When He Was Bad- Review, part 2!

Wicked Ways, by Cynthia Eden.

The SECOND story in When he Was Bad, by Shelly Laurenston and Cynthia Eden.

I have no words…Wicked Ways is just Hot, Hot, HOT!!!! I can’t even gush, I’m still fanning myself! Shew! LOVED it!!! Highly, HIGHLY recommend! I feel like I’m just repeating myself…

Ok, so Cain is…Spectacular, awesome, fantastic…all of the above? He is a great character, and I absolutely ADORE cat shifters. It doesn’t get any better than that for me. He is everything a cat shifter should be! Hot, Fierce, loyal, and did I mention hot? Right, back to what I was saying, living out on the boondocks is starting to look better and better!

Then we have Miranda, I sort of pictured her as a mousy kindergarten teacher with a kind voice, and a tiny fragile appearance, but boy, the girl can be fierce!

There’s a scene where she slaps Cain in hopes of getting the vampires attention, and man did she rock it! She starts out slow in the beginning with the ‘vampires aren’t real’ hyperventilating and full on melt down, but she quickly earns your attention once she goes up against Cain and his temper tantrum.

Those two are absolutely perfect for each other…they have better chemistry than any character I’ve seen so far! I seriously wish this story wasn’t a novella, I believe those two could’ve gone a lot further than the story allowed. I’ll definitely be on the lookout for them in future installments.

Highly recommend! I think I said that already…

-------------

All in All, I really enjoyed both of these stories!!!

When He Was Bad...he was better than ever. -Review!

This time I’m reviewing ‘When He Was Bad’ by Shelly Laurenston and Cynthia Eden, which are BOTH on my top ten list of authors to watch for!

As it’s a two part book, this will be a two part review. The first being ‘Miss Congeniality’ by Shelly Laurenston, the second being ‘Wicked Ways’ by Cynthia Eden.

Miss Congeniality- by Shelly Laurenston.

Typically I go on and on about how much I love a story, let’s face it, I LOVE books, it isn’t that difficult to please me if the plot is decent and the characters are charming. But this time, in honor of Irene Cornridge (Main character) I’m not going to do that. I don’t feel like her witty genius would approve such drooling enthusiastic antics (Even if I really REALLY want to!). Unfortunately I’m not nearly as smart as her and have no concept of the Chaos Theory, much like her mate Van Holtz, and so I’m not able to use all the big words she no doubt would’ve used to put me and my pitiful review to shame.

However! I hope she would be pleased to at least know that I spent my Thursday night thoroughly enjoying her amusing dry wit. She was absolutely lovely! As someone who often finds herself unable to handle social situations, and always thinking about all the work I COULD instead be accomplishing, I found her complaining to be endearing. She wasn’t like any character I’ve read so far, and that is always a big accomplishment! I read a lot, so I get used to a certain type of female lead, especially ones in shifter novels, but this one! Irene is absolutely beautiful!!! She was funny in her own way, even when no one else understood her jokes, and her brutal honesty was so refreshing, you never had to guess if she was playing games. She didn’t mess around, she said everything that came to mind, and taught you a thing or two while she did!

Not to be outdone, she has a mate, (Van Holtz) that simply refuses to be put off by what others deem to be her ‘cold demeanor’ She isn’t cold, not by a long shot! She’s clinical, but then when you’ve been kidnapped by government agents at the tender age of twelve for being too smart, who wouldn’t be?!

All in all, without giving too much away, I’ve got to say, as a novella the story was great! Typically with novella’s you can feel when they’re rushed for word count, but I kept forgetting this one wasn’t a full book. All the bases were covered! I would highly recommend this to anyone who loves a good action romance, as well as dry witty humor. If you’ve ever felt like a freak, or if you simply want to know how the other side (Smart and rich) lives, then definitely check it out!!!

Awesome read!!! Thank you, 1984! Oh and the fabulous author, Shelly Laurenston too…obviously! 

Terry Spear's- A Howl for the Highlander REVIEW!

I received this book a while back, and it shoulda been done, waaaaay before now, but with all the family stuff going on, I’ve had to postpone my reviews, until now!!! Family stuff is finally taken care of, and I am back on track! Yesterday I reviewed Saranna DeWyldes, “How to Seduce an Angel”, TODAY I’m reviewing yet another Terry Spear book, this one’s called “A Howl for the Highlander”

Before you even ask, yes…I LOVE Terry Spear books. I’ve always loved them, and with each one I read, I know that I will ALWAYS love them. She is a fantastic author, and I am in love with her highlander series. This is the second, I believe, of this particular series, and while it’s a standalone, I recommend you read the first one, ‘The Heart of the Highland Wolf’, as you’ll love the way they weave together.

I love reading books in order, I love knowing what happened before, and why these characters are here, what they’re doing, and WHY!! The why is very important to me, and terry Spear never gets off track, throughout the book you always know what the characters are doing, and to what goal they’re trying to achieve, and I love that about her books!

Having read the first book, (The Heart of the Highland Wolf) I already knew a little about the main male character, Duncan. He’s a warrior at heart, who simply wants go get back what was stolen from him family. He’s loyal kind, and everything a she-wolf would want in a mate.

Including, Shelly! She’s a wolf with a history, a wrong-side-of-the tracks sort, in an unusual sense. I’d tell you….but it’s much better if you read it and find out what I mean. They’re both from Scotland, but only Duncan lives in a castle.

Having spent her life in Texas with her small family, Shelly has dedicated her life to research- her cause is noble, but no good deed goes unpunished, and before long, Shelly is up to her fur in the same battle waging between Duncan and the man who stole his family’s fortune.

Together, they’ll learn what it all means, and along the way, what they mean to each other!

If murder, money, werewolves, and romance aren’t enough, there’s plenty of family dynamics to keep you entertained, not to mention a paradise just waiting to be explored.

“A Howl for a Highlander” is the second standalone installment in this series, so look for ‘A Highland Werewolf wedding, where you’ll get to meet yet another of the delicious, MacNeill brothers, and learn what it truly means to be part of the pack.

If it isn’t obvious yet, I LOVED LOVED LOVED this book, the characters are so realistic (even for werewolves), their issues believable, and the descriptions! I love the way Terry Spear makes it so easy to jump right in from the first chapter; definitely another movie-in-your-head type.  

Hot, action packed, and full of werewolf mayhem to keep you reading late into the night, “A Howl for the Highlander” is a definite keeper, and I look forward to reading “A Highland Werewolf wedding next!”

New Review! How to Seduce an Angel in 10 Days, by Saranna DeWylde.

Finally! A new review!!

Ok, I know it’s been a couple months since I’ve posted a review. I’ve had quite a bit of family things and real life getting in the way, but I finally have a new review for you!

This one’s called: How to seduce an Angel in 10 days, by Saranna DeWylde…and let me just warn you- I only meant to read ONE chapter before bed…

Except, I couldn’t put it down! At the end of each chapter I kept thinking, I really need to go to bed, I have things to do tomorrow, but I just COULD NOT stop! This book is delicious!

If you’ve read my reviews, you know I’m a huge fan of Saranna DeWylde, so I KNEW that I would like this book, but I LOVED it so much more than I imagined.

Recently I haven’t been able to read much, what with the family issues, I just haven’t had the time, energy, or focus, but I picked up this book, knowing that I would like it, that there would no risk, and I’m so glad I did!!! I feel so much better!

“How to Seduce an Angel in 10 Days” is the third in a standalone series, the first being: “How to Lost a Demon in 10 Days” and the second being- How to Marry a Warlock in 10 Days.” Again, these are standalone books, you’ll have no trouble reading them out of order, but I highly recommended it to fully grasp the family dynamics.

I’m trying really hard not to turn into a squealing fan-girl, but this book, in my opinion, was AWESOME.  It’s snarky, romantic, full of action and passion! What better what to get to know cupid, and his lady love?

Falcon, one of the trifecta of doom (You’ll recognize from: How to Marry a Warlock in 10 Days.) has a new job, all thanks to Tally, his sister’s best friend. Now, I could tell you how he ended up being cupid, or what Tally had to do with it, but it would kinda spoil ‘How to Marry a Warlock’. Anyway, imagine a cute, buff hunk of a guy in pink…glittery…angel wings. Yah, it’s a little funny, but oh so adorable!!

Now, imagine a girl that has been around, and pretty much given up on her happily ever after, she’s done some pretty bad things, against her will, and wants nothing more than to redeem herself to her friends and family, never mind the rest of the witching world.

But redemption is not the only thing, the fates have in store for them, they’re having a hard time remembering why it is they never succumbed to their budding desires before, and well as breaking ALL the rules, to save the world! Because you know it wouldn’t be a Saranna DeWylde book if the world wasn’t going to hell in a hand basket.

Through in a couple werewolves, a few demons, a couple angels, and a man eating fiend? Yah, it goes there!

I honestly am in love with this book, and this author! I would read it again, and again, and again! I highly recommend reading ‘How to Seduce an Angel’ (as well as her others) - you’ll be happy you did. Definitely a keeper that will keep you reading till the sun comes up…literally, I’m really tired, but it’s SO worth it!

 I can’t wait to see what she comes out with next!!!!

Warning: Adult scenes and languages.

Leanan sídhe

Art by Anne Stokes. 

An entry on writing. com for a group (Coffee Shop for Fantasy Society) I participated in.
Based on the definition of the: Leanan sídhe

-Given Here:
 http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Leanan_s%C3%ADdhe


"Do you love me?”

“No.”

Shannon knew he lied, but it stung none the less. How could he, a creature of the mortal plains not love her, a Lianhan Shee? It just wasn’t possible; a man who denied her love just did not exist… Until now.

“No?”

“No, Shannon. I desire you, I like you, but I do not love you.” His voice was tight, his eyes dark and his fists were clenched over his chest where he’d crossed his arms only moments earlier.

“Are you sure?” A tight white gown made of the finest fairy silk clung to her curves, showcasing her every asset, and she knew she looked good, too good that he should be able to deny her.

“I am positive.” His answer rang hollow, but without a confession of his feelings she could not keep him.

“And you will never love me?” To be normal would mean life in the mortal planes, with this man as her only love. She’d loved frequently in the past, more so than any woman had a right to, but never had she wanted love in return… Until now.

“Nope.”

Shannon stared at her lover for a moment, his green eyes bright in the early morning light. Nothing but a pair of jeans covered his form, and yet she found him more attractive than she had the day she’d lured him into her garden. Had it only been six months since their tryst had begun? “Then you win.”

“I know.”

He should not know. He couldn’t know. It was a lie, it had to be. The expression in his gaze proved he did not lie, and in her heart she knew. He knew, and he loved her, but he would never admit it. He would not die because of her. Relief flooded her entire being, and for the first time in her existence she smiled a genuine smile, guaranteed to bring men to their knees. Yet he did not fall.

“You own me, Walker of the night.”

“Yes, butterfly. I do.” He nodded, and a twinkle flashed in his emerald gaze. “I own you, and I desire that you come home with me.”

“Home- but where is your home?” Shannon watched, transfixed, as he gathered the remainder of his clothes and packed them gently into his leather pack. “Where am I going?” There was no need for her to pack any clothes; she’d lived in the Fae realms her entire life. Nothing existed for her outside its walls.

“Ireland.”

“But…but that’s in the mortal realms!”

“Yes it is.” He nodded once more, and slung the pack over his shoulder, then turned towards her and reached out with one hand.

“But I like it here.”

“Well I don’t, and I don’t love you. Therefore you are my slave, and you go where I say. Now come with me.” He held out his hand, beckoning she follow, yet still she resisted.

“Aren’t you afraid others will want me, afraid I will betray you to your brethren mortals?”

“Of course not. I order you to be faithful.”

Horrified, Shannon gasped. Her eyes widened in shock, and she shook her head. “But…but…that is impossible! I am a Lianhan Shee!”

“No, you are my slave.”

“I am still a fairy of love!”

“But you are my fairy of love, and you love only me.”

“Do you say this because you love me…Vampire?”

“No, I say this because I desire you. Now come on.” His hand slid into hers, and he gripped her pearlescent palm, then very carefully led her to the only door in the entire room. “You will live with me, In the Mortal realm. In Ireland, the land of my fathers.”

“But I don’t want to!”

“And I don’t care. Too long you have controlled the fates of men, driving them to destruction with your passionate kiss of death. My friends are gone because of you, my brothers. I swore their revenge, and have it I shall. You are mine, and mine alone. Come Fairy.”

Shannon whimpered, but followed as he led her across the room and out the door. At once her room faded, along with her silks, satins and the colors she so adored and in their place, rolling hills of green grass. The vampire smiled, and the moon glowed bright from its perch atop the world. Stars flashed brilliantly, and for an instant she wondered if maybe she had been wrong to seclude herself in the Tir-na-n-Og.

“You like it.”

“I do not, I hate it. It’s horrid and cold, and horrendous!” Shannon pouted prettily, and lied through her ivory teeth, but he was a vampire and he sensed her lie.

“You do like it, and you will like my home.”

Silently, Shannon allowed him to pull her along, until they reached the edge of the city where he hailed a car to take him further into the hills. “I will not like your domain, I will hate it, as I hate you.”

“If you hated me, Butterfly, then you would not be my slave. You love me, I know you do.”

“I will come to hate you.”

“I doubt that.” He smirked, and still he gripped her hand, though the cab moved easily through the rolling streets and there was nowhere for her to go.

"Why do you call me Butterfly?”

“Because of the wings.”

“What wings?”

“All fairies have wings.”

Shannon rolled her eyes, and crossed her arms angrily, before turning to stare out the window once more. It really was a lovely site, if she were truly honest.

“There is another matter we should discuss.”

“And what is that?” There could be nothing worse, nothing more depressing then becoming the slave of a vampire.

“The matter of my nightly feedings. I shall take blood from you.”

“But that’s sacrilegious!”

“That is the way of the vampire, I played your games, and you shall play mine. I will never hurt you, but I will take from you what I need. In exchange I will provide for your every need, you will be happy, and I will be faithful to you.”

“This sounds suspiciously like a marriage.”

“And would that be so bad?”

“Marriages are for those that love. Do you love me blood sucker?”

“I’ve told you already, Shannon. I do not love you, and I forbid you from ever asking me that again.”

“That’s not fair, how will I ever be free if I cannot claim your love!”

The vampire smiled. “That is the point. I will never crumble at your feet, though beautiful that they are. I have no wish to die. I have no wish to find my demise in your lovely arms.” The vampire sighed and glanced out into the night. “To love you would be suicide.”

“You lie. You do love me, I know you do. I see it when you look at me; I hear it in your voice when you speak to me.” Shannon scowled out her own window, then turned slowly when he carefully took her hand in his and gently slid a small silver ring onto the third finger of her left hand.

“There is no word to describe how I feel about you Shannon. Be my wife, and love me. That is all that I ask.”

“And in return?”

He shrugged.

Angry, Shannon jerked her hand back, then glared down at the ring gracing her finger. It was the most beautiful piece of jewelry she’d ever seen, and she loved it, but he could never know of her love. He’d already trapped her for eternity, vulnerability would only be a weapon for him to use against her. “Fine, I will love you, and I will do all that you say, but you will suffer my every whim, and you will suffer my passion, though you may not die as you would if you loved me, you will know me for what I am, a Lianhan Shee.”

The vampire smiled. “That is all that I ask, Butterfly.”

-cssndrmks ©

Hotter Than Hell: Excerpt

"I liked summer; I liked that I could wear my flip-flops, and that my neck didn’t get cold when I wore my hair back, and that I could paint my toe nails, and they wouldn’t be hidden beneath snow boots, or tennis shoes. I liked not having to wear gloves to scrape snow off my car, and being able to walk down the street for a coffee, without freezing my ass off. Ok, so I didn’t like sweating to death either, but hey, some sacrifices were worth making. I liked the freedom summer provided. Which was why I was able to walk to the coffee shop in only my sandals, a tank top, and a pair of jogging shorts, even though it was almost midnight. I would have liked it even more, except that I lived on the very edge of the bad part of town, and sometimes late at night, you could hear people scream. Tonight was one of those nights."


- An Excerpt from something I am working on, called: Hotter Than Hell


"I'm already hooked before even looking at any of the chapters.. if your chapter writings are anything like your hook at the end of this excerpt, then I don't have any doubt that I will really like whats to follow as well. Looking forward to reading more!" - review from reader on writing. com

-cssndrmks ©

Letters of the Past: A working title.

I do not own this image. 

Writers Cramp Entry, 1,000 words or less.



 My dearest Ann,


Though we did not know each other well- I know this letter may come as a shock to you. I am your Great Aunt Meredith. A sister to your grandmother, on your father’s side. I know they recently passed away, and your grandmother has as well, leaving you to your fate as a young woman alone in the world. Your mother left you her bookstore, 'The Howling Pages,' and your father left you a small sum of money to temporarily tide you over. Your grandmother left you nothing- not even a word of my existence.

I had intended to come to your aid the moment I heard, but recent events due to my health have kept me in my sick bed. I want you to know I have always loved you, and thought about you; especially in my recent years as I had no children of my own. A long ago quarrel with your grandmother kept me away, and I regret that we never had a chance to know each other.

If you are getting this, then I am afraid that I have passed on, as per the will I have left in your name. Included with this letter, I have two photos. One of which is of you and I. You were only three, so you will not remember me, but this has always been a treasured memento of mine, and I hope you enjoy it as much as I have.

The second photo is of my house, here in Ireland, it is now yours, along with all my worldly possessions and finances. Your grandmother talked your parents into hiding this part of your past, so I am not surprised that you are probably now thinking I have the wrong girl, though I assure you I do not. Also in the bottom of this box, you will find a postcard. This is also very near and dear to me as it is the first letter your great Uncle ever sent me, while he was away on missions. It is of the place were you were born. I regret that I will not be here to explain what I mean by this, as your parents have no doubt told you, that you were born in a hospital near Cleveland, as is normal for any human born child. You must trust that I have set everything up accordingly. You will be well taken care of, and a close friend of mine will stop by the first night you arrive to explain further.

Lastly, inside the wooden box, you will find a pair of earrings. They may not look like much now, simple little silver studs but I promise they hold great power. Though you do not have to wear them, they will protect you as long as they are near your person. Protection from what; you may ask. That is all for Gregoire to explain.
Love, Meredith Sinclair McAlister.

P.S, I love you, as I have always loved you, I will continue to do so. Remember, when you are surrounded by enemies trust in your partner. He will never steer you wrong.

###

Anne McAlister stared up at the magnificent mansion, her mossy green eyes wide with awe. Her hands trembled, and the letter she held shook as she reached up to slide the skeleton key into the lock of a massive, wooden door. A light inside clicked on, and the monstrous Oak door swung open easily. Not a single sound other than the click of her heels on the cold marble entry as she ventured cautiously inside. Unfortunately no one greeted her, as she had hoped.

Once inside she closed the door gently behind her, and shrugged out of her thin spring jacket before hanging it only the intricately decorated coat rack beside the door. Below, an umbrella stand with a single green umbrella in its center stood idly. Nervous, Anne opened the letter once more, and scanned its contents to make sure she had the right address. Confident, that she was exactly where she was supposed to be she refolded it and slid it into the back pocket of her jeans. Her heels clicked softly as she slowly walked across the entry and opened the first door she came to. Carefully, she peeked inside, then drew back with a gasp at the site of the three men sitting just inside, at a small marble café table.

Among the three, one male with piercing green eyes and jet-black hair stood. His crystalline gaze raked over her entire body casually then up to her eyes. He scowled. “You’re Anne McAllister?”

“Is this your house? I didn’t mean to intrude, I was looking for the residence of Meredith McAllister…Wait- how do you know my name?” It seemed to take a moment for the realization to dawn, and she was confident she had the right place now.

“This was her house. It is yours now. Welcome to Stonewall Sanctum.” He spoke with an Irish accent that made her toes curl and her heart hammer painfully.

If not for the nervous flutter of her pulse, she might have found the man attractive. As it was, she was still trying to figure out what it was she was doing here.

Anne carefully raised her chin, and squared her shoulders. “Why is it called the Sanctum,” she demanded.

“There is the take charge McAllister we all know and love, peeking through the blood lines,” commented one of the other men, still sitting at the café style table. The third raised his mug and took a sip, then smiled with a nod and placed it gently back on the table.

“This is Stonewall Sanctum, a sanctuary for Other Kin. As the only remaining heir, you are its new mistress. Congratulations. “

Anne raised one eyebrow skeptically, and crossed her arms. “And what pray tell is an Other Kin?”

“You are a member of the Tuatha De’Dannan- a highly recognized member of the Fay race.”

“Me?”

-cssndrmks ©

A Seal in Wolfs Clothing, by Terry Spear.

A Seal in Wolfs Clothing, by Terry Spear.


Fair warning- I’m going to gush and I apologize. I know it’s not very professional, which is why I apologized I advance, but sometimes a girl just can’t help it!


Terry Spear has, and always will be on my list of favorite authors. She’s been there for some time, since I picked up one of her books from the public library, but every book I read of hers just seems to cement her place on my shelves.

To be honest, getting one of her wolf books in the mail is a little like Christmas to me. I anticipated each day, until it finally arrives, and then I squeal like a teenage girl before I finally mange to calm down and read it.


I was no different with this one. –You’ve been warned.



The last book I reviewed by Terry Spear was ‘Dreaming of the Wolf’, and before that was; ‘Heart of the Highland Wolf’ so I’ve gotten used to her writing style and I really like it. Truthfully, I love her Highland series the most I think, simply because of the romance of it, and the accents of course. LOVE the accents. But in this review I’m going to talk about ‘A Seal in Wolfs Clothing’ which I just finished.


We start out where we left off in ‘To Tempt the Wolf’ with Hunter’s twin sister Meara. She’s determined to find a mate, and why shouldn’t she be? With her brother safely on his honeymoon, she’s finally left to her own devices, and has every intention on utilizing the time to herself. She’s already made plans with several apha’s and is quite intent on getting to know them while her overbearing overprotective brother is away. What she doesn’t count on is Finn Emerson coming to screw it all up.


As part of Hunter’s elite Navy SEALS team, Finn, and every other male in the vicinity knows that Meara is strictly off limits, and even though he keeps telling himself that, he can’t make his body listen. He wants her, and the worst part? She wants him too, there’s no resistant to keep them apart….except a deadly assassin.


I am in LOVE with this book! I say that a lot, I know, but trust me, Terry Spear is a great author, and she has several note-worthy books, it bears repeating! This one in particular is great because we are thrown into the world of intrigue, and adventure. We get to read about sexy SEALS, and their wolfish ways, while joining in on the mystery of finding a killer, and even falling in love along the way. What isn’t to love about that???


Meara is strong, independent, and bull headed- she doesn’t take orders, well and she’s all too ready to kick butt, while Finn is strong, protective, and not mention he’s one of her brother’s best friends. He knows the rules the same as everyone else, but can’t keep himself from wanting to be with her. It’s like they were MADE for each other!


*I can't wait to see if we hear about Bjornolf next!*


If I haven’t said it yet, I’ll say it now- this book is definitely a keeper!!!! And if you don’t believe me, well….you’ll just have to check it out for yourself. “A Seal in Wolfs Clothing” by: Terry Spear.





For more of her books, check out her website at; http://www.terryspear.com/werewolf_series.html

The Seduction of Phaeton Black, By Jillian Stone (review)

The Seduction of Phaeton Black, By Jillian Stone
*Paranormal Investigator.






So I’ve been reading this book for a couple weeks, and although it is a really great story, I just can’t seem to get interested in it.





Normally when I read a book, I can read it in 5-10 hours, depending on how well the plot interests me, and while this book has a unique plot, It just doesn’t seem to be keeping my interest- but as I said, the book is still really good, so I’m going to go ahead and give it a 5 star, because my lack of interest should not judge the book.





So, The Seduction of Phaeton Black, is kinda like a steam punk, in that it is in an unusual time frame- One that I do not immediately recognize. Phaeton Black is an on again-off again employee of Scotland Yard who lives in what I understand to be the basement of a pleasure house.





He is good at his job, but his unique ability to see things that should not exist have gotten him a couple eye-rolls from his fellow employees, and so they don’t completely trust him, but a series of grisly murders forces them to hire him back- because while they do not necessarily like, or trust him, there is no doubt that he is good at what he does.

In one instance of the book, it seems like the ‘normal’ characters do not really know about the ‘other’ things that exist in their world; but a few pages later, it seems that maybe they do. So I was a little confused as to why Phaeton black was such an outcast. –That being said, Ms. Stone was able to develop a new world for me, which is somewhat difficult for an avid reader such as myself, so I definitely give her props for that.





Now, of course this is a romance, and as our leading lady we have, America Jones. She is sort of an odd character, with little to no known background, other than her father’s shipping business. She too is a bit unusual in that she can sense ‘others’ and how they feel. Together the two should make a wonderful team, and you would expect them to fall madly in love, but I feel at times as if they are repelling each other, more than attracting. Now that is not to say that there weren’t plenty of times when the love was clear, so maybe it is just my understanding that clouds my judgment on that particular score.





Don’t get me wrong, the book was great, the plot was new, something different that I have not come across before; the characters believable, if a bit challenging to understand- to be clear, this is one of those books you really have to follow along to understand. This book deserves a lot more focus than me, a young mother of a 3 yr old can really give, so perhaps the fault is not with the book, but with me as a reader.





This book is going on my shelves, as I would like to read it again another time where hopefully I will be able to have a better understanding of what’s going on. I recommend this book to someone with a lot of time on their hands, who can give it the attention it deserves.





To be completely honest, I didn’t always know exactly what was going on, so maybe that is why the book couldn’t hold my interest. I don’t know, but give the book a try anyway, as I’m sure our tastes differ, and this is just my opinion, so you might have a better chance at it than I did.

Alaskan Fury By: Sara King (Review)

First Paranormal Review!!!!

Alaskan Fury

By: Sara King

So Sara King is a new author I have been enjoying lately. Alaskan Fury is the second book in her series, the first being Alaskan Fire –and I’ve got to say, BOTH books are AMAZING. I know I’m gushing; I’m trying not to, so stick with me, while I try to explain WHY I love this series.

I’ve already put my review of Alaskan Fire on Amazon and if you check it out, you’ll see that I am not the only one in love with it, and that it is totally worthy of your book-lust.

So now I’m gonna talk about Alaskan Fury, and why IT is so great.

We start out where we left of in Alaskan Fire, with Kaashifah the little wolf we were introduced in her first book. She and her friend; ‘Aqrab (I use that term lightly) –the djinni.

I don’t think I’d ever heard of a djinni before this story, so the term is still a little new to me, but to my understanding he is some sort of gene in a lamp type. In the first book she introduces a different sort of world, kind of like realms, but in this one we get to take a closer look and even venture into one. It wasn’t like most books I read however, which of course is why I love her books so much, they are never like other books, it’s as if she takes some of the same concepts, and turns them into something completely different and foreign, which is a hard thing to do as we see with some authors who like to repeat each other’s plots.

With Alaskan Fury however, we are introduced to an entirely new breed of creatures, some new, some old, some I’ve never even heard of before, and every page is like a new adventure. Admittedly, I DID skip parts. BUT that is not the fault of the book, but rather my impatience to get to the next part. I regret that decision however, as I missed quite a bit, and I have every intention of going back and re-reading it, as the book deserves.

I am not going to give any spoilers here, as I know how that can ruin the anticipation of a new book, but I WILL say that I LOVED it, and I can’t wait until she gets the next one out. I was extremely pleased with the ending as well. I can’t wait to see what’s going to happen next!

If you like Fantasy romance, sword fights, and mystery, this is DEFINITLEY the book for you!! –Be sure to look out for Alaskan Fury! It’s a real page-turner!

Sunday, August 28, 2011

'The Vampire Next Door' By: Ashlyn Chase (Review)

Last night, I finished reading "The Vampire Next Door" by: Ashlyn Chase. 

It only took me 2 days to read, thanks to the steady plot line, and an interesting dialogue.



'Room for Rent; Normal need not apply'- From the very first sentence of the synopsis, to the very last words of Chapter 25, this book kept me hooked. The characters are addictive, ranging from odd, to weird, and back again. Cute accents, and steamy scenes keep the reader interested, and I for one look forward to her next installment. All in all, I'd give it a 5 star review!






(Amazon)- Product Description
In this third installment of Chase's lively, sexy, paranormal trilogy, we meet witch Morgaine, who is deathly afraid of the dark, and her vigilante vampire neighbor Sly, who has his reasons for hating sunlight. Sly needs Morgaine's magic to help heal a broken fang, but with further help, and sometimes hindrance, from the wacky apartment dwellers around them, they may become each other's last hope for a normal life...
Praise for Strange Neighbors:
"Plenty of laughs along with steamy sex scenes... the good-natured fun never stops." -Publishers Weekly




About the Author

Multi-published author Ashlyn Chase specializes in characters who reinvent themselves, having reinvented herself numerous times. She has worked as a psychiatric nurse, for the Red Cross, and has a degree in behavioral sciences. Her romance Strange Neighbors gets rave reviews. She lives with her true-life hero husband in beautiful New Hampshire.

Dreaming of the Wolf, By: Terry Spear (Review)

Monday, December 12, 2011

Dreaming of the Wolf, By: Terry Spear (Review)

Hello readers!


I’m here with yet another book review, after all, that is what Midnight Reads is all about; reviewing books I’ve read. This is a non profit blog, dedicated to sharing my love of reading with anyone who is interested enough to take the time and check us out!


Today I’m reviewing ‘Dreaming of the Wolf’ By: Terry Spear.


I was lucky enough to get to an advanced copy of this book, which just came out on December 1st and I am super excited to tell you about it!


This book has EVERYTHING!!!


No joke, there are Mob bosses, murders, wolves, and best of all LOVE. We start out meeting Alicia Greiston who had had the misfortunate of getting herself wrapped up in a crime spree; as a bounty hunter she’s been given a case that is more personal than professional. She’s hunting her mother’s killers, which given her track record, should have been easy, except they’re on to her, and they want her as bad as she wants them!


Enter Jake Silver, an artist with a bad boy look. He takes beautiful pictures of lush forestry, and finds Alicia in more trouble than she can handle. He’s drawn to her, and immediately decides he’ll do whatever it takes to save her, whether she’s human or not.


Together they face gun-totting mobsters, who aren’t always what they seem, suspicious cops, and of course the call of the wolf. With his family pushing him to make her his and a vendetta against the Mob boss himself, what’s a girl to do?


Well she can shoot them, bite them, and apparently she can send her new family (A pack of wolves) after them.


“She’s good at surviving, I’ll give her that.”- A quote from the book, that I couldn’t have said better myself. I’m an in love with her spirit, how many other girls can go around chasing bad guys, getting shot at, kidnapped, and turned into a wolf, while simultaneously falling in love? Not many. Not to mention she might be pregnant?


Jake is a true hero, he is protective, and while having the traditional wolf qualities, he also recognizes his mate’s need for independence, which makes them a complete power couple. They’re invincible, and I am in awe.

My favorite part is after she's lied to the detectives about how many murders she seen, or guys she's shot, they've left, and she turns to her friends, and says: "I didn't witness any OTHER shootings or killings, I swear it!" I laughed so hard!


Terry Spear has managed to once again write another fantastic novel that leaves me begging for more.


*I’m waiting for Tom’s story now* (Lol)




So we have fainting, guns, mobs, wolves, murder, love, lust, family, and mystery all wrapped into one! Wanna know who killed whom, and why everyone is shooting at each other? You’ll have to read the story to find out!

A Ghost of a Chance at Love, By: Terry Spear. (Review)

Thursday, December 1, 2011

A Ghost of a Chance at Love, By: Terry Spear. (Review)

So I have been given a great opportunity, to review a new story, by a great author; Terry Spear.


I've actually read her books before, so I knew I would like her story, but I didn't know how much.


‘A Ghost of a Chance at Love’ is actually a little out of my league, because while I love the paranormal/fantasy genre, I am a bit out of my league in Time travel. Not just time travel, but Western as well.
Gulp! Bravely, I delved into this book with admittedly a little hesitancy.
And I am SOOOOOOO glad I did!!!! As my first real western/time travel novel, I was actually impressed! -Not that I didn't think it wouldn't be impressive, Ms. Spear is a GREAT author after all, I have enjoyed her books before, but I was certainly not expecting this!


I LOVED it! As I said, this isn't my usual genre, so I tread a little carefully here, not exactly sure what I should compare it to; As far as romances go, it was beautiful! Masterfully written, concise, and extremely well detailed. It was like I'd gone back in time myself!


At times I was frustrated on behalf of the characters, sometimes cheering them on, and even gasping during their peril. I wanted to shout at the book. How could so much happen to one person? Or should I say two, considering, this IS a romance.


These characters are clearly made of stronger stuff than I. I would not have lasted a day in their lives. In the beginning, it's a bit foggy what's going on, we have the main character, a lovely American, Lisa, who's obviously had a hard day, what with her hasty divorce and all, she doesn't quite realize she isn't where she's supposed to be; and we have the sexy cowboy, Jack, who's obviously had a long day as well, who’s dreaming about his deceased fiancée. They both seem a little surprised to find each other, him being that it's HIS hotel room and her being in a completely different time period than the one she fell asleep in.


They're chemistry is pretty much instantaneous. I admit I was in love with him from the start. I'm a sucker for charming hospitality! Through out the story, he continuously tries to help her; despite the fact that he thinks she's sick, crazy, or maybe both. Against all odds, he keeps trying to help her, even when the odds are against them and it's HIS neck on the line.


I was relieved when they figured out what was causing her to time travel, and more than a little excited when she somehow managed to bring him back with her. I thought perhaps they should have stayed in her time where things were easier to understand, but then it wasn't, not for him anyway, so it's more of a compromise, who could survive best, where. I felt like a kid at Christmas, waiting for his reaction to all the discoveries he'd surely make.


I was a bit surprised at how easily he handled being transported through time. He didn't really react to his first car ride, which HAD to have been terrifying; or the washer and dryer, which was probably more confusing than anything. He DID react strongly to the scantily clad women, I was glad to see, I liked seeing his reaction.


I've always been one for a faster pace, and this book IS a little slower in some parts, and then a little rushed in others, but it balances well.


What I wouldn't love to be this girl, with so many men in love with her, despite a few of them being crazy, or evil, or even on the wrong side of the law. She's obviously a beautiful girl, brave, courageous, and full of life, otherwise she wouldn't have been able to survive being shot at, kidnapped, transported through time, a pawn for the FBI, and probably the most frustrating of all, mistaken identity!


I was a bit bummed about a few of the deaths, but in the end it worked out, so I wasn't TOO disappointed. What's a good story without a couple deaths, right?


I think I fell a little in love with the main character's brother, Mathew, as well. He seemed so charming, and affectionate, as well as hospitable, like his brother, Jack. I was always glad to see him when things got complicated.
I am a bit more familiar with the settings, as well as their speech, I DO live in Kentucky, but those who don't know or haven't heard a southerner talk might have a little trouble following along with some of the slang.
Despite that, this story was very in-depth; I personally didn't have any trouble what-so-ever following along, despite its complicated story-line. I like a little mystery in my books, and this book held nothing back in that department.


I fully recommend this book!
After I started reading it, I just couldn't put it down! -Can't wait to see what else Ms. Spear comes up with!

'Changeling Moon' By: Dani Harper (review)

Wednesday, November 23, 2011

'Changeling Moon' By: Dani Harper (review)

So, I know it's been a while since I've done a review, and I have read several books since the last one.


One of the newest is from an author named; Dani Harper, who has several books out now. The first of which, is called "Changeling Moon."


I admit, I was a bit skeptical at first, simply because I'd never read any of her books, and I'm a bit of a pessimist, but since it was available at my library for my e-reader, I figured why not! It's free! I was NOT disappointed.


In fact, I was a bit jealous. I LOVED the book, and it was so well written, and easy to follow, I actually stayed up all night reading it.


It's a fairly used concept with a whole new spin! Very original in my opinion.


I really loved the the way the main characters related to each other, it wasn't like a lot of the cliche, boy-meets-girl, fall-in-love, get-married, someone-almost-gets-killed drama that are in a lot of new books. Of course there WAS drama, and I practically drooled over each page, and of course I fell in love with the one of the characters, as I tend to do.


The end in particular, not to give out any spoilers- but it was fantastic!!! I was definitely not expecting THAT outcome. Anyway, if you wanna read more, be sure to check her out on Amazon. Other books in the series, are: Changeling Dream, and Changeling Dawn, so be sure to check out those as well!


Well worth the read!

Real Vampires, By Gerry Barlett. (review)

Previously reviewed.
Real Vampires, By Gerry Barlett. (review)

So, even though it's been awhile since I've read this book, I feel like I should review it, because it is by one of my favorite authors, and I LOVE her books.


This book is called "Real Vampires Live Large" and it is the 2nd book in her series, the first being: "Real Vampires Have Curves". I have read both books, as well as the third: "Real Vampires Get Lucky."


She also has books 4, 5, 6, and 7 out now, (Yes I'm behind) you can find all those on her site:
Gerry Bartlett. com or Amazon of course. I'll have the link for "Live Large" in a little while, but first, I want to tell you about this AWESOME series.


I actually first saw Gerry Bartlett on the shelves of my local library, and they had "Real Vampires Have Curves" which was spectacular. Admittedly, I was first drawn to the cover; it's animation, but it was more the title that drew me in. I am a curvy girl myself, and I relate well to things that are put closer to my perspective, not to mention that it was a free read, so of course I had to check it out!


She hooked me in almost immediately. The books are so funny, they have sarcasm, and of course the 'troubles' of being a curvy girl in a world of vampires. Gloriana St. Claire, (Glory) embodies every woman's woes. She has guy trouble, clothes problems, and then of course, being that this is a novel, we have to throw in that she is a vampire, and that people seem to want her dead.


Her sire, the Sexy Scottish, Blade turned her while she happened to be bloated, and now they aren't together, to his dismay, so he's sent his 'friend' Valdez, who stays in the shape of a talking dog, to 'guard' her, while they are apart, and even though she tried to resist her sires charms, she continuously finds herself in his arms, despite every attempt to put him behind her.


In this installment, we have a vampire hunter who's out for her blood, and a new drug called Vampire Viagra, which is highly addictive, created by Energy vamps, who want Glory's blood.


Why you may ask?


Glory is not like other vampires, not only is she NOT rail thin, she also is not very good at vampiric super powers, like shifting shape, so all that psychic energy is stored inside of her, and the Energy vamps wanna tap into it.


So with her boyfriend/sire off chasing a vampire hunter, she is left alone to battle the energy vamps, which happen to be quite a bit stronger than her.


Don't worry, she has friends to help her, like: Florence Da Vinci...who might have been married to Leonardo Da Vinci, and Flo's brother Damien, who is rumored to be Casanova himself. I did say 'MIGHT' so you'll have to read the books to find out.


You would think Fighting vampire hunters, and energy vamps would be enough to put a girl out, but did I forget to mention she also runs her own business, and that someone tries to burn down said business? Throw in a couple steamy love scene, some quirky remarks, and stoned vampires, and you've got yourself a rocking-good time!


Be warned: Do not touch Flo's shoes!


I can NOT tell you how much I love these books!!!


The "Real Vampires" series is published by Berkley sensation.

Dark Slayer by, Christine Feehan (review)

Previous reviewed from Midnight Reads.
Monday, November 28, 2011

Dark Slayer

by, Christine Feehan

Just finished one of her latest installments in the Carpathian series.....LOVE!!!!!!!!!!


I love Christine Feehan, and since I first discovered her, over a year ago, I have read every book of hers that I can get my hands on; including the GhostWalker series, and the Drake Sisters series. I admit, the Drake Sisters were not my favorite, but that was not because they weren't wonderfully imaginative, or beautifully written. At the Time they just weren't interesting.... However I LOVE the Ghost Walkers, and Carpathian's, which brings me to my latest review;


Dark Slayer, one the newest Carpathian novels, just finished reading it last night, and...*SIGH* LOVED it!



I simply CANNOT get enough of those books! This book in particular of the whole series really ties up a lot of loose ends, and I simply adored Razvan, I mean who wouldn't? He is a dream, and simply amazing. Of course the end was left where she could still write another book if she wanted, and no doubt probably will, but for me this pretty much brings the whole thing to a crescendo.


It's not like the other books in the story which come before it, there seems to be more quality, more adventure. *Delicious*


Spoiler alert*- I LOVE the wolves!!!!


Ivory is tenacious, and you gotta love her protectiveness towards her life mate.


I have been in love with the Carpathian's since the beginning, who wouldn't love all that honor, and power, but this is one of her best yet! Great job!

'Heart of the Highland Wolf' By: Terry Spear. (Review)

Previously posted from Midnight Reads.
Wednesday, January 11, 2012

'Heart of the Highland Wolf' By: Terry Spear. (Review)

So, I borrowed ‘Heart of the Highland Wolf’ By: Terry Spear from my public library, because A; I LOVE Terry Spear, I CANNOT get enough of her books! Of course you could probably already guess that since I have reviewed not 1, not 2, but three of her newer releases, not to mention she is in my favorites list on the right.

And B: because It is one of the few books of hers I have NOT read.


SO, I was super excited to get it home, after all; I was on the wait list for this book, so I was really looking forward to it.


OF COURSE I was not disappointed, impatient maybe, but not disappointed. I have learned by now that Terry Spear is going to deliver, I have not read a bad book from her YET, and I doubt I ever will, she’s just too good at what she does.


So ANYWAY, I read the book in less than a day, (I’m a speed reader) and it took me a little less than 5 hours to read from start to finish, because it was literally THAT good. Not joke, no exaggeration, I LOVED it!


Ian Macneill is ‘King of the hill’ in this tale, as the eldest brother of four; sexy, Scottish wolves, he oversees the safety and security of his family, and fellow pack members, in his Scottish home, which JUST HAPPENS to be a castle.


*Insert a delicious shiver*


This is actually one of the first stories I’ve read that the hero wasn’t filthy rich; I was kinda surprised. It was a GOOD surprise though Ian and his brother’s need help financially, and famous author Julia Wildthorn is gonna bring it. Somehow she convinces her best friend, an assistant to a major movie producer to use the castle as their backdrop for a new movie. Now, that in itself would have been interesting, but there is A LOT more going on than a moody laird hating the film crew.


Julia and her friend are BOTH unattached female wolves!!!


Not ONLY that, but we also have a little intrigue because someone apparently has it in for Julia, and who would have guessed that the Scottish Laird would end up needing his mate for more than a little monetary gain?


No, he was not aware that she was the one who insisted the film crew use HIS castle, so no worries about him being a fortune hunter.


*This book is FULL of everything I hold near and dear in a romance; drama, suspense, and of course steamy love scenes!


I HIGHLY recommend ‘Heart of the Highland Wolf’- and give it 5 stars!!!!


(No doubt about it, you’ll LOVE this story)

'The Guardian' By: Sherrilyn Kenyon. (review)

Previously published from Midnight Reads.
Wednesday, January 11, 2012

'The Guardian' By: Sherrilyn Kenyon. (review)




I want to start out by saying first, that I don't think I've read Sherrilyn Kenyon before, despite her high recommendations. For some reason I have been leery of her books, (No clue why), yet the other day, I found myself with a little extra money, in the book section of my local store, and out of everything on the shelf, she was the ONLY one that looked interesting.


Sooooo, obviously I bought it.


I am SO glad I did! She has officially made it on to my favorite author list, with this book alone!!!!! I nearly cried when this book ended, I wish it could have gone on forever! I would have happily spent the rest of my life reading it.


Why?


Lydia is a dream-hunter, a demi-god born to keep mortals from having nightmares, but not only that, she’s also a jackal shifter.


This is my very first shifter book, which includes jackals. So, I had NO IDEA what to expect, (Keep that in mind).


Already I am intensely interested, because I have an OBSESSION with anything dream related, so I was immediately drawn in by that fact alone.


-Spoiler- Add that she has descended the pits of hell in order to rescue her Godly father.


Now, I’m wondering how a demi-god can break into hell, and RESCUE a god, especially when he is so much more powerful than her, and has somehow gotten himself captured to begin with.


But apparently she can, and not only that, but she rescues someone else as well!!!! Talk about T-A-L-E-N-T-E-D!!!!


Who else does she rescue? Another demi-god! Only this one isn’t JUST a demi-god, he’s thousands of years old, and he’s been a prisoner so long he doesn’t even remember what the sun looks like.


Seth, son of Egyptian god; SET is a tortured soul. Literally. He has been a prisoner of Hell since he was a young child, and he has no clue what an honest person looks like, until he meets Lydia.


I seriously could NOT put this book down!!!!! I nearly passed out twice from holding my breath during some particularly good battle scenes.


Between the battles, the sexy love scenes, and the hilarious dialogue, there is no reason NOT to read this book!!!! You can’t help but fall in love with Seth, who WOULDN’T want to be the woman to heal his scarred soul?


Definitely a 5 star read, HIGHLY RECOMMENDED!!!!!!

My Review for: Alaskan Fire, By: Sara King-

A review from JMO-

My Review for:

Alaskan Fire, By: Sara King-

So I have been putting this review off for a few weeks, mostly because I wanted to make sure I gave a good review, A:) Because I LOVED the book, and B:) because it will be my first official paranormal book review here on JMO.


I have left a review on Amazon already, and thought maybe it was best just to leave that one instead, because It says exactly how I felt about the book without all the girlish fan-girl drooling.


My review on Amazon-
“I just could not stop reading this book!!!! I started reading this in the early evening, and literally COULD NOT put it down, I even gave up sleep in an attempt to finish it, and spent the rest of the day in a sort of daze just thinking about it! I never wanted it to end, and while I absolutely despised Jack in the beginning, I loved him in the end. Like so many others, I found myself being short with my husband every time I was angry at Jack; fortunately my husband understands, but it just goes to show how EASY it is to get involved in this story. Ms. King does not disappoint. Thankfully it is not like most cliché romances, because while I enjoy cliché, it's nice for something different as well, I loved every second, and would read it over and over again just to get another taste of the Alaskan wild she writes so passionately about.”


-ok so I lied, there was a little drooling, and maybe some squealing as well, BUT it IS a great book, and a great book deserves a little squealing every once in a while. READ it, you won’t be disappointed…or at least, I wasn’t! But then, that's JMO (Just My Opinion)

My Review for: Curses! A F***ed Up Fairy Tale

Added from JMO- 

Curses!
A F***ed Up Fairy Tale


By;
J.A Kazimer.

WARNING: May contain spoilers.


Okkkk, so I just finished another great book from Kensington, this one a little different than what I usually read.


I was attracted to it, mostly because of the title, I’ll admit, I’m the first one to preach not judging a book by its cover, but with a name like that, it begs to be investigated.


Our Hero, who is no real hero at all is cursed with being nice….yes, NICE. You wouldn’t think that would be a big deal, MOST heroes are nice, even when they do not appear to be, they are normally kind-hearted, which is nearly the same thing, except this one, RJ is not.


Next, we have the legendary Cinderella, only she’s dead, and the main character (heroine) is her ugly, actually not-so-ugly, step sister.


Already sounding delightful? Its gets better.


RJ is a villain, and in most story’s Villains are the bad guys, who eventually lose, and usually end up dead, and although he DID encounter many obstacles that should have left him dead, such as being pushed from Cinderella’s 3 story-high bedroom window, he survives; Reminding me of certain seemingly-immortal bugs.


He turns out to be an ok guy. Don’t get me wrong, he’s as evil as they come, but in a humorous-too smart-for his own good, kinda way. Not in the demented, psychotic kinda way. In fact he is the only one in the entire story that seems to have any kind of sense, other than the princess of course.


Asia, the ‘ugly-wicked’ step-sister, we found out, is not really ugly as she is cursed, but is most definitely as wicked as they come. You’ll have to read the book to find out what I mean by that.


Now as the title says, this is not your usual fairy tale. In fact, it is unlike any fairytale I’ve ever heard, except that somehow the author has included almost every one I can think of through witty, sarcastic humor. Seriously, hilarious!


Admittedly, this book reminds a bit of the Shrek stories but with a lot more cussing, which is not necessarily a bad thing, since Shrek is for kids, and this book is clearly for adults.


There was a little censorship when it came to the naughty bits, which is ok, the rest of the book more than makes up for what it lacks in seduction.


I highly recommend clearing your schedule to read this one, as it is a bit complex in the plot line, and while being entertaining it WILL confuse you if you don’t pay attention. Don’t worry though; there are no boring parts to skip, so you’ll have no problem with that.


This book is definitely a keeper, because while it isn’t what I usually read, I think that’s what makes it so refreshing to me. I particularly love the killer blue birds…yes, I said KILLER. Those demented little foul are NOT animals you want to mess with, and if you’re on their hit list, I highly recommend finding a way off it.


My favorite part, (which was harder to choose than I thought) is not an actual part, but more of person. I LOVE the villain (RJ). I love his wit, his humor, his ability to love the princess, despite her continued attempts to kill him…the way he stumbles through the story, attempting to solve what he believes to be the murder of Cinderella, his ability to take a beating and keep on going, and mostly his ability to solve problems. There is no comparing to the way his twisted mind solves things; in fact I consider him very intelligent, though that may be saying more for my IQ than his.

Anyway, I loved the book, the plot, the romance, EVERYTHING. I highly recommend it, strongly encourage anyone who loves a f***ed fairytale to check it out, and definitely anyone who likes paranormal, or fantasy, because while this is not exactly what I’d normally classify under those genres, it is definitely not your run of the mill contemporary either. I mean, there are killer blue birds, what’s normal about that? This book is witty, fun, and hilarious, a perfect combo if you ask me.