in a book. A movie, sure, but a book? It's very rare for me to cry during a book. The only thing I wish the author would have done different was give us a little bit more of the reunion between father and children. The book ending almost as soon as they showed up, and I would have liked to have read more about it! It wouldn't have been that much harder to continue the story for a, what, maybe a page or two more? Instead, it just hints at the tender moment that is happening, what with Declan tearing up a bit and then telling Daria how much he loves her. But despite this little 'problem', the ending was still a good one, so don't get discouraged by my complaint!


4.5/5 STARS! I find myself repeating the same words again and again, but I can't help it-- it's the truth! This book was wonderful, a charming read filled with passion, gut-wrenching love, tender moments and butt-kicking action scenes, giggles, laughs...Everything that a romance book should have!


~TBQ~

Shiloh Walker-- BLOG ALL ABOUT IT! contest

The Missing by Shiloh Walker

Coming November 2008

A sinfully sexy novel of romantic suspense about a woman whose psychic gift drives away the man she loves—and years later draws him back to her…

LOVE LOST

As a teenager, Taige Branch was able to do things with her psychic gift that others couldn’t understand—except for Cullen Morgan, the boy her stole her heart. He did his best to accept her abilities, until his mother was brutally murdered—and he couldn’t forgive Taige for not preventing her death.

PASSION FOUND

Now a widowed father, Cullen Morgan has never forgotten Taige. But what brings her back into his life is another tragic event. His beloved little girl has been kidnapped, and Taige is his only hope of finding her.

A LOVE THAT NEVER DIED

Working together against the clock, Cullen and Taige can’t help but wonder whether—if they find his daughter in time—it isn’t too late for the overpowering love that still burns between them…

Excerpt

The weird sense of deja vu exploded into something else entirely. Something that shook her to the core. His eyes narrowed and he reached up, caught her chin in his, staring at her.

She was pale and Cullen thought she looked every bit as shaken as he felt. “The dreams,” he muttered. He caught her face in his hands and forced her to look at him, staring into her pale gray eyes. The ugly, dark bruise around her left eye made her iris seem that much paler and as he watched, the pupil flared, enlarging until just a sliver of gray of visible.

Taige tried to jerk away and he wouldn’t let her. “You had the dreams, too, didn’t you?” he demanded.

Her voice shook as she reached up with one hand to jerk on his wrist, trying to break his hold. “Let go of me.”

Slowly, he shook his head. “You have,” he whispered, dismay spreading through him. Dismay–and something else. She’d always held herself apart from him in those dreams. But through those dreams, he’d gotten to know her, gotten to know the woman she had become. She was pulling away from him not because she was angry at him, or because she didn’t want anything to do with him.

She pulled back because she still loved him.

releasing 11/4/08… Want to read more? Click here ------------------------------------------------------ Contest Rules~ You just blog about it. All you have to do is take the excerpt and the cover graphic, post them to your blog, and then send Shiloh Walker an email @ contest4shiloh(at)gmail.com with the words BLOG ALL ABOUT IT in the subject line. In the email, make sure you include a link to your blog post. Prize will be: 1.ARC of FRAGILE, my 2/09 release (this will not be mailed until January) 2.Gift Certificate for $40 to the bookstore of your choice (as long as I can purchase the GC certificate online, you can pick whatever bookstore you want) 3.Two books from my available backlist 4.Goody bag.

"A Taste of Darkness"

Synopis from B&N.com:

He’d lived a thousand years for this? It’s enough to make a vampire want to rush outside to soak up some rays, order garlic mashed potatoes, or fall on a wooden stake.

The council, in its infinite stupidity, has made Reinn Mackenzie the Guardian of the Blood for his vampire clan. Talk about crappy jobs. He’s supposed to run around lopping off the head of any Mackenzie dumb enough to mate with someone not on the council’s approved list. Gotta keep the Mackenzie blood pure. Giant whoop. He’s nothing but a glorified Weedwacker for the clan. So he’s stuck at the Woo Woo Inn, skulking undercover while he looks for the right moment to off the clueless Mackenzie about to marry a sneaky, manipulating werecat. Reinn doesn't get it. Who’d be stupid enough to die for a deceitful, whisker-twitching shifter?

Kisa Evans has a boatload of problems. She’s a virgin, someone is stalking her with the intent to keep her in cat form forever, she’s a virgin, the deadly Guardian of the Blood is out to murder her sister’s fiancé, and she’s a virgin. Werecat law says that she can’t mate with any male weaker than herself. Hello? She’s not your usual lap kitty. There IS no male stronger than Kisa.
But minds were meant to be changed. When Reinn meets Kisa, he realizes that his sexy werecat is worth dying for. Kisa finally finds a male stronger than she is and admits that the enemy has become her love. Too bad that love can’t erase the dangers surrounding them.

A happily ever after doesn’t seem likely for Reinn and Kisa, but not to worry. Strange things are the norm at the Woo Woo Inn.

As with all of Nina Bang's romance novels, A Taste of Darkness is filled with the right amount of everything: touching romance, hot steamy love scenes, paranormal themes left and right, some action/suspense, and a truck load of laughs! It is a great ride, from beginning to end, and it will have you coming back for more!

If you've read any of Nina's books before, either from the Mackenzie Vampire Series or her Castle of Dreams Trilogy, then you are already well acquainted with our two favorite Cosmic Troublemakers, Sparkle and Graymede. If you do not know them, then you are in for one hell of a laugh! They're always making trouble *duh, it's their 'job'* but they always manage to turn it around to something positive, giving the reader PLENTY of laughs along the way.

The storyline is great, not too deep, but not so fluffy light that you're left wondering where the plot was lost between editing and publishing. Bang's stories, this book included, are always charming and captivating, and they will keep up until dawn trying to finish it! And the romance is scorching, a perfect combination of passion and true love.

And as if all of that wasn't enough to make you run out and grab this book, the story's world is filled with every paranormal creature you can imagine-- harpies, vampires *More than one kind, actually.*, werewolves, all kinds of shapeshifters, demons...the list is almost endless! The hero in A Taste of Darkness is not only a vampire, but also a sexy one that still carries his medieval sword with him and he's Scottish.. well, kind of. He and his 'family', the Mackenzies, kind of 'adopted' the name and heritage hundreds of years ago, but still, I can easily image the rough Scottish burr. :) What more can you possibly ask for?

5/5 STARS! One of the best paranormal authors out there, Nina Bangs delivers in this amazing, rollicking romance. A definite must read for any one, and don't forget to grab her other books--once you are introduced to one sexy vampire hero, you won't be able to resist the need to find out what is in store for the other ones!

~TBQ~

"Marked by Moonlight"

SYNOPIS from B&N.com:

She doesn't know what bit her...
Seemingly overnight, Claire Morgan has transformed: the normally mousy schoolteacher is now bold, and her behavior is truly wild. Her eyes gleam silver. Suddenly she's a self-confident femme fatale with a libido that just won't quit. After an impulsive makeover, she's even...dare she say it?...sexy. Is Claire going insane?

Then brutally handsome stranger Gideon March tells her she was bitten by a werewolf, and Claire figures he's the insane one. Sure, she was attacked by a nasty dog in a back alley, but this guy stalking her says he's a member of an underground society of lycan hunters -- and his mission is to kill her immediately.

When Claire finally realizes she really is a lycan, there's no turning back -- because by now Claire and Gideon are bound by a hungry passion. If they can't break the curse by the next full moon, Claire's soul will be lost forever and Gideon will be forced to terminate his prey -- a woman dangerously close to devouring him, heart and soul.

This book had everything-- love, lust, action, suspense, paranormal themes, and even a few laughs. Even though I didn't particularly like the fact that in this world, lycans, aka werewolves, are bad creatures, evil and soulless, I still thought that Sharie Kohler, AKA Sophia Jordan, did a pretty good job of proving that she can write paranormal romances almost as good as she can historical ones!

I liked that the heroine was kind of shy and quiet, mousy is often use to describe her, but she still gets the man and she even realizes that she can stick up for herself, that she is a strong, brave woman. I like that-- I can't stand having a whiny, wimpy heroine, and I'm sorry, but I was getting a bit tired of all the heroines in the previous four or so romances I've read being blondes. Yeah Brunettes! *And yes, I am one of them (brunette, that is)...*

The hero was sexy and fierce, and I think he would have made a great werewolf alpha male, but oh well. He had a bit of a bad past, which was what made him join the organization that kills the lycans. And the name... Gideon... Seriously, is there a sexier name out there? Well, okay, so maybe there are a few, but Gideon is still pretty high on the sexy list!

I'm interesting in finding out Darius's story, the ancient lycan that Claire and Gideon 'befriend'. He's not evil and soulless like he should be, and of course he's described as being deliciously handsome. I'm hoping that she's going to write his story. Also, I know that the next book in this series covers Kit's *Gideon's sister* story, which should be good! I cannot wait to read it!

4.5/5 stars! A great story that combines many elements together almost flawlessly and will have you sitting on the edge of your seat! I will say that I do wish she had played up the 'romance' element a little bit more, because it seemed to take a backseat more than a few times throughout the story. Still, even that wasn't enough to ruin the over all book.

~TBQ~

'"Rumors"

Synopis from B&N.com:

After bidding good-bye to New York's brightest star, Elizabeth Holland, rumors continue to fly about her untimely demise.

All eyes are on those closest to the dearly departed: her mischievous sister, Diana, now the family's only hope for redemption; New York's most notorious cad, Henry Schoon-maker, the flame Elizabeth never extinguished; the seductive Penelope Hayes, poised to claim all that her best friend left behind—including Henry; even Elizabeth's scheming former maid, Lina Broud, who discovers that while money matters and breeding counts, gossip is the new currency.

As old friends become rivals, Manhattan's most dazzling socialites find their futures threatened by whispers from the past. In this delicious sequel to The Luxe, nothing is more dangerous than a scandal . . . or more precious than a secret.

I enjoyed the first book in this series, The Luxe, and I figured that when Rumors came out, I'd fall instantly in love with it also. But I have to say that I was a tad bit disappointed.

Though the original story told in the previous book was interesting and she could have continued that story and expanded it even more in this book, it fell a little short. Yes, it had it's moments when you were completely captivated by the characters and plot, but it also had more than a few times when you almost wanted to either: a)skip it, b) chuck the book, or c) ask the author what in the world she was thinking. Especially the ending... but I don't want to spoil it, so I won't say anything beyond that!

In the first book, the story was filled with drama, romance, characters that were always committing backstabbing against so called friends, and plenty of ever-changing plot twists. It was a nice take on a time period that we do not often think about or read about: New York City in the 1800s. It wasn't the perfect presitge era we've come to think it was! And the fact that it was written for a teenage audience, even though a person of any age could read it and enjoy it, was something new and compelling.

So where did the story go wrong? Why was it that I wasn't 100 percent satisfied with Rumors even though I loved The Luxe? Honestly, I think it was because a lot of the lying and sneaking about, the romance and drama, was gone from this book. It sounded more like an old diary entry from the time period or even a plain old fictional book based on the era. She didn't expand any more on the characters or their stories, the love between Will and Elizabeth wasn't there as much *though, yes, they were missing from most of this story, but still!* and the budding romance between Henry and Diana was cut short and seemed rushed and not real!

4/5 STARS! It was an okay read, and if you liked the first one, you should still read this one. I will probably still come back to the series to read the next book, Envy, mainly because with a title like that, it has to be interesting.. right?....and also because I'm hoping that somehow, by some miracle, Anna Godbersen will bring back the person she killed off in the last chapter or so of this book... I doubt it, since this isn't a fantasy book, but I can always dream... I think that this person's death was what really made me lower this rating from the '5' that I gave Luxe to the '4'. Otherwise, it's a perfectly nice read, but it's now where near as thick and complicated as the last book, which was a pity, really.

~TBQ~

"Lord of the Deep"

Synopis from B&N.com:

Accused of witchcraft and banished to the Isle of Mists, Meg is utterly alone, until the night the selkies appear for a moonlight orgy, glistening wet, proudly naked. As beautiful bodies entwine and shapes shift within the sea, a man comes forth from the waves--and what a man he is... Strong and masterful, the Lord of the Deep enchants her...and Meg must surrender. Only he can satisfy her virgin longings--and her darkest desires...

I have read Dawn Thompson's *May she Rest in Peace* work before, and I enjoyed it. So I figured, naively, that I would also enjoy Lord of the Deep. With a title and cover like that, you expect it to be steamy and sexy and a good erotica+romance read, right? That's what I thought.. boy was I wrong! I was able to read it quickly, in about a day, but I think I kept reading it so quickly, hoping, praying, that it would get better.. but it didn't. The sex, and there was plenty of it, was.. explicit, I guess you could say, but it was anything but arousing! The words she used were repeated too many times and sometimes they were the wrong words, ones that unless you knew exactly what they meant, you couldn't quite grasp what she was trying to point out. And when you are reading a 'love' scene, you shouldn't have to stop and go 'Wait, what'?. Best to leave the big words and synonyms for literature, not erotica/romance. It just doesn't fit in too well, or at least, it didn't in this book. The number of times *and there were plenty! About 20 too many!* she used the words 'mushroom-headed' and 'pearly', usually combined, ruined it. We get the picture, we know what his penis looks like, and yes, we know what you refer to as pearly. Or when Meg kept having flash backs of what it was like to watch him take the female selkie on the beach while she fondled herself.. I swear, every time the 'flashbacks' came into the story again, it was like the exact same paragraph being used! It was annoying, and anything but stimulating or interesting. I'm okay with the erotica romance books, but this one ruined both the erotica and the romance. In other words, it wasn't a flawless combination of both, like I usually read, nor could it even pull off being a 'good' porno/straight out erotica, and it was definitely not very romance-y. Their love was not very believable, and it fell flat. I figured that even if the sex and love was crappy, maybe I could connect with the paranormal/fantasy world that she had created.. I tried, but I couldn't. It was too odd, maybe too poorly written or explained, I really don't know, but I do know that it was lifeless. When I read a fantasy or paranormal book, I expect to fall into the world the author is creating, to be pulled in and enjoy the ride to the end. With this book, I couldn't even beginning to fall for it! The magic element wasn't really played on as much as I thought, I was put off by the selkie theme *I love shapeshifters, but I cannot stand the thought of a man or woman turning into a seal and then back to human... At least not when the story is suppose to be hot and steamy and full of love... It doesn't work for me!*, rape was brought in a few times, the heroine wasn't very strong.. the list goes on and on. 2/5 STARS! I tried, I really did, to like this book...I hate when I find a book that I hate *it really doesn't happen that often for me!* and I wanted to like this book, like I have a few of her other books, but I couldn't get into it. The romance fell flat, the sex was tasteless and not very imaginative. When it could have become very, very steamy and arousing, she added in too many words to 'describe' the scene, and it ruined whatever good ambiance she had managed to create. The affect was like having cold water poured on you! And don't even get me started with the whole 'tree sex'! (If you've read the book, then unfortunately you know what I mean. If you haven't, then you are fortunate enough to not know what I'm talking about, but I've probably captured your attention, haven't I? Now you're going to want to go out and grab the book off the shelves just to find out what the tree sex is all about... and No, unfortunately, it is not some new and kinky way to make love while pressed up against a tree. If only!) To make a long story short, save yourself the money and time, the laugh and embarrassment *Because if you read it, you will find the 'sex' scenes to be so poorly written, it is embarrassing...* and forgo this book. Pick up one of her other books, I'm sure you'll enjoy them more, but this one is better left on the bookstore shelf. Although, I may glance through the next book in the series, when it comes out, just to see if Gideon can get his story and if it is a vast improvement from this..But only because Gideon was interesting and secretive, the total mysterious 'bad' boy. ~TBQ~

"Demon Fire" is Steamy and Sexy!

Synopis from B&N.com:

The thrilling new erotic paranormal romance from the USA Today bestselling author.

Fleeing the routine life her family wanted for her, Beth joins an archaeological dig spearheaded by her cousin Charles. For such an adventurer, the desert city of Bhamjran is perfect for making unusual discoveries-especially when it comes to forbidden appetites. Like his own unnatural desire for a Yama demon. And as he and Beth are about to learn, some Yama find humans equally irresistible...

At first, I was weary about this book; the relationship in the book is between two men and a women. Now, I'm used to reading more erotic type of romances, especially since I have read Emma Holly's books before, and I've come across threesomes many times, but very few times have I read a book where all three of them fall in love and stay together for more than just a night of really intense sex. Demon Fire fits into the latter category, with all three of them 'mating'.

Like all of her other books, Demon Fire is very sexy, very hot and steamy, and very, very explicit. It is not for the faint of heart. But if you like having a good dose of erotica in your romance, then her books, including Demon Fire, are for you. The one thing that I like about her books is that she can combine the romance and erotica together nicely, so that it does not read like a cheap and poorly written porno, like some erotica books I have read before.

I may not 'approve' of the threesome/polygamy theme going on in this book, that is, I would never do that myself, but for simply reading it for pleasure *no pun intended!!*, I can handle it when it it written nicely, such as Holly's books. It was not all about straight sex, but instead a combination of tender love, gut-wrenching feelings, paranormal, and, okay, a heavy dose of passionate, smokin' hot sex. If she had taken out one of those elements, the book would not have been as good as it was.

4.5/5 STARS! A perfect combination of hot sex, tender moments, passionate love, a unique paranormal setting, a touch of adventure/action/suspense, humor... Really, it has everything, and best of all, it's very well written.

~TBQ~