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Current Giveaways
Sunday, March 29, 2009
April New Releases
Friday, March 27, 2009
What I've Been Reading This Week
Friday: Moving Violations One of the first books I've read in E-book form (yes, ever!) and I enjoyed it. Of course, the fact that it was a Lora Leigh probably didn't hurt! I love her books, especially her Breeds', she always manages to capture the right amount of romance, steamy erotic scenes, characters, and a good plot line to make the perfect book. And they are always such good books, that you can sit down and finish them in one sitting (like I did with this one. Of course, since it was on the computer, I did regret it a bit after because of the killer neck/headache I got afterwards, but it was worth it!). Really, what more can I say? I mean, it's a Lora Leigh novel-- enough said! 4/5 STARS Summary (B&N): Deceit and treachery mix with treason in a small Tennessee town. When Becca returns to Jericho as the new deputy, she wasn't expecting that the man she's loved for ten years would welcome her with a night of passion and lust. Nor did she expect that he was actually her new boss, the newly appointed sheriff. Now Becca and Jackson must find their way amid a growing desire and a love deeper than they imagined, as well as a danger that could destroy more than just their lives. It could destroy a nation.
Friday (Again!): Perfect I can't believe how much I ended up loving this book! I'd put it off for almost a year, and there were a few points in the book where it dragged a bit too much for my tastes, but over all, I was very impressed-- Perfect was almost, well, perfect! Sweet, romantic, witty, and yes, a bit over dramatic at times, but it was still a lovely read! I'd love to go back and find a few more of McNaught's books, such as Paradise, which features a couple (Matt and Meredith, I believe) that appeared in this one. It was a long book, much longer than most romances I read, but I didn't mind it too much-- the length was definitely needed for their love to come about, and Zach to be proven innocent. 4.5/5 STARS. Summary (B&N): A rootless foster child, Julie Mathison had blossomed under the love showered upon her by her adoptive family. Now a lovely and vivacious young woman, she was a respected teacher in her small Texas town, and she passionately lived her ideals. Julie was determined to give back all the kindness she'd received; nothing and no one would ever shatter the perfect life she had fashioned. Zachary Benedict was an actor/director whose Academy Award-winning career had been shattered when he was wrongly convicted of murdering his wife. After the tall, ruggedly handsome Zack escaped from a Texas prison, he abducted Julie and forced her to drive him to his Colorado mountain hideout. She was outraged, cautious, and unable to ignore the instincts that whispered of his innocence. He was cynical, wary, and increasingly attracted to her. Passion was about to capture them both in its fierce embrace...but the journey to trust, true commitment, and proving Zack's innocence was just beginning.... Until Next Time, Image by Cool Text: Logo and Button Generator - Create Your Own
What did I Receive?
Monday, March 23, 2009
REVIEW: "Kitty and the Dead Man's Hand"
Title: Kitty and the Dead Man's Hand
Series: The Kitty Norville Series, Book 5
Publisher: Grand Central Publishing (Hachette Book Group)
Pages: 320
Summary (B&N):
Already the alpha pair of Denver's werewolf pack, Kitty and Ben now plan to tie the knot human-style by eloping to Vegas. Kitty is looking forward to sipping fru-fru drinks by the pool and doing her popular radio show on live TV, but her hotel is stocked with werewolf-hating bounty hunters. Elsewhere on the Strip an old-school magician might be wielding the real thing; the vampire community is harboring a dark secret; and the irresistible star of a suspicious animal act is determined to seduce Kitty. Sin City has never been so wild, and this werewolf has never had to fight harder to save not only her wedding, but her very life.
My Thoughts: Although I haven't yet read the first four books in this series, I'm pretty sure that Carrie Vaughn's work has managed to catch my attention-- in a good way, of course. A light, quick read, Kitty and the Dead Man's Hand is a great option for anyone who likes a bit of adventure and humor in their romance novels. And even though it's technically a paranormal, the para-theme isn't too strong, and I'm sure that even those readers who are not usually drawn to the genre would enjoy the series.Vaughn has a way of writing what should be a very complex story line in a simple way-- that is, not to say that her work is simple, as in 'boring/slow', but it's not extremely difficult to follow. Like I said, I jumped into the series more than half way through, and I wasn't lost, although after finishing the book, I knew I wanted to go back and read the first books simply for the enjoyment, not necessarily because I needed to in order to move on to the newest book.
It was a fun read, and I finished it in one sitting. The characters were interesting, and I'd like to read more about Kitty's life-- it seems to be full of all kinds of adventures and troubles. Plus, I'd like to read the next book to see what happens with the mysterious Master Vampire that came into play at the end of this book. The only problem I had was with Ben, her mate. For some reason, I didn't really like him in this book... I don't know if my opinion would be different if I had read the series from book 1 on, and been introduced to him, got to know him, and saw how the two of them connected. Maybe. But it seemed like he was kind of distant in the book, and for being Kitty's mate, he almost seemed to take a backseat in the story, more like a sidekick or minor character instead of being the heroine's mate and therefore more like the story's second hero. Or was this just my imagination?
I almost didn't believe their love, but again, I think this could be because I skipped the first few books, where most of their major connecting would have first occurred. Maybe it's because I'm use to books where the romances is more explicit and, well, there? There wasn't one sex scene between Kitty and Ben in the whole book, and that's not what I usually look for in my romance novels. I'm not saying it had to be a full blown erotic novel, but I do wish it would have had something more to it, both for entertainment and to show their love.
Don't get me wrong-- just because I had a problem with the romance in the book, that doesn't mean that I didn't enjoy Kitty and the Dead Man's Hand -- I did. But after finishing it, I saw it more as a really light chic lit type of novel, a charming and quick read on a long day. But nothing really deep or romantic, I'm sorry to say. Again, maybe I would have been happier with the romance element in it if I'd read the series in order, I'm not sure, we'll have to see. I do plan on going back to read the first ones, as soon as I get some spare time.
4/5 STARS! A nice read for anyone, whether you are big on paranormal books or not. Charming, entertaining, and unique, I'd love to read more of Vaughn's work. Especially Kitty's novels. After all, life isn't easy for Kitty, and the troubles she experiences along the way will give you a few chuckles and make you realize that no matter how bad you may think your days has been going, it could be much, much worse!
Saturday, March 21, 2009
What did I Receive?
Title: Kitty and the Dead Man's Hand
Author: Carrie Vaughn
Series: The Kitty Norville Series, Book 5
Publisher: Grand Central Publishing
Summary (B&N):
Already the alpha pair of Denver's werewolf pack, Kitty and Ben now plan to tie the knot human-style by eloping to Vegas. Kitty is looking forward to sipping fru-fru drinks by the pool and doing her popular radio show on live TV, but her hotel is stocked with werewolf-hating bounty hunters. Elsewhere on the Strip an old-school magician might be wielding the real thing; the vampire community is harboring a dark secret; and the irresistible star of a suspicious animal act is determined to seduce Kitty. Sin City has never been so wild, and this werewolf has never had to fight harder to save not only her wedding, but her very life.
Well, that's it. What about the rest of you? Any good books in your mailbox/front porch?
Until Next Time, Image by Cool Text: Logo and Button Generator - Create Your Own
Wednesday, March 18, 2009
REVIEW: "City of Glass"
As Clary uncovers more about her family's past, she finds an ally in mysterious Shadow-hunter Sebastian. With Valentine mustering the full force of his power to destroy all Shadow-hunters forever, their only chance to defeat him is to fight alongside their eternal enemies. But can Downworlders and Shadowhunters put aside their hatred to work together? While Jace realizes exactly how much he's willing to risk for Clary, can she harness her newfound powers to help save the Glass City — whatever the cost?
Love is a mortal sin and the secrets of the past prove deadly as Clary and Jace face down Valentine in the final installment of the New York Times bestselling trilogy The Mortal Instruments.
My Thoughts:
From book one, I've been hooked. Completely and totally hooked. Really, from page one, I was hooked-- I'm not even joking. Cassandra Clare's fantasy world captivated me from the very beginning, and that hold hasn't lessened in the two books since. Like I've said before-- it has everything in it: romance, action, suspense, wit, et cetera. And the characters vary too-- from werewolves to faeries, vampires to humans, demons to angels. With a cast list like that, how can you not find something in the book that interests you? Uh huh, that's what I thought!
Clare has a way of constantly twisting the story plot, keeping the readers on their toes, without confusing us. Not always an easy thing to do, but Clare does it wonderfully! Just when you think that you know where the story is going, which side a particular character is on, Clare throws you a curve ball that sets you back (almost) to square one. Its one of the reasons why the books are so engaging--- the reader has to think about it, and try to keep up, unless of course they'd rather just enjoy the ride until the end when everything is resolved. I prefer trying to figure things out as the book goes, but with Clare's novels, it is sometimes a bit of a challenge. All the more reasons to enjoy it!
**SLIGHT SPOILER ALERT FOLLOWS**
Of course, the one thing I knew from book one, no matter how many curve balls she threw our way, was that Jace and Clary are not siblings. There, I said it. If it comes as a surprise to any readers out there, then I'm sorry for 'spoiling' that, but I think most readers have known all along, and strongly believed it in our hearts, that the two of them could never be siblings-- they belong together, they connect in a way couldn't be because of 'shared' blood. Plus, there were too many little clues and twists along the way that always made me realize that Jace wasn't really Johnathan. But I'm not going to go into too many details about this, one, because it's long and complicated if you haven't read all the books yet, and second, because I don't want to spoil anything else! Just trust me, and after you read COG, you too will probably think back to all the little things from the previous books that helped to point it out.
Besides the amazing story, I loved City of Glass because of the wit and sarcasm that I have come to expect and adore in the series, especially from Jace. It's so much a part of not only the characters, but the story, and it makes what would otherwise be a very dark and rich book (in a good way!) into one that has it's moments of lightness. I laughed at more than a few quotes in the book, in all of the books, actually, and some of them are where you least expect it. As much as I love a good strong fantasy book, heavy in plot and development, I want to have a few laughs along the way, too, and City of Glass delivers on both accounts.
Clary is a very strong character, and I enjoyed following her story through the series. Sometimes I find the heroine in books to be weak or annoying, but Clary was perfect-- as were most of the other interesting characters we are introduced to. From the flamboyant Magnus Bane (a gay warlock that falls for Alec) to the timid-turned-strong Simon, I enjoyed learning more about them all. They all added their own thing to the books, like layers on a cake-- without the one beneath it, the next one wouldn't be possible. I would love to hear more about them, especially some of the minor characters.... Its one of the reasons why it is so hard to see a good series end!
But what an end it was! I wasn't at all disappointed, and I doubt that you will be either. It was everything I expected, not only the action scenes, but seeing Jace and Clary finally fall for each other. Jace, for all his tough, bad-ass shell, proves again and again that he has a tender side in City of Glass. No wonder I love him so much! Seriously, why can't more men/boys in the real world have personalities and characteristics like those of the heroes from our favorite books?!
5/5 STARS! A dazzling ending to a brilliant series, City of Glass is everything the fans could possibly want, and more. The only disappointment will be at the end-- when the story is over, and there's no more to look forward to. (However, Clare does have a new series, a sort of prequel to this one, with different Shadowhunters from the 1800's or so, planned. Sadly, the first one won't be out until next year at the earliest.) A perfect example of fantasy and romance, humor and action, City of Glass (and the other two books) belong on any die-hard fantasy/romance fan's shelf, no matter the age. I would highly recommend Clare's work-- possibly even above Twilight---which is a very high compliment to give, if you know me and my love of Meyer's books... :D
Until Next Time,
Friday, March 13, 2009
What did I Receive?
Monday, March 9, 2009
Review: "Passion Unleashed"
Serena Kelley is an archaeologist and treasure hunter—and a woman with a secret. Since she was seven, she’s been the keeper of a powerful charm that grants her health and immortality . . . as long as she stays a virgin. But Serena isn’t all that innocent. And when a dangerously handsome stranger brings her to the brink of ecstasy, she wonders if she’s finally met the one man she cannot resist.
Fatal Desires…
Wraith is a Seminus demon with a death wish. But when an old enemy poisons him, he must find Serena and persuade her to give him the only known antidote in the universe—her charm. Yet, as she begins to surrender to his seductions, and Wraith senses the cure is within his grasp, he realizes a horrible truth: he’s falling for the woman whose life he must take in order to save his own.
When I first opened Pleasure Unbound (Book 1) last year, I instantly fell in love with Ione's fantasy world, her writing, and her characters-- especially E. Face it, when you start such a spectacular series like this, it's hard not to fall for the first hero you are introduced to. He'll stick in your mind for the rest of the series, towards the top of your list, even as you are introduced to more sexy alpha males. And even as much as I loved Shade's book, (review here), E's story was still fresh in my mind, too. I thought it would stay that way forever...
...And then I started Wraith's book, Passion Unleashed, and E, poor E, was the last guy on my mind! :D
I love the bad guy appeal on a hero as much as the next person, but when we were first introduced to Wraith in book one, he was just a 'so-so' character. I think it was because we knew very little about him, and he seemed to (on the surface) not give a sh** about anyone else. But after reading even a few pages of his story, I was hooked-- I needed more Wraith. Wraith became my favorite of all the brothers, hands down. Not only because of his story, which was AMAZING, but also because of him, and the drastic change he makes in Passion Unleashed.
Besides my complete obsession with Wraith, I also enjoyed this book because of the story line-- Ione keeps us on the edge of the seat until the very end. Will they be able to find a way to keep Wraith (and the other two brothers) alive before it's too late? Will they be able to stop the demons from taking over?
Larissa Ione may not have as many books out as some of the other paranormal authors in the business, but the fan base that some authors accomplish after twenty years of books, I'm convinced that Ione can accomplish with only her Demonica series! Like all of her previous Demonica books, Passion Unleashed has everything-- touching romance, witty conversations, captivating story lines, full-blown paranormal themes (demons and vampires and werewolves, oh my!), and, of course, amazingly steamy love scenes. And be prepared for more than a few surprises along the way..... A new character comes into the story, and he'll play a big part in future books, I'm sure. ;) Really, what more do you need? Add in Wraith's captivating personality and you have a picture perfect book. :)
I keep pressing 'delete' while writing this review, but no matter how long I stare at the computer and try to rewrite it, I'll never be able to do Passion Unleashed the justice it deserves. I can't even beginning to explain all the little things that made me love this book like I did, it's simply too hard! All I can say is if you've been waiting for Wraith's story from book one, you won't be disappointed! Wraith's story is hot hot hot, but it's still got a solid romance between the hero and heroine, it's not just pure lust driven sex 24/7. After all, for Wraith to change his ways like he does, you know that she's got to mean a lot to him!
5/5 STARS! Amazing, passionate... there are not enough good words in the world to describe it! But I will say this: if you thought that the Demonica series would end with Wraith, you're wrong. Like I said, a new hero comes into the story line in this book, and according to her website, she has another 2 books planned, though they won't be available until next year! ARRGH! There is no way I can survive the wait. Whatever will I do? Why, re-read Wraith's delicious story, of course!
Until Next Time,
Sunday, March 8, 2009
Review: "Trouble in High Heels"
~The wicked and wise Sunny Collins
4/5 STARS! Warm, charming, and brisk, Trouble in High Heels is a great weekend read, perfect for the beach or any other place you choose. Sit down, put your feet up, and enjoy this enganging contemporary!
Thanks again to Hachette for making this review possible! ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Tomorrow or Tuesday (at the latest) be prepared for my next review--and it's big, delicious, and amazing. Well, the book more than my words. ;) Care to guess what book it will be?
Until Next Time,