Terra's Book Blog

Fierce Eden by Jennifer Blake (Terra's Review)

2011-02-13T17:34:00.001-08:00

She was living in fear...

Beautiful, young widow Elise Laffont embraces her freedom during the daylight hours, running the farm she loves so dearly, but the night brings with it painful reminders of the torment she endured at the hands of her abusive husband. Fate may have taken her husband, but it hasn't erased the scars he left, and Elise wonders if she will ever be able to bear the touch of a man again.

He was a man torn by desire...

From the moment he laid eyes on the beautiful widow, Reynaud Chevalier wanted her. When disaster offers him the chance to claim her as his own, Reynaud seizes the opportunity to bind Elise to him, unaware that behind her determined bravado lays a heart shattered by the past.

(Terra's Thoughts) This is my first time reading a book by this author and I must say that I am impressed. It's not a fast paced story but a much meatier one than your average fluffy light historical romance.

Sorry ladies but this one doesn't have a sexy legged Scotsman but does have a sexy bare chested half breed American Indian. It does leave me in a quandary as I am partial to kilted Scotsman but after the descriptions here in this story it's making me think I might have to broaden my horizons.

Our heroine Elise Laffont is a very attractive young widow living in Louisiana and trying to make a go of things on her own. Considering the time period it does make this very hard for her as women are still frowned upon as far as intelligence and anything other than being barefoot and pregnant. Elise however is quite happy in her current situation of striking out to make her own path due to having a cruel and abusive husband. Who can blame her really?

Our hero Reynaud Chevalier was born on the wrong side of the tracks. Half Indian and half French he is a man of no people. Upon seeing our heroine though he does make himself indispensable to a fleeing group of French after they have been attacked by the Indians in a brutal raid. But, why should he do something like this even though he is a half breed. He knows the Indians and the French will both despise him for who he is and what he's done so what could be worth the possible cost of his life to help these people.

We travel through the harsh back country of Louisiana striving to stay one step ahead of the Indians while praying with all our might that we make it to the French fort unscathed. Dangers and disagreements abound aplenty, trust is just a five letter word that is tossed around like juggling balls and tempers blaze when all is not as it seems and some find out they have been deceived.

The descriptions are vivid while the historical aspect is over the top intriguing. Throw some romance, sex, brutality, lies, passion and patience and you have one interesting storyline.

Paperback: 416 pages
Publisher: Sourcebooks Casablanca; Reissue edition (February 1, 2011)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1402238487
ISBN-13: 978-1402238482

Moonstruck Madness by Laurie McBain (Terra's Reveiw)

2011-02-13T17:33:00.000-08:00

Moonstruck Madness

She's one thing by day, something else altogether by night...

After escaping the slaughter of her clan at a young age, Scottish noblewoman Sabrina Verrick provides for her siblings by living a double life, until the night she encounters the Duke, and her secret and all she holds dear is threatened...

He's so disillusioned, he's completely vulnerable...

With his inheritance at stake, Lucien, Duke of Camareigh, sets a trap for the Scottish beauty with the piercing violet eyes, never imagining what will happen when the trap is sprung...

As their lives become irreversibly entangled, Lucien and Sabrina become each other's biggest threat, as well as their only salvation...

(Terra's Thoughts) How often is it that you can say that a story has caught you by the seat of your pants from the first page of the prologue and not let you go until the very last sentence. This is one of those stories. It really took me by surprise and such a lovely surprise indeed it was.

Sabrina Verrick is a wee lassie that sees death and destruction up close and not very comfortable. A spirited child that has a bit of luck on her side that allows her to escape death's grip and flee to lead her family safely into exile penniless though they may be.

A Highland Hellcat exists in this little body of pure beauty but also one of determination and strength. She does what needs to be done for her remaining family to survive not only because of the primal need to provide and protect but also because of a hatred that is so encompassing that it's a wonder she doesn't self destruct with it's intensity.

Lucien, Duke of Camareigh is a bit of a frightening man with a scar that adorns one cheek and a temper that can singe the hair off one's head with just a quick glance. He's a man that doesn't take no for an answer and always gets what he wants but will his cost come so high as to cheat him out of a life of some happiness in a world where proprietary comes first and foremost?

Our hotheaded devilish Duke needs to marry to gain his inheritance and is on a strict time line in which to do this. Twin cousins are awaiting in the wings for Lucien to miss that deadline so that they may claim the riches and lands but to what lengths will these twins go to in order to claim a right not due to them by birth.

An interruption from a Highwayman named Bonnie Charlie and his two giant friends put a crimp in the Dukes bonnet so to speak as the thieves boldly take what they need when they want only to sneak away without a trace.

The story is a non stop action packed romance with sizzle, sparks and flames aplenty. If one doesn't ignite from a fit of temper then one will surely ignite from a blast of pure sexual intensity that you're damned if you do and damned if you don't.

Paperback: 384 pages
Publisher: Sourcebooks Casablanca (February 1, 2011)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1402242433
ISBN-13: 978-1402242434

Sins of A Highland Devil by Sue-Ellen Welfonder

2011-01-15T18:36:00.000-08:00

The first book in the Highland Warriors trilogy, in which three heroes make a pact to insure that a rival clan does not take over their Glen of Many Legends. At the same time, three women plot to marry these heroes to insure peace.

In SINS OF A HIGHLAND DEVIL, James Cameron is concerned when the King's decree states all three neighboring clans must have a battle to the death in order to lay official claim to the scared Glen of Many Legends. James attempts to make a pact with the heads of the other clans to fight this decree. But he ends up fighting his own fierce desire when coming head-to-head with Lady Catriona of the opposing MacDonald clan, who has her own plan for peace.

(Terra's Thoughts) This is a delightful story of Scottish lads and lassies that will make you wish you were standing in their place. A story of love, lust, longing, ghosties, hatred, rivalry and honor. A story that will talk to your soul of times long past when adults actually knew how to act like adults while chivalry stands tall and bright as a beacon in the night.

Catriona MacDonald is the epitome of the red headed Scottish woman. Daring, proud, fearless and loyal as any clanswoman could possibly be. Only problem with Catriona is that she is lusting after the wrong man, her clans most hated rival.

James Cameron, Laird of Clan Cameron is a true and just Laird. His honor stands pure until a red headed devilish temptress stalks him testing his will power beyond what even the Gods could possibly have. It's time that the Laird take a wife and beget an heir and when our daring heroine shows up will he have the restraint to resist her womanly wiles or will he cave to honor after ravishing her.

This is a story that will delight even the most critical of historical romance readers. A story that keeps a quick and even pace to leave you panting in its wake.

2011 Historical Romance Challenge

2011-01-13T18:17:00.000-08:00

The Historical Romance Challenge is being hosted by Romance Book Junkies, the sign up is here, and the object is to read 12 historical romances between January 1, 2011 and December 31, 2011.

1. Sins of A Highland Devil by Sue-Ellen Welfonder
2. Moonstruck Madness by Laurie McBain
3. Fierce Eden by Jennifer Blake
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Contest Winners Listed

2010-03-21T15:21:00.000-07:00

Black Hills

*Dawn M.
*ASweetHeart
*janetfaye

On The Brink

*Dana
*Dawn M.
*janetfaye

Worst Case

*Denny, Alaska
*ASweetHeart
*Anne Marie T.

Please send your snail mail info to terraontop57 at yahoo dot com. Congrats to all our winners and I hope you enjoy your prizes!

Daughters of the Witching Hill by Mary Sharratt (Terra's Reveiw)

2010-03-15T09:13:00.000-07:00

Daughters of the Witching Hill by Mary Sharratt is a must read for anyone who reads anything to do with Witch Trials. This was such an enlightening book from an author that has a real good eye for the details that will make you ever so happy that you are in a more forgiving time period.

This book actually takes place before the Salem witch trials here in the United States but with no less hysteria. To be caught up in such a horrible situtation and persecuted for just trying to help others and only do good it's no wonder that people of the time were so afraid of anything and everything.

This is a story that spans three prominent generations and still throughout the lifestyle of the people hardly changes. I guess being in the country at that time would keep things consistant and without change due to the fact that people were very poor.

I found this book to be more than I could have possibly expected and it played on every emotion with such intensity that I could not put the book down until my eyelids closed from exhaustion. This is a heavy read and not one for the week of heart. I truly feel blessed that the times have become so much more free and liberated so as not to have to live in such abject poverty that was common for this heartwrenching time.

If you are going to read just one book this year that is so close to historical fact that it just borders the lines of fiction/nonfiction, then I highly recommend this particular one. The author has gone well above and beyond to give us an encounting story of the truths behind greed, poverty, fear, hate, love, kindness and ever so much more that you will be in awe of the strength of the characters in this book.

Hardcover: 352 pages
Publisher: Houghton Mifflin Harcourt (April 7, 2010)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 0547069677
ISBN-13: 978-0547069678

Black Hills by Dan Simmons (3 Copy Audiobook Giveaway)

2010-02-27T16:01:00.001-08:00

BLACK HILLS (Unabridged)
By Dan Simmons, read by Erik Davies and Michael McConnohie

In BLACK HILLS, Dan Simmons weaves the stories of Paha Sapa and Custer together seamlessly, depicting a violent and tumultuous time in the history of Native Americans and the United States Army.

I've got 3 copies to give away, many thanks to Anna at Hatchette for the books!!

So This Is What You Have To Do To Get An Entry!
1. Leave a Comment +1
2. Follow Me +1 already a follower +2
3. Post this contest on your blog (can be on your sidebar or a post) +3

PLEASE put your email in your comments or no entry (no exceptions).
This is for the USA and Canada only please and no Po Boxes (publishers rule)!
Winners will be announced on March 14th 2010!

Worst Case by James Patterson (3 Copy Audiobook Giveaway)

2010-02-27T15:54:00.000-08:00

WORST CASE (Unabridged)
By James Patterson and Michael Ledwidge, read by Bobby Canavale, John Glover, Orlagh Cassidy

From the bestselling author who brought you the Alex Cross novels comes James Patterson's most action-packed series yet. With the heart-pounding suspense that only Patterson delivers, WORST CASE will leave you gasping for breath until the very end.

I've got 3 copies to give away, many thanks to Anna at Hatchette for the books!!

So This Is What You Have To Do To Get An Entry!
1. Leave a Comment +1
2. Follow Me +1 already a follower +2
3. Post this contest on your blog (can be on your sidebar or a post) +3

PLEASE put your email in your comments or no entry (no exceptions).
This is for the USA and Canada only please and no Po Boxes (publishers rule)!
Winners will be announced on March 14th 2010!

On The Brink by Henry M. Paulson Jr. (3 Copy Audiobook Giveaway)

2010-02-27T15:48:00.000-08:00

ON THE BRINK (Unabridged)
By Henry M. Paulson, Jr., read by Dan Woren

Former Secretary of the Treasury Hank Paulson -- who was at the epicenter of the crashing financial markets -- provides his first person account of what really happened.

I've got 3 copies to give away, many thanks to Anna at Hatchette for the books!!

So This Is What You Have To Do To Get An Entry!
1. Leave a Comment +1
2. Follow Me +1 already a follower +2
3. Post this contest on your blog (can be on your sidebar or a post) +3

PLEASE put your email in your comments or no entry (no exceptions).
This is for the USA and Canada only please and no Po Boxes (publishers rule)!
Winners will be announced on March 14th 2010!

The Scarlet Lion by Elizabeth Chadwick (Terra's Review)

2010-02-22T17:41:00.001-08:00

The Scarlet Lion by Elizabeth Chadwick is more than just a novel. It is a story of one man and his honor, his dedication to family and country and to all the things that a true Knight of the Realm should be. A man that treads the fine line between wealth or poverty, high court standing or disgrace. An honor bound man that knows that patience brings rewards that could be snatched away so easily by giving into anger and impatience. This is a story that will grab you from the first word to the very last and make you savour each delicious morsel in between.

This is the second book in the series with the first being "The Greatest Knight". You must read these in order or you will be completely lost in "The Scarlet Lion".

The Scarlet Lion starts right from where it's predecessor finished without much time loss in between. This is a meaty book that you will read more slowly than that of the light fluffy purely imaginative fiction books that are so readily available.

Our story starts out with Richard as King and William Marshall being more or less his right hand man. With the death of Richard, John is crowned King and William swears allegiance to him just the same as he has done with the four previous Kings before him.

There is quite a bit of turbulence in this book between King John and William Marshall as well as between William and his beautiful wife Isabelle. The latter caused by the earlier for King John is extremely paranoid.

The author has done an extreme amount of research here and it most certainly shows. From the colors, scents, sounds, emotions of people, places and things you can't help but feel as if you are a bystander watching the entire story unfold right before your very eyes. You will laugh, cry, cringe, hate, loathe and want to really ring someones neck. The author has made this story so viable that you cannot help but feel every emotion tingle throughout your being.

If you enjoy Historical Fiction then this is a story of caliber that you really should not miss.

Paperback: 576 pages
Publisher: Sourcebooks Landmark; Original edition (March 1, 2010)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1402229992
ISBN-13: 978-1402229992

Powder and Patch by Georgette Heyer

2010-01-10T15:45:00.000-08:00

Powder and Patch by Georgette Heyer is an exceptional story of the purity of the Regency period that we love so dearly. If you are a fan of Jane Austen and haven't read Miss Heyer yet then what are you waiting for.

Cleone Charteris is a young lady of fine manners and undeniable beauty. As with most young ladies of this time however, she is also a bit of spoiled snob. She is of marriageable age and the young man who would give his life in order to protect hers is much to plain and common in his appearance for her.

Philip Jettan is a hard working man but one without polish. He is strong, honest and so sure that his dear love Cleone will accept him as he is that upon his asking for her hand in marriage he is devastated when she refuses because he is a plain country bumpkin instead of a painted popinjay.

Our author writes her stories with a purity of heart and soul that is nothing short of a breath of fresh air. She takes our plain country bumpkin and makes him into a finely polished gem that sparkles brighter than the stars in the heavens. A hero that is much sot after in the world of paint, powder and power that anyone who knew of him before said transition is utterly astonished at the remarkable transformation that has come about so quickly.

The hundred dollar question is though, will Philip remember his roots and his love for Cleone after all he has done and gone through? Will the lust of power and the challenge of the game of the upstairs society lure him towards total refinement or will his past have enough of a life line to him to keep him in check with who he truly is under all the Powder and Patch?

Paperback: 208 pages
Publisher: Sourcebooks Casablanca (January 1, 2010)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1402219490
ISBN-13: 978-1402219498

Knight of Pleasure by Margaret Mallory

2010-01-10T14:59:00.000-08:00

Knight of Pleasure by Margaret Mallory is a savory delight that is sure to please. This is book two of the series of three and even more delectable than it's previous installment in book one. Most assuredly Margaret Mallory is an author with much promise and passion to keep us satisfied for quite some time.

Lady Isobel Hume is a sight to behold. Married off to an old man in her early teens, she has been through hell and back with a marriage made of profits to both sides instead of one of love. Now that her husband is dead, all she can hope for is a match made by the King to a man of respect, courage, honesty and all the things that we have come to think of in a knight of the realm. Aah, but will that indeed be her fate?

Sir Stephen Carleton is a ladies man to the T. A rogue to be sure but a man of honor with a strong set or morale's that will make him appealing in one respect and appalling in the other. Sir Stephen is a classic case of never judge a book by its cover. He is a King's man and his loyalty to the crown is never questioned. Unfortunately for him and his roving eyes, can he stay away from the fair Lady Isobel?

Our author has done a superb job with this installment of "All The King's Men". Non stop action, romping steamy scenes that are sure to fog your glasses and enough court intrigue to have you drooling from beginning to end. A book that you will not want to miss if you are a lover of Historical Romance.

Mass Market Paperback: 400 pages
Publisher: Forever (December 1, 2009)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 0446553387
ISBN-13: 978-0446553384

To Desire a Devil by Elizabeth Hoyt

2010-01-10T01:37:00.000-08:00

To Desire a Devil by Elizabeth Hoyt was story that digs deep into the heart. A romance that will touch you in many ways and show you that courage does get rewarded in the end.

Beatrice Corning is not the popular much sot after beauty like many other young ladies in London but she is still quite pleasing to the eye. She is too trusting and kind for her own good and is fearless to a fault. She is every bit naive as the youngest of girls to have their first season but that doesn't stop her from protecting what is important to her and hers.

Reynaud St. Aubyn has been at war on the continent for such a long time that he is proclaimed lost and deceased. Having gone though the Hell's of war and tortures of the soul it takes quite some time for his mind to come back to him enough to realize he does indeed have a life that was important to him before all this unpleasantness. Unfortunately for Reynaud, he has been replaced as Lord and Master of his estate and he will have to fight tooth and nail to get back what was his birthright and properly due to him.

The storyline is one that could so easily fit into today's society in some ways that it becomes more real as you delve further into each chapter. A sad storyline to start but with determination, courage and the fight for what's proper, this story brings to it a happy ending. One that I thoroughly enjoyed from beginning to end with giggles, heart wrenching tears, hope, amazement and just so much more. This is one you won't be able to put down and the entire series of four books was a true delight from an author that knows her stuff.

Mass Market Paperback: 384 pages
Publisher: Vision (November 1, 2009)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 0446406945
ISBN-13: 978-0446406949

2009-12-31T12:13:00.000-08:00

Merry Christmas to All

2009-12-24T16:28:00.001-08:00

Devil May Cry by Sherrilyn Kenyon

2009-12-17T11:20:00.002-08:00

Devil May Cry by Sherrilyn Kenyon is another delicious Dark-Hunter novel that will sizzle your panties off. I'm still licking my fingers on this one.

Sin is our hero and main character in this book and oh what a true sin he is. Tall, dark and handsome doesn't even begin to describe him and add in some sarcastic wit to make a really explosive man.

Our hero once a God was stripped of his powers by the heffer Goddess in her greed to want more powers and to help destroy The Sumerian Gods. Good gosh if there is one character you can really love to hate through this series it would have to be the Bitch Heffer Goddess. Simi wants to eat said Bitch Heffer Goddess but everyone keeps saying no. LOL! Gosh I love Simi.

Now our beloved Sin is the royal Pain in the Ass and the nastiest of the said Dark-Hunters. He lives in Las Vegas why...........because it's the Sin capitol of the World. Now talk about fitting in really good. Yup that's Sin. What a perfect place to do what you want, when you want and where you want without getting in deep doo doo for it.

Our author has given us the best of stories here and I chuckled from beginning to end. Maybe being a bit spiteful and very sarcastic myself is what can truly make me appreciate what Sherrilyn has done here. She has also given our characters so much personality you cannot help but feel like you're tagging along as one of the crowd. I found myself totally amerced in the book to the point that I was feeling, seeing and experiencing what everyone else was. Kudo's for another well done.

The Secret Life of Marilyn Monroe by J. Randy Taraborrelli

2009-12-06T13:58:00.000-08:00

The Secret Life of Marilyn Monroe by J. Randy Taraborrelli is in essense a story of Beauty and the Beast. A beautiful young woman with so much potential who is chased throughout her life by the beast of disappointment, heartbreak, abuse, drugs and doubtful self esteem. A story of a beautiful young woman whose life is but a roller coaster ride with so many ups and down it's no wonder the tragic outcome.

I must confess this is the first I have read of this actress and am glad for the opportunity to hear it from an author that has taken the time to get the facts from reliable sources so as to give us a true rendition of what really went on behind the closed doors of America's Sweetheart. Even though I was but a young child when Marilyn Monroe met her tragic end I still remember so much emphasis on the most beautiful woman that ever lived. The two people I do remember from this time period are Marilyn Monroe and JFK. Two people whose lives impacted so many and ended so tragically.

The author starts this story before Marilyn is even thought of and the circumstances that bring about her life. A story starting with her grandmother giving us important background that will give us some understanding of the vicious cycle of all that is good and bad in life. A telling of no matter what station you hold in life and how the happiness and cruelties can latch onto you as easily as a cold germ from the sneeze of a sick person in a grocery store.

This story talks about Marilyn's loves, marriages, affairs. Her achievements from hard word and failings from human frailty. People she knew that influenced her to the point of almost truly possessing her. Bad choices and good choices she made and how each and every one affected the outcome of her life. The story makes you think of what if she had made a different choice and how fate would have handled her. A story that will touch you in many ways and open your eyes to how good your life really is in comparison.

Audio CD
Publisher: Hachette Audio; Abridged edition (August 24, 2010)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1607882558
ISBN-13: 978-1607882558

The Lovely Bones by Alice Sebold

2009-11-27T11:13:00.000-08:00

The Lovely Bones by Alice Sebold is a heart wrenching account of a young girl's untimely death and how it not only affects her but also how it affects all those around her. It gives us a possible inside look at what happens to those that are left behind and how they cope over time with the ugliness of rape and murder.

This story is graphic and to the point. I have to admit I cried during the second cd and my heart was breaking for this imaginary child. Once past this I was able to listen to a well written story that really gave me real insight into what goes on after the fact. What happens to those who are left behind and robbed of the love of a child. How siblings deal with this devastation and learn from it. How the entire populace that may or may not have known this child deal with the stark reality of the ultimate cruelty.

The author has told the story from the murdered young girl's point of view as she resides in Heaven. A story that is rich with possibility of a better life to follow full of happiness beyond measure. A story of how this young girl watches her family on earth wishing she could let them know that she is okay and happy so as to end their pain and help them move on with the lives they should have had. A story so rich in emotion, perfectly crafted in literary style as to capture you with each word, sentence and paragraph to keep you needing to hear more. A perfect example of a storyteller doing what they do best.

Audio CD
Publisher: Hachette Audio; Unabridged edition (September 30, 2009)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 160024842X
ISBN-13: 978-1600248429

Say You're One of Them by Uwem Akpan

2009-11-27T10:38:00.000-08:00

Say You're One of Them by Uwem Akpan is a wake up call to the reality of life in Africa. Three stories that will make you feel very privileged to have a life of freedom and plenty compared to those of third world countries. This is real life everyone and not for the week of heart.

We in America think of what more we could have and what more we deserve in this life of plenty we have. But after listening to these stories I realize that even those that are homeless here in our free country have ever so much more than those of the different countries on the continent of Africa. I myself have been through what I consider many hardships but after listening to this I realize that no matter how hard life has been for me I am ever so much more free and privileged than those I have just listened to.

Each story is from a different country in Africa and each is no less devastating and mind boggling than the one before it.

The first story is about a girl who parents are from two different tribes and the conflict this will create. Our young girl learns about the harshness of what it's like when the elders decree war on each other in these tribes and what will happen to those caught in it's grip. The choices each parent has to make are no less heartbreaking and horrid when hatred and violence rear their ugly heads.

The second story shows us to what lengths families must go to in order to try and put food on the table and to try and have at least one member of their family have a chance at a life so much better than the poverty and squallier that encompasses all of them in their young lives. Old age is not an option in these countries and youth is not carefree and happy. Children are required and expected to do the unthinkable. Things that we in our beloved easy life looked at in abject horror and most times cannot comprehend the full impact of why they must live like this.

The third story is a bit less violent and heartbreaking but still has it's impact on us with the prejudicism that runs rampart through these countries and tribes segregating adults and children like a fever run wild. How is a young child suppose to understand such things as these I will never know.

Upon finishing these stories all I can do is feel humbled and rich in every way possible compared to those who are less privileged. My heart and prayers go out to the impoverished peoples of the world who have a life so difficult.

Publisher: Hachete Audio (2009)
Language: English
ASIN: B002W2R6N8

Bitten by Cupid by Lynsay Sands, Pamela Palmer, Jaime Rush

2009-11-23T14:54:00.000-08:00

Bitten by Cupid by Lynsay Sands, Pamela Palmer and Jaime Rush is a lusciously lip smacking dessert for Valentine's Day. Readers will delight in all three stories equally as each one is just a different Valentine prop and ever so important in its own right. Just think of Lynsay's story as the Perfect Red Rose, Pamela's story as the Silky Red Sheets and Jaime's story as the Dedecant Chocolate to be savored as you climax. Oh-la-la! Merci beau coup!

Vampire Valentine by Lynsay Sands is a petite delight about the Argeneau family. Dear Aunt Marguerite is back at it in full spades with her match making and it's unlikely victims. This time our story tries to match up a giant angel of patience and I swear the Devil's own female twin. Both very passionate, both complete opposites to the extreme which leads our heroine in for the surprise of her life. A must have not to be missed.

Hearts Untamed by Pamela Palmer brings out the beast in all of us. This delicious installment will have cupid blushing brighter than a neon light. Our heroine is caught in a web that will make her deceive those around her that she loves all in hopes of saving their lives. Our hero is everything a hero should be, a knight in white shinning armour but in his case a with few rough sharp edges that can be deadly when push comes to shove. Will our hero still love our heroine when he finds out the truth? What will our heroine give to keep her secrets?

Kiss and Kill Cupid by Jaime Rush will really keep you guessing. Our heroine can hear what other's think but what happens when she overhears the most horrid thoughts that one person can possibly think and how will she deal with this knowledge when no one knows of her gift. Can she possibly stand up to the Kiss and Kill Cupid when she is sooooo distracted by a luscious piece of eye candy dangling right in front of her eyes. Especially when this eye candy wants her with an intensity of a Tom Cat chasing a Putty in Heat? Yowzer! Sizzle, sizzle!

Mass Market Paperback: 384 pages
Publisher: Avon (January 12, 2010)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 0061894451
ISBN-13: 978-0061894459

Queene of Light by Jennifer Armintrout

2009-11-17T11:03:00.000-08:00

Queene of Light by Jennifer Armintrout is a Romantic Fantasy at its ultimate best. A story that could be considered an adult fairytale reveals the best and the worst of the Fantasy world.

Ayla is a half faery, half human who spent her childhood as a thief for her human father. Coming of age Ayla goes to the Faery World and appeals to the Queene to allow her to live among them. The Queene's brother is immediately smitten and begs his sisters indulgence with the provision that he be her mentor. Ayla thus begins her life as an Assassin for the Queene of Light.

Malachi is an Angel of Death. A creature of the Dark World, he collects souls of all who are to depart their current existence. One never knows when he will show up and one will never see him coming until it's too late. All know of him and his kind and all fear the touch of the Angel of Death.

Can an Assassin finally develop a conscience? Can an Angel really fall from favor and plunge into a living Hell? Hmm...good questions!

Ayla breaks her oath while on assignment in the Dark World and upon return to the Light World neglects to confess to her mentor and best friend that which could cost her the position she has worked so hard for. Will his love for her allow him to forgive her this transgression should he find out? Will the Goddess allow Ayla to keep her secret for the sake of a prophecy so long ago predicted?

A brush with the Angel of Death leaves both Ayla and Malachi stunned beyond belief with it's outcome. What will become of their hatred for each other in the face of temptation?

The author has given us a story of many creatures, good and evil that live together but hide from each other. A story of hatred, fear, corruption, deceit, beauty and darkness and a love so true and pure that it will challenge the strongest of barriers. An intense story that is action packed and not lacking for imagination on any level. A first installment of a trilogy that is sure to fire up a longing in us like a glass of water quenches our thirst.

Mass Market Paperback: 384 pages
Publisher: Mira Books (September 29, 2009)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 0778326624
ISBN-13: 978-0778326625

Song of the Sparrow by Lisa Ann Sandell

2009-10-19T10:08:00.001-07:00

Song of the Sparrow by Lisa Ann Sandell is a delightful tale of true love, courage and coming of age in the time period of Arthur of Camelot. A book of prose to savour with a nice cup of tea and a warm quilt over the legs on a leisurely afternoon or evening.

Our story is set during the early years of Arthur, King and Knight, harbinger of peace and tranquility, creator of Camelot and The Round Table. We learn of Arthur's story as mostly a background story as the main story is about Elaine, a young woman just shedding the cloak of youth.

The book is written in prose with a delightful sense of times long ago when the hours of reading were considered to be of grand importance. The story flows like the smooth waters cascading along the banks of a river slowly bringing us to a crest and then back to tranquil harmony.

We learn of the realization of what was considered real love and what in reality is true love. The lessons of ignorance contributing to danger through thinking of only our own person in comparison to what dangers can be brought to the group as a whole and the realization and courage to finally take the courage and actions to right what has been wronged.

Our author has given us a perfect representation of what is real prose and what should be in every High School English classroom. A story of chivalry, true love, jealousy, honor, devotion and unyielding courage to do what is right. This is a book to savour and enjoy which I most certainly did.

Reading level: Young Adult

Paperback: 416 pages
Publisher: Scholastic Paperbacks; Reprint edition (August 1, 2008)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 0439918499
ISBN-13: 978-0439918497

Happy Birthday to Me!

2009-10-14T07:18:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday! Thought you might expect a couple of cracks about your age.

Today is my birthday and thought you might like to see a card I received from some really wonderful friends. And yes I do have a great sense of humor especially when it comes with a free meal. LOL!

My Soul To Take by Rachel Vincent

2009-10-13T13:09:00.001-07:00

My Soul To Take by Rachel Vincent is a delicious telling of two creatures from Irish folklore. A book to catch not only your soul but your undivided attention as well. The writing I have come to love in Ms. Vincent's adult Urban Fantasy has most certainly been carried over into the Young Adult Genre with the same silky smoothness that we have all come to expect.

Kaylee has felt different all her life but little does she know how much the truth is about to change her. Her mother died when she was young and her father pretty much abandoned her with his turning over of guardianship to his brother and sister-in-law. Kaylee has felt this keenly and along with strange things that have been occurring to her physically, she's not sure if she might be going crazy or has some fatal disease. All she does know is that things are far from normal.

Along comes Nash, a hunky football jock, which not only gives Kaylee someone to hold onto while she is in the throws of her strange behaviour but also someone who can give her some explanation of what in the world is going on in her topsy turvy life. A sturdy anchor that she so desperately needs.

What Nash and Kaylee don't know is who or what is killing vibrant young healthy girls for no apparent reason. What they do know is that they need to try and find out and see what the connection is to the deaths and Kaylee's strange outcries.

Our author has given us a tasty Autumn Treat with this book. Granted it would be good anytime of the year but right now it is the perfect read along with a cup of hot cocoa. A story that makes your head snap up when things go bump just outside your line of vision. A story of the unexpected being accepted and of love so strong and true that even the ugliest evil cannot prevail. I for one am going to be biting my fingernails while waiting for the next book in the series.

Reading level: Young Adult

Paperback: 384 pages
Publisher: Harlequin (August 1, 2009)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 0373210035
ISBN-13: 978-0373210039

The Physick Book of Deliverance Dane by Katherine Howe

2009-10-13T13:08:00.001-07:00

The Physick Book Of Deliverance Dane by Katherine Howe is a delightful mix of present and past. A story that kept me wanting more and never leaving me feeling empty. It is a story of the Salem Witch Trials that dramatically changed the lives of a few but affected many and how it still creates a stir of interest some several hundred years later.

Connie is a Harvard Grad working towards her doctoral dissertation when she is assigned the task of cleaning up her grandmother's house so that it can finally be sold. In her meandering she comes across an item and inside is hidden the name of Deliverance Dane.

Connie gets excited by this because being a history major the name is familiar to her and she wonders if possibly this could be one of the women who was tried and executed during the infamous Salem Witch Trials.

The phrase, "The Past Comes Back To Haunt You" soon takes on a life of its own and Connie is caught up in the mystery of who this Deliverance Dane really was. Question is will she be able to find the proof needed to tie Deliverance Dane and the Witch Trials together to use in her dissertation or will it come to a fruitless dead end? Will the past life of Deliverance Dane come to haunt Connie as she travels down a road of possibilities, probabilites, sorrows and swamped in mystery.

I do think the author did quite a good job of keeping the story going without any lagging points. The mystery unfolds at an even spance and the little tidbits of magic interwoven create a savory warmth that keeps you entranced from beginning to end. Personally knowing a bit about the Salem Witch Trials and recognizing some of the women's names myself gave me that extra umph to keep me salivating for more.

Audio CD
Publisher: Hyperion; Unabridged edition (June 9, 2009)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1401393055
ISBN-13: 978-1401393052

Lucan by Susan Kearney

2009-09-10T10:56:00.001-07:00

Lucan by Susan Kearney is a wonderfully meaty book that you can't resist sinking your teeth into. A book that's not only hot sizzling romance and steamy sex but a wonderful what if rendition of King Arthur and Avalon that takes you into the the realms of science fiction and fantasy. All I can say is Delicious.............!

Our hero Lucan is from Earth and not only is he hot....but he's also a very gifted archaeologist. A telepath with his sister just seems to be a natural thing given the fact that they are twins. What Lucan is about to find out is ever so much more than he could have possibly hoped for or believed. He really is a sight to behold but watch out cause he does have this knack for being a royal ass!

Our heroine Cael is High Priestess of her world and all alone in more ways than any of us would ever want to be. Because of her status she is not allowed to be touched in any way as it will mean death to those who do touch her and this even applies to her family. She is feared not only for that status but also because she is the only dragon shaper on her world which gives her a high status in its own way. Beware of the Wrath of Cael as she does bite and indeed breathes fire. Talk about frying someones ass. LOL!

Our story starts out on Earth with the human race in danger of becoming extinct. Lucan's sister has just suffered another miscarriage and this is what seems to becoming the norm for all other women who try to have a child. Their only hope is the Holy Grail with its rumors of healing. But where to look? Could some of the rumors be accurate? Might some of the inscriptions that Lucan has seen and decoded have some truth to them and how might he hope to find this most Holy relic in time to save the human race.

We then journey some years later to the World of Pendragon where Lucan has tracked down the most elusive of historical sites and the possibilities of finding the Holy Grail but can he find it and make a clean breakaway right under the proverbial noses of others as gifted and desperate as he is? Hmm.....

Our author has given us a fantastic high paced, action packed, sizzling steamer that will surely fog up your glasses. She has taken a tale of old and given us some possibilities of something that could very well have been true. Who knows for sure as none of us where there at the time. This is a tale that will suck you and never spit you out. If you are anything like me you will be frothing at the mouth for Rion which comes out later this year. Darn I don't know if I can wait that long. UGG!

Mass Market Paperback: 368 pages
Publisher: Forever (September 5, 2009)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 0446543314
ISBN-13: 978-0446543316

Ravens by George Dawes Green

2009-09-10T10:55:00.000-07:00

Ravens by George Dawes Green has a well written smooth storyline that is worth enjoying. Even though this book wasn't really my cup of tea I have to say that because of the the time the author has given the storyline, the details of characters and places as well as the sights, smells and touches, the story did take on life for me and keep me interested enough to find out what the ending would hold.

This is a story of what could possibly happen if you were all of a sudden to hit the largest lottery jackpot in the history of your state or country. Just imagine every nut job coming out of the holes in the wall to see what they can possibly sucker out of you and to what lengths they would go to achieve their goals. A story of the down and out suddenly finding themselves at the opposite end of the spectrum and how that money actually burns a hole in your pocket before you can even see it. A story that teaches you to be careful what you wish for because when you get it you just might not want it.

This is a story of not only good luck but a story of unhappiness, strife, faith, love, priorities and the inescapable evils that lurk right around the corner waiting to pounce on you if given half the chance. A story that will show a family what they really mean to each other and how important it is to stick together through thick or thin. A faith in religion and a faith in each other is the basis for a strong and solid family union.

Audio CD
Publisher: Hachette Audio; Unabridged edition (July 15, 2009)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1600246257
ISBN-13: 978-1600246258

The Castaways by Elin Hilderbrand

2009-09-03T11:12:00.000-07:00

The Castaways by Elin Hilderbrand is a touching story of four very close couples and what happens when one of the couples tragically dies in a drowning accident. The regrets, the memories, what the future will hold for them now and most of all how to deal with the children left behind and the impact that they will have on those still alive.

Our couple drowns on their 12th wedding anniversary while sailing just off Nantucket. Seas were a bit more than Greg could handle and Tess is a bit off balance between nerves, wine and one potent lonely pill. After having gone through some really rough times they decide they need the day to make amends and pledge to each other their undying love.

Unfortunately things were decidedly not in their favor and when the news reaches their friends of the drowning each and every one of them explores the pain, past memories, what could have, should have, would have happened if things hadn't gone so terribly wrong.

The author has given us a clearly remarkable story that is well written and really makes you think of what is truly important in life. Living for today and tomorrow is what life is all about and no matter how you try to change the past it's the good things that is stuff of memories, not the regrets.

Audio CD
Publisher: Hachette Audio; Unabridged edition (July 7, 2009)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1600246222
ISBN-13: 978-1600246227

A Hint of Wicked by Jennifer Haymore

2009-08-17T12:17:00.002-07:00

A Hint of Wicked by Jennifer Haymore is a heartfelt romance that will make you feel yourself lucky to not having been put in the position that our heroine is. A touching love that will take you on a journey of happiness, pain, anger, confusion, patience, and oh so much more.

Sophie our heroine is the Duchess of Calton not only with husband number one but with husband number two. Upon finding out that her first husband is presumed dead at the Battle of Waterloo, Sophie along with Garrett's cousin, heir and best friend Tristan set out in search of the truth of Garrett's demise. Unfortunately for Sophie, Garrett is lost to her in body as his body was never recovered from the fearsome battle. Sophie and Tristan search for eight long years only to come to the conclusion that their beloved Garrett is truly indeed lost to them in body and soul.

Now eight years have passed and Sophie and Tristin marry. Tristan's wife having died a few years back allows him to finally have the woman he has wanted all his life. Their marriage is going well and each having a child by their former spouses makes a nice respectable loving family. That is until Garrett shows up in Sophie's and Tristan's bedchamber. All bets are off and hell breaks loose setting into action a series of events that will tug and tear these three childhood friends into a competition. A competition that will set Sophie as the prize and tear her heart into pieces.

Mass Market Paperback: 432 pages
Publisher: Forever (June 1, 2009)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 0446540293
ISBN-13: 978-0446540292

Dark Hunger by Rita Herron

2009-08-17T12:17:00.001-07:00

Dark Hunger by Rita Herron is an explosive paranormal romance that will leave you drooling with desire round every turn. A tall, dark and sexy hero that will drive our heroine into a tizzy. See that hunka, hunka on the cover, well that only gives you a little insight into the lip smacking, tongue tingling deliciousness of our hero. Our heroine is in for the fight of her life on all fronts. Desires, passions, cravings, damn them all!

Quinton is a respected team member of our National Security. A man who is half human, half demon with a sex appeal that even the blind could not ignore. He is also an assassin and a damn good one at that. He is as skilled a killer as he is a lover. Damn those bad boys are always the alluring types.

Annabelle our heroine is a reporter who is hell bent on getting the major career breaking story to bring her up in the ranks at her network and have her boss finally start to take her seriously. Receiving mysterious messages she is lead to Quinton and it may just cost her, her life in the process of achieving her goal and exposing the real killer of bad guys.

Will Quinton be able to carry out his orders and kill Annabell before she exposes him and his team? Will Annabell be able to turn in Quinton for that major career change before he can capture her desires and passions? Hmm.......makes for a tasty tale me thinks!

Mass Market Paperback: 320 pages
Publisher: Forever (August 1, 2009)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 0446199486
ISBN-13: 978-0446199483

Seduce Me by Robyn DeHart

2009-08-17T12:16:00.001-07:00

Seduce Me by Robyn DeHart is a fun, fluffy, light read that leaves you feeling refreshed. A story that is part Indiana Jones, part romance, part who-dun-it all set in Victorian England. A story to delight page after page right up to the end.

Our hero, Fielding Grey is a treasure seeker extraordinaire. He lives for danger and the prize at the end of the adventure. What he doesn't live for is complications in the form of women. Ha....wuss! Guess he's in for a bit of a surprise when this adventure is not only about the much sot after Pandora's box but includes curses, magic, ruffians of the worst sort and Women. Well, one woman in particular. Now if he only figure out which part of his anatomy he should be thinking with he might actually get some work done.

Esme Worthington our heroine is well schooled in historical artifacts and for a women in Victorian England this can leave a bad taste in the mouths of most men. She has acknowledged the fact that she will always be a spinster due to the habit of not knowing when to keep her thoughts and her tongue to herself. However, being schooled in this case ends up with her in chains in only her night rail leaving her at the mercy of those around her. Will her captures ravish her before help can arrive or will she succumb to the unpleasantness of lowly thieves with horrid breath and blackened teeth. YUK!

Our author has given us an exciting tale that is perfectly paced. A teasing tale with the right amount of action and adventure. My only problem was I think our hero needed to be a bit less whiney but this is my opinion for what it's worth. A truely good tale and one that shouldn't be missed. I can overlook a bit of a whiney male for a good story anyday especially since most men are whiney anyway. LOL!

Mass Market Paperback: 320 pages
Publisher: Forever (August 1, 2009)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 0446542008
ISBN-13: 978-0446542005

Winners of The Castaways Audio Giveaway

2009-08-17T12:13:00.000-07:00

*Julie

*Chey

Kerri

Please send your snail mail info to terraontop57 at yahoo dot com. Congrats to all our winners and I hope you enjoy your prizes!

Winners of Ravens Audio Giveaway

2009-08-17T12:09:00.000-07:00

*etirv

*Belinda M

*Jenny N.

Please send your snail mail info to terraontop57 at yahoo dot com. Congrats to all our winners and I hope you enjoy your prizes!

Winners of $20 Per Gallon Audio Giveaway

2009-08-17T12:05:00.000-07:00

*Belinda M.

*Jake Lsewhere

*Karen H in NC

Please send your snail mail info to terraontop57 at yahoo dot com. Congrats to all our winners and I hope you enjoy your prizes!

Winners of Just Food by James E. McWilliams

2009-08-15T09:41:00.000-07:00

*janetfaye

*bridget3420

*Dawn M.

*Rebecca N.

bowlwoman

Please send your snail mail info to terraontop57 at yahoo dot com. Congrats to all our winners and I hope you enjoy your prizes!

THE CASTAWAYS By Elin Hilderbrand (3 copy Audio Giveaway)

2009-07-31T09:55:00.000-07:00

THE CASTAWAYS
By Elin Hilderbrand, read by Katie Hale

Greg and Tess MacAvoy are one of four prominent Nantucket couples who count each other as best friends. As pillars of their close-knit community, the MacAvoys, Kapenashes, Drakes, and Wheelers are important to their friends and neighbors, and especially to each other. But just before the beginning of another idyllic summer, Greg and Tess are killed when their boat capsizes during an anniversary sail. As the warm weather approaches and the island mourns their loss, nothing can prepare the MacAvoy's closest friends for what will be revealed.

I've got 3 copies to give away, many thanks to Anna at Hatchette for the books!!

So This Is What You Have To Do To Get An Entry!
1. Leave a Comment +1
2. Follow Me +1 already a follower +2
3. Post this contest on your blog (can be on your sidebar or a post) +3

PLEASE put your email in your comments or no entry (no exceptions).
This is for the USA and canada only please and no Po Boxes (publishers rule)!
Winners will be announced on August 16th!

RAVENS By George Dawes Green (3 copy Audio Giveaway)

2009-07-31T09:51:00.000-07:00

RAVENS
By George Dawes Green, read by Robert Petkoff and Maggi-Meg Reed

When Shaw McBride and Romeo Zderko drive into the small town of Brunswick, Georgia, their only thought is to fix their car's leaky right tire and continue on to Key West, Florida, away from their dead-end jobs as computer technicians in Ohio. But when Shaw discovers that the 318 million dollar Georgia State Lottery has just been claimed by an ordinary Georgia family, he sees an opportunity - he and Romeo will blackmail the Boatwright family for half their winnings and ditch their deadbeat lives for good.

I've got 3 copies to give away, many thanks to Anna at Hatchette for the books!!

So This Is What You Have To Do To Get An Entry!
1. Leave a Comment +1
2. Follow Me +1 already a follower +2
3. Post this contest on your blog (can be on your sidebar or a post) +3

PLEASE put your email in your comments or no entry (no exceptions).
This is for the USA and canada only please and no Po Boxes (publishers rule)!
Winners will be announced on August 16th!

$20 PER GALLON By Christopher Steiner, read by John Wolfe (3 copy Audio Giveaway)

2009-07-31T09:40:00.000-07:00

$20 PER GALLON By Christopher Steiner, read by John Wolfe

Imagine an everyday world in which the price of gasoline (and oil) continues to go up, and up, and up. Think about the immediate impact that would have on our lives. Steiner will probe how the liberation of technology and innovation, triggered by climbing gas prices, will change our lives. The book may start as an alarmist's exercise.... but don't be misled. The future will be exhilarating.

I've got 3 copies to give away, many thanks to Anna at Hatchette for the books!!

So This Is What You Have To Do To Get An Entry!
1. Leave a Comment +1
2. Follow Me +1 already a follower +2
3. Post this contest on your blog (can be on your sidebar or a post) +3

PLEASE put your email in your comments or no entry (no exceptions).
This is for the USA and canada only please and no Po Boxes (publishers rule)!
Winners will be announced on August 16th!

Just Food by James E. McWilliams (5 Copy Book Giveaway)

2009-07-30T18:13:00.000-07:00

JUST FOOD: Where Locavores Get It Wrong and How We Can Truly Eat Re... by James E. McWilliams

We suffer today from food anxiety, bombarded as we are with confusing messages about how to eat an ethical diet. Should we eat locally? Is organic really better for the environment? Can genetically modified foods be good for you?

JUST FOOD does for fresh food what Fast Food Nation (Houghton Mifflin, 2001) did for fast food, challenging conventional views, and cutting through layers of myth and misinformation. For instance, an imported tomato is more energy-efficient than a local greenhouse-grown tomato. And farm-raised freshwater fish may soon be the most sustainable source of protein.

Informative and surprising, JUST FOOD tells us how to decide what to eat, and how our choices can help save the planet and feed the world.

I've got 5 copies to give away, many thanks to Valerie at Hatchette for the books!!

So This Is What You Have To Do To Get An Entry!
1. Leave a Comment +1
2. Follow Me +1 already a follower +2
3. Post this contest on your blog (can be on your sidebar or a post) +3

PLEASE put your email in your comments or no entry (no exceptions).
This is for the USA and canada only please and no Po Boxes (publishers rule)!
Winners will be announced on August 14th!

Swimsuit by James Patterson & Maxine Paetro

2009-07-22T15:27:00.000-07:00

Swimsuit by James Patterson & Maxine Paetro is the first story I have listened to by either author but I must say it was a very intense can't put it down read. I'm not a big fan of the blood and guts thing but this was more about how the murder got away with what he did and the intensity of the criminal mind in itself.

The story focuses on swimsuit models being horribly murdered in Hawaii right under the law enforcements very noses. The killer is a serial killer of the highest quality and he actually makes it more of an art than just something a nut job would do due to a bad childhood or mental illness. An art that is very lucrative for him in the financial market.

The killer is such a master of disguise that even the best of the best of law enforcement can't figure out. This gives him quite the advantage. He also loves to ride that fine line of danger but with the professional quality of cleaning up after himself as if he is the ultimate perfectionist.

The authors have used every trick in the book with this story and it will entertain and keep you on the edge of your seat throughout. An action packed thriller with a passion to entice you into wanting more.

I must say that I am pretty naive about these types of stories as I cannot see how anyone on the face of the earth could be so evil as the killer of this story.

Any Minute by Joyce Meyer, Deborah Bedford

2009-07-11T09:18:00.000-07:00

Any Minute by Joyce Meyer, Deborah Bedford is a inspirational story of one woman's drive to succeed no matter what the costs. A story of insecurity and child hood emotional abuse that will send Sarah into turmoil and making her see that faith is all it takes to overcome what has been done.

Sarah Harper is motivated, ruthless and in all reality self destructive. Mother of two beautiful children and wife of a husband that most of us would treasure she has been blinded to the gifts she has by the drive to prove to herself and others that she really does have great worth. Unfortunately for Sarah she can't see what she has even though it is right in front of her face.

It's not until one unfortunate day and one unfortunate event that Sarah is faced with the realization that she must make a choice of who and what she was and who and what she can be if she is to be given a second chance at life. One life altering event to prove to her that God the Father is indeed listening and watching what she does to herself, her family and all those who come in her path on a daily basis.

Can she see what destructive behavior has been driving her and change this before it is too late? Can she accept the faith of God and Jesus to guide her on the right path for her, her family and all those lives she touches each and every day?

With the help of one old man who is one of God's treasured angels, the spirit of her beloved Grandmother Annie and the innocent love of her small son she will have a chance to redeem herself and have that second chance if she can just accept the faith that God and Jesus do indeed love her just as she is.

Hardcover: 304 pages
Publisher: FaithWords (June 30, 2009)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 0446582530
ISBN-13: 978-0446582537

Audio CD
Publisher: Hachette Audio; Abridged edition (June 30, 2009)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1600246303
ISBN-13: 978-1600246302

Knight of Desire by Margaret Mallory

2009-07-10T09:46:00.000-07:00

Knight of Desire by Margaret Mallory is sizzling must have summer read. Delicious from page one to the very end, this is one love story you won't soon forget. A Debut book by this author that will leave you hungering for more.

William FitzAlan is a Knight of renown and high on the King's list of best of the best. A man with no title, lands nor wife, he is surprised when the King hands him all this on a platter for being who he is, a devoted Kings man to the death.

Catherine is Lady of Ross Castle and a close friend of the Prince. She is also the battered wife of a sniveling coward who rules this Castle and a man that has little to no scruples. When Catherine is trust into a plot to overthrow the King and Prince she knows where her allegiance falls and betrays her husband.

The story starts really quickly with the death of Catherine's husband and William's acquirement of lands, title and wife if he will have her. The king has given William two choices as to what he may do with the Lady of Ross Castle and he wonders if he will regret his choice for quite some time.

This is a delicious romance that flows smoothly from beginning to end, action packed throughout and sit on the edge of your seat fascinating that you won't be able to put it down. Even now with having finished this book I am craving more, ever so much more that I read the excerpt for the next book which is due out in December and wonder if I can indeed wait that long without going stark raving mad.

Our Author is new and this is a Debut book and one that surely make you come back for more. She has included all the best of deceit, love, pain, doubt, intrigue and so many more emotions that you will constantly be driven to go from one page to the next and wish you could read this in all one day. It will be very hard to put this one down even for the must have potty break.

Mass Market Paperback: 384 pages
Publisher: Forever (July 1, 2009)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 0446553395
ISBN-13: 978-0446553391

Made in the U.S.A. by Billie Letts

2009-07-10T09:45:00.000-07:00

Made in the U.S.A. by Billie Letts is a truly unforgettable tale of children that slip through the cracks in our society. I could actually see this happening to those children that come from broken homes and families of abusive parents. This is a very emotional tale and will certainly touch you.

Lutie Mcfee is a fifteen year old girl that has to grow up way to fast. Having lost her mum some years past and her drunken father abandoning her and her brother leaving them with one of his old girl friends does not make for a comfortable life. Lutie is a gifted child with gymnastics but ends up not being able to continue on due to unfairness in the school system. This turns her bitter and who could rightly blame her. Her chance at the Olympics has flown right out the window because of this and I think that would make even the best of us down right depressed.

The story starts us at a Walmart store and the woman that is taking care of Lutie and her brother drops dead of a heart attack. Lutie and her brother end up fleeing their home in search of a father that is supposedly in Las Vegas with a job only to find out upon getting their that their father went to jail and ended up dying.

We soon find out how rough life can be for two children who have set out on their own to avoid an even worse fate of being cast into the welfare system and placed into homes that most likely won't care for them anyway.

Life is indeed tough for young Lutie as she tries her best to take care of her and her younger brother and the story is quite graphic in it's treatment of this child and the dangers that are ever so present out there in the real world when not protected by adults.

This is a sad story but with a happy ending but not all stories are like this in reality. The author has touched upon many subjects here including child predators, gangs, child pornography, drug abuse, good Samaritans, love, caring and so much more. I will not say this is a delightful story because it doesn't start out that way but it is a very well written one. Our author has taken care to do much homework on the subjects presented to give us a story that will touch us right down to our souls. Next time you see a child on the street corner you will wonder if this child is in need of help and it will make you search your soul asking yourself what you could possibly do to change just one life if you had the chance.

Paperback: 384 pages
Publisher: Grand Central Publishing; Reprint edition (May 4, 2009)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 044658245X
ISBN-13: 978-0446582452

Swimsuit by James Patterson Giveaway Winners

2009-07-10T08:47:00.000-07:00

*Dana

*Emma

DawnM

Please send your snail mail info to terraontop57 at yahoo dot com. Congrats to all our winners and I hope you enjoy your prizes!

Any Minute by Joyce Meyer, Deborah Bedford Giveaway Winners

2009-07-10T08:42:00.000-07:00

*Jemscout425

*mindy

*Misusedinnocence

Please send your snail mail info to terraontop57 at yahoo dot com. Congrats to all our winners and I hope you enjoy your prizes!

Mr. Darcy, Vampire by Amanda Grange

2009-07-08T12:14:00.000-07:00

Mr. Darcy, Vampyre by Amanda Grange is not your typical Pride & Prejudice rendition. This story is a true love story with paranormal influence and a grand adventure no less exciting than that of Indiana Jones.

I think almost the entire population of the cultured world must know about our beloved Mr. Darcy and his beautiful Lizzy. What they don't know is the dark secrets that will chase the couple all across Europe thrusting them into a frenzy of action and adventure while questioning their love and their sanity.

A heady mixture of events that will lull poor Lizzy into a thrall yet send her skittering away at the drop of a pin. Shattered nerves be damned!

Our author has given us a treasure of culture to please even the most delicate palate, a delicious romance of times gone by and a fantasy world that will surely make you quake in your boots. Ms. Grange has taken us through the most important cities of Europe that will make the ton of England titillate in anticipation for the tasty tales of a wedding tour that is sure to be the best of the best.

Bravo I say, Bravo!

Paperback: 320 pages
Publisher: Sourcebooks Landmark (August 1, 2009)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1402236972
ISBN-13: 978-1402236976

Any Minute by Joyce Meyer, Deborah Bedford (3 Copy Audio CD Giveaway)

2009-06-25T10:13:00.000-07:00

Any Minute
by Joyce Meyer, Deborah Bedford, Ellen Archer (Read by)

Sarah Harper is driven to achieve success no matter what the cost. She wants to do good and not hurt the people she loves--especially children and her husband, Joe--but her desire to succeed in her career too often leaves little time for family.
One cold, autumn afternoon, all of that changes when Sarah's car plunges off a bridge and into a river. She is presumed dead by those on the "outside," but Sarah's spirit is still very much alive. What she discovers on the other side transforms everything about Sarah's view of life--past, present, and future.
When Sarah is revived, she is a changed woman. And the unsuspecting world around her will never be the same again.

Audio CD
Publisher: Hachette Audio; Abridged edition (June 30, 2009)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1600246303
ISBN-13: 978-1600246302

I've got 3 copies to give away, many thanks to Anna at Hatchette for the books!!

So This Is What You Have To Do To Get An Entry!
1. Leave a Comment +1
2. Follow Me +1 already a follower +2
3. Post this contest on your blog (can be on your sidebar or a post) +3

PLEASE put your email in your comments or no entry (no exceptions).
This is for the USA and Canada only please and no Po Boxes (publishers rule)!
Winners will be announced on July 11th!

Swimsuit by James Patterson & Maxine Paetro ( 3 copy Audio CD Giveaway)

2009-06-25T09:41:00.000-07:00

Swimsuit
by James Patterson & Maxine Paetro

Read by Christian Rummel
Christian Rummelhas appeared in several episodes of Law & Order and has done a great deal of acting on stage, including his recent work with Theatre for a New Audience. Christian is also an accomplished audiobook narrator who has recorded a number of titles for Hachette Audio.

The scariest and most satisfying James Patterson novel since Kiss the Girls
THE BEACH...

A breathtakingly beautiful supermodel disappears from a swimsuit photo shoot at the most glamorous hotel in Hawaii. Only hours after she goes missing, Kim McDaniels's parents receive a terrifying phone call. Fearing the worst, they board the first flight to Maui and begin the hunt for their daughter.

...WILL NEVER BE...

Ex-cop Ben Hawkins, now a reporter for the L.A. Times, gets the McDaniels assignment. The ineptitude of the local police force defies belief—Ben has to start his own investigation for Kim McDaniels to have a prayer. And for Ben to have the story of his life.

...THE SAME FOR YOU AGAIN.

All the while, the killer sets the stage for his next production. His audience expects the best—and they won't be disappointed. Swimsuit is a heart-pounding story of fear and desire, transporting you to a place where beauty and murder collide and unspeakable horrors are hidden within paradise.

Fiction/General
Audiobook (unabridged CD)
ISBN: 9781600245916
$34.98/U.S.
Hachette Audio

I've got 3 copies to give away, many thanks to Anna at Hatchette for the books!!

So This Is What You Have To Do To Get An Entry!
1. Leave a Comment +1
2. Follow Me +1 already a follower +2
3. Post this contest on your blog (can be on your sidebar or a post) +3

PLEASE put your email in your comments or no entry (no exceptions).
This is for the USA and canada only please and no Po Boxes (publishers rule)!
Winners will be announced on July 11th!

2009-06-24T19:44:00.000-07:00

Nelson Mandela's Favorite African Folktales

By Nelson Mandela
Read by Desmond Tutu, Alan Rickman, Whoopi Goldberg, Matt Damon, Parminder Nagra, Forest Whitaker, Sean Hayes, Charlize Theron, Benjamin Bratt, Scarlett Johansson, Ricardo Chavira, Debra Messing, LaTanya Richardson Jackson, Hugh Jackman, Gillian Anderson, CCH Pounder, Blair Underwood, LeVar Burton, Samuel L Jackson, Jurnee Smollett, Sophie Okonedo, Helen Mirren, Don Cheadle, Alfre Woodard

Pubbing July 1, Nelson Mandela's Favorite African Folktales is an audiobook benefiting children orphaned and impacted by HIV/AIDS in South Africa, featuring Gillian Anderson, Benjamin Bratt, LeVar Burton, Ricardo Chavira, Don Cheadle, Matt Damon, Whoopi Goldberg, Sean Hayes, Hugh Jackman, Samuel L. Jackson, LaTanya Richardson Jackson, Scarlett Johansson, Debra Messing, Helen Mirren, Parminder Nagra, Sophie Okonedo, CCH Pounder, Alan Rickman, Jurnee Smollett, Charlize Theron, Blair Underwood, Forest Whitaker and Alfre Woodard with a special message from Archbishop Desmond Tutu and Original Music by South African legends by Johnny Clegg and Vusi Mahlasela, Directed by Alfre Woodard. The audiobook was a truly international affair recorded in Los Angeles, New York, Miami, London, and Johannesburg. The stories were chosen by the Nobel Laureate himself, from every region of Africa.

Please visit MandelasFavoriteFolktales.com/ for more information and to listed to fabulous clips from the audiobook.

The site also features activities for kids that you can download for endless hours of fun.

To Beguile A Beast by Elizabeth Hoyt

2009-06-17T11:26:00.000-07:00

To Beguile A Beast by Elizabeth Hoyt has to be the most charming historical romance I have read in a long time. This author is new to me but not for long. I have already ordered her other books in this series and cannot wait to indulge myself in a delicious treat that has no calories. YUMM!

Helen Fitzwilliam is a woman with a mission. Having lead her adult life as a Duke's mistress she is bound and determined that she deserves better and will go to most any length to achieve this. She also wants so much better for her children than to be raised and labeled "Bastards". Will she be able to escape a past of imprisonment? Does she really have the courage and know how to survive in the unknown world with two children in tow without endangering any or all of their lives?

Sir Alistair Monroe is a tortured soul. Having seen the ravages of war up close and personal and come out with wounds that would surely drive even the strongest of men to the brink of madness, can he find it in himself to overcome his appearance? Will he ever be able to look beyond the cover of himself to see the truth inside that is ever so beautiful? I most surely hope so!

Our story takes us from London England to Scotland on a journey of self discovery, passion, pain, fear and longing with a fairy tale charm. This is a tale of a true Beauty and The Beast but one that could be ever so true in life today as we know it. A tale of the ravages of war and the results of what happens to a beautiful man scarred for all eternity on the exterior making him retreat to the interior of his being to keep himself safe. The trick is, will our author be able to do the impossible and give us a fairy tale ending? An ending that will bring tears to your eyes and joy to your soul! An ending that will show one and all that beauty is really not just skin deep but travels all the way to the soul of each of us! Ahh....but now you must read to find out.

Mass Market Paperback: 368 pages
Publisher: Forever (May 1, 2009)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 0446406937
ISBN-13: 978-0446406932

Cemetery Dance by Douglas Preston & Lincoln Child

2009-06-12T09:26:00.000-07:00

Cemetery Dance by Douglas Preston and Lincoln Child is a top of the notch thriller that takes you on a roller coaster ride of excitement from beginning to end. As I listened to each CD I could not wait for the next and now that I am done I long to see what other delicious reads I can find by these authors as they are new to me but not for much longer.

A community is terrorized by Zombies with the intent on the killing of journalists. As each person is killed they become the killer. All this seems to stem from one particular cult of worshippers that practice the art of Voodoo, or is it an even more ancient art more dangerous than the simple hoodoo, Voodoo that has drifted from the cultures of peoples from New Orleans.

The story is nicely detailed, action packed and sit on the edge of your chair intense. The scenes are vivid to the point that you can actually see in your mind exactly what the authors are describing down to the tiniest pinpoint of detail. The elements of magic, culture and crime spin this tale into a macabre dance of excitement and fear.

At first I was not sure if I would like the reader but as I went along I found he added the extra umph to the tale that I might have lost if I had been reading it from the book. An umph that gave me that extra bit of excitement and intensity that you would normally get when watching an intense movie and see the visual affects instead of imagining them.

Lastly, the ending was not at all what I excepted but was even more than I had hoped for. It is so twisted that you would never even be able to begin to see it coming from any point in the story. It was the Fiest De La Resistance of a novel worthy of many awards.

Losing Mum and Pup by Christopher Buckley (Unabridged Audio CD)

2009-06-06T10:20:00.000-07:00

Losing Mum and Pup by Christopher Buckley is an unforgettable memoir that is endearing, enchanting and spoken from the heart. A story of dedication, love, honesty, irritable moments and just plain stubbornness. A serious story but with so many light moments that you can't help but chuckle out loud. Oh don't get me wrong as you will still need a hankie for the tear jerking renditions of what we deal with when a loved one dies, but that is more back story and the pleasant, jovial moments of life are what is portrayed as most important.

As I listened to Christopher Buckley read this I could not help myself with feeling my own pain of losing a parent and then recalling the wonderful memories that my dad and I not only made but shared as each of us aged.

At first I really wasn't sure that I would like this story but it didn't take long before it captured me, ensnaring me like a fish caught in a net. I just could not put it down and longed for the next CD as the one before was finishing up.

I could actually see so many ways in which WFB was so like my dad that I think it is the programing of an older generation which instills hard work, hunger for life and a certain stubbornness that seems to be lacking in our current generation. A need to put family first as much as possible doesn't seem to carry the weight of what it did with the children of the cold war era.

My opinion is that Christopher Buckley's reading of his parents story is a necessity, for who else could tell of the good, bad and hair raising moments of the life of the two people most important to him. The different tones of voice lending so much to each and every different memory that you can almost envision yourself being right there with them.

In Over Her Head by Judi Fennell

2009-06-03T11:59:00.001-07:00

In Over Her Head by Judi Fennell is a wave rollicking storm of comic delight. Throw in a bare chested hunky Mer Man and you'll really need to be at the beach just to cool down in the frothy ocean waves. Yumm!

Our heroine Erika runs a marina but is spasticly scared out of her wits about the ocean. She hasn't always been like this, no as a matter of fact she used to love the ocean and diving. It's only been since her childhood when she had a frightening incident below the waves that she made a vow to never, never set foot in the ocean waters again. Oh and this includes being on a boat, no matter the size. Nope, no one is going to make her go into that blasted ocean.

Our hero Reel is a Mer Man but without his fins. Hmm...no fins when the rest of his family has them...ahh, must be a birth defect. At least this is what he thinks. Even with his supposed handicap he gets around without any problems. As a matter of fact he seems to attract trouble of any shape and from any distance. I guess it doesn't help either that he is a known prankster of epic proportions.

Our story gives us a detailed, wonderfully colorful, rich and diverse accounting of undersea life that carries you from page to page with the smoothness of water running through your fingers. A story that has highly entertaining characters with personality traits of all sorts. From the most serious to the irritating slap em up side the head get out of my face characters. This is a tale that will have you chuckling one minute, sitting on the edge of your seat the next and all the while keep you guessing as to what is going to happen next.

Judi Fennell has given us a light, funny, drool worthy accounting of what it's like to have just plain bad luck or could we go further and say no luck. A tale that will make the perfect summer beach read. Just pull up a beach chair, slick on some suntan lotion, stick your feet in the sand and crack this book open for a wild ride of hilarity.

Mass Market Paperback: 352 pages
Publisher: Sourcebooks Casablanca (June 1, 2009)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1402220014
ISBN-13: 978-1402220012

Wild Highland Magic by Kendra Leigh Castle

2009-06-03T11:55:00.000-07:00

Wild Highland Magic by Kendra Leigh Castle is the last of this trilogy which has just the right amount of paranormal and fantasy sugar coated in romance. A delicious read without any added calories that will certainly satisfy your most carnal sweet tooth.

Bastian an Morgain is tall, lean and sexy hot. A man, a prince and wizard, he is also cursed with the most foul disgusting creature to crawl out of anyones worst nightmares. He lives one day at a time never knowing when the creature will finally give in to its hunger and devour him thus ending a legacy of powerful magic users who were once a mighty race.

Catrionna MacInnes is a rare beauty. Part were, part witch, part human makes for an unusual mix but one that is as deadly as the night is dark. A temper easily roused and a spirit that craves unbridled freedom will one of these days get her into trouble. This is one beauty who desperately needs to be tamed.

Our story continues from our last installment with just a small fraction of time passing by. The author has given us a smooth transition and she has given our characters a well needed vacation but as with all things, shit happens and life is not always what we hoped for.

Our hero and heroine meet at the MacInnes compound in Scotland a few days prior to the annual clan get together. Bastian doesn't exactly show his best side and Cat thinks he's a pompous ass which I'm sure he would gladly accept that title in lieu of linking himself to anyone and the danger that is ever present in his life.

The story gets ever more complicated with the addition of a tall, dark and snarky dragon which you will just love to hate even though his comments will surely having you giggling under your breath. Bastian actually saves the jerks proverbial ass and nearly roasts his own in the process. Cat's sister is enlisted to help the snarky twirp and finds out that she has finally met her match in personality. Who would've thunk! LOL! Believe me when I say you'll love this enticing interaction.

This story gives us not one but two budding romances even though one gets much more attention than that of the other. A tale of trust, deception, love, lies and blood thirsty action, you'll slip from one page to the next with the ease of silk sliding over skin. Each chapter will have you hungering for the next with primal need and if you are anything like myself, you will be praying the author comes out with a spin off in the very near future.

Mass Market Paperback: 384 pages
Publisher: Sourcebooks Casablanca (May 1, 2009)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1402218567
ISBN-13: 978-1402218569

Congrats to Winners of Losing Mum and Pup by Christopher Buckley

2009-05-31T07:34:00.000-07:00

*rubymoon ~ Losing Mum and Pup Audio by Christopher Buckley

*military76brat ~ Losing Mum and Pup Audio by Christopher Buckley

*traymona ~ Losing Mum and Pup Audio by Christopher Buckley

Please send your snail mail info to terraontop57 at yahoo dot com. Congrats to all our winners and I hope you enjoy your prizes!

Congrats to Winners of Cemetery Dance by Douglas Preston & Lincoln Child

2009-05-31T07:22:00.000-07:00

*Kathy (kbroyles) ~ Cemetery Dance Audio by Douglas Preston & Lincoln Child

*Dawn M ~ Cemetery Dance Audio by Douglas Preston & Lincoln Child

*carlene ~ Cemetery Dance Audio by Douglas Preston & Lincoln Child

Please send your snail mail info to terraontop57 at yahoo dot com. Congrats to all our winners and I hope you enjoy your prizes!

Cemetery Dance by Douglas Preston & Lincoln Child (3 copy Audio Giveaway)

2009-05-19T10:15:00.000-07:00

CEMETERY DANCE (Abridged and Unabridged)
By Douglas Preston & Lincoln Child
Read by Rene Auberjonois

Pendergast-the world's most enigmatic FBI Special Agent-returns to New York City to investigate a murderous cult.

William Smithback, a New York Times reporter, and his wife Nora Kelly, a Museum of Natural History archaeologist, are brutally attacked in their apartment on Manhattan's Upper West Side. As Pendergast and Lieutenant Vincent D'Agosta undertake their own private-and decidedly unorthodox-quest for the truth. Their serpentine journey takes them to an enclave of Manhattan they never imagined could exist: a secretive, reclusive cult of Obeah and vodou which no outsiders have ever survived.

I've got 3 copies to give away, many thanks to Anna at Hatchette for the books!!

So This Is What You Have To Do To Get An Entry!
1. Leave a Comment +1
2. Follow Me +1 already a follower +2
3. Post this contest on your blog (can be on your sidebar or a post) +3

PLEASE put your email in your comments or no entry (no exceptions).
This is for the USA and canada only please and no Po Boxes (publishers rule)!
Winners will be announced on May 31st!

Losing Mum and Pup by Christopher Buckley (3 copy Audio Giveaway)

2009-05-19T10:06:00.000-07:00

LOSING MUM AND PUP (Unabridged)
By Christopher Buckley

In twelve months between 2007 and 2008, Christopher Buckley coped with the passing of his parents. He was their only child and their relationship was close and complicated. As Buckley tells the story of their final year together, he takes listeners on a surprisingly entertaining tour through hospitals, funeral homes, and memorial services, capturing the heartbreaking and disorienting feeling of becoming a 55-year-old orphan. Buckley maintains his sense of humor by recalling the words of Oscar Wilde: "To lose one parent may be regarded as a misfortune. To lose both looks like carelessness."

I've got 3 copies to give away, many thanks to Anna at Hatchette for the books!!

So This Is What You Have To Do To Get An Entry!
1. Leave a Comment +1
2. Follow Me +1 already a follower +2
3. Post this contest on your blog (can be on your sidebar or a post) +3

PLEASE put your email in your comments or no entry (no exceptions).
This is for the USA and canada only please and no Po Boxes (publishers rule)!
Winners will be announced on May 31st!

Happy Easter Everyone!

2009-04-11T20:26:00.000-07:00

Lament by Maggie Stiefvater

2009-04-11T08:39:00.000-07:00

Lament by Maggie Stiefvater is a mystical magical tale of the world of Faerie that is sure to delight even the most unbelieving reader. This is a tale woven so beautifully that it flows like water through your fingers. A tale that is sure to entertain all ages and a great summer read for your teen/young adult.

Deirdre Monaghan is a normal teenage girl but with musical talent that is well beyond her years. A musical gift that comes so naturally that it could even make the angels weep. Only problem is, is poor Dee has stage fright to the point of getting physically ill.

Luke Dillon is anything but what he seems. Befriending Dee and setting off her abilities to call the Fae is his beginning with her. They immediately fall in love but will the dangerous obstacles that pop up keep them from each other?

Our story starts quickly and leads to our heroine singing a Lament while playing her harp accompanied by a brand new acquaintance who plays the flute just as beautifully. Together the duo set in motion something that will change their futures forever.

Deirdre hears herself singing but can't quite believe the voice that sounds like an angel's let alone how it could possibly be coming from her. Her strumming the harp is like caressing the finest silk, soft, smooth and yet powerful. This is the best performance of her life and she hopes that it will win her the school competition. With Luke's flute beside her how could she possibly lose and who is this stranger that has popped into her life so suddenly.

As our story goes on many strange things start to happen to our characters. Most of what happens seems to involve Dee and things that she always thought were children's tales are now becoming realities both frightening and beautiful. The female line of her family being blessed with a gift, or is it really a curse take her down a path that will determine the outcome of the human race. Her only hint of dangers present is the smell of herbs and the finding of four leaf clover that appear out of seemingly thin air. Question is, will Luke be able to save her from a cruel fate? Will he be able to save himself for falling hopelessly in love with what is forbidden?

Our author has given us a tale of enchantingly beautiful music combined with jealousy. A story that has been woven as tightly and intricately as a spider's web. A story of danger and love that are balanced equally and of trust and deception so fragile that a feather angled just the right way could slice through unhindered. A story where the heroine saves the hero with an unusually powerful ending. One I won't soon forget.

Reading level: Young Adult

Paperback: 336 pages
Publisher: Flux; 1 edition (October 1, 2008)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 0738713708
ISBN-13: 978-0738713700

My Fair Godmother by Janette Rallison

2009-01-09T16:27:00.000-08:00

My Fair Godmother is the most delightful fairytale of the current century. This book first caught my interest just because of the cover art and yes I know you should never judge a book by it's cover. Well I will be happy to say that the story within is even better than I could have possibly expected and where were books like this when I was a teen.

Savannah Delano is sweet sixteen, extremely pretty and watched by all the hot jocks. Unfortunately she is so wrapped up in herself that she doesn't really see what's happening around her until after the fact. I know she sounds like your normal teenage girl but this one is lucky enough to have a Fairy Godmother pay her a visit. Oh wait a minute, I mean a Fair Godmother.

Our story starts out with Savannah and her sister Jane both falling for the same guy. Said guy wants Savannah though and this breaks Jane's heart for she has longed for his attention for a much longer time. As the months pass Jane and Hunter form a friendship that turns into a relationship and Savannah is totally oblivious until the entire situation is thrown in her face. Just weeks before the prom, prom dress in hand our pretty princess is dumped like yesterday's smelly socks.

Savannah decides to withdraw to her room and is confronted by a pink haired, punk looking so full of myself Fair Godmother. Chrissy our Fair Godmother it seems has not passed her Fairy Godmother test and must do extra credit work to help out and you guess it, Savannah is the extra credit work. Chrissy being the dysfunctional what about me type of person only hears half of everything that's said to her and when she grants Savannah three wishes you just know that comedy is going to ensue.

Savannah's first wish lands her in the role of Cinderella, her second wish lands her in the kingdom of Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs as none other than Snow White herself. Her third wish is the one that lands her in a faraway place finding herself for the very first time. Will she find her Prince before the prom? Will our Fair Godmother ever get things right? At what actual cost will come the fruition of Savannah's third wish to have a Prince take her to the Prom.

Our author has taken fairy tales and combined them with the typical teens of today to give us a story of comedy, longing, hurt, betrayal and love. A tale of finding out the real person under the pretty girl persona. A tale that will leave you well satisfied with it's ending. This book is a must read for all of us who love the world of make believe.

Border Moonlight by Amanda Scott

2009-01-09T15:51:00.000-08:00

Border Moonlight by Amanda Scott is one of the rare books that will actually make you want to say Yay for the heroine's independence or cringe with embarrassment when she's confronted with her past. They say your past always catches up with you and our heroine finds this out the hard way. LOL!

Lady Sibylla Cavers is without fear, spunky, headstrong and very pretty. She is so independent that when her father arranges to have her married off three times, she jilts her bridegrooms at the alter. Our Lady is bound and determined to stay single and no one person is going to capture her heart or so she thinks.

Simon Murray is the Laird of Elishaw and swears an oath on the day of his supposed wedding to make his was to be bride pay for jilting him no matter how long it takes. Just a lad of eighteen at the time makes the sting of being rejected all that much more painful. Even still, Simon is a man of honor, means and quite handsome. He really has grown into the epitome of the perfect man and his mother as well as the King are determined to have him married off as soon as they can manage it.

Our story starts out with two youngsters trying to escape the peril of a raging river and Lady Sibylla trying her best to save the first of them. Along comes our Laird Elishaw to witness the bravery or is it recklessness of our Lady as the scene unfolds before him. He rushes down the river in time to pull both Sibylla and the first child to safety. They recognize each other immediately but he doesn't let on to Sibylla that he does indeed know who she is.

Our author gives us a delightful story of stubbornness, tenderness, loyalty, deceit and true love. The perilous danger in the beginning only increases with each twist and turn of our novel. Will Lady Sibylla and her sister ever escape the future that their father has set forth for them? Will living on the borderlands of England and Scotland be the cause of treachery and deceit that could cost a child her very life? Will there be a happy ending and love for our estranged couple? Read and find out.

Delicious by Sherry Thomas

2009-01-09T09:01:00.000-08:00

Delicious by Sherry Thomas is just as the title says. Actually it was mouthwatering delicious and I will never look at a Madeline again in the same way. Whew......who knew food could be so erotic.

Verity Durant has a reputation of not only having the love life of the century but she is the most re known cook that the most elite of families would give their right arm for. She is also somewhat of a mystery since she keeps herself secreted away whenever she is not in the kitchen cooking. Oh and her cooking provokes the most sensual erotically enticing thoughts that run through your mind that it's a wonder that the recipients of her cuisine don't embarrass themselves with all the little responsive noises being issued with every delectable bit.

Stuart Somerset is a proper gentleman, very private and quite adminate that he not enjoy a single thing since his tryist with a woman many years past that left him before dawn after a night of the most wonderfully passionate sex. She never gave him her name and left him feeling like a jilted bridegroom at the alter.

Our story brings the lives of Verity and Stuart back together but Stuart is totally unaware of the woman who is making the most delicious food he has ever had the pleasure of placing on this tongue. Verity goes to all lengths to keep her identity secret. Will poor Stuart ever find out who his cook really is and can he forgive her for not only disappearing all those years ago but for reawakening feelings in him that his tried his damnedest to keep at bay all they long and lonely days and nights.

Our author has given us such a delightful story of seduction through the use of food that I have ever had the pleasure of reading about. Oh the lengths to which one could go to use the most simple of foods to create an erotic response worthy of one intense orgasm after another continuing until even the aftertaste of the food is completely gone. And the delightfully funny, steamy, erotic bathroom scenes will leave you panting with want while laughing hysterically. This book is a must have for anyone that loves a good romance. You won't be sorry but will be left thinking of how many other ways food can get such responses.

Zen and the Art of Vampires by Katie MacAlister

2008-12-22T12:29:00.000-08:00

Zen And The Art of Vampires is a fantastic paranormal cozy mystery with a dash of romance to enhance the flavor. Yumm!! Katie is at her best here again and can't wait for the next book.

Pia Thompson is on a man hunting vacation. She is taking a singles' tour through Europe in hopes for finding someone who will spark her fires. She not's the usual skinny pretty woman that any man would drool over but instead she is a plain jane and has some meat on her bones. At least there is enough of her for a man to grab a hold of and at least hang onto. She has a bit of bad luck and it seems to cling to her like a child clinging to its mother.

Pia is hoping for at least a one night stand with a handsome man but she gets more that what she has bargained for. Handsome men in Europe especially the tall dark and mysterious kind can get you into more trouble than trying to rob a bank. She soon spots two delectable mouthwatering specimens and her friend dares her to go up to them. She takes the dare and soon ends up on the ride of her life and in more trouble than a murderer. Trying to clear her name and get back somewhat of a normal life proves harder than she ever thought.

We end up going on a wonderfully funny trip through a small European community with vampires, ghosts, a fanatical religious group while trying to solve a murder. This book so reminded me of the game Clue and with all of it's who-done-its. A true delight for the paranormal lover and any cozy mystery lover. Actually fits into the romance category also with it's mouthwatering, delicious male vampires that are sure to make you wish you were in Pia's shoes. The author has given us everything in one tidy delicious story that will make you want to come back for more.

Never Dare A Duke by Gayle Callen

2008-12-17T13:13:00.000-08:00

Never Dare A Duke by Gayle Callen is a delicious sweet to be enjoyed whenever a good book is needed. A wonderful Regency period piece that will make you lick your lips in anticipation. A spunky heroine and an overly cautious hero make for a delightful game of romance unbridled.

Abigail is not your average girl of this time period. She is pretty but not too pretty, a bigger than average girl and does not want marriage at all. To her, marriage is a stifling curse worse than death. She does not want any man to be able to control her and she is bound and determined to make a place in society for herself but as part of the working class. She longs to be a writer in the worst way for her father's newspaper but can she find the precise article that will show her the stairway to her dreams and save her father's newspaper company at the same time?

Christopher is a Duke. A tall, dark and handsome man is the understatement of the year where he is concerned. His family's is of the opinion that he takes his position too seriously which proves to be more fact than fiction. He is overly protective of his private life, does not like or care what society has to say or think and prefers his time away from the Ton and all of it's rules and gossip. Oh, and did I say he is the most desired bachelor of the day! Hmm...how could I have left that fact out.

This story is quite comical with our heroine Abigail making a pact with our hero Christopher to help him with a couple of ladies who are like bloodhounds on the scent of the a prized piece of meat. They say "The Thrill Is In The Chase" and oh my how true that is in this delicious novel. Christopher is really in a run for the money with ladies who know that persistence pays off nicely. Or does it?

What starts out so innocently with Abigail and Christopher very quickly gets complicated. Trust turns into deception and lies. Maidenly virtues turn into carnal hunger and then all Hell breaks loose giving us a page turner that will delight your appetite.

Our author has given us a treat sure to be savored long after we finish. She plays our characters for all they are worth and you can't help but get sucked into each and every scene as if it is playing out right before your eyes. A novel that you will surely giggle with, hunger over, gasp at and make you glad that we the women of today are so much stronger and less likely pull someones hair out if they should cross our path the wrong way.

The Tree Shepherd's Daughter by Gillian Summers

2008-11-18T11:37:00.000-08:00

The Tree Shepherd's Daughter by Gillian Summer is a delightful Renaissance Faire tale abound with magic and mayhem that grabs the reader from page one and bewitches you right through to the last page. A young adult novel to devour no matter what age you are.

Keelie Heartwood is the typical California girl in every way until the loss of her mother due to an accident. Confused, angry, resentful, determined, Keelie is not about to give up her California girl ways without a fight.

A few weeks following her mothers death, Keelie is uprooted from her California life to go live with her father at a Renaissance Faire in Colorado. Upon arrival she is not only stunned by the fairy tale image of the place but of the people who actually think they are a part of this period lifestyle. What could only be worse is the giving up of the concrete life for the world of woodlands, mud and the uneasy buzzing that seems to have taken hold of Keelie since she walked through the gates of the Faire.

It doesn't take long before what seems to be fantasy turns into a stunning reality when Keelie is confronted by water sprites, tree spirits, a nasty dastardly evil troll, elves, dwarves, and all kinds of other fairytale characters that a normal person would see in a totally different light.

This author has given us a truly wonderful tale that would be every girl's dream given the chance. Add a little magic and mayhem, good magic and dark magic, magical beings and mundanes (humans), throw in a normal looking kitty with an infinity for out drinking almost everyone when the mead starts to flow and you have a page turner that will make you laugh, cry, astonish you and make you wish for more when the story finally comes to the very last page. I can't wait to get my greedy little hands on book two of this deliciously delightful trilogy.

Paperback: 336 pages
Publisher: Flux (September 1, 2007)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 0738710814
ISBN-13: 978-0738710815

My Sweet Trick-or-Treaters

2008-10-31T19:38:00.000-07:00

This Little Witch is my oldest Granddaughter Katrina!

This beautiful Raggedy Ann is my youngest Granddaughter Cady!

And this handsome little guy is my only Grandson Eric!

I did not get to see them on Halloween this year for the very first time as they live in North Carolina now with Mom and Dad. Though we are miles apart are hearts are all together in love.

Romeo, Romeo by Robin Kaye

2008-10-27T09:10:00.000-07:00

Romeo, Romeo by Robin Kaye is deliciously decedent. Sizzling hot, funny, romantic and like the best cannoli you've ever had, you lick your fingers sensually grasping each and every last morsel. This book is just like that cannoli, you can't help but lick those fingers and turn those pages wondering not if but when the descriptions of this really hot Italian Stallion are going to make you explode in ecstasy.

Rosalie Ronaldi is tall, full bodied with supple shapes that can drive a man wild. Dark curly hair and olive skin give her that Mediterranean look that most Italian women have. Unlike the tall, skinny, mindless playboy pin-ups that most men would love to use and throw away, Rosalie has what a man can hold onto and enjoy for the rest of his life. Intelligence and independence are a large part of her and her need for control with no strings attached makes her all that much more enticing.

Nick Romeo is the hottest thing to come along since apple pie. Tall, dark and handsome seems to be an understatement where he is concerned and the ladies flock to him like honey bees to a hive. Not only does he have the Italian good looks but he's got more money than he could ever expect to spend in one lifetime.

Nick and Rosalie meet under unusual circumstances and sparks start to fly from the very first moment. Unfortunately for Romeo, Rosalie is not free for the taking. Not yet anyway!

What starts out as an innocent meeting quickly turns into a heart pounding, lip smacking, make me howl sizzling romance.

Talk about love at first sight. They say it happens but what are the odds and why is it that everyone around you can see what's happening but you? Also they say that absence makes the heart grow fonder and you really don't know what you've had until you've lost it. How much of this is true especially in a story that will curl your toes and melt your soul. Guess we'll just have to ask Nick and Rosalie.

This author has given us a touch of old world romance, mind blowing, heart pounding, howl like a coyote sizzling sex, along with family honor and ideals that take you back to the old country life style. This is a story that you can sink your teeth into and feel like you're really a part of the story. It's a story of a chance meeting that could really happen to any one of us. It's a story of possibilities and probabilities that will rock your world like a 9.0 magnitude earthquake leaving you shaken, stunned, off balance, scared, and flat on your ass. A story of two souls meeting and melting into one.

Dear Mr. President

2008-10-20T08:11:00.000-07:00

I don't usually go in for all the political stuff but this video really hits the spot so I thought I would share. Enjoy and would love to hear your opinions.

Look Who's Coming to Yankee Romance Reviewers This Week!

2008-10-18T14:08:00.000-07:00

Wow! Look who's coming to Yankee Romance Reviewers this week.

Guest Blogger for October 20th is Carol Shenold! Her book "Bloody Murder" is currently available!

Guest Blogger for October 21st is Judith James! Her book "Broken Wing" is currently available!

Guest Blogger for October 22nd is Anya Bast! Her book "The Chosen Sin" is currently available!

Guest Blogger for Octber 24th is Adrienne Basso. Her book "The Christmas Countess" will be released soon! A must read ladies as it was fantastic.

Please make sure and mark your calendars and stop by to say "HI".

http://yankeeromancereviewers.blogspot.com/

Looks Who's Visiting Yankee Romance Reviewers This Week

2008-10-12T19:47:00.000-07:00

Wow! Look who's coming to Yankee Romance Reviewers this week.

Guest Blogger for October 13th is Maddie James! Her book "Ladies of Legend: Finding Home" is currently available!

Guest Blogger for October 14th is Esri Rose! Her book "Bound to Love Her" is currently available!

Guest Blogger for October 15th is Cheryl Brooks! Her book "Warrior" is currently available!

Please make sure and mark your calendars and stop by to say "HI".

http://yankeeromancereviewers.blogspot.com/

The Christmas Countess by Adrienne Basso

2008-10-12T16:41:00.000-07:00

The Christmas Countess by Adrienne Basso is a delightful Regency Christmas story that will leave you pleasantly satisfied. A tale of deception and hurt that turns into one of hope but not without hard work and honesty.

Rebecca Tremaine is a lovely young woman grieving the death of her child while sorting through her late father's worldly goods. Intelligent, passionate and honest she would make any man a wonderful wife, but having lost a child shortly after losing the man she was engaged to be married too has left Rebecca feeling a hopeless emptiness that she feels will haunt her until the end of her days.

Lord Cameron Sinclair is a handsome man with wealth beyond compare. He is very high on the social ladder but human all the same. After the loss of his beloved wife Christina, it was the young toddler he and his wife were proud parents of that saved him from the unbearable sorrow that accompanies the death of one he loved so dearly.

Daniel Tremaine, brother of Rebecca, has returned from the America's to help her sort through their father's items so that they can both go back to a normal life. A handsome young man of self made wealth from smart business investments, Daniel does not expect the shock of a hidden family secret and feels he must help his sister in the endeavour of finding the truth before he can go on with his life.

Lady Charolette Sinclair is a plain looking young woman with an affliction. She is crippled, insecure, sheltered and withdrawn to the point that all she can see for her future is that of a spinster. Little does she realize the about face that her life is about to take and the unbelievable happiness she is about to find. The only thing that can stand in her way now is her brother Cameron.

Our story starts out with Rebecca and Daniel finding out a secret that will change their lives forever. Sorting through their recently deceased father's worldly goods they come across a paper with information on it revealing an incident that happened some six years past. Daniel plays an important part in helping Rebecca gain access into Lord Sinclair's life which sets into motion events that will dramatically change all their lives.

Invited to the Sinclair estate for the Christmas Holiday's makes both Rebecca and Daniel uncomfortable but their is no other way for them to take care of what Rebecca wishes. After having been wronged by her parents, can Rebecca ever forgive them for their deception even if it was done to save her reputation? Can the events of the past be righted to create a happiness in the future? Where Daniel finds happiness can Rebecca even hope too? What would a Christmas be like without hope?

Our author has given us an enriched story of love that will touch you deep down in the center of your core. A story of hope that shines brighter than the brightest star in a clear winter nights sky. A story of passion so delicious you can only wish that it was a story of your life instead of a fictional character. A story that will leave you breathless while awaiting to see what turn of events will happen next. A story that is truly a Christmas miracle.

Paperback: 352 pages
Publisher: Zebra (October 7, 2008)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1420104322
ISBN-13: 978-1420104325

Think Pink

2008-10-12T14:56:00.001-07:00

My daughter was just diagnosed with Breast Cancer this last week. Though we don't know yet what stage of the disease she has it is still devastating. Athena is only 22 years old and has really just started living. Please take a moment to pass this on and Think Pink.
Support Breast Cancer Research
Huggs,
Terra

Athena needs your Prayers

2008-10-09T17:06:00.000-07:00

Please say a prayer for my 22 year old daughter because she does indeed have breast cancer. We're not sure what stage yet but will find out soon. She has to go through another surgery with part of the left breast being removed and then they will remove a lump from the right breast. The surgeon told her she has an extremely rare form of breast cancer. Will keep you posted as I find out more but please, please keep her in your prayers.

Immortal Warrior by Lisa Hendrix

2008-09-27T11:46:00.000-07:00

Immortal Warrior by Lisa Hendrix is a tale of true love overcoming the odds. Wonderfully romantic, wickedly sexy with one foot in the historical realm and one foot in the paranormal realm, this novel is sure to delight any romance lover out there. I for one cannot wait for the next book and this installment will be going into my personal collection to read again and again. Like your favorite movie, you just can't seem to get enough of it.

Lady Alaida is extremely beautiful, young and opinionated, feisty, fiery, gentle and fair. She is the perfect woman to run a keep and knows her people and treats them with a firm but gentle hand. She actually cares. Unfortunately her kindness does not extend to the King or to any of the number of suitors that swill her ale while ravishing her pantry during the time in which she must make a choice for husband and Lord.

Ivor Graycloak is a brave man and also cursed. He has served the King for many years and now his payment for all of this is a keep, it's people and a young maiden to wife. Ivor is a bit reluctant to take on all of this because of his curse but finally decides that he has lived long and hard and would love to have a normal life per say. Only problem is, will it come to pass or will the curse win out?

Our story starts out with Ivor and two friends traveling to Alnwick to claim his prize that King William has bestowed upon him. Upon arriving he finds the keeps great hall is littered with would be suitors for the hand of Lady Alaida. It would seem that it has been some time that these men have been here for they have not only misused the Lady's property but have gone so far as to nearly wipe out the stores of food and ale. Being the disreputable bunch of louts they are, Lady Alaida has had all the ladies of the keep sleep in her chambers to protect her from these lecherous bastards.

Lord Ivor makes his claim to Alnwick and it's Lady and thus the fun begins. This Lady is not about to let some man just come in here and run her life, her keep and her people. At least not without a bit of a fight. Even though she can not say no outright to Lord Ivor, she is not about to be accommodating.

Meanwhile, Lord Ivor and his second leave before the sun rises and return after the sun sets each evening while their friend does just the opposite. He comes at sun rise and leaves at sun set. It doesn't take long before there is talk among the people but Lord Ivor puts it to rest quite easily and logically. His biggest problem is making Lady Alaida see things his way without question.

Our story is really quite wonderful in all respects. Descriptive scenery and dastardly villains erupt from the historical setting with the ease of listening to someone tell a fairytale of old. What makes this tale so much more is the love and devotion, good vs. evil and the complete feeling that you are truly watching everything happen from a first hand point of view.

Our author has given us a fresh perspective into another facet of the paranormal world. A delightful coaxing of characters as they bend and blend to make the story come alive. A story of hot steamy sex, delightfully playful romance and deep down soul searing true love that even the Gods would be leery of fiddling with. If you miss this novel you will be missing a wonderfully written work of art.

Jacob by Jacquelyn Frank

2008-09-27T11:44:00.000-07:00

Jacob (Book 1 of The Nightwalkers Series) by Jacquelyn Frank is a better than delightful romantic treat in the world of paranormal. Deliciously sensual ground shaking love and Demons like you have never seen before encompass this book with an elemental frenzy.

Jacob is young for his six hundred years and every bit the professional when it comes to his job. Being an immortal Demon does have it's drawbacks and it's up to Jacob as The Enforcer to make sure that things go as they should and if a law is broken he is the one to track down and punish the guilty party. An amazing male of his species he is graceful, quiet, extremely handsome and about to get the shock of his life.

Isabella is a petite brunette with the most silky long dark hair that just begs to have your fingers run through it. A delightful little beauty who is kind as the day is long, smart as a whip and packs a mighty punch, she is every bit the match for Jacob. Born human with the normal human life she is stunned beyond words when her life goes topsy turvie and she discovers the real truth about her heritage.

Our story starts us out in a period of unrest and upset during the Druid time of Samhain and a few days before the full moon. A time when the Demon's worst nightmares can come true as necromancer's ply their magic by summoning Demon's to them. A time when a Demon can go from looking totally human to becoming a hideous beast. A time when a intelligent caring mind can be turned into a completely different personality with only two thoughts left, self preservation and sex.

What was thought long ago lost to the Demon race has reappeared. What was once thought of as their destruction is now their salvation. Those who the Demon race thought they had rid the world of have come back again but now as a race of halfbreeds. A thousand years have passed since the great war and it has taken that long for the bloodline of our halfbreeds to become potent enough to make itself known.

Our author has given us an extremely rich tale of love, lust, nightmares, purity, pain and terror. She has given us a race who considers itself supreme over humans only to have the rude awakening of having a door slammed in their face as they realize their mistakes. She has given us a tale of love coming from the most unlikely of places. A love that should be taboo. A love that will right the wrongs done to an innocent race oh so my years past. A realization of the harsh punishments that have been doled out to beings doing only what nature had meant them to do.

This is a luscious novel action packed and sure to keep you reading from beginning to end while sitting on the edge of your seat.

Mass Market Paperback: 320 pages
Publisher: Zebra (December 1, 2006)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 0821780654
ISBN-13: 978-0821780657

Look Who's Coming To Yankee Romance Reviewers This Week

2008-09-22T08:44:00.001-07:00

Wow! Look who's coming to Yankee Romance Reviewers this week.

Guest Blogger for September 22nd is Jen Holling! Her book "My Immortal Promise" is due to release in November!

Guest Blogger for September 24th is Kendra Leigh Castle! Her book "Dark Highland Fire" is due for release in October!

Guest Blogger for September 25th is Loucinda McGary! Her book "The Wild Sight" is due for release in October!

Guest Blogger for September 26th is Melissa Mayhue! Her book "Soul of a Highlander" is currently available.

Please make sure and mark your calendars and stop by to say "HI".

http://yankeeromancereviewers.blogspot.com/

My Immortal Promise by Jen Holling

2008-09-21T16:39:00.001-07:00

My Immortal Promise by Jen Holling is like coming home after a long journey. The longing for the continuance of MacKay family saga gives us relief from the pent up tension of anticipation that has been nagging since the finish of My Immortal Protector. This fifth book in the series holds on to the magic of the witches that took us through the first three books while giving us a different look at the new witches that have evolved.

Drake MacKay is extremely handsome but a bitter man since the death of his lovely wife. A man who would have given his own life in return for hers, he is now lonely to the point of desperation and longs for a death that will not come.

Hannah O'Shea has lived eight hundred years as a thing of death, a being of the night, a lover of blood, a very strong witch in every way. A woman that was at one time Hell bent on revenge and the dishing out of her own justice, to a lonely creature of habit and self preservation. How far ones comes when consumed by hate.

Our third character of importance I will not name here for fear of spoiling your surprise. It did indeed surprise me and oh what a great dastardly character we have. He is righteous, pompous, good but evil, could be handsome but now a monster, should be respected by all but is more feared than the devil himself. Have I got you thinking now. Good!

Our story basically starts out six months from My Immortal Protector and carries on with the storyline that was already set up there. It is nicely started with a slight back drop of the previous book and then jumps right into the here and now.

Drake MacKay sees that he has fulfilled his promise to the Baobhan Sith and returns to her to gain his freedom. Things don't go as planned for Drake and he is honored bound to the Blood Witch (Baobhan Sith) to protect her and see her to safety. They travel far and wide to find safety and peace but instead find a danger so great that they are at a loss as to what to do.

Traveling the Scottish countryside in search for help leads our unlikely duo not only on a grand journey of earthly miles but a journey of self discovery and growth. Worry lurks in their minds while danger is around every corner. Trickery and deceit are not below either of them but in order to protect each other and the ones Drake loves they must learn to trust. This is not an easy thing to do and our dastardly character playes Drake and Hannah like Violin strings against each other.

Our author has given us a nicely spun next chapter in a wonderful paranormal romance saga that is sure to touch all the senses. We have a great history lesson in the life of the ages of the Scottish Highlanders and the religious persecution of witches. This is a story of love, trust, deceit, evil and good, hate, abuse and whispered secrets. A tale of things that go bump in the night and of gifts of nature. Or are they curses?

Paperback: 336 pages
Publisher: Pocket (October 28, 2008)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1416525866
ISBN-13: 978-1416525868

Guest Bloggers This Week At Yankee Romance Reviewers

2008-09-15T14:21:00.001-07:00

Wow! Look who's coming to Yankee Romance Reviewers this week.

Guest Blogger for September 17th is Julia Templeton! Her book "The Conquest" is currently available!

Guest Blogger for September 18th is Emily Bryan! Her books "Pleasuring the Pirate" are currently available!

Please make sure and mark your calendars and stop by to say "HI".

http://yankeeromancereviewers.blogspot.com/

The Chosen Sin

2008-09-14T15:14:00.000-07:00

The Official BBAW Giveaway List

2008-09-13T15:57:00.000-07:00

The Official BBAW Giveaway List

If you follow along for the festivities of BBAW at My Friend Amy, you will find many chances to win LOTS of goodies! Like what? Well have a look below. All of these things will be given away between September 15-19. There will be a huge variety of ways to win them and giveaways will be announced constantly throughout the week. So be sure to check in often!

A HUGE thank you to Hachette Book Group, Penguin Group USA, Harlequin, The B&B Media Group, Shera of SNS Blog Design, WaterBrook Multnomah Publishing Group, Catherine Delors, Pamela Binnings Ewen, Andromeda Romano-Lax, Ceceilia Dowdy, Sormag, Book Club Girl, Savvy Verse and Wit, Cafe of Dreams, Fashionista Piranha, and Hey Lady! Whatcha Readin'?.

Daily Raffles:
Monday--Books and Chocolate sponsored by My Friend Amy and Hey Lady! Whatcha' Readin?
Tuesday--Books and Going Green sponsored by My Friend Amy
Wednesday--Books and Coffee sponsored by My Friend Amy
Thursday--Books and Charity sponsored by My Friend Amy and Fashionista Piranha
Friday--Books and Movies sponsored by My Friend Amy

Win a Book Club Girl Hostess Survival Kit!
Do you find it's your turn to host book club and not only do you not know what to serve but you don't know what books to offer up for the next month's selection?! Let Book Club Girl come to your rescue with the Book Club Girl Hostess Survival Kit.

One lucky winner of the kit will receive:

* A basket of cheese, crackers, cookies and wine for up to 12 people
* 5 great book group books to vote on for your group's next pick. And Book Club Girl will then donate 12 copies whichever book is chosen for your entire group to read.
* 12 Book Club Girl mousepads to give out as party favors that night
* 12 Book Club Girl bookmarks to mark everyone's favorite passages
* 12 Book Club Girl coasters to protect your coffee table from all those wine glasses!

TWO SORMAG Goody Bags containing books and more!

A Special Pamper Me Basket from Cafe of Dreams!
From Avon Foot Works
~ Inflatable watermelon shaped foot tub
~ 3.4 FL oz Watermelon Cooling Foot Lotion
~ 3.4 FL oz Watermelon Exfoliating Foot Scrub
~ 12 count Watermelon Effervescent Foot Tablets
~ An ARC of So Long At The Fair by Christina Schwarz
~ A variety of Hot Chocolate and Tea mixes

A pre-made blog template from SNSDesign!

A Subscription to Poetry Magazine from Savvy Verse and Wit!

BOOKS
Mistress of the Revolution by Catherine Delors
The Moon in the Mango Tree by Pamela Binnings Ewen
The Spanish Bow by Andromeda Romano-Lax
John's Quest by Cecelia Dowdy
Confessions of a Contractor by Richard Murphy
Acedia & Me by Kathleen Norris
The Wordy Shipmates by Sarah Vowell
The Lucky One by Nicholas Sparks
The Book of Lies by Brad Meltzer
Supreme Courtship by Christopher Buckley
A Tale Out of Luck by Willie Nelson with Mike Blakely
The Heretic's Daughter by Kathleen Kent
When Will There Be Good News by Kate Atkinson
An Exact Replica of a Figment of My Imagination by Elizabeth McCracken
Exit Music by Ian Rankin
The Smart One and the Pretty One by Claire LaZebnik
Gunmetal Black by Daniel Serrano
Isolation by Travis Thrasher
The Miracle Girls by Anne Dayton and May Vanderbilt
Every Freaking! Day With Rachell Ray by Elizabeth Hilts
Dewey by Vicki Myron
The Shiniest Jewel by Marian Henley
Keep the Faith by Faith Evans
The Book of Calamities by Peter Trachtenberg
A is for Atticus by Lorilee Craker
After the Fire by Robin Gaby Fisher
Mike's Election Guide by Michael Moore
War as They Knew It by Michael Rosenberg
Fixing Hell By Col. (ret.) Larry C. James
Wild Boy: My Life with Duran Duran by Andy Taylor
The Last Under-Cover: The True Story of an FBI Agent's Dangerous Dance with Evil By Bob Hamer
Border Lass by Amanda Scott
Insatiable Desire by Rita Heron
Hungry for More by Diana Holquist
Free Food for Millionaires by Min Jin Lee
Trespassers Will Be Baptized by Elizabeth Emerson Hancock
He Loves Me, He Loves Me Not by Trish Ryan
Never Surrender by General Jerry Boykin
Dream in Color by Congresswoman Linda Sánchez, Congresswoman Loretta Sánchez
Beyond Belief by Josh Hamilton
Cobain Unseen by Charles R. Cross
Doing Business in 21st Century India by Gunjan Bagla
Branding Only Works on Cattle by Jonathan Salem Baskin
Launching a Leadership Revolution by Chris Brady, Orrin Woodward
How to Hear from God by Joyce Meyer
Knowing Right from Wrong by Thomas D. Williams
Pope John Paul II: An Intimate Life by Caroline Pigozzi
Pure by Rebecca St. James
He Loves Me! by Wayne Jacobson
So You Don't Want to Go to Church Anymore by Wayne Jacobson and Dave Coleman
Move On, Move Up by Paula White
The Rosary by Gary Jansen
Shoot the Moon by Billie Letts
The Choice by Nicholas Sparks
Right Livelihoods by Rick Moody
by George by Wesley Stace
The Almost Moon by Alice Sebold
Trunk Music by Michael Connelly
Hollywood Crows by Joseph Wambaugh
Dead Boys by Richard Lange
The Gifted Gabaldon Sisters by Lorraine Lopez
Sisterchicks Go Brit! by Robin Jones Gunn
Beyond the Night by Marlo Schalesky
With Endless Sight by Allison Pittman
Harlequin Titles: To Be Announced

http://www.myfriendamysblog.com/2008/09/official-bbaw-giveaway-list.html

Interested in gaining entries into the daily raffles? Post this complete list on your blog with links and you'll earn two extra entries!

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Posted by Amy at 7:51 PM
Labels: BBAW, Giveaways

The Lady Flees Her Lord by Michele Ann Young

2008-09-07T08:44:00.000-07:00

The Lady Flees Her Lord by Michele Ann Young is a story of how desperation and fear can make a woman do the unthinkable. How ridicule and abuse can cost you more than you would ever think of. A story of long ago times when women were nothing but bought property meant only for breeding purposes and to raise a man's status in life. The more beautiful the woman, the more cocky the man.

Lady Lucinda Denbigh is sweet, kind, good hearted and lovely. She is stifled, ridiculed and abused because she does not fit the picture of the status quo woman of the times. Lucinda is desperate but does she have the courage to follow through with her thoughts? Will she take a chance on a venture that could very well be the death of her if she is caught?

Lord Hugo Wanstead is a handsome and kind behemoth of a man that has seen his share of war and suffers still from its affects. Suffering physically by day from a wound that could prove deadly and emotionally by night by visions in nightmares beyond horrific, Hugo comes home to take his rightful place as Lord of his late fathers estate only to find that it also suffers.

Lord Denbigh is a petite man with a voracious appetite for gambling, short on temper and long on lacking any human morals. He is a belligerent, abusive, possessive cad with an excessive drinking problem and even worse money problems. Will he realize before it is too late that his darling wife has more balls than he does?

Our story is made up of all the riches of the Regency Period of time. From the lush but poor country life to the exciting but ugly London lifestyle we see the best and the worst of both. We are reminded of times gone by when horses were more valuable than women and even dogs were given more respect. How far we have really come in our fight for rights and equality.

Lucinda makes her escape from her brute of a husband by the skin of her teeth. A wraith of a child is thrust upon her while she flees for the countryside and it's possibilities of safety. Realizing that Lord Denbigh will be looking for a lone, somewhat plump woman, Lucinda breathes a sigh of relief with her new identity. Little does she realize that though she is physically safe for the time being from her horrific past, her heart is in frightful danger from a wonderfully warm, charming, handsome bear of a man in her future.

Our author has given us a little slice of Heaven molded from a minuscule slice of Hell. Our emotions are played like a violin with endearing words, breath taking scenes and a virtuous sense of right and wrong. The authors writing style is highly comparable with Jane Austin but with more of today's romance mentality. Lush and loving, heart wrenching beautiful, one could only hope to have a Lord Hugo Wanstead to desire us so truly and deeply.

Paperback: 432 pages
Publisher: Sourcebooks Casablanca (October 1, 2008)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1402213999
ISBN-13: 978-1402213991

Guest Bloggers This Week At Yankee Romance Reviewers

2008-09-07T08:00:00.001-07:00

Wow! Look who's coming to Yankee Romance Reviewers this week.

Guest Blogger for September 8th is Michele Ann Young! Her book "The Lady Flees Her Lord" is due for release in October!

Guest Blogger for September 9th is Vicki Lewis Thompson! Her books "Over Hexed and Wild & Hexy" are currently available!

Guest Blogger for September 10th is Jennifer Estep! Her book "Jinx" is available now!

Please make sure and mark your calendars and stop by to say "HI".

http://yankeeromancereviewers.blogspot.com/

Please Say A Prayer

2008-09-07T07:20:00.000-07:00

Please say a prayer for my 22 year old daughter as the doctor's are 85 percent sure she has breast cancer. My heart is bleeding.

Warrior: The Cat Star Chronicles by Cheryl Brooks

2008-09-04T13:40:00.000-07:00

Warrior: The Cat Star Chronicles by Cheryl Brooks has got to be one of the most sensually imaginative books that I've ever read and it gives us an entirely new meaning to the words, "Tongue tantalizing, lip smacking, finger licking good". Whew! You gals want a hot book, well go no further because this one will sizzle your panties right off.

Tisana is a witch of rare talents. Her main talent though is healing and as with all healers they are a gentle sort who take care of anyone who might land upon their doorstep. Even gentle as she is, Tisana can still flay the skin off your back with words as sharp as razors that roll off her wicked tongue when you tick her off. For the most part though she is smart, sensitive, intelligent and oh so lonely.

Leo is the name that Tisana has given him since his true name is much to hard to pronounce. He is an off worlder as they call anyone not of their planet but an off worlder with talents that would make even the most virile of men weep with envy. Extraordinarily beautiful almost to perfection, he purrs like a kitten when stroked and fights like a tiger when provoked. With eyes of a cat and curiosity to match, Leo is much more than what he seems to be.

Our story starts out with Leo being almost dead and dropped at Tisana's cottage by his owner and master Rafe who just happens to be Tisana's ex. Rafe gives Tisana thirty days to heal Leo and not a day longer. Can she possibly bring this off worlder back from the brink of death without any working knowledge of Leo's species.

What starts out so innocently as a healer/patient scenario quickly turns into an inferno of lust with the most exotic description of Leo's attributes that I have had the pleasure of reading about in any male species. The old adage, "If it smells like a rose it must be a rose", well that's perfectly true here and let's just say, "Damn.........I need a bib"!

Our author has given us a sci-fi tale of true love, hot sex and even hotter orgasms. A magical story of hope, love and devotion so deep that to lose that which you love so much would mean the snuffing out of your own life like the wind blowing out a candle. Kudo's for the Snap, Snap, Sizzle, Sizzle that will leave you panting for more.

Mass Market Paperback: 321 pages
Publisher: Casablanca Pr (October 1, 2008)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1402214405
ISBN-13: 978-1402214400

Line of Scrimmage by Marie Force

2008-08-29T13:41:00.000-07:00

Line of Scrimmage by Marie Force is not only a fantastic read for the romance fan but also for the female sports fan. I found this story ripe with emotion, steadfast with passion and downright endearing. Ladies hold onto your hats cause this Line of Scrimmage is full of secret game plays.

Susannah Sanderson is a stunning blond who's had her fill of a one sided relationship. Marriage to a football superstar is marriage to the team and for Susannah it seems to be taking more than she can give.

Ryan Sanderson is superstar quarterback with three Superbowl wins under his belt but his ten years of marriage aren't quite getting him the awards that he needs. More money than he could possibly ever spend, good looks enough to snag any woman he wants, leaves this jock with happiness in his fantasy world and trouble in his real world.

Henry Merrill is an overly possessed, back stabbing creep who is so in love with Susannah that he sits on the sidelines waiting for his chance to pick up the pieces of her life as it shatters with her separation and upcoming divorce from her husband. Like a leach he sucks his way into her life and into a promise of marriage as soon as the divorce is final.

The story starts us out with Susannah and Henry having a dinner party with his parents to discuss their upcoming wedding. They have a short four weeks before they will be husband and wife and the only thing that can possibly go wrong is Susannah's court date in ten days. All is going well until her estranged husband decides to throw a money wrench into all of Susannah's carefully laid plans by showing up and saying, "Honey I'm home".

Ryan, Susannah and Henry immediately are in conflict over Ryan's presence and there is not a thing that can be done about it as the house still legally belongs to both Susannah and Ryan. Henry is put on the back burner so to speak for the immediate future and sparks of tension, anger and passion fly around our divorcing couple like flies around a rotten banana.

As the story plays out Ryan and Susannah go on a roller coaster ride of blackmail, love and anger, tears and laughter, trust and distrust, pain and sorrow, danger, unbelievable patience and devotion to bring them into a state of questioning possibilities.

Our author has given us an insightful look into true love, passion and undying devotion. She has given us a wonderful back story of team playing with football as it basis. I truly found it uncanny that the story back line is so close to my own beloved New England Patriots and the accomplishments that come with hard work and even harder struggles.

Our characters are totally believable in every situation thrown to them and the intensity of the story grabs us on page one and carries us to the very last page without a blink of the eye. A must read that will not disappoint even the most finicky romance reader.

Paperback: 368 pages
Publisher: Sourcebooks Casablanca (September 1, 2008)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1402214243
ISBN-13: 978-1402214240

And The Winner Is..................

2008-08-26T08:37:00.000-07:00

The Winner for the August Contest here on Terra's Book Blog for a Hardcover copy of "From Dead to Worse" is..............................LadyVampire2u! Congrats!! Please send me your snail mail info to terraontop57 at yahoo dot com and I will have your book out to you in a few weeks.

The Wild Sight by Loucinda McGary

2008-08-24T17:24:00.000-07:00

The Wild Sight by Loucinda McGary is a tale consisting of everything you could possibly want from Ireland. A romance, cozy mystery, paranormal all wrapped up into one nice neat package that will entertain you from the first page to the very end. A dapper dashing hero ensnared in intrigue, murder, and hauntings from past and the present must prove himself to all and theirs.

Donovan O'Shea is about as handsome as they come, smart, pleasant and he has the Sight. Plagued from his early years with this gift, his imaginary friends were really true in his eyes. A gift inherited from his Mum, little did he know that it would be the bane of his existence as the years moved on. Donovan is about as Irish as you can get and has a lilting brogue that will caress you like a lover's kiss.

Rylie Powell is a sensually beautiful American in search of her roots of heritage. A woman on a mission, she is bound and determined to find the father she hasn't seen since she was five years old. Rylie has two weeks with little but a birth certificate and a photo to go on but luckily for her she has patience.

Poor Donovan having left Ireland for the States years prior is once again in his homeland and having to face the demons of his past. His da's property is part of an archaeological dig with items being found that date back to the Romans. As Donovan prepares to sell the property that once belonged to his family, an unlikely discovery of a body halts everything. As if that's not bad enough, he is suddenly plagued with a woman who claims to be his half sister. A persistent, luscious American woman that instantly stirs his blood to the boiling point. Talk about Luck of The Irish!!

Rylie, having just arrived in Ireland tracks down whom she believes is her long lost father only to find out that he has had a stroke and is in a hospital some miles away from where he was living. She does however find a tall, strikingly handsome man she believes to be her half brother, but how can that truly be as he stokes the fires in her blood as easily as a witch stirs a cauldron. She ogles his behind thinking of what a nice set of buns he has and it's just her luck that she should be of the same lineage. Darn that Luck of The Irish!!

A body buried some forty years prior and a current murder set our duo out on wild goose chase all around the country side while they try and find the truth of Rylie's parentage. But things are most certainly not what they seem which leads them to question what the body has to do with them that was found on Donovan's families estate. Being caught in unforeseeable predicaments creates sparks that will ignite passions that our characters find too hard to control.

Our author has given us a story rich in history, Irish lingo, scary settings and fantastically imaginative other worldly characters that all interact with our hero and heroine with such ease that it's like putting on a pair of soft comfy slippers. A romance with punch. A cozy mystery that will make you think twice about going out in the dark. A storyline that will most certainly entertain you from the first page to the last and have you sputtering Irish words long after the book ends.

Dark Hunger (The Brethren Series Book 2) by Sara Reinke

2008-08-20T12:52:00.000-07:00

Dark Hunger by Sara Reinke was as delicious as the first book in the series but this one was more romance than its previous installment. All the emotions at play in this book will have you wondering if you you should laugh, cry, shove your proverbial foot in your mouth, die of embarrassment or just continue to grind your teeth in frustration at not being able to get to the next page fast enough.

Rene Morin is Cajun, part human, part vampire, all raw sexual male and kick him in the ass stubborn to a T. He has more money than he or his heirs could ever hope to spend, a mouth that doesn't know when to shut itself and a slight drinking problem.

Tessa Noble Davenant is full vampire, extremely beautiful, pregnant, and in a whole lot of trouble with her family. She is on the run now trying to protect her twin brother from a prominent family of vampires that are out for his skin. If sticks and stones can break your bones, I would truly hate to see what stares and sharp words could do coming from Tessa's sharp tongue.

Our story starts off right where we left off in the first book of the series, Dark Thirst. Brandon, Lina, Rene and Tessa all find themselves running for their lives from the Brethren, a prominent family of vampires. The Elders with the Grandfather leading them are hot on our escapee's tracks. Not only that but we also have Tessa's husband even closer and poor Tessa if he should be able to get his hands on her.

The first book was more about the family itself and then Brandon and Lina. This second book is more about Rene and Tessa with sections of the others put in here and there. The back story referring to the first book is prominent in places but only as needed to jog your memory of what or why this should or could be happening. I found the writing to be very smooth and the storyline very intense.

Our author has given us another jewel of a story that will have you drooling, crying, laughing, cursing, anticipation so great that sitting on the edge of your seat just might have you falling on the floor. A story of love, friendship, happiness, sadness, betrayal, secrets galore, intensely powerful actions scenes that will have you holding your breath in utter fear and sexual scenes that will leave you drooling and wanting for some of your own. Honey I don't have a headache tonight! (evil smile)

One final thought is this story left me completely stunned with its ending. It has such a twist that I did not in any way see what was going to happen coming and boy did it hit me hard. Kudo's Sara for surprising me so.

Paperback: 320 pages
Publisher: Zebra (September 2, 2008)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1420100548
ISBN-13: 978-1420100549

Book Bloggers Appreciation Week

2008-08-18T13:01:00.000-07:00

Book Blogger Appreciation Week September 15-19

Book Bloggers: You work hard. You read books, you write reviews, you maintain relationships with your readers, publicists, and authors. You are constantly running to the post office to mail your giveaways and participating in carnivals to help boost traffic. You sometimes want to faint when you see the size of your TBR pile, but faithfully you read. And you do it because you love it. Book blogging is for most a hobby. But it's a hobby that takes a lot of work and time. It's a labor of love.

I've been blogging for three years but only really got into book blogging in the last year. I have found, without a doubt, that book bloggers are the kindest, most open minded, and supportive group of bloggers on the internet. With book blogging, it's about community and a love for the written word.

The Readers: We love you! You don't have a blog, but you read our reviews and share your thoughts with us. You enter our giveaways and click on our Amazon associates link. We do this for you and appreciate your readership. We hope you'll join in the fun and festivities of BBAW! (we'll have a special contest just for you!)

Book Blogger Appreciation Week: Acknowledging the hard work of book bloggers and their growing impact on book marketing and their essential contribution to book buzz in general, I am excited to announce the first Book Blogger Appreciation Week. Think of it as a retreat for book bloggers and a chance for us to totally nerd out over books together. And of course, shower each other with love and appreciation.

Register: In order to experience the maximum impact of the week, I invite you to register your participation (just like a retreat)!
To register, just send an email to bookbloggerappreciationweekATgmailDOTcom with your blog url and what you consider your niche...i.e, general book blog, classics blog, personal blog with a healthy dose of books, YA books blog, etc. Then, add one of the two buttons at the bottom of this post to your sidebar. If you are a reader (no blog) just send an email announcing your plans to follow along.
Why bother? If you register, you will be added to a book blog directory which will exist long after this week is over. Additionally, you will receive one raffle entry into the daily giveaways during BBAW here at My Friend Amy.

Awards: Oh yes, there will be awards. The Oscars of Book Blogging. :) Nominations start next week.

Spread the Word: If you are excited about this idea like I am and the other book bloggers who are helping, please consider writing a post on your blog announcing this event and inviting other book bloggers and readers to join.

Special Contest at Amberkatze's Book Blog

2008-08-17T09:00:00.000-07:00

This weeks guest here on Amberkatze's Book Blog is author Joy Nash who is giving away 50 of her books over 50 days! Amberkatze's Book Blog is one of the sites taking part and you all have a week to enter the contest!

Joy is giving away a signed copy of her upcomming release Immortals: The Crossing. That means this book is not yet for sale!!! So if you win this contest you will get it before the 30th of September release date!

http://amberkatze-amberkatze.blogspot.com/2008/08/author-interview-and-contest-with-joy.html

Dark Thirst (The Brethren Series, Book 1) by Sara Reinke

2008-08-16T08:53:00.000-07:00

Dark Thirst by Sara Reinke is a hidden jewel in the Paranormal World. This novel should be on every Paranormal Lover's TBR or Wishlist. It is surprisingly different, action packed, cruel, loving and just plain all around fantastic that I for one cannot put this book down.

Angelina (Lina) Jones is beautiful, smart as a whip, stubborn, lithe and a police officer. She is your average unbelieving human until life's reality crashes in on her. Lina is also African American which adds so much character to the storyline.

Brandon Noble is outrageously handsome, smart, strong, deaf and mute. Coming from a prominent Kentucky family that also happen to be vampires carries a lot of danger and risk. Having been cruelly abused sets Brandon on a task of being completely different than the rest of his family.

Our story starts out on a Kentucky Thoroughbred Horse farm with different clans of a prominent family all working together in a compound type setting. Not only do they raise horses but they make the best Whisky anywhere to be found. They are all hardworking and compliant and that is what makes this family who they are.

The Grandfather as he is referred to is the leader of this mighty family and is the most brutal, abusive and lethal of the clans. He is the prominent alpha male vampire in every sense of the word and someone I personally wouldn't even want to be on his good side let alone his bad side. Whew!!!

What I found so intriguing in this storyline is the fact that these vampires live a life in the style of an Amish family. Clans living together on the same land working together for the good of the whole. Some men have only one wife, some have several but what is so critical at the moment is the high infant mortality rate and the low conception rate of the families. This twist on the normal vampire storyline is amazing to say the least.

A chain of events so desperate, heart wrenching, frightening and fanatical start when Brandon escapes from the compound and makes a run for freedom so that his life can be his own and so unlike what he has grown up with. He seeks love, kindness, caring and knowledge, knowing that whatever out there in the unknown world has to be better than what he has been taught to believe. His meeting Lina will set so many emotions in play and challenge everything that he is.

Our author has taken a paranormal species and set them into such a astoundingly different life style than what we have seen and made this an action packed love story with the most profoundly horrific and brutal reality. A story of love, friendship, trust, betrayal, unbridled fury, abuse so horrific that you want to scream out loud with the characters pain. Kudo's Sara for such a beautiful jewel of a story that can only make other's weep with envy. I so cannot wait for Dark Hunger.

Mass Market Paperback: 320 pages
Publisher: Zebra (July 1, 2007)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 142010053X
ISBN-13: 978-1420100532

Tanglewreck by Jeanette Winterson

2008-08-16T08:52:00.000-07:00

Tanglewreck by Jeanette Winterson is quite the unusual read. Able to be enjoyed by teens and adults it is worth looking into for it's creativeness and the author's fairy tale like imagination.

Eleven year old Silver has lost her parents and her sister to a deadly accident or is it? A very cleaver little girl with curiosity of a cat, she finds herself getting deeper and deeper into the most unusual predicaments.

The story has us set in London in the present century but the most curious things are happening with time. Time seems to jump forward and backwards, stop completely then restart without even a remote clue to that it is going to happen. What are called Time Tornadoes seem to be ravishing the city and countryside swallowing up houses, people and whole streets leaving nothing to be found after it's passage. It's quite remarkable really if you think about it.

The subject of time travel has always been a quite popular topic and the way this author uses it in her storyline is quite ingenious. Imagine yourself in the middle of reading a book about the Time Machine, Wizard of Oz, Harry Potter and Lemony Snicket all at once.

Not only do you have time travel and odd creatures but there is magic, terrible storms, castles, black holes and rips in reality to take you careening through a series of events that ensnare your imagination and attention to the point of binding you to the book from beginning to end not wanting to ever put it down. I would say this is a true delight for ages 11 to 99.

The author has really given children and teens a read that is very enticing without all the horrid violence that seems to be plaguing the movie and gaming world today. Parents can rest easy knowing that this is a tale of pure childhood delight, innocence, magic and fantasy that delight even the most uninterested reader.

Reading level: Ages 9-12
Paperback: 416 pages
Publisher: Bloomsbury USA Children's Books (May 15, 2007)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1599900815
ISBN-13: 978-1599900810

Tantalize by Cynthia Leitich Smith

2008-08-16T08:51:00.000-07:00

Tantalize by Cynthia Leitich Smith is a must read for any teen or adult of the Paranormal world. A heart wrenching story of a teenage girl who is so alone and lonely that she doesn't see the danger that is right in front of her face.

Quincie Morris is very intelligent, sweet, attractive and withdrawn since the death of her parents. Her best friend and the boy she loves is a hybrid werewolf who tries with all his might not to get himself attached to Quincie for fear of hurting her more than she already is. But is it too late for Quincie?

The story centers around Quincie's parents Italian restaurant that she inherits upon their deaths. Being underage, Quincie's uncle is the caretaker of her estate until she comes of age.

Both Quincie and her uncle decide to make the Italian restaurant Vampire-themed and don't realize the danger that comes with an idea that seems so innocent and simple. Especially since there really are no vampires. They are just myth, right?

Right from the start there is major trouble as the head chef is murdered and the restaurant is left without it's star cook. Not only that but the implications of who murdered him are all pointing to one person, Quincie's love! Can she prove that it wasn't her werewolf love that did this?

The author has given us a story of innocence turned deadly, love turned to hurt, unbridled trust thrown to the wind for mangling distrust, deceit so smooth that once found out how could you possibly ever believe in anything again. I for one would never trust anything or anyone again. Always trust your instincts cause that may be the only thing that will save your life in the end.

I cannot wait for the next installment of this book which is due out in Spring 2009. I'm sure it will be well worth the wait as our author seems to really know her stuff.

Reading level: Young Adult

Paperback: 336 pages
Publisher: Candlewick (July 22, 2008)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 076364059X
ISBN-13: 978-0763640590

August Contest

2008-08-01T16:32:00.000-07:00

My August contest is for a hardcover copy of "From Dead to Worse" by Charlaine Harris. This is book #8 in the series. If you would like to enter please leave a comment here on what you like best about Paranormal Series!

Don't forget to leave me some way of getting in touch with you and don't forget to check back on August 26th when I will have the winner posted for this book.

50 Ways to Hex Your Lover

2008-07-30T17:19:00.001-07:00

50 Ways to Hex Your Lover by Linda Wisdom was witty, wacky and wicked! All I can say is you have to sit down and enjoy this tidbit with some chocolate and a martini! Oh and don't forget the napkin cause you will most assuredly be drooling early on.

Jazz Tremaine is a witch with an attitude. Red hair and built like a brick shit house she turns heads everywhere she goes. Unfortunately for Jazz that isn't always good. Some of the male species are just plain disgusting to the core and a bag over the head, gas mask or a spell couldn't make them appealing.

Nick Gregorivich is a vampire and a damn good looking one ta boot. Sex just oozes off him and no one is immune to his charms. He does have his bad side though so being careful and watching your back is a very good idea or you'll have a hard lesson to learn if you're not careful.

Our story takes us on a journey with Nick trying his darnedest to convince Jazz to help him find a vampire serial killer. Poor Nick is so desperate that he literally stalks Jazz but Oh My, the chemical reactions that spark are sooooo worth it.

We go through a wonderfully entertaining series of events that are so off the wall that you just can't stop giggling. The characters play off of each other so nicely that the story is smooth as silk.

I really don't know who I love the most in this story. Jazz is just a PMS temperamental hoot, Irma is a character that I don't know if I could live without as she adds so much to the story, Nick is a charming, luscious, backstabbing delicious piece of eye candy and Fluff and Puff.....hmm....to say that they are so unexpected, funny, outrageous and deliciously dangerous to those they don't like is an understatement.

Oh and did I mention that Fluff and Puff are Vampire Bunny Slippers that eat like goats. Anything that goes by their faces is fair game so be wary. I can't say anymore or I would give the story away. You're just going to have to read for yourselves. (smile)

Our author has taken us on a paranormal romantic roller coaster ride of sexual tension and release that it will scorch your brows, deceit, playfully guilty innocence and just outrageous antics that you are sure to be more than entertained to the point of tears of hilarity. I cannot wait to see what comes with the next book in the series, "Hex Appeal". I'm sure I won't be disappointed.

Mass Market Paperback: 374 pages
Publisher: Sourcebooks (March 1, 2008)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 140221085X
ISBN-13: 978-1402210853

Many Bloody Returns Anthology

2008-07-30T17:18:00.000-07:00

Many Bloody Returns was quite an anthology and I have to say one I was not so impressed with. Some stories were okay, some so-so and a few were exceptional. Would I recommend this to anyone, probably not. Lots of other books out there that would be much more interesting for the money.

My favorite stories were "The Mournful Cry of Owls" by Christopher Golden and "Grave-Robbed" by P.N. Elrod.

I was quite disappointed with Charlaine Harris' "Dracula Night". It was slow and really not in character with the other Sookie stories. This was hard for me too because I am a devote Sookie fan!!

My last words here are, if you don't care for anthologies then don't get this one unless it's free or you can borrow from someone. I would hate to see other's disappointed as I was. Ho-hum!

Hardcover: 368 pages
Publisher: Ace Hardcover (September 4, 2007)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 0441015220
ISBN-13: 978-0441015221

The Richest Season by Maryann McFadden

2008-07-27T18:03:00.000-07:00

The Richest Season by Maryann McFadden was a delightful work of women's fiction that should not be missed. This novel is a pulsating summer read that will take your emotions and senses and throw them into overdrive.

Joanna Harrison is a wife of 25 years of marriage, mother to two wonderful adult children and very set in a routine of life that we all find ourselves in at one point or another. She is comfortably wealthy, lives in the upper middle class neighborhood and oh so bored and lonely.

Paul Harrison is tall, extremely intelligent, handsome and a workaholic. Money must come first in his life so that he can provide a style of life for his family that he was not able to have when he was growing up.

Grace Finelli lost her husband the previous year and while still in the throws of grief she is confronted with her own mortality. After seeing her adult children suffer with the pain and grief of their father's disease, Grace is determined to spare her children this part of fate all over again.

Our story takes Joanna on a trip of self discovery when she leaves everything and everyone in her life to escape the boredom and loneliness that has been consuming her slowly bit by bit. She jumps in her car and just starts driving with no place in particular in mind until she finds herself on the highway in South Carolina. Faced with a sign of a familiar place called Pawleys Island, Joanna decides that this is what she is looking for and will try her best to find herself here.

Grace has rented a home on the beach front of Pawleys Island for six months to spend the last of her days seeing and doing what she wants and sparing her children any more grief. Selfish as it may seem she is very determined to follow the plans that she has set before her. Knowing she will need help as her illness progresses she places an add in the local newspaper for a live in companion to help her through all this. Only problem is, is will Grace have the courage to tell Joanna what is really going on in her final months and days? I don't think this would be an easy task for anyone of us.

The author has given us a story that could actually be the real life drama of anyone of us. A smooth writing style moves us along at an even pace as our characters glide through six months of ups and downs, love and pain, longing and need, rejection and acceptance. We also find that what we perceive in delusional reality is far different from actuality.

This is a story that has drawn tears from my eyes, stole my heart only to wring it out like yesterday's laundry and taken the blinders off my face to show me a courageous journey of epic proportions.

Hardcover: 336 pages
Publisher: Hyperion (June 10, 2008)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1401322700
ISBN-13: 978-1401322700

Fellow Blogger Contests ~ Check Them Out

2008-07-27T07:53:00.000-07:00

Please take a few minutes and check out some of these other awesome contests from some fellow bloggers.

Win a copy of "50 Ways to Hex Your Lover by Linda Wisdom" over at Amberkatze's Blogspot
http://amberkatze-amberkatze.blogspot.com/2008/08/inerview-contest-with-jazz-fluff-puff.html

Check out all the contests over at West of Mars
http://westofmars-winabook.blogspot.com/

Win a copy of "Humanism for Parents' by Sean P. Curley" over at Breenibooks
http://breenibooks.blogspot.com/2008/07/review-and-giveaway-humanism-for.html

Win a copy of "Willow in a Storm: A Memoir by James Peter Taylor and Kathleen Murphy-Taylor" over at Breenibooks
http://breenibooks.blogspot.com/2008/07/review-and-giveaway-willow-in-storm-by.html

Win a copy of "Vampyres of Hollywood: A NovelBy Adrienne Barbeau and Michael Scott" over at Breenibooks
http://breenibooks.blogspot.com/2008/07/review-and-giveaway-vampyres-of.html

Win a signed copy of "Gale Force by Rachel Caine" over at Sidhe Vicious Reviews
http://sidhevicious.wordpress.com/2008/07/26/rachel-caine-interview-contest/

Win one of three books at the "Fashion Week Contest" over at In Bed With Books
http://inbedwithbooks.blogspot.com/2008/07/fashion-week-is-here.html

2008-07-25T09:09:00.000-07:00

Congrats to all of our

Christmas in July Winners

SueB - Flirt (claimed)

sidhe vicious - Night Keepers (claimed)

shaunesay - Viking Unchained (claimed)

Leah - Call of the Highland Moon (claimed)

Daelith - Highland Knight (claimed)

Icedream - The Knight Before Christmas (claimed)

Would all of you please email me your snail mail addys at terraontop57 (at) yahoo (dot) com. Put in the title line Christmas in July Winner. Winners have until August 10th to contact me with info. New names will be drawn on August 11st for books not claimed by the 10th.

Thanks to all who played and stay tuned for another contest coming up soon.