SECRET SOCIETY GIRL by Diana Peterfreund

Publisher: Dell
Date published: May 2007
ISBN: 9780440243892
Young Adult, Contemporary
Paperback
Reviewed by Gina
Obtained Via Publisher


Junior Amy Haskel has had a clear view at her career plan from pretty much day one. For as long as she can remember she’s wanted to be a journalist and planned her education and post-grad employment with that goal in mind. She’s on her way to success and being the editor of the Eli University Literary Magazine, and it’s pretty much a given that Quill & Ink will tap her into its membership. In the midst of preparing for the graduation issue and slogging her way through War and Peace she receives a mysterious phone call telling her merely to show up at a specified time. Sure it’s the expected tap from Quill & Ink Amy heads off to the meeting, only to find out she’s been selected to join the ranks, much to her surprise, to Rose and Grave.

Rose and Grave isn’t your everyday fraternity or sorority. It is the stealthiest of all the secret societies, or so rumor says. No one will talk about it and word is if someone does try to talk about it in front of a member, said member needs to leave the room ASAP and all further communication with the friend is at an end. Members cannot even discuss their membership with family.
After she passes the initiation process things start to get a little sticky with the patriarchs of the society—they don’t want women in the club. Suddenly Amy loses her summer job and her family is being threatened. Will her new found brothers and sisters be a help or hindrance to her?

Diana Peterfreund’s SECRET SOCIETY GIRL was a different read for me. I do not normally read young adult books however the cover of SECRET SOCITY GIRL and those of the remainder of the series caught my attention. I’ve had the complete set for four years and while I kept intending to read them I never got around to it. While the cover promised so much I think a part of me knew, it wasn’t going to totally captivate me. Better to keep the illusion than to find out for sure.

I had a hard time relating to Amy. Not because she’s college age, but the character didn’t seem to know who she was going to be. Was she an up and comer, was she decisive, was she a wimp, did she want to join Rose and Grave or did she want to get on with school. There was no underlying strength or goal aside from what she tells us.

The idea of a secret society that controls industry, government and pretty much our world was intriguing, and we do see some of their machinations in the latter half of the book.

SECRET SOCIETY GIRL was an easy read with no emotional ups and downs. For me it was a perfect read for the ride to and from work with a steadily told story with natural breaks between times for reading.

This is an objective review and not an endorsement of this book.

HOW NOT TO DATE A VAMP by Stephanie Burke

Book 4 in ‘How Not to…” Series
Publisher: Changeling Press
Date published: November 3rd, 2011
ISBN: 978-1-60521-727-7
Paranormal, Vampires, Interracial/Multicultural
E-Book
Reviewed by gmail
Obtained by Publisher


CLICK HERE TO PURCHASE!Virgil is a centuries old vampire with a phobia for wood and a lust for Barb, a woman who stirs his lust like no other has in a long time. But the path to true love is not easy nor drama free. He’s got to deal with misconceptions on vampires from movies & books, vampire hunters are trying to kill him for no apparent reason and they are playing havoc on his clothing. Needless to say, he never knew dating could be so dangerous.

Stephanie Burke’s HOW NOT TO DATE A VAMP is funny, sexy and quite enjoyable. I loved every minute of it and thought the pairing of a wood phobic vampire and the lush Barb was perfect. I never laughed so hard and often as I did reading the latest ‘How Not To...” story. Ms. Burke delivers a fun filled romp with a great set of main characters, intriguing secondary characters and a fast paced storyline that leaves you breathless. The writing was tight and the sex scenes were smoking hot. You could feel the simmering sexual tension between Virgil and Barb light up the minute they turned up on the pages.

Meet Virgil. A vampire with distaste for wood, isn’t rich and has to work out to keep himself trim. He isn’t a ‘Twilight’ Vampire, that’s for sure. Meeting Barb has him tied up in knots and when he finally gets a date with her, he finds himself dealing with vampire hunters, ruined clothing and other madcap issues that just about ruin anytime spent with this luscious female. All Virgil knows is dating just got dangerous. I loved the pairing of Virgil and Barb. The sparks fly between these two the minute they meet and add in some really humorous moments where Barb finds real life as a vampire is very different than fiction had me giggling constantly. The author does a great job in keeping the characters unique and very likable. I enjoyed the dynamics between Virgil and Barb as well as the hunters that are trying to kill all vampires. The author brings them to life with real personalities that shine throughout the book.

HOW NOT TO DATE A VAMPIRE is a humorous story that will leave you laughing one minute and panting the next as you read Virgil and Barb’s courtship. If you enjoy humor, sexual tension, romance and intriguing characters, then run-don’t walk-to grab any one of the ‘How Not To…’ stories by Stephanie Burke. I guarantee you will be charmed right from the beginning and asking for more when the last page is done. I am looking forward to seeing what is next in this wonderful series.

This is an objective review and not an endorsement of this book.

UNHOLY PURSUITS by Suzanne Rock

Publisher: Ellora’s Cave
Date published: October 12, 2011
ASIN B005VQSFE6
ISBN None Assigned
Erotic Romance
E-Book
Reviewed by Lynne
Obtained via publisher.


Arianne King, a royal guard, protector of the Latros people, and sister to the queen, is intent on keeping the Deamhans of hell at bay and preventing anyone from passing through the portal and into hell. To do so would mean danger to her people and their very existence, if Bathin, Lord of the Deamhans, and his entire army are allowed to escape from hell.

Sexy, charming FBI agent, Darien Lange, is brilliant and handsome, not to mention arrogant and very good at what he does. His mission now is to pass through the portal, to find and destroy the powerful stone Bathin forged, one that concentrates and amplifies his power. The stone is what will allow the Deamhan army through the portal to destroy Earth and Celestial Wood, home of the Latros people.

When Arianne fails in her mission, unable to prevent Darien and his team from entering hell, she is overwhelmed with guilt, especially since she feels an unusual connection with the human. But when Darien reappears six months later, she sadly learns that his team is now missing and that a Deamhan resides in him. One that will only be appeased through the pains and weaknesses of sexual desire and intimacy with another.

Eager to subdue the beautiful Arianne, Darien knows just what to do for her. Barely realizing what is happening, she quickly finds herself intimately swept up into a wildly erotic adventure with him, one that eventually draws them together in an unwanted spirit bond neither is able to resist.

As darkness looms on the horizon, as Bathin and his army cross into Earth, thanks to the souls stoking the magic stone, Arianne and Darien soon discover the need to join forces and return to hell in order to preserve the goodness of their world...and destroy the stone once and for all.

UNHOLY PURSUITS by Suzanne Rock is a pleasant romp in the world of the magical, winged Latros, a people who will do whatever it takes to survive the evil threatening them.

Ms. Rock has created great characters, and it doesn’t take long to become attached to the hero and heroine of UNHOLY PURSUITS. I really liked Darien, especially when he first sees Arianne. He is so arrogant, yet confident in his skill with women. And being a gorgeous, brilliant hunk doesn’t hurt either. Arianne’s determination to carry out her own mission is impressive, until she fails. Then the reader becomes aware of her vulnerability and self-esteem issues related to being what she terms a misfit among the Latros people.

The bad guys, the evil Deamhans, are everything you would want them to be. Nasty, snarling...evil. As Arianne chides herself for her failures, it becomes clear how even more determined she is to change her misfit status and successfully keep Bathin and his hordes from entering Earth and trying to destroy her home, her people, and all she has ever known.

The plotting is skillfully done in UNHOLY PURSUITS. Ms. Rock weaves a tapestry of erotic, sensual scenes throughout this story, drawing the reader in more and more as Arianne’s and Darien’s spirits begin to bond. Despite the fact that neither wants to make it a permanent thing, I was rooting up until the end for them to finally emerge as one soul, to be of one mind. When they finally accept the idea of a permanent bonding, it is definitely the icing on the cake, even if you did see it coming. There’s nothing better than a happy ending between lovers, especially when one is being controlled by a Deamhan from hell and the other is as pure and sweet as the driven snow.

Things move along fairly quickly in UNHOLY PURSUITS, so once Arianne and Darien join forces, the reader becomes more riveted as all the hero and heroine have known literally comes crashing down around them. The reader grows anxious to see what will transpire as the Deamhans find their way through the portal, intent on exterminating the Latros people, then making a valiant effort to claim Earth as their own.

The ending of this story clearly leaves the reader hoping for a sequel that will answer a few of the questions that still linger. Yet, whether that happens or not, the reader is certain to enjoy the experience of UNHOLY PURSUITS.

If one enjoys fantasies, magic, and the conflicts between good and evil, then UNHOLY PURSUITS is a definite read. With all the sparkle and wit between Arianne and Darien, the reader is certain to be captured by this duo as they continually joust against their affection for one another, then again as they fight the forces of evil, intent on winning.

If a person is looking for a fulfilling way to spend an afternoon, then one will clearly find everything they would want in UNHOLY PURSUITS.

This is an objective review and not an endorsement of this book.

DREAMER by Ann Mayburn

Chosen by the Gods book 2
Publisher: Liquid Silver
Date published: 12/12/111
ISBN: 978-1-59578-884-9
ASIN: B006L02VG4
Fantasy Paranormal
E-book
Reviewed by Helen
Obtained via publisher


Devon King is one of the world's greatest warriors, handsome, powerful, Dominant. When the gods assign him to protect Shan Harrison, he can't believe that the beautiful and spirited Goth girl is the key to defeating the troubles that haunt the city. Shan has the potential to become one of the strongest dreamers in history, if she can survive long enough to come into her full powers. Devon is used to getting what he wants and he wants Shan. He knows that underneath her tough exterior she is the perfect submissive.

Ashamed of her cravings, Shan, a talented smith, plagued all her life by terrible nightmares, fights her attraction to Devon and tries to convince herself that what they have is only physical and temporary.

The servants of evil try to tear Shan and Devon apart. If Shan doesn't learn to accept her desires and Devon's love, darkness will triumph and everyone she holds dear will be destroyed by terrifying nightmares come to life.

When I started reading this book I thought it was going to be a five. The world building is brilliant, clearly and cleverly drawn, utterly believable, and quite unique. The characters are well drawn, each one with a distinct personality and knowledge of self. Shan is a talented smith, and the use of roses and their creation weaves through the story. Her sexual leanings and fascination with BDSM are well handled and the sexual tension is kept high, despite no hero/heroine sex until well into the book. I expect Ms. Mayburn will be getting many letters from readers demanding the secondary characters’ books, especially Daisy and Malik. They deserve their stories and I’d enjoy revisiting this world. The BSDM aspect is handled very well, with knowledge, taste and sensitivity.

And then small things started to annoy me. Eyes that are mostly called teal blue were described as neon blue—a totally different shade. Inconsistent capitalization of “Sir” in the D/s scenes. The heroine smoking marijuana. Yes I know it’s a fantasy world, but there’s no reason why she couldn’t have calmed her nerves with a legal drug like alcohol, or with coffee or even chocolate.

The actual resolution is too rushed and ill-explained. There is no reason why the two principal characters in the scene would have trusted each other’s word or acted as they did. We needed more explanation—several pages more—and a better build up to this so that it would flow instead of almost seeming as if: “Oh, I’ve reached my word limit. I need to stop writing now.”Thus this book is a 4. Well worth reading, but not living up to its excellent start.

This is an objective review and not an endorsement of this book.

A SEASON OF ANGELS by Debbie Macomber

3 Angelic Romances
Publisher: Avon Romance
Date Published: July 2011
ISBN 9780061081842
Mass Market Paperback
Romance
Reviewed by Pam
Obtained by Publisher


Mercy has been sent to bring hope into the heart of Leah Lunberg, as she’s almost given up on being truly happy. Mercy has a large job trying to fulfill Leah’s wish, especially when this angel always ends up being side tracked. Luckily for her somebody else also brings hope into Leah’s life.

Goodness is sent to answer a prayer from Monica Fischer, as she longs for a husband and a baby of her own. Goodness has no idea where to start looking for a man to suit Monica and she’s a bit fazed when her choice is far more than she’d hoped for.

Shirley is the Goodness Angel, sent to fulfill a wish for Timmy Potter. He longs for a father, especially since his grandfather died. Believing her husband is dead, Jody eventually dates another man, but he’s in love with another. Timmy is worried he’ll never have a Dad again, but love the second time around might come soon, especially if Shirley is on the job.

A SEASON OF ANGELS is an interesting tale and an ideal book to give to your mother or aunt. The angels are each given somebody to help, but of course they manage to get tangled up. Each prayer is different and not as easy to change the recipient’s lives as they’d thought. Both the angels and their charges have a lesson to earn, as the angel Gabriel wants to challenge them. The story has many twists and turns, which of course have an affect on all the characters.

Ms. Macomber always writes delightful tales and these angels are a delightful threesome, making me sure they will make any reader smile. If you feel jaded or sad, this book will change your day making you smile and also help you forget all the worries.

This is an objective review and not an endorsement of this book.

LOVE MEANS…FAMILY by Andrew Grey

Love Means Series Book 7
Publisher: Dreamspinner Press
Date published: December 23, 2011
ISBN: 978-1-611372-255-8
ASIN: B006PIYPCA
Contemporary M/M
E-book
Reviewed by Dawn
Obtained by Publisher


Robert Edward Hawkins or ‘Arie’ to his friends has been through a harrowing experience, losing his sister and her family in a freak plane crash, leaving Arie and his parents lost, alone and drifting. Now four months later, his parents decide that since Robert is the last of their line, he needs to marry and continue the family name; which is quite hard to do for Arie since he is gay and refuses to put any woman or child through that just to settle his parents down, even if it is the grief talking at the moment. Visiting his friend Robbie on the farm seems like a logical thing to do, to escape from the grief and loneliness that pervades his family at the moment. Once there, Arie finds himself relaxing and enjoying himself, maybe even falling for local police officer, Officer Duane Keenan or as Arie calls him, ‘Officer Hunky’. But with both of their families pushing them in opposite directions, can Duane and Robert find a way to be together even as they are torn over their loyalty to their families?

Andrew Grey delivers an emotional story of families, love, loss and forgiveness in LOVE MEANS…FAMILY, his latest Love Means story. I adore this series. The characters are well rounded individuals, who have vulnerabilities, lots of love to give and the same issues we all deal with in everyday life. The writing was tight, story flowed nicely and the sex scenes were very well written which enhanced the growing closeness between Robert and Duane. Andrew Grey has a way about his writing that you always feel like you are coming home from being away a long time. There is a sense of family within the characters in each of the Love Means stories and that in itself was the one key thing that makes this series so delightful. The reader gets that glimpse into a family that encompasses not just blood relatives but friends as well. The deep connection that is felt between the characters is magical and makes me yearn to visit this fictional farm just to experience it for myself.

Andrew Grey has a rare gift in creating emotional, character rich stories that steal the heart of his readers far and wide. In LOVE MEANS…FAMILY, we get to see how the beloved characters are doing after the ending of Love Means…Healing. This time, a new addition is in the mix, Robbie’s best friend stays a spell and finally Officer Hunky…or Officer Kennan, finally gets his own Love Means…story, which thrilled me to the soul. You will laugh, sniffle and smile throughout the book as well as wonder if a sub-plot that threads its way through this latest story will end up with a happy ending or not.

LOVE MEANS…FAMILY will thrill you till the very end. I enjoyed it immensely and cannot wait to see if this author will continue with one more beloved farm story. If you are looking for a sweet, emotional story that will heat you up on a cold winter’s day, and then grab LOVE MEANS…FAMILY and settle in for a few hours of reading pleasure. Andrew Grey is one of my favorite authors and I am eager to see what else he has in store for his readers in the future.

This is an objective review and not an endorsement of this book.

Welcome Jamieson Wolf and a Contest

Contest information is at end of the interview. Please scroll down to see how to enter to win some cool prizes from Jamieson Wolf.

To get us started can you tell us a little about what you are working on or have coming out?

My new release is with Breathless Press. It’s a paranormal romance named Reaping Shadows. Here’s a bit about the novel:

Death has always been a lonely business.

Darion Muerte knows this first hand. Darion is a Reaper, one of those who gather the souls of the dead so that they can move on. He has been a Reaper for centuries. Accompanied only by his Shadow, a being that scouts for the dead, Darion has not been touched by another for over a thousand years.

That all changes when Darion meets Kale. Though mortals are not supposed to be able to see Reapers and their Shadows, Kale can see both of them. And his dark blue eyes see right into Darion.

Answering the call of passion that sets fire to his skin, Darion gives in to his needs and lets himself experience one night of passion. That is all he can take. And then Darion must make the ultimate sacrifice.

Darion must take Kale’s soul.

You can get your copy here:

http://www.breathlesspress.com/reaping-shadows

 If someone hasn't read any of your work, what book would you recommend that they start with and why?

I’d say to start with Valentine and read their way on. It’s the first romance novel I ever wrote and there’s a lot of me in it. It’s also the prime example of what I write: men, who are flawed, looking for love-and finding it in the most bizarre of ways.

If you could entertain a character from a book, who would it be and what would the evening be like?

I think I’d love to entertain Anne of Green Gables most of all. I know, its pretty contrary to what I write, but she’s quite bright and I’d imagine us having a lovely cup of tea. Or Harry Potter. Meeting him would be a blast.

What would you say is your interesting writing quirk?

I can’t write without music. I also don’t write every day. I write something every day, but not always my current work in progress. I’ll write a bit of something, let it simmer and then be off with it like a rocket for the finish. I’ve always written that way. J

What was one of the most surprising things you learned in creating your books?

One of the most surprising is the characters themselves. I’ve tried plotting before and will try it again. But if the character has something to say, or they want to do something, they’re going to do it-no matter what. I had to learn, as a writer, to let the characters tell the story.

It usually turns out the better for it.

If you had a reporter follow you around for the day, what would the readers get to see in your daily schedule?

Well, I work as an office planner during the weekdays. So currently, readers would get to see me doing all kinds of officey things. Then I come home and work on my current school work. I’m taking course in writing; you are never too young to learn something about the craft you love.

Then I would play some games and read on my iPad for a bit. After that, I would write, working on whatever I had going at the time. Then dinner, then more writing, then reading some more.

And perhaps a run of Temple Run or Plants VS Zombies before bedtime.

What does your workstation look like?

I try to keep my desk at home pretty neat. Right now it’s got my school stuff on it though: my binder, the Pride and Prejudice and Zombies books (I’m writing a non fiction piece on Zombie culture in literary media). I’ve also got my Harry Potter corkboard above my desk with all kinds of HP stuff. Yep, I’m a fanboy. LOL

Are you the type of individual who gets weepy at the end of a good movie, or a sad movie, or do you just stay neutral through it all?

Oh, I’m pretty emotional, so I cry at anything that’s good. I cry during movies (I cried during Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part Two in the theatres…sigh) and I cry if I’m reading a good book. If a movie or book has a good emotional pull, I’m all there.

What are you working on now?

I’m working on the outline of a five short book series, developing an iPad app for  book of short stories, writing a dark horror novel titled 69B and have started writing the second book in one of my trilogies. And I told myself I’d slow down this year…LOL

Where can readers find you on the web?

You can find me here:

Web Site: www.jamiesonwolf.com

Blog: www.tumblr.com.jamiesonwolf

Facebook: www.facebook.com.jamieson.wolf

Twitter: www.twitter.com/jamiesonwolf

 For fun:

What is your favorite pizza?

Hawaiian

What is one thing scientists should invent?

A self cleaning cat box.

Are you a morning person or a night person?

Oh, I’m a night owl.

When you looked in the mirror this morning, what was the first thing you thought?

Coffee.

Anything else you would like to add?

If you would like to buy Reaping Shadows, you can buy a copy of it here:

http://www.breathlesspress.com/reaping-shadows

**Contest Information**

Jamieson Wolf is having a big blowout contest and wants to celebrate by giving away some e-books of his. All you need to do is email Dawn at dawn_roberto @ yahoo (dot) com (no spaces) with "Jamieson Wolf Contest" in subject line between January 31st-February 13th. 

On Feb. 14th, Jamieson will pick some random entries to win one of these books he is giving away:

Hard (Four Copies)

Hardening (Four Copies)

Harder (Four Copies)

Hard Glory(Four Copies)

Hardest (Four Copies)

The Hard Series (One Copy of Each Book)

Cupids Delight: Gods of Love Book 1 (Four Copies)

Copping a Feel: Gods of Love Book 2 (Four Copies)

The Gods of Love Trilogy (One Copy of the first 2 Book)

The Awakening (Five Copies)

Starlight, Starbright (Five Copies)

Reaping Shadows (Five Copies)

Remember, make sure to say in the email to "ENTER ME" and you are all set. 

Reaping Shadows by Jamieson Wolf

Releasing: January 20^th, 2012

Erotica, gay, paranormal, jamieson wolf, m/m, surpernatural, reaper, shadow, adventure, gay/lesbian

Heat Rating: 3

Buy at: http://www.breathlesspress.com/reaping-shadows

Death has always been a lonely business. Darion Muerte knows this firsthand as a Reaper. But his world changes when he meets Kale.

Death has always been a lonely business.

Darion Muerte knows this firsthand. Darion is a Reaper, one of those who gathers the souls of the dead so they can move on. He has been a Reaper for centuries. Accompanied only by his Shadow, a being that scouts for the dead, Darion has not been touched by another for over a thousand years.

That all changes when Darion meets Kale. Though mortals are not supposed to be able to see Reapers and their Shadows, Kale can see both of them. And his dark blue eyes see right into Darion.

Answering the call of passion that sets fire to his skin, Darion gives in to his needs and lets himself experience one night of passion. That is all he can take. And then Darion must make the ultimate sacrifice.

Darion must take Kale's soul.

THE TRIALS OF TAM by Amber Kell

The Larson Legacy Book 1
Publisher: Silver Publishing
Date publisher: November 5th, 2011
ISBN: 9781920502195
ASIN: B0064204SG
Paranormal, M/M
E-book
Reviewed by Dawn
Obtained by self-purchase


Tam Larson is a smart man, a genius even, who knows he will do whatever it takes to protect his family. But when his family is ordered to meet with a new alpha, Valko, to see if they can join Valko’s pack or not; Tam finds the one man he can’t boss around nor live without. For Valko, finding that the youngest Larson sibling is his mate has him in knots. There is something about Tam that has Valko’s protective instincts out in full force and his lust burning hot. Can these two strong willed men find a way to make their mating work or will Valko lose the one person meant to be his?

I have got to admit; I read this on Amber Kell’s blog and fell in love with the entire Larson family. Tam was funny, endearing and very loyal to his family plus he had that wicked side that had me grinning in delight. The writing was good, the characters well defined and the sexual tension between Tam and Valko made me grin as I reached for the ice cubes. There was more than one moment where I was laughing out loud over something Tam said or did to Valko. The characters are what make this book. The wild and madcap Larson family, Valko and his pack, a vampire boss and add them all together-BAM-instant chaos and pure entertainment. I was trying to figure out who I enjoyed more-Tam, Valko, Larson siblings, etc-when it hit me that I enjoyed them all. It’s a rare treat to find a story where I can enjoy all the characters equally and unabashedly.

Tam has a genius IQ who knows how to push back against anyone and anything that tries to hurt himself or his family. Valko is an alpha determined to win Tam over as his mate. Two strong willed men who find that both will need to compromise in order to get what they want. Both these two characters are perfect for one another. Amber Kell gives enough intriguing aspects to hook you and then adds in vulnerabilities, meddling families and more to keep the romance between Valko and Tam from getting stale. The sexual tension between these two is smoking hot and I swore sparks were flying off my nook reader. The secondary characters were as equally well written and just as intriguing. I can’t wait to see more of them in future books.

THE TRIALS OF TAM introduces the readers to a family of wolves who are loyal, protective of their own and love to meddle but you can feel the love they have for one another as well. Amber Kell delivers a wonderful story that though I felt could have been a bit more fleshed out and longer, was a satisfying read all the same on a cold winter’s afternoon. I am really eager to see what this author does for the rest of the Larson family siblings and who may be next in the love department. If you are looking for a light hearted and fun paranormal story. Then grab THE TRIALS OF TAM. I guarantee you will be giggling one minute and sighing the next.

This is an objective review and not an endorsement of this book.

CHRISTMAS IN FLIP FLOPS by A.J. Llewellyn

Publisher: Amber Quill Press
Date published: December 2011
ISBN: 978-1-61124-228-7
ASIN: B006NFD62U
Gay, Contemporary
E-book
Reviewed by Helen
Obtained via publisher


Devon desperately needs a job and is on his way to an interview when his cell phone is stolen. After dramatic attempts to reclaim it, he ends up with a scratched face that is not the image he wanted to present.The good news is he gets the job. The complication is that it’s in Hawaii and his lover, Manco, has invited the entire extended family to share Christmas with them in California. Now Devon won’t be there.

It’s not surprising that Devon’s fiery Latin lover doesn’t take the news well. Not to mention that Steve, who’s been chasing Manco, tries to damage Devon’s relationship, and get closer to Manco.

This is an engaging story with lots of things happening all at once. A huge cast of characters is introduced, and all are drawn with clear personalities, even the most minor players. Hawaii is clearly described, showing thorough research and giving plenty of local color, so the reader feels as though they are present, watching Devon get lost, and seeing the sights with him.

So the plot, characters and background are all very well presented indeed. A.J. Llewellyn’s writing is as enjoyable as ever.

What prevented this book from being a keeper for me was a series of niggling minor glitches that could have been fixed in editing.

First, there was no scene at all in Manco’s POV. The entire book is told in Devon’s POV. It would have been much better to see inside the second hero’s head. The reader needs to bond with him too. Even worse, there were three occasions when, mid-paragraph, the story slid into Manco’s point of view before returning to Devon’s.
The other problems were some annoying repetition, a few typos, missed grammatical errors, a dangling modifier, and an error that contradicted earlier statements. Just enough to take the sparkly shine off the book for me.

A well-written, interesting story, with fascinating characters, but not a keeper.

This is an objective review and not an endorsement of this book.

HEART SENT CHRISTMAS Anthology

Publisher: HeartSent Books
Date published: October 19, 2011
ASIN B005XMBUTA
ISBN None Assigned
Romantic Fiction
E-book
Reviewed by Lynne
Obtained via publisher


The HEART SENT CHRISTMAS anthology is a set of three beautiful love stories, written by three talented authors.

SECOND CHANCES by Heidi Katros is a heartwarming tale that inspires hope. Sylvia Hewlitt, a rich young widow, lost her husband to drugs and recklessness, only to discover later his ultimate deception. Anxious to put her heartache behind her, she decides to spend Christmas alone the following year, traveling to the Sugar Mount Resort near Banner Elk, NC where she encounters a familiar police detective, Stephen Breslow, through unfortunate circumstances. A near tragedy quickly draws Sylvia and Stephen together, and both soon come to realize there may yet be hope for a second chance at love and happiness, despite the differences in their separate worlds.

CHRISTMAS MAGIC by Kate Hofman is an intriguing love story, set in the beauty of Italy, that is sure to make your heart tingle with a strong desire to visit there one day and enjoy your own romantic encounter amid the wintry skiing slopes.

Crista Ballantyne, through a misunderstanding, broke off her relationship with His Excellency, Luca Allessandro Assante, Marchisi di Montevarchi, believing him too possessive and jealous of her. When fate brings them back together again, this time Luca is intent on making Crista his wife, if she will have him. But, as danger threatens Luca’s very existence, Crista soon comes to realize how important he is to her. Realizing how much they still love one another, Crista soon agrees to marry Luca, amid the growing fear that someone is intent on murdering him. Despite this, her affections for Luca grows along with the danger and intrigues against him.

LAKOTA CHRISTMAS by Diane Davis White is a wonderful love story between those of two cultures that are often at odds with one another.

Julianne Porter and her mother, Regina, are spending their first Christmas alone since the death of their beloved father and husband some months earlier. Julianne’s secret fear now is that she will never marry and raise a family of her own. After all, who would she meet out on the Nebraskan plains, such an isolated place? Fortunately, fate is on her side when a handsome Lakota brave arrives at their home, seeking assistance from Regina, a gifted healer.

Finding herself attracted to the Indian, Ethan Knows The Way, Julianne is quick to squash any feelings she has for him, knowing they are from two different worlds. But as time goes on and Julianne discovers the true hearts of the Lakota people, especially during the Christmas season, she suddenly realizes that, regardless of their differences, that people’s hearts are the same everywhere and that she may just be willing to allow her own heart to speak for itself and guide her into the state of true happiness she has been longing for.

HEART SENT CHRISTMAS is an enticing anthology of heartwarming love stories that is sure to lure the readers in and set their hearts aglow with the spirit of Christmas.

SECOND CHANCES by Heidi Katros is a pleasant read that I thoroughly enjoyed. It was easy to care about the hero and heroine, Sylvia Hewlitt and Stephen Breslow. Although they come from different backgrounds, I found myself secretly cheering them on, aware that sooner or later they were going to get together. As they struggled through their doubts and misgivings regarding their growing affection toward one another, you easily feel their pain and confusion.

Ms. Katros’ plotting, dialogues and interesting twists and turns were expertly weaved together, making SECOND CHANCES a fast, light read and a wonderful way to spend a cold wintry afternoon, sitting before a blazing fire with a hot toddy in hand.

CHRISTMAS MAGIC by Kate Hofman is indeed a magical love story that snagged me right from the start. The interesting pull was what led me to keep reading and turning pages to see what would happen next, the fact that our hero and heroine, Crista Ballantyne and Luca Assante, had once been engaged, only to have that engagement broken off because of Luca’s negative behaviors.

I loved the way Ms. Hofman brought Crista and Luca back together, then added a bit of suspense and dangerous intrigue into the story to keep one riveted. Her talented plotting, interesting European tidbits about Italy, dialogues, and unique flare for steamy love scenes held my interest a good while. What added to this was the outstanding characters Ms. Hofman added to move CHRISTMAS MAGIC along.

I liked the various security men written into CHRISTMAS MAGIC. Guido was a nice addition to this story and makes one feel as if he has his own story to tell. The minor characters are perfectly tuned for this enjoyable love story. The fact that many of them are extremely loyal to Luca is a nice touch. I especially like Andreas Hörbiger, the ex-Olympic skier, Pietro, Luca’s valet, and the caretakers at Luca’s palatial villa in Montevarchi who had to deal with all of Luca’s ex-paramours. That lent some humor to the story that I found refreshing.

If one is seeking a bit of CHRISTMAS MAGIC, steamy love scenes, a touch of Europe, and a bit of mystery and suspense, then I would definitely recommend CHRISTMAS MAGIC, a pleasant, interesting tale for anyone seeking an interesting story of love and intrigue with which to while away the long winter days.

LAKOTA CHRISTMAS by Diane Davis White is a heartwarming love story that anyone interested in Native American history would enjoy. I loved it. As a fan of Native American romances, I find LAKOTA CHRISTMAS to be a very pleasant story that kept me turning pages.

It is easy to care for the two main characters, Julianne Porter and Ethan Knows The Way. From the beginning, I was anxious for them to get together, wondering how Ms. White would pull it off.

Ms. White’s skill at dialogue and plotting weaved a wonderful tale. Always casting the Lakota people in an interesting, believable light, I thoroughly enjoyed learning more of them as I read LAKOTA CHRISTMAS. The fact that the Lakota celebrated Christmas was an interesting aspect of this story. I know little of Native culture to know how many of them believe in the white man’s God. So it was a pleasure to read how this holiday was brought into the story. I found the Lakota tribe kind and accepting toward Julianne and Regina and found this a very positive aspect of LAKOTA CHRISTMAS.

I came away from LAKOTA CHRISTMAS with a warm feeling in my heart for Julianne and Ethan and, more importantly, for the Lakota people. This is a well-written story that anyone who loves history and who is interested in Native American culture might enjoy.

This is an objective review and not an endorsement of this book.

ROUGHHOUSING by Laura Baumbach

Book 2 in Rough Series
Publisher: MLR Press
Date Published: September 2011
ISBN 978-1-60820-435-5 (E-book)
ASIN: B005LKMOIA
Contemporary M/M
E-book
Reviewed by Dawn
Obtained by Publisher


James and Bram are back with James having trouble believing that Bram loves only him. He has always rushed into things in the past and it always got him hurt. Now with his job getting stressful, James is trying to figure out his relationship with Bram amid his turmoil of emotions. Can James believe in Bram and in himself in order to be happy with Bram? Bram is so forceful, so sexy and getting tired of trying to show James that he is here to stay. Can he show James, once and for all, that his love is true?

ROUGHHOUSING takes up right after A BIT OF ROUGH left off and here we see more deeply into the relationship of Bram and James. James has issues that are getting the best of him. He is scared to think of Bram getting tired of him and tossing him aside like so many others have done in the past. Bram is tired of trying to show James he is “THE ONE” to James and to show him his heart, time after time. Laura Baumbach delivers a stellar second book in her Rough Series that deliver angst, passion and a love worth fighting for. The story is fast paced, writing tight and the characters are so life-like, I was sure I could meet them at any local bar.

James is feeling like he was on a roller coaster. He adores Bram but he is trying to slow things down, so he can figure things out but Bram has a way of steamrolling over James at times. But James’s insecurities are getting the best of him and it will take all of Bram’s love and devotion to help James figure out he belongs right by Bram’s side, now and forever. Laura Baumbach delivers two amazing characters that will steal your heart. Gentle James and alpha Bram swooped in and turned me into mush while I read ROUGHHOUSING. The characters are very enjoyable, life like and I could literally see them on the corner of my street or at a local restaurant. There were a few secondary characters that were quite enjoyable and gave me a few giggles at times.

ROUGHHOUSING delivers a strong story that is very hot and sexy at times. I recommend you keep a handy bucket of ice nearby or your significant other. You will need it. I can’t wait to see what happens next for Bram and James. Laura Baumbach is a talented writer who pens intriguing stories with enjoyable characters. If you’re looking for a strong character rich story, then try ROUGHHOUSING. I do recommend reading A BIT OF ROUGH first to see how James and Bram met and fell for one another.

This is an objective review and not an endorsement of this book.

Welcome Guest Author Juliet Chastain Today/Contest

CONTEST: Juliet is giving away a copy of her latest book, The Captain and The Courtesan to one lucky Commenter. Please leave a comment with your email address and you will be entered to win this wonderful book. Contest closes Feb. 1st and winner to be announced on this post.

To get us started can you tell us alittle about what you are working on or have coming out?

The Captain and theCourtesan was just released. It's a short Regency period romance abouta woman who has become penniless and will have to work as a courtesan and areally nice (and handsome and sexy) sea captain who falls madly in love withher.

Coming up in mid-February is Cry of The Wolf. In this short story, a hunk of a man who is also a wolf, keeps hispassionate love a secret, certain that the woman he adores could never love aman who was also a wolf.

 If someone hasn't read any ofyour work, what book would you recommend that they start with and why?

The Captain and theCourtesan. It's the only book Ihave out so far. If you prefer paranormal to Regency, then Cry of the wolfwould suit you better.

If you could entertain a characterfrom a book, who would it be and what would the evening be like?

I'd like to talk toCharlotte Lucas (from Pride and Prejudice) I have an unwholesome desire to hearwhat sex is like with a really unappealing and boring man like Mr.Collins, (butdon't want to find out by personal experience.)

What was one of the most surprisingthings you learned in creating your books?

I was--and am--amazed athow kind and encouraging my editor at Breathless Press is. I had a newspapercolumn at one time, and once the piece was handed in I rarely got feedback fromthe busy editors. Certainly no one at the paper had time to say anythingencouraging.

If you had a reporterfollow you around for the day, what would the readers get to see in your dailyschedule? I get up early andgo for a short walk on the beach and a swim in the ocean if it's warm enough(hey--someone has to do it.) Then I do some yoga. After that I'm in a greatmood and take my breakfast and get into bed with my laptop and write. Sooner orlater I have to attend to other stuff--errands,revisions, queries, whatever.Sometimes in the early evening a friend collects me and we go to the beachagain and then come back and work out. Or I get together with my sweetheart.Sometimes I work on revisions after dinner, and probably get in a bit ofreading. Of course some days things fall apart and it doesn't happen this wayat all (and that ususally makes me cranky)..

What does yourworkstation look like? My laptopsits on my lap wherever I might be. A My favorite place to work is propped upin bed

Are you the type ofindividual who gets weepy at the end of a good movie, or a sad movie, or do youjust stay neutral through it all?  Yeah, I'm a weeper.

 

What are you working on now?

I'm working on a series ofshort sexy Gypsy tales. The first will be released by Breathless Press in April

Where can readers find you on the web?

julietchastain.com

For fun:

What is your favorite pizza?

One with a lot of stuff onit--different kinds of cheeses, green peppers, onions, mushrooms and whateverthe person--or people I'm sharing it with might want

Are you a morning person or a nightperson?

Morning. 

When you looked in the mirror thismorning, what was the first thing you thought?

Mmmm--not as bad as Iexpected.

Anything else you would like to add?

Great questions

 

The Captain & The Courtesan by JuneChaplin

Releasing:January 13^th, 2012

Romance,historical regency, Juliet Chastain, romance, erotic romance, captain,courtesan, brothel, regency, historical

HeatRating: 2

Buyat: http://www.breathlesspress.com/captain-and-courtesan

Against his conscience, Captain EdwardHowland buys a night with the enchanting and mysterious masked courtesan, LadyAmelia Kentley, and their evening together becomes far more than eitherexpected.

As her first night as a courtesanapproaches, the mysterious masked noblewoman is the talk of London. Impoverished Lady Amelia Kentley, wearinga mask to hide her identity, is resigned to her fate, working in a brothel tosupport her child and herself. When she meets the kindly and passionate seaCaptain Edward Howland, she is shocked at the powerful attraction she feels forhim. She hopes that he will be her first paying lover. Dare she dream of more,of running away from her degrading situation with him?

Edward disdains paid-for sex, but he is soenchanted with the masked Lady Amelia that he cannot resist the chance to claima night's pleasure with her before he sets sail in the morning. They sharehours of overwhelming passion, and a deep affection develops between them. Bydaybreak, Edward is determined to find a way to rescue her from her fate as acourtesan, but can he do so without besmirching his honor?

Welcome Raven McAllen today/Contest

CONTESTPRIZE:.Raven is giving away one E-copy of To Please A Lady to one lucky reader. Please leave a comment with your email address inside it to be entered to win this wonderful book. Winner will be announced int he comments section of this post on February 1st.

 

To get us started can you tell us a little aboutwhat you are working on or have coming out? I'm working on a short paranormal at the moment. a new thing for me.So far my paranormals have been YA. the next book I have due out is acontemporary cougar romance, The Price to Pay, Feb. 24th breathless press

 If someone hasn't read any of yourwork, what book would you recommend that they start with and why? Argh.thatis so difficult to chose. If you like regency and menage try To Please A lady.It's got a strong plot (i think) a feisty heroine and two to die for heroes. Ifyou like the idea of a cougar romance, The Price To Pay.

If you could entertain a character from a book, whowould it be and what would the evening be like? Ivo From Wallflowers don't Wilt. A quirky eveningof fine wine, good food (no corsets thankfully, he wouldn't appreciate them)and i'd ask him about his travels and the things he bought home with him. Ifyou read the book you'll know what sort of things he has VERY interesting. OrPeter Wohl from W EB Griffin Badge Of Honor series about Philadelphia cops. We'd go for a ride in his jag (wash yourmouths out) and eat in a good italian restaurant and drink red wine! I couldask him all those questions no one ever answers. Like what is Taylor ham and scrapple. and what's a condo!

What would you say is your interesting writingquirk? Chocolate. And wine atnight. And as it's so cold I often type in gloves. Not really interesting,sorry. I'd love to say I have to listen to Elgar or only wear silk next to myskin… but … sadly…

What was one of the most surprising thingsyou learned in creating your books? I can write! And There is no point inplotting in detail, my characters won't stick to it!

If you had a reporter follow youaround for the day, what would the readers get to see in your daily schedule? They'd probably fall asleep, bored. Get up (classyPjs and depending on time of year fleecy socks. Bearing in mind this could beanything from 3am onwards. Checkemails and twitter and write. Hear alarm if I'm already up, or be woken up ifnot and then do the above! Load dishwasher, make coffee, and write. Make coffeego for a walk in the forest with a friend and her six whippets. Talk plotseven though we know I won't stick to them. Get home eat, coffee, procrastinate(sorry exchange plot lines and ask for advice on Skype from my fellow critgroup members) realize I need to edit MOAN, have more coffee and scour thehouse for chocolate, realizing it has all gone. Start to edit/write. Realize Ineed to iron. Moan and iron. Write. Get stuck in to writing. Realize I need tomake dinner. Make it drink wine write sleep. (Wake up at 3am with a good plot, dress, gets up and write. forgetto go back to bed.) Hear DH alarm. Make coffee…..

What does your workstation look like? It's my lap. I write on a mac book air. However thesettee and coffee table are a mess. Notebooks tissues chocolate wrappers,coffee cups and two cats. But I know where to find my notes, coffee, cats, anddefinitely chocolate.

Are you the type of individual whogets weepy at the end of a good movie, or a sad movie, or do you just stayneutral through it all? I don'tlike the movies, sorry. It's too loud and I hate watching films in the dark. Iget a headache. I also get bored. However on the few occasions I do watchanything that makes me cry, I'm warned about it before hand given a box oftissues and told to cry quietly. I'm the same with a good book. I can finish itwith the typeprint blurry and the page soggy!

 

What are you working on now? Two adult M/s—my paranormal and a mystery. And Ihave a regency erotica, 3 M/M (2 of them in an antho) and also a very hot shortin an altho all before June.

As well as The Price toPay. And I'm half way through writing a YA shifter series under a differentname (naturally) First one due out in June.

Where can readers find you on the web? www.ravenmcallan.com and my blog is www.ravenmcallan.blogspot.comTwitter and Facebook Raven McAllan

For fun:

What is your favorite pizza? I hate cheese! I'm sick if I eat it. And I can'teat wheat anymore. So now home made no cheese chicken sweetcorn

What is one thing scientists should invent? A way of looking into a room before you go in, soif you don't like the company you can turn around. When I was at school theidea we all liked most was an eye on the end of your finger. (not to see upyour nose) to do the room looking for you!

Are you a morning person or a night person? Morning definitely, I write better, and get moredone when I wake up early.

When you looked in the mirror this morning, what wasthe first thing you thought? Help Ilook more like my mum each day, and darn my hair needs trimming

Anything else you would like to add?

 Thanks for letting merun loose here. That's brave of you. I can waffle for Britain.

 

To Please a Lady by Raven McAllen

Released:January 6^th, 2012

Romance,erotica, historical regency, raven mcallan, ménage a more, regency romance,regency, ménage m/m/f

HeatRating: 3

Buyat: http://www.breathlesspress.com/please-lady

When your lovers are loversthemselves, and want you to help them make the perfect triangle, what do yousay? Persuade me of course!

Unconventional, and happy, Hermione is in theenviable position of having not one, but two lovers to attend to her everyneed. That her lovers are lovers themselves, only adds to the equation.  Berry and Ran feel it’s time to make all their varioustwosomes, into one splendid threesome. Now all they have to do is persuadeHermione!

Being men, they are tooimpatient to wait for her answer. Being a woman, she isn’t going to be pushed,shoved or coerced into saying anything until she is good and ready.Patience is a virtue, and one her men needed to get.

FINAL CUT MIAMI: VOODOO YOU LOVE? by Belinda McBride

Publisher: Changeling Press LLC
Date published: July 2011
ISBN: 978-1-59596-662-1
Paranormal
E-book
Reviewed by Gabrielle
Obtained via publisher


CLICK HERE TO PURCHASE!Working for Jedidiah is not always a walk in the park and this time is one of those. Jedidiah has given Antonio the task of finding a missing lawyer who seems to have disappeared on purpose. While Antonio searches for the missing lawyer he comes across an alluring woman named Coco. He cannot seem to get his mind off of her and when he finds out Coco has lost her inner animal he is determined to help her get it back but can they figure the puzzle out before time runs out on them and all is lost?

I really enjoyed this quick read. The author has once again brought the magical world of the shifters to life. The characters are so full of emotions and depth. Antonio may seem like a mean and intimidating man but we see the heart that he keeps hidden. He will do anything for Coco and fights for her the best that he can. Coco endeared herself to me right from the start. She is an adorable woman, smart and funny and more than willing to stand by her man. I loved their relationship. Not only is it a hot one but it is also full of playfulness and love. There were so many lines in this book that had me laughing out loud but I have to say that when Coco found out that Antonio was a tiger and she called him Tony it was hysterical. As the two begin to find out what has happened to Coco they also find themselves getting closer to each other. The bond of love and trust that the two start to build was a great read. I loved watching as the two find love. Not only did I love meeting Antonio and Coco but I also enjoyed revisiting with Jedidiah again. He is a great character and I loved his interaction with the couple. He proves that he is more than what many think that he is and everyone finds out that their past does not always stay in the past.

With some twists and turns that I did not expect this book was a great read that grabbed my attention right from the start and kept me glued to my seat turning the pages until the very end.

This is an objective review and not an endorsement of this book.

DEMONIC by Sheri Whitefeather

Publisher: Berkley Heat
Date published: August 2011
ISBN: 978-0-425-24141-7
Trade Paperback
Contemporary Erotica
Reviewed by Tammy
Obtained via publisher


Sheri Whitefeather’s DEMONIC is an erotic tale of three friends’ walk on the wild side.

Jane Brooks has been hired to write an article about an exclusive sex club where the clientele dresses up as supernatural beings and their groupies. As Jane isn’t comfortable with her hands on research, she asks two of her girlfriends to accompany her. Immediately upon entering the club, the ladies meet up with three hot men dressed as demons. The girls find that they enjoy the club and their men even more, but rumor has it that one of the men is a real demon and that could be a bit of a problem.

Sheri Whitefeather’s DEMONIC is three erotic tales in one. Jane immediately falls for Marcus and his BDSM leanings. Suzanne and Jake experiment with sex in public. Emily and Damien have a slightly more normal relationship. So you can almost guess which man turns out to be the demon. Not that it really matters all that much to the storyline. The story about just how a demon ends up best buddies with two mortal men was in itself an interesting little story. But a strong storyline is not the emphasis of this book, sex in all its interesting forms is. At the end, does Jane even write her article? Does it matter?

DEMONIC is erotica ladies. If you enjoy short erotic tales tied together by an unusual demon, you are probably going to be pleased with DEMONIC. For those fans of stronger storylines and depth in their erotic musings, this book is not for you.

This is an objective review and not an endorsement of this book.