Retrieved By Amber Polo Blog Tour Review & Giveaway!

Dog-shifters once again face the book-burning werewolves of Shipsfeather in this charming second installment of The Shapeshifters’ Library series.　

Godiva Anglesey, Chocolate Labrador, and the ruggedly handsome English Mastiff Cynerik are forced to team up against power-hungry werewolves when Cynerik discovers an ancient Ohio mound that may hold answers to their shifter history. Knowing the mound’s secrets could benefit the dog-shifters in the ongoing contest for power, ambitious werewolf pack Alpha Sybilla challenges timid Godiva to a battle for the territory. Already faced with a malicious book-worm infestation and a censorship threat to ban all anthropomorphic books in her library, Godiva, who has no interest in battling anyone, must turn from running her small town library to train for a challenge she believes she has no chance of winning. Just when things couldn’t get any worse, Godiva’s mother announces that family tradition dictates that Godiva must be married by Summer Solstice… to a Druid. Godiva doesn’t even know any Druids.

Godiva wants to run her library, retrieve books for library patrons, and keep people happy. She’s no hero. She doesn’t have what it takes to face down werewolves or save the world. Cynerik, however, believes differently. Together they must defeat the werewolves, save the town and its library, protect the most important archeological discovery in dog-shifter history… and, just maybe, find love along the way.
My Review:
 Lately, I've become a tea person.  Not just the run of the mill, paper wrapped tea in a bag variety, but the steep your own single cup loose leaf and spoon out your pleasure kind.  For me, this has become my me ritual, and the time I spend with my delicious steaming cuppa is my retreat.  It's special.  And silly as it may sound, Retrieved by Amber Polo fits right in that special time.
Released took me pleasantly by surprise, so much so that when I'm in a book rut, I page through my kindle and may just read a bit here and there.  If I can put it down, that is.
Imagine my girl geeky giddiness when asked to review the second book, Retrieved?  Oh, yes...please!!
Shipsfeather has weathered the were-storm of library burning and sure catastrophe.  Chronus and Liberty are enjoying their honeymoon (not to say I wasn't sorely disappointed...but that didn't last long!), and the shapeshifters curse has been broken.  Godiva is the head librarian now, and her office lovingly looks across the hall at Gris. All should be right and well in the world, right?
Wrong. Especially when the new pack lead of the book-hating werewolves has cleaned up her house (poor Harry) and taken control. 
New threats abound...the library is suddenly overrun with bookworms, children's books are being pulled off the shelves by irate library go-ers on a national stage, the biggest discovery of the shapeshifter's history has been taken over by the werewolves for..gulp...a golf course, poor Harry has no place to lay his paws, Gris is more aloof and rude to Diva as ever, and a Challenge has been issued to highest dog shifter in Shipsfeather by the library hating hating Alpha werewolf bent on taking over the town.
Poor Godiva, she just wants to run her library, eat chocolate, and run for her daily exercise.  If only she would notice Cynerik as more than just a loyal run through the woods Mastiff pal...
To say that I loved the sequel as much as I loved the first would be a slight understatement.  One complaint?  I missed Liberty and her dashing Chronus...
But, there is so much to love about Retrieved, from the witty and clever yet quaint story-telling (who knew the Dewey Decimal System could be such a descriptive device?!?!) to the tongue in cheek Starbark's and Zoogle, and the wonderful weaving of history incorporated into the legend of the werewolf/shapeshifter back story.  Cyn and Diva stole my heart, as did all of the loyal library loving shifters.  I loved how Amber Polo tells her story, weaving each detail with such precision that you simply cannot put it down. I simply cannot wait to see where the Shapeshifter's Library leads to next!
No spoilers here, but there is plenty of action to keep you on the edge of your seat, and you may just want to run out to your library and make sure no one is pulling your beloved children's book off the shelf.  Right after you enjoy hot chocolate and nice run in the snow!


Rafflecopter code for giveaway:
A Shapeshifter Public Library canvas book bag.
A print copy of "Retrieved," dog biscuits, and a tuft of genuine wolf fur. This giveaway is open only to US/Canada residents.

a Rafflecopter giveaway



Where to find Amber: Wordshaping Blog　|　Facebook　|　Goodreads　|　Twitter
Pinterest　|　Google+

Buy Links for Retrieved, Book two: Blue Merle Publishing　 | Kindle | Amazon Print | Barnes & Noble & Nook | Well Red Coyote Bookstore

Buy Links for Released, Book One: Blue Merle Publishing　| Kindle | Amazon Print | Barnes & Noble & Nook | Well Red Coyote Bookstore

Author Bio:A love of books drew Amber Polo into a career as a librarian. A greater love turned her into a writer.　The Shapeshifters’ Library　series is an urban fantasy filled with books, librarians and dogs and a library everyone will love.


Note: Review copy provided by author.

New Review: TBR A Brush of Darkness by Allison Pang

From Amazon.com:

The man of her dreams might be the cause of her nightmares. Six months ago, Abby Sinclair was struggling to pick up the pieces of her shattered life. Now, she has an enchanted iPod, a miniature unicorn living in her underwear drawer, and a magical marketplace to manage. But despite her growing knowledge of the OtherWorld, Abby isn’t at all prepared for Brystion, the dark, mysterious, and sexy-as- sin incubus searching for his sister, convinced Abby has the key to the succubus’s whereabouts. Abby has enough problems without having this seductive shape-shifter literally invade her dreams to get information. But when her Faery boss and some of her friends vanish, as well, Abby and Brystion must form an uneasy alliance. As she is sucked deeper and deeper into this perilous world of faeries, angels, and daemons, Abby realizes her life is in as much danger as her heart—and there’s no one she can trust to save her.

There is a pile, that is actually a pretty impressively large pink and orange box, filled with a lonely pile of TBR's.  The dreaded To Be Read Pile.  Innocently enough, this pile began as a place to gather the books lovingly purchased at a local bookstore's closing.  Then, as these things often do, it took on a life of it's own.  A sad almost Island of Forgotten Toys kind life.  New inhabitants arrived sometimes daily.

This is where A Brush of Darkness ended up.  It had always been on my radar.  I love a good cover, and when this book originally had it's book birthday, there was a bit of buzz about the outrageous (cover your eyes for heaven's sake!! *sarcasm*) outfit the main character, Abby had on.  This amused me, and had to check it out to see what the fuss was all about. 

The story piqued my interest, and became a line on my must read list.  Which lead to, unfortunately, a trip to the TBR pile.  (Cue the dreaded music!)

Fast forward to last week.  Stuck in my book slump, feeling simply annoyed with the few I had close by, I ventured towards that poor pile of lonely books.  And there it was.

Two days later (give me a break here, my one year old likes Goodnight Goon and Where's Baby's Christmas Present right now!!), I became blissfully recharged in my reading vacation status.

Rarely do I actually read almost every single word of the book I'm currently reading.  But, I devoured Abby's story like it was my favorite pretzel covered in dark chocolate covered with M&M's with a side of Dr. Pepper.

My, oh my...from the moment Brystion walks into Abby's life (she also better hide that enchanted iPod from me.  Just sayin.), the smolder and shivering made it almost impossible to put A Brush of Darkness down.  Add to that a missing Protectorate, a horny lil unicorn, an overprotective angel, and a host of OtherWorld drama that somehow manages to build a world without having to over explain every single detail and you have the perfect solution to a book slump.

And the steamy?  Sigh.  Sexual tension is one thing, but this is tangible run your fingers all over and enjoy every single secong "no regrets" that never seems to end.

The best part of waitng so long to get on board?  The next two books are already out.

Oh, yeah....

Check out the In The Dreaming website for more info...


 

Book Review...Dancing Naked in Dixie By Lauren Clark

Dancing Naked in Dixie by Lauren Clark, from amazon.com:

 

Travel writer Julia Sullivan lives life in fast-forward. She jet sets to Europe and the Caribbean with barely a moment to blink or sleep. But too many mishaps and missed deadlines have Julia on the verge of being fired.

With a stern warning, and unemployment looming, she's offered one last chance to rescue her career. Julia embarks on an unlikely journey to the ‘Heart of Dixie’—Eufaula, Alabama—home to magnificent mansions, sweet tea, and the annual Pilgrimage.

Julia arrives, soon charmed by the lovely city and her handsome host, but her stay is marred by a shocking discovery. Can Julia's story save her career, Eufaula, and the annual Pilgrimage?

Show More

Show Less

Show More

Contemporary romance isn't my usual glass of wine, but once in a while, a girl likes to change things up just a bit.  Add in a little southern hospitality and the holiday season?  I'm all in.

 

First person isn't always my favorite perspective to read. Getting a peak insidesomeone's inner thoughts can feel like the author has made the choice to tell you absolutely everything in a non-stop inner dialogue that can make any premise seem like a encyclopedia of information dumping instead of story telling.  Phew. Thankfully (and joyfully), Lauren Clark avoids this and allows Julia to develop through her own experience and the experiences of those she encounters in this seemingly sleepy southern town in such a charming way that it made me want to get off the beaten path and take a long deserved pilgrimage down south myself.

 

Quaint, a little sassy, and sweet like southern sweet tea (by the way, I always have to do half sweet tea and half water!), Dancing Naked In Dixie has everything a typical contemporary romance could want...the ruggedly handsome somewhat attached (though I never can get why these men can't see the true colors of the perfect girlfriend who secretly covets the money and power he provides while simultaneously and insecurely snapping at the nice girl who's new in town) good guy, the charming if not somewhat quirky family, the evil developer trying to change the town and ruin all the traditions that have made Eufala unique and full of southern hospitality, and the heroine who just can't see that her life would be that much better if only she would leave her crummy city life and take a chance on herself and love. 

 

Plus there's a Batman reference to make the fan girl in me squeal in delight.

 

If I had any complaints, it would be that it took me a few minutes to get over the weird feeling that maybe her new editor was a bit creepy.  And then we find out exactly who he is...and then some. That first feeling may have been justified. And Shug...loved him, but his name had to grow on me.  Bless his heart.  Or his name's heart, if possible.

 

I enjoyed my trip down to Eufala much more than I would have thought.  Maybe it's because the leaves are changing, and the air is crisper...or that I just love the holidays and secretly want my own historical house in the south, but I found Dancing Naked In Dixie to be the kind of sweet story you want to cuddle up under a comfy and cozy blanket.  And a good glass of wine...

 

(Provided for review...visit Lauren Clark's website here.)

Show Less

Review: Released by Amber Polo (And if you love libraries and sheep dogs...)

(Provided by author):

Released by Amber Polo

 
Love dogs? Love books ?Love libraries? Hate Book-burning werewolves?

Once long ago the Shipsfeather Academy was a training ground for an ancient race of dog-shifters whose mission was to protect the world’s knowledge. A powerful curse sealed these librarians in the basement of their building and gave the control of the town to a pack of book-burning werewolves.

Librarian Liberty Cutter watches in horror as the town’s public library goes up in flames and plans to re-establish the library in the abandoned Shipsfeather Academy building. Chronus, the Old English Sheepdog headmaster of the academyand leader of the dog-shifters, knows he must make some changes to continue to keep his pack safe. But even if he could persuade Liberty to believe in a talking sheepdog, how far can she be trusted? And will she ever be able to care for him as a man. He has to try, because Liberty Cutter and her staff of zany librarians may hold the key to the dog-shifters’ freedom…and the future of the town.

Being a book lover and an expert library loiterer, the chance to review a new book that somehow intertwined these two things definitely piqued my interest.  But, the real reason?  Bunnicula.

Let me explain.

Bunnicula was one of the first books I became obsessed with when I was younger.  Vampire bunnies draining vegetables to the pale, werewolf daschunds, and of course, the most lovable pup protecting his family.  Now, Released by Amber Polo is far from Bunnicula, but let's just say the cheese has transformed into charming.  And delight!

Once you get past the abruptness of being thrown into Liberty's life (in a frantic opening that introduces her and her situation in a frenetic and information overload way)...a librarian raised by her aunts who desperately wants to learn of her town's history as well as her own but whose library (dream job!!!!!) has mysteriously burned downed but is now being moved into the equally mysterious abandoned old school that always seems to have someone watching her from the shadows as she passes.  PHEW! Wait, the once part!!  At this point, the charming, if not adorable, and dare I say cute (I love sheepdogs) storytelling takes over and we find out the real mystery of this town.  The shape shifting dogs are the librarians of the world, protecting humans and working with them to make the most glorious libraries you can imagine.  And their arch enemies?  Werewolves who split from their canine cousins ages ago in their selfish wolfish ways who burn books and libraries in their quest to destroy both the books and their protectors forever.

The doggie librarians in Shipsfeather have been cursed to stay below grounds in the abandoned school which in turn keeps the werewolves out.  Will this stop the burning?  Or are the books and their caretakers doomed?

I simply adored this book...from the Dewey references (charming!!!!!) to the plethora of dog breeds that so represented their wonderful characters to Liberty herself, it was simply a delight to read. The other characters (Elsie, you mangy Alpha and Harry...we saw that Marley and Me!) added a rich and colorful layer that only made the read more enjoyable. Plus, a little romance thrown in? Who could resist? Sigh...a silver haired dashing man and sheep dog who loves books and a little adventure. Again, sigh...If there was one thing I longed for, it was an epic battle between the wolves and librarians (to really teach those book burners a lesson!), but there's always book two!

Quirky, quaint, and romantic, Amber Polo has delivered a breath of fresh air to this book blogger that was desperately needed.

Once in a while, you come across a story that isn't the newest most popular book obsession but is so worthy of being happily recommended that you know your book vacation would have been a little less sunny without it.  And here it is...

(Thank you, A Buckeye Girl Reads...always a delight.  For serious!!!  Book provided on Kindle for review...)

One lucky commenter from the tour will receive:  Prize pack to include:  Large canvas Shipsfeather Library book bag, 4 signed books by Amber Polo including The Shapeshifters’ Library Book 1: Released, Amber's Relaxation CD, 2collectible dogs, & a tuft of Arctic wolf fur.

Please comment away and make sure you find Release for your own reading pleasure...and to see who wins this battle of the books!!
a Rafflecopter giveaway

New Review! The Darkest Seduction by Gena Showalter

From Amazon.com:
Possessed by the demon of Promiscuity, immortal warrior Paris is irresistibly seductive—but his potent allure comes at a terrible price. Every night he must bed someone new, or weaken and die. And the woman he craves above all others is the one woman he'd thought was forever beyond his reach…until now.
Newly possessed by the demon of Wrath, Sienna Blackstone is racked by a ruthless need to punish those around her. Yet in Paris's arms, the vulnerable beauty finds soul-searing passion and incredible peace. Until a blood feud between ancient enemies heats up.
Will the battle against gods, angels and creatures of the night bind them eternally—or tear them apart?

Show More

Show Less

The first time I picked up a Gena Showalter book, I was hooked.  Sexy demon possessed misunderstood yumminess combined with female characters that lead the way for strong not to be afraid of who they are awesomeness.  (Yep, gushing.  Unabashedly.)  With each and every turn of the page, each new installment, the addiction rooted itself deeper into my hot little hands.  Add to this that each Lord of the Underworld has their own demon that makes each and every one of them memorable and incredibly sexy as well as unique.  Recipe for a fabulous book vacation.
And who did we all want to see more than anyone get his own book?  Paris, the keeper of promiscuity.  The one whose story threaded its way through each and every installment, from the tiniest glimpses, to the heartbreak and loss of Sienna.
Enter The Darkest Seduction....
Admittedly, when Sienna first entered the picture early on, it was not entirely unexpected.  Serious face, the enemy would be the one that Paris' demon would allow in for seconds...thirds...you get the picture. 
The chance to finally get Paris his own novel...sigh.
Without a doubt, it's a wonderful thing to get to revisit with old friends.  Catch up with what's been happening in their lives.  You know, your friends get married, hook up, start having lil demons.  The get togethers become less frequent...so, it's great when something happens to throw you all together again to catch up!
Even if your buddy has a new girl (you think) who is dead, possessed by Wrath, has wings, and just may be the end of all things you know.  (And don't forget the pregnant with twins mama, due at any moment, the new found female with her need to see herself everywhere, and we still have some questions about William.  Like, what's in that awesome conditioner, and where do I buy it?)
The hardest thing to digest about The Darkest Seduction?  Honestly, the being stuck down there for most of the story with the gang or up there (I hesitate to name either!) for a quick drink or two made this installment feel different from the rest of the Lord's stories.  Sienna is at once hard to like yet there is something about her that you love.  She knows she's done wrong, and switched sides when she finally knows the truth.  The Lords and their demons aren't responsible for the human races problems; they may just be holding on and helping keep somethings to a minimum.  Humans, just like the Lords and Gods/Goddesses, are each responsible in some way for their actions.
Hardest for me to get through, however, were her wings (the logistics kept getting in the way of my imagination.  Or maybe because of it!) and her invisibility (once again, logistics.  Yep, she's dead, but she has Wrath and those wings...and Paris looks crazy like that guy who wears his blue tooth, but you don't know he's wearing it?).   The prophecies always seemed to have loopholes, but everyone sees those differently and therefore reacts differently. 
Loved seeing everyone come together, and these scenes were actually my favorite...the Lords are so easily distinguishable from one another and memorable that you don't need a refresher to remind yourself who they are.  And their females?  The best girl's night out you could possibly imagine....Magi Mike, anyone?
While it wasn't my favorite novel of the Lords of the Underworld, I wouldn't kick out of bed for eating crackers.  And the conclusion of The Darkest Seduction was satisfying yet kept me wanting more...plus, who wouldn't love another reunion?

Book Review....Kitten-Tiger and the Monk by Carolyn Crane

From Amazon.com (novella from Wild & Steamy):

Sophia Sidway, Mid-City's most dangerous memory revisionist, seek out the mysterious Monk in the wasteland beneath the Tangle turnpike, hoping for redemption...but it turns out that the Monk is not all pious, and the turnpike is not a turnpike at all.

I've been a fan of the Disillusionists Trilogy from the very first words I read (of course, I was introduced to the series by some of my favorite book bloggers) and still can recall to this day the exact moment I yelled and raised my hands .in frustration (the good kind, I think) at the end of Mind Games (book two). I tend to enjoy books I yell at. Come to think of it, I may have yelled at this series more than once...

When I ran across Tiger-Kitten and the Monk, the title threw me off. Shrug. Because I needed it. This may seem a little odd...to NEED. But you didn't hear me ranting after I finished the Double Cross. Just saying.

Tiger-Kitten and the Monk is a short little treat that gives us more insight not only into Mid-City, but the characters we've come to love to hate to love, as well as the Tangle. (Honestly, I still have no idea what exactly it looks like. Even with the insight Sophia lends at the end. Spoilery-ish.)

Entertaining if not too short, the novella focuses around Sophia, the minion (if you will) of Otto Sanchez and the memory revisionist I like most like to yell at. Sophia is seeking out the Monk, the one disillusionist no one knows the identity of (save Packard) who is the ultimate in disillusioning. The end all and be all. And Sophia is tired and done with hurting others as well as herself. Too bad the Tangle (er, road) leads to the one man she most and least would want to see. And maybe she'll get a little more than she bargained for.

Until you may want to rant a little once again.

New Review...Immortal Rider by Larissa Ione

From the back cover....

They're here.

They ride.

The Four Horseman of the Apocalypse.

Born of a match between good and evil, four siblings stand between hell's minions and everything they want to destroy. They are the Lords of Deliverance, and they have the power to ward off Doomsday...or let it ride...

Immortal Rider

Sexy, powerful, and immortal, Limos is on a crash course with destiny. She's been marked as Satan's bride and her jealous fiance wants her all to himself. The only way this Horseman can keep herself-and everyone else-safe is to keep her distance.

Arik Wagner knows the saying "love hurts" better than most, yet he never thought stealing a kiss from Limos would land him in Hell. Literally. It takes all his military training to survive the demon torture, but once he's topside, Arik realizes that the agony has just begun. With the Apocalypse looming and Satan demanding his bride, will Arik and Limos surrender to the desire smoldering between them? Or will giving in to their passion unleash hell on earth?

Missing your favorite daytime drama? I have the answer for you!

There are no shortages of hot steamy scenes (you know the kind...just imagine your favorite soap hero/heroine accidentally coming out of the shower only to see the one person he/she hates yet secretly longs for and will do anything to protect, even from the nasty mistakes they've made in the past that they've hidden from everyone they love that could now ruin their lives forever?)

You may think that soaps are cheesy, and I admit they can be...however, they are one of my absolute favorite guilty pleasures. Until Larissa Ione.

And I'll tell ya why. Each storyline in a soap somehow ends up repeating itself, even if its only partially. Yep, there's that one evil character who seems to be every one's daddy, and everybody hooks up (well, almost everyone) eventually. And every character has lied and cheated and is keeping secrets. This is where Ione sets herself apart.

Maybe it's the demons. Or the angels. It's most definitely the Horsemen.

Finally, a heroine I can sink my teeth into. Not only do I love Limos in her sassy ways, she has a great big ol heart thanks to her bros. Did I mention I'd love to crash at her pad? Sigh...always a soft place in my heart, those Hawaiian Islands. She's tough when she has to be, saucy when the time calls for it, and lays it on the line when the moment arises. Like any young immortal being, she has made her mistakes in the past. And, just like any immortal being, when you grow up, things catch up with you.

Arik sees the tough side, accepts it, and pushes past it. A tough military guy with connections with the Guardians and super secret military faction. Who gets in a bit of trouble over a little kiss. Scorching hot kiss, but if her only knew how that kiss would make things end up. Or where. Sigh...

There is a nice crossover with the Underworld General Hospital (demons and a hospital? Paranormal Soap Opera HEAVEN!) and we get a visit from some old friends as well as a look into the other Horsemen. Not to mention Harvester and Reaver...

If I had one complaint, it's that Satan himself is the Big Bad but doesn't make much of an appearance...something I'm hoping will show up as the series progresses.

Now, I'm left waiting and totally wanting for Thanatos' book.

Soap Opera? Nah, so much better...

Book Review: Retribution by Sherrilyn Kenyon

From Sherrilyn Kenyon's website:

A hired gunslinger, William Jessup Brady lived his life with one foot in the grave. He believed every life had a price. Until the day he finally found a reason to live. In a single act of brutal betrayal, he lost everything, including his life. Brought back by a Greek goddess to be one of her Dark-Hunters, he gave his immortal soul for vengeance and swore he'd spend eternity protecting the humans he once considered prey.

Orphaned as a toddler, Abbigail Yager was taken in by a family of vampires and raised on one belief: Dark-Hunters are the evil who prey on both their people and mankind, and they must all be destroyed. While protecting her adoptive race, she has spent her life eliminating the Dark-Hunters and training for the day she meets the man who killed her family: Jess Brady.

Like most of my favorite series, I discovered Sherrilyn Kenyon's Dark-Hunter novels right smack dab in the middle (surprise, surprise). Usually, with a series this long running, there is always the fear of the same old story creeping in, making each story sound somewhat familiar.

Not so with the Dark-Hunters...

One complaint I have is that Retribution seemed the most distant to the Dark-Hunter lore that has been previously introduced. Sundown and Abby's story sets itself in another pantheon with it's roots in Native American lore, with the introduction of the Cherokee 2012 prophecy of Time and Untime. (Which personally, I really enjoy because it reminds me of good memories...but that's another story!) Whether or not the details are true to the actual mythos, I lend to creative story telling. (Think of it like telephone. The details can get changed around depending on how you hear it!)

More sympathetic to the Apollites, we get into Abby's mind and see her perspective on Dark-Hunters. Seen as lethally evil murderers of the family she has been raised by, she sets out to take out as many as she can, with the the help of some demon enhanced abilities.

Until things go from bad to worse. As with most things, it's really all about perspective. You know, that whole there's three sides to every story. One side, the other, and the truth...

Sundown is a sexy cowboy stuck in his ways (gotta love a man who rides a horse. Save a horse, ride a...you get the picture.) to the extent that every syllable that falls from his lips drips with that cowboy way of his...which is addicting, if I do say so myself. Honestly, I worried that I might get a tad annoyed with it, but just the opposite happened. It only added to his character.

As they battled evil and we discover their mysterious past, Sundown and Abby become more and more what I have come to expected from a Dark-Hunter novel. It took a bit for me to warm up to Abby, mostly because she just seemed to flip flop a little too much for me. But, in the end, girlfriend kinda won me over.

At the end of the book, we get a little Acheron action. And of course, Simi. Because, really, a Dark-Hunter novel without Simi (and Ash) is like dinner without barbecue!

While not my favorite Dark-Hunter addition, Retribution definitely filled the hole I've had waiting for some bow and arrow tattoos to show up. (For more Dark-Hunter fun and games, check out the website...)

Virtual Book Tour...Review Alien In The Family by Gini Koch

From Amazon.com:

Super-being Exterminator Kitty Katt and the Alpha Centuri she loves, Jeff Martini, should be finalizing their wedding plans. But that was before she discovered Jeff is in line to become Emperor back on his home world. Kitty knows she is everything a royal family wouldn't approve of, and is bracing herself for the worst. As it turns out, the royal family is just the beginning. Especially when extraterrestrial Amazonian terrorists are determined to start and end Kitty and Jeff's nuptial festivities with a bang.

Not sure if I've ever mentioned this, but I am a true and tried geek girl. And, there are few things that ever give me the chance to voice this little quirk of mine. It's always there, lurking under the surface, waiting to jump up and be noticed. Imagine my giddiness when asked to participate in this virtual blog tour!! I may have blushed....seriously, after I squealed. This book is one of those reads that will kick start your reading rut, at least it did for me!

(Quick note...I'd like to thank a few tweeties, Bells and Collette...for the Martini addiction.)

In the third book of this series, it still seems Kitty can't keep away from the fugliness that seems attracted non-stop to her. From the Wonder Woman wanna be's, to emissaries from other planets, and even royal family members ready to put her to the test (yikes). Thank goodness she has Martini to distract her when she most needs it! (Um, in case you hadn't noticed, maybe just maybe she might get a nice distraction from Chuckie...or Christopher...or Kevin...you get the idea. This works because, hey we are all human *!* enough that we notice others hotness or something we find drool worthy. The key, however, is what you get to take home, ya know?)

Who knew getting engaged would cause intergalactic subterfuge and deadly girl power assassins plus a really colorful light show? (And with all the hoopla surrounding royal weddings, let's just say the timing worked well for me *wink*.)

Just like real life, one things most definitely leads to another. Extraterrestrial Amazonian terrorists leads to intergalactic emissaries of all, er, types, leads to the grandma's and all that family drama, which inevitably should end up in Vegas with all the craziness and twists and turns you can get while not being the Hangover. Which, sadly, didn't really enjoy (the Hangover, not the book!). I can't even imagine the in-law situation...shudders. Also, I want a poof...however, my lil kit and caboodles would most def get jealous.

Love how well Kitty either handles a situation, or, as we all would, doesn't. And to complicate matters even more her best friend, and not so bad on the eyes himself, Chuckie may have the upper hand, in at least a few situations. Which, as imagined, may not go over as smoothly as one would hope.

As much as in the previous two books from this series, this girl got her geek on (see post here) as well as her shop envy on (have you been to Vegas? Window shopping takes on a whole new meaning. However, I prefer Cesar's...just saying.) and her hotness quotient filled. (Screaming orgasms have me rethinking remodeling my bathroom. Shh, don't tell...) Gini Koch has the ability to make cute (I use this term lightly, only because normally the term applies differently in my mind but I credit A Buckeye Girl Reads!) sexy, smart, geek chic all at once.

There was a deeper message hidden in there, as well, and just as in the story telling the message hits, stays with you unconsciously through out all the action packed mayhem that kept piling on. You'll just have to pick up for yourself and take what you will...There was a a few moments that left me thinking, well, heck, what's next...

Martini, you'll always be Martini to me. Just as like Kitty, I may take a look around but always come back to you...(Is it just me, but are some men more like a girl than you are *wink*?)

To celebrate the virtual blog tour, I have been graciously given a copy of Alien In The Family for one lucky person. Click here to enter the geekiness!!!!!!

(Reviewer's note...copy of Alien In The Family provided for review.)

New Review...Dreams Of A Dark Warrior by Kresley Cole

From the back cover:

He vowed to come for her...

Murdered before he could wed Regin the Radiant, warlord Aidan the Fierce seeks his beloved through eternity, reborn again and again into new identities, yet with no memory of his past lives.

She awaits his return...

When Regin encounters Declan Chase, a brutal Celtic soldier, she recognizes her proud warlord reincarnated. But Declan takes her captive, intending retribution against all immortals-unaware that he belongs to their world.

To sate a desire more powerful than death...

Yet every reincarnation comes with a price, for Aidan is doomed to die when he remembers his past. To save herself from Declan's torments, will Regin rekindle memories of the passion they once shared-even if it means once again losing the only man she could ever love?

Kresley Cole is the genius who has discovered how to utilize the wonderful mind spinning element I like to call the flash sideways. To be able to completely understand exactly what it is to flash sideways, I sincerely hope (and no doubt you have!) had the chance to devour the previous books in the Immortals After Dark Series. Imagine be able to see all the juicy details, going on simultaneously like a picture in picture. (Now, I see the appeal of the whole sport split screen...you know the one, where every single game in the NFL can be seen all at dizzying once detail.) But, this is far better. And more enjoyable!

Starting out, I was a little bit worried. Regin, courageous yet young (!) Valkyrie she is, barges in demanding aid (not just for herself, but she must save her sister Lucia...flash sideways moment!) from the handsome yet dangerous Berserker Warlord Aidan the Fierce. Aidan sees the promise in her, and knows she must be his...but not quite yet. Thank goodness.

As time goes on, the two meet once again, and fall for one another. Just as happily ever after seems in sight, a immortal takes his revenge and Aidan loses his life, but not before promising to come back for her. Then, we get to the nitty gritty.

Someone has been capturing immortals of all kinds, studying and doing unthinkable things...and now, they have Regin. (Hmm, Buffy, anyone? Which is probably why I saw a bit of Riley in Declan!)

And her jailer, is none other than her fierce bersereker, but in this reincarnation, he hates her and all her kind (which he groups together as all evil, no matter their race nor inclination) and would like nothing better than to destroy her will and steal her secrets.

If only her knew what one of those secrets was, hmm?

The key to the flash sideways is to give just enough detail of the other stories to (and this is a deviously delicious plan!) to make you want to go back once your finished for more. I adore Nix and her crazy zany ways, so that is always a fun time!

Declan's inner struggle added to his tortured past lives, making his decisions and actions a constant struggle, while Regin sought only to protect him at the cost of her own heart.

While not my favorite of the series (mostly because it's incredibly hard to pick one over another), I loved Regin's gorgeous hot messiness (her room would give me a heart attack...or serious envy) and the fierceness and dare I say the hotness in which the relationship developed, not only between Aidan and Regin, but also the glimpses we catch of the others in the Lore.

An action packed flash sideways is just what a girl needs every now and then...especially with sparkly goodness thrown in.

Alien In The Family Blog Tour!!!

Okay, seriously excited about this!!!!!



If there is one thing that I adore it's the opportunity to go full on Fan Girl. Unabashedly, I love Wednesdays almost as much as Tuesdays just so I can get my comics. Comic cons, I'm there (especially if Sam Witwer is in attendance. Or a few of the Final Five...or even a life size Wolverine).

So imagine how much I drool over Martini and wish I were Kitty? Oh yeah...(Singing "Danger Zone" out loud...and in key.)

I'll be posting the details of the blog tour soon, so stay tuned y'all!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

New Review...Darkest Mercy by Melissa Marr

From Amazon.com:

The Summer King is missing; the Dark King is bleeding; and a stranger walks the streets of Huntsdale his presence signifying the deaths of powerful fey.
Aislinn tends the Summer Court, searching for her absent king and yearning for Seth. Torn between his new queen and his old love, Keenan works from afar to strengthen his court against the coming war. Donia longs for fiery passion even as she coolly readies the Winter Court for battle. And Seth, sworn brother of the Dark king and heir to the High Queen, is about to make a mistake that could cost his life.
Love, despair, and betrayal ignite the Faery Courts, and the final conflict, some will win...some will lose everything.

My love for the Wicked Lovely Series has sadly reached its end. Not in a bad way, mind you...and it most definitely does not mean that old memories can't be revisited at any time that the itch needs to be scratched. With Darkest Mercy, once again, Melissa Marr had me riding the emotional roller coaster that began all those books ago (that have been lent out and well loved many a time).

Here's a link to an Amazon vid with Melissa Marr discussing the series here...

First off, the admiration I have for an author who knows and respects her reader by not dumbing down or pulling punches is reinforced whenever I discover someone who resides on the opposite end of the spectrum. (Case in point, you don't need to necessarily remind me with specific terms what genre your work is...especially in the midst of the action. It makes me sad.) This, however, doesn't preclude the fact that I will make inarticulate sounds, gasp, sob, or even (yes) yell as I read. Which, I seem to do far more with this series (and Carolyn Crane's Mind Games, etc.) than any other. Exhausting...

Side note: I would love to send some love to my local Borders...with all the craziness surrounding my fave big box bookstore (there aren't many indie shops in my neck of the woods), I have been just a little skeered about my book browsing future. And so, I headed in on Tuesday on my second stop to search for Darkest Mercy. I am one of those browsers who feels like the finding is the best part of the journey. However, tears threatened (I had just come from physical therapy, and was feeling it) as I searched fruitlessly... it was nowhere to be found. So, I ferreted out a headset clad Borders employee, who headed for the handy dandy terminal. Where it wasn't listed as in the store. So, off he went to the back, and came out brandishing a cold, never opened treasure. Sigh...

Okay, enough blabbering...


SPOILER ALERT! I try not to put too much on here, but, if you're reading this, you may just infer a few things. Just warning you!


Keenan, the Summer King, has left Aislinn (the girl's whose life he sent into utter upheaval to strengthen his court), Seth is missing in Faerie, the Dark Court is entrenched in chaos (whoa!), the new Winter Queen is struggling admirably with her own feelings towards Keenan and his new queen (that's a whole new ball of yarn that lil kittens will love to play with). Added to the fact that War has gained her feathers and is becoming more powerful while taking out one of the Gabriel's pups and the gravely injure the former Dark King - and we have the storm of the century. Because, according to Faerie Law, to destroy War would in fact, destroy Faerie.

And that is just the beginning...


Faerie is based, partially, on the concept of balance. Dark has Light (or, in this case, the High Court), Summer has Winter, Order has Discord. But when Discord becomes War, a Shadow Court emerges to balance the High Court, and Faerie itself is sealed, everything comes to a head.


Destroy War and possibly Faerie, or perish in the battle...


Each time I read one of the Wicked Lovely books, I fall a little more in love with each character. Donia for her strength and vulnerability as she protects those she considers hers (even if they are of her court). Seth, whose ability to love no matter what and protect those he cares for even as it puts him between a rock and a hard place. Irial (sigh..) the Dark King, er, Former Dark King whose heart makes him fierce and frightening as well as the guy willing to do the things no one else is. I love him beyond. Niall...the reluctant yet fitting Dark King who once was Summer's advisor whose passions and emotions come to the forefront even as he tries to do what he believes is right to strengthen his Court. The Summer King, whose ways aren't always clear to everyone around him, even as he struggles with the cards he's been dealt. We all try to do the right things the way we think they should be done.


Sometimes, it just takes longer to see the bigger picture.

A fitting end *sobs* to a masterful and emotionally crazy roller coaster of a series.

Book Review...Touched By An Alien by Gini Koch

Relating to a character in a book, or a situation that a heroine has suddenly found herself placed (precariously or not) should be a key component when you really connect with a book. And by that, I mean really good, squeal in glee moment. Unfortunately, this moment happens less often than not (or, rather in the low end of the spectrum). Which, all in all, doesn't diminish the moment. I just don't make the kind of noises that make puppy dogs ears perk or husband's eyebrow quirk. And most of the time, I am perfectly okay with this.

Seriously, I'm not necessarily a faery hiding my dark side (though, there are times I feel a dark side want to peak out) or a lonely girl investigating the death of my sister with the help of a devastatingly darkly handsome mysterious bookstore owner.

What I am, besides book obsessed and tribal bellydancer (even though its a couch show at this moment), is a fan girl. With an extensive comic book collection, and yes even a few statues. Oh, did I mention I absolutely love the volleyball scene in Top Gun (Slider...sigh. And remember when Val Kilmer and Tom Cruise were drool worthy?)? My ipod, alas, has over 5,000 songs on it, and I routinely program with the help of Genius a playlist for the day.

(All of this wasn't very relevant at the time...but I think some of you may get the idea, huh?)

You see, a few months ago, one of my favorite book bloggers had a new review. Eh, I thought, not so in to the whole alien thing, but I'll check it out anywho. I liked Men In Black. Will Smith hangs a good suit. But, the only draw back was it sounded, well, cheesy? (I use this word with a cringe because one person's cute is another person's yummy.) I wasn't sure it was the book for me. But, as it happens, the snow ball effect began and everywhere I turned, there it was.

From the back of the book:

Marketing manager Katherine "Kitty" Katt had just finished a day on jury duty. When she stepped out of the Pueblo Caliente courthouse, all she was thinking about was the work she had to get caught up on. then her attention was caught by a fight between a couple-a domestic dispute that looked like it was about to turn ugly. But ugly didn't even begin to cover it when the "man" suddenly transformed into a huge, winged monster right out of a grade Z science fiction movie and went on a deadly killing spree. In hindsight, Kitty realized why she probably should have panicked and run screaming the way everyone around her was doing. Instead, she got mad, searched her purse for a weapon, and, armed with a Mont Blanc pen, sprinted into action to take down the alien.

In the middle of all the screeching and the ensuing chaos, a tall handsome hunk of a guy in an Armani suit suddenly appeared beside her, examined the body, introduced himself as Jeff Martini with "the agency," called out to an Armani-clad colleague to perform crowd control, and then insisted on leading her to a nearby limo to talk to his "boss."

And that was how Kitty's new life among the aliens began...

Aliens? Yep, there's the sticky ewy gooey aliens bent on taking over the earth type...but, hello ARMANI? Sigh...if only all men had the body to hang a good Armani. Gini Koch takes every fan girl's science fiction dream and makes it reality, throwing in what every girl also wants...a devastatingly handsome witty powerful man who adores her. (With maybe a little of that Top Gun fantasy thrown in... I mean, seriously!!!) What really hit the spot for me was how seamlessly it all stuck together with just the right amount of smarts, tongue in cheek sauciness, and good old fashion flirting and fight for the universe-we-all-share-the-same-things-in-common that made it entirely too difficult to put down.

Kitty is the kind of heroine a girl wants to be...smart, confident, and creative, all while rocking her jeans and kicking a little alien booty. And, let's just say the A-C's (that's the hot Armani clad aliens, btw) could use a girl like her....

Now, if you'll excuse me...I have playlist to get going. Hmmm, what would be perfect for Alien Tango?

Holiday Review...Second Chances by Lauren Dane

For Christmas this year, and to help keep me holly jolly, I picked up a few Happy Holiday offerings for the Kindle. (Still have to name it...I mean, who doesn't name their toys?) And, to keep with the theme, the Favorite Things (I had a music box that played the song when I was younger, and there was something that always felt like Christmas to me. *shrugs*)

Second Chances came my way by the means of Lauren Dane herself (I find it fitting that I won the ARC in a twitter contest since I discovered her through the twitverse. *G*)

From Amazon.com :

Ten years ago, Rori Simon left town shy, unattractive and with zero self-esteem. Now, she's back, older, stronger, and finally loving herself - and it shows. Hot men are soon knocking at her door, including Jude Callahan, the bad boy who starred in her teenage daydreams...and her adult fantasies.

Jude can't believe the sexy, confident woman in front of him is actually Rori! She's gotten under his skin like no other woman has...and she brings out secret desires he can't resist. He wants to dominate Rori with every fiber of his being. Wants to own her and pleasure her. To cherish her as he makes her his.

Rori discovers she likes being controlled. She also knows Jude is not a one-woman man. Everything changes when she meets Zach Helm. Edgy, sensual Zach knows just what she needs, and before long, she's in love. Jude watches them together and wonders if he's lost his chance forever...

Second Chances, previously released in 2005, first came to my attention when I found Believe, a Holiday novella that takes place after the events in Second Chances...but, more of that in just a little bit...

Admittedly, there is something about this author that I just can't seem to get enough of, so I was very excited to get my...ugh, eyes? on this one, especially after getting to know the characters in the holiday novella. And of course, I expected all the hot steaminess mixed in with the heart and soul that permeates previous works I've devoured.

Here's the difference...even though Rori left an ugly duckling, she hasn't quite turned fully into a swan. She's confident and brushed off the uncomfortable fog that hung around her (mostly in the form of her over bearing and somewhat condescending mother) that plagued her as a teenager. Traveled and more experienced, Rori is most definitely a changed woamn. But, we get to take the final part of the journey with her. And what a journey...Jude, the lady's man, yet entirely the sexy object of her teenage dreams, becomes a reality. She decides to play his game against him and turn the tables. Too bad her heart won't get with the program. Or, for that matter, his. Jude doesn't know what he's got until he's too stupid to let it be gone (and, the commitment idea scared him right down to his sexy in command lil toes). Enter Zach...thanks to Jude, Rori knows what she likes, and Zach takes this to an entirely new level for her and she falls head over heels. (Zach is one of my all time faves!) Like any good friend, I wanted to smack Jude upside the head a few times for his, well, stereotypical commitment phobe don't know what you've got til someone else is tying her up-ness. (And, the smoldering is so hot I'm surprised you don't see smoke coming from the screen just thinking about it!) Zach is almost too good to be true for Rori, and the way they challenge one another is fun loving and sexy. Until things go not so happily ever after. Few books make me cry... is one of them. No spoilers here, but woah...and wow

Still want your Happily Ever After? Check out Believe...and my next review...

Holiday Reviews...Assasin's Heart by Monica Burns

HOLY SMOLY! This Saturday is the day...its Christmas! With that terrifying thought (I still can't find a Kindle at Target for the husband who keeps stealing mine!) lodged in my brain threatening my sanity, I decided to take a breather and blog deliciously (and quickly) about a few of my favorite things...er, reads over the past few weeks. Enjoy...

I have major love for this series, having discovered it in my very first ARC tour. There is something beyond sexy about a secret order of the Sicari, assasins (but not in the evil, bad guy, assassin kinda way...think, sexy, Italian, and secretive in that way that somehow just lets you know you want to be held captive.) Okay, maybe I went a tad bit overboard. What can I say?

From Amazon.com:

The half-angel, half-demon face that telepathic Lysander sees in the mirror is a reminder of the monster he must keep hidden to avoid expulsion from an order of assassins. His dreams of ancient Rome hint at a destiny with the woman he loves, but can never have.

When the gifted healer Phaedra travels to Rome in search of a legendary artifact, she works alongside a man who once rejected her love and healing touch. But her dreams of ancient Rome tell of an irreversible and possibly dangerous future. For the distant past and present are about to collide-with the one man she is destined to love.

I've always been intrigued by the legends and tales that surround ancient Rome...even as I walked along the ancient streets when I visited, I would imagine all the people who walked the same steps before me and marvel at the layer upon layer of history evident in each and every stone and building, relic and church. (Even as I cringed at the MacDonald's on the corner. Yuck.) Monica Burns brought back those feelings of wonder and made them even better, from the sexy Sicari men (and women) and the intertwining of past and present, to the use of Latin and Italian peppered in to entice...and the food *groan*! (I felt like I was back in my Nana's kitchen watching my big hunky Uncles cook...nothing cuter than a bunch of men, trying to out do one another with their culinary skills!) Not only a fantastic PNR, but this series has stolen my heart. and imagination...

Lysander may be damaged on the outside, but Phaedra knows there's something more beneath the scars and coldness. In her dreams, the man she knows is there, loving her in every way possible. But in the harsh light of day, she still wants to reconcile what her heart knows with what her eyes and head witness. Will searching for a legendary artifact bring them closer together, or will secrets drive them farther apart? There was something about Phaedra in Assasin's Honor that made her one my favorite female characters. Sassy and strong are two of my favorite characteristics of a smart heroine, and I have to say, I kinda want to borrow her wardrobe. And, silly silly Lysander...some men just need a girl to give them a swift kick in the, well, you'll just have to read more for yourself to find out what happens next...

Steampunk Review...Lady Mechanika #0 by Joe Benitez

Lady Mechanika has no memory of her past. Her arms have been replaced with mechanical devices, found by authorities alive in an abandoned laboratory amidst cadavers and body parts, the only survivor of a serial killer (or, so it has been said). Now, she uses her unique abilities as a private detective in Victorian England, during a time when magic and mystery meets scientific reason.
This has long been one of my most anticipated books of this entire year. The zero issue has had three (yep...three) printings and was so hard to get to my hot lil hands on that it took until the third printing to get one at one of my local comic shops. (But, I did dish out a little to get a sketch variant at a comic con. I know, I have a problem.) The bright spot in all this reprint madness, of course, means more gorgeous covers!
In issue zero, we meet a mysterious creature on the run from a zealous group of hunters...but, then Lady Mechanika steps in, only to realize he isn't dangerous, only hungry and scared. For Lady Mechanika, her past is a shrouded in the dark, unknown...but, this creature recognises her. But, before he can give her the details she so desperately wants, the one of the members of the hunting party cruelly kills him and her chance to finally find out who she is...
The simple set up in this prequel not only made me want more (and thank goodness I have issue number one!!!!!) but set the tone for what I hope is a fabulous contribution to the steampunk genre. And interestingly enough, the creator of the series, Joe Benitez, shares his inspiration for the series (oh, yeah, there are a few comic con trips involved!), plus some steampunk recipes (which made me hungry) in the book. So many times, the inside artwork doesn't live up to the cover or the premise promised. Not so with Lady Mechanika...the attention to detail to bringing the steampunk genre to life not only lives up to itself, but exceeds.

To check out more on Lady Mechanika and its creator/owner, click here. And don't forget to go out and get it for yourself. If you can!

Book Review Steampunk Style...The Iron Duke by Meljean Brook

From the back cover:

Seductive danger and steampunk adventure abound in the gritty world of the Iron Seas, where nanotech is fused with Victorian sensibilities-and steam.
After the Iron Duke freed England from Horde control, he instantly became a national hero. Now Rhys Trahaearn has built a merchant empire on the power-and fear-of his name. And when a dead body is dropped from an airship onto his doorstep, bringing Detective Inspector Mina Wentworth into his dangerous world, he intends to make her his next possession.
Mina can't afford his interest, however. Horde blood runs through her veins, and despite the nanotech enhancing her body, she barely scratches out a living in London society. Becoming Rhys's lover would destroy both her career and her family, yet the investigation prevents her from avoiding him...and the Iron Duke's ruthless pursuit makes him difficult to resist.
But when Mina uncovers the victim's identity, she stumbles upon a conspiracy that threatens the lives of everyone in England. To save them, Mina and Rhys must race across zombie-infested wastelands and treacherous oceans-and Mina discovers the danger is not only to her countrymen as she finds herself tempted to give up everything to the Iron Duke.

Admittedly, I am just a few days early for my review. Call it lack of patience, timing, or just plain old I couldn't wait to put my thoughts out there and make you (yes, make you!!!) go out and get this for someone on your Christmas list. Yep, I am that much in love with this book.

From page one, there was something decidedly different about The Iron Duke. So many people seem to be jumping on the steampunk train without truly getting not only the tone but the actual small nuances of their world that the reader starts to feel cheated. (I picked up a supposed steampunk romance this past year and disgustedly had to put it down. The word steampunk was so often rendered that it made me want to make a drinking game up. To help me finish. I'll keep the name to myself, but suffice it to say, it kinda jaded my opinion on steampunk for the rime being.)

At first I felt like I was transported into some alternate universe that felt like a new pair of leather gloves. A tad awkward at first, a little stiff yet snugly comfortable, but the more you wear them, the more it molds to you and makes your more movements that much easier. On world building alone, Meljean Brook dishes out exactly what you would expect and more. The back story and setting give meaning and purpose to each character's reactions more than any other novel I've had the pleasure of reading. No punches pulled here, the author knows her reader can handle any term she throws at them. Which is why The Iron Duke is a book meant to be savored and poured over, and took me a good week (after I found it again, but that's another story along with the crazy schedule that is life) to read each and every single word.
Mina may be a bugger, but her humor and depth of character shine and made me root for her even as she explored the gory details of dead bodies. Ew. Smart, even somewhat, dare I say, cheeky at times and full of character and heart, I loved the Inspector with each and very turn of the page even more. But, any heroine worth her salt has to have a worthy hero. Even if he seems a little rough around the edges.

The Iron Duke reluctantly saved England from the Horde, and his reputation, more often than not, proceeds him. Daring, and just a little dangerous, the Duke does all that he can to get under Mina's carefully controlled exterior...and other things. There was something so manly (sigh) and yet snuggable (what can I say...) about his actions and demeanor that I was hooked from the first.

And even better, the combination of airship travel (goggles, anyone?), intriguing characters (oh, to captain an airship!) with a few zombies and maybe a sea monster thrown in made The Iron Duke steampunk with the hottest amount of steam added to make you want more. Definitely in my top five for 2010, without a doubt!

(Hmm...this review will have its own role in my Happy Holiday Celebration...just sayin.)

Holdiay Review...Sweet Enchantment by Anya Bast

The thought of combining the holidays with paranormal romance may not seem like your perfect pairing. Given the season, I set myself out to find some. Okay, a small white lie. Literally, it stared out at me from the table at the library. In case you don't recall, allow me to refresh your memory...

It's all about the candy cane, don't you think? Or is it the stocking? Roaring fire, perhaps...
In Sweet Enchantment, Bella lives the life of the pampered Seelie court. She has her own quarters, every beautiful dress, drool worthy shoes...pampered in the glittering court. The only problem is, in Piefferburg, everyone has long memory. Especially considering the fact that the walls have been enchanted by the Phaedir to keep everyone snugly inside. Years before, the mage Ronan left the Unseelie court, and Bella fell...hard. The heat that ignited between the tow of them made her burn. Until he publicly humiliated her and walked away. Now, Bella finds herself in a hard position. Ronan has stolen an artifact for the Phaedir, facing the terrible wrath of the Seelie Queen. Hoping to save him from death, she bargains for his life, offering marriage in name only to save the man who once held her heart in the palm of his hand and then crushed it for all to see. Tis Yule, after all. But, can she ever trust the mage, and the darkness she feels?
Anya Bast has created a world that encompasses all that I have ever loved about paranormal romance...from the multi-layered world that somehow exists entirely on its own to characters that somehow seem more than they seem. Multi-dimensional, and, if I do say so, incredibly hot. Smoldering. Having two characters that have a history may seem as if their story is being told in the midst, but having already met them through the first full length novel, it felt right to meet Bella and Ronan where I did. (Drool...plus, you have to love the fact we meet the mage without his shirt, even given his circumstances). Don't expect much holiday cheer, it's more a piece of the background than a major contributing factor. Once Ronan knows that Bella still has feelings for him, no matter how buried she has kept them, he'll stop at nothing to protect her. Sounds like a match made, in well, Piefferburg. Warning...there may be just a little lingering smoldery-ness invading your sense along the way.
But,the journey is well worth the destination.
(P.S. Happy Holidays Celebration hint...keep this page in mind!)

Holiday Review...To Do List by Lauren Dane

Hmm...combine one of my favorite authors with the magic of the holiday season? What could be better? Because, for some odd quirk of the universe, this year, I've decided to take the holiday cheer train by the horns and actually enjoy every single insanely crazy moment of the season. Even if it means the possibility of adding more insanity *G.

Holiday hotness abounds in Lauren Dane's holiday offering, To Do List. Imagine the life you think you've always wanted. The perfect job with the corner office with the firm, the big city condo with a view to die for, all the shoes you could ever want. Then, the reality of it all sets in. The family who brought you up lovingly is part of a distant memory, no doubt due to the numerous little special moments you've missed because your holed up in your office with filing after filing. Those fab shoes? In boxes. Waiting for you to actually have enough time to slip them on. The cell phone that never seems to leave your ear...or fingertips. What you need is a good old fashioned family Christmas...with all the trimmings. Including mistletoe...

When Belle Taylor goes home for the holidays, the first bit of Christmas spirit that greets her is the incredibly sexy frame of Rafe Bettencourt...right smack dab under a sprig of strategically placed mistletoe. And, really, who wants to fore go that holiday tradition? After a kiss that knocks her off her feet (whew!), Belle begins to realize there is more than just a yuletide rest awaiting her at home. But, can she look at her carefully planned out list and read between the lines?

One of my favorite things about this time of year is the sense of family...and, knowing that sometimes, family isn't just who you are born with, but those special people who you actually choose to invade your crazy life. As with every other work by Lauren Dane, To Do List combines the family closeness we all crave and the sexy hotness that makes the holidays (and everyday life) that much more festive. Rafe has the edge of a sexy cowboy (well, its a dairy farm, but I like the farm boy side!), yet he has the sense to know what he wants and to go after it. My only regret is the length of the novella, but, as with all good things, a visit back with old friends in a future story gives us a glimpse into the HEA (or, as I like to call it, the everyday effort filled side of reality). He's sexy, lets Belle be who she actually is (even if she doesn't realize what she wants for herself.). Which, along being, well, Rafe, makes things that much better.
On a side note, if I could carry mistletoe in the hope of finding the hotness that seems to make the holidays merrier...hmmm...
(P.S...there may be a good reason to refer back this review for presents...just sayin!)

New ARC Review: Undertow by Moira Rogers

From Amazon.com...

Being needed isn't half as desirable as being wanted.

Building Sanctuary, Book 2

Victor left behind a life of crime to focus on a new vision-helping his alpha build an island sanctuary for werewolves. Harsh experiences prepared him for the hardships involved, except when it comes to dealing with the young female refugees of the brutal Boston pack-especially Simone, who rouses his inner wolf like no other. A woman he must resist, or risk becoming just the latest man to make demands on her.

Born to wealth and privilege, Simone lost everything when she fell for the seductive whispers of the textile heir who turned her. Once adrift, she is now fired with a sense of purpose-the chance to broker peace between werewolves and European wizards. Yet, even as Europe beckons, her instincts-the same ones that led to trouble before-keep drawing her back to Victor.

During a sailing trip to the mainland for supplies, Victor finds it impossible to hold himself aloof from the warm and engaging Simone. And when a winter storm traps them together during a full moon, she breaks through his walls so easily and completely, the question is no longer how he'll stay away, but how he'll let her go.

If you've ever wondered what it would feel like to be stranded on an island in a blizzard...then wondered how in the world you would keep yourself warm, this would be the survival guide for you (wink wink). But, we'll get to that later...

First off, let me sing the praises that is my new toy. My Kindle. You are such a pleasure to read from that I will be going straight back to more Moira Rogers treasure once this review is done.

And now, on with the review!

If there is one world to dip your toes into, its the world of Moira Rogers. These lovely women (and their sneakily and alternatively sassy and saucy minds) have created not only a world but people that build and add to every single enjoyable page. Simone is one of my favorite characters, if only because she seems vulnerable yet strong as she puts others in front of her self. She holds a massive weight of guilt upon her shoulders for the things that have happened in the past but doesn't allow it to taint how she looks at the pack she now belongs to. However, this also makes her interpret how others react to her differently than before. (Ahem...Victor.) And Victor...it seems that the strength and dominant instinct that runs so deeply in some wolves is also what can make them act like absolute moronic men. And I mean this in a way that includes but is not limited to gruffness being the brilliant action of the day instead of say, oh, communicating that they actually have feelings for you and want to protect you. Which, in turn makes the female in question get those familiar hurt emotions that then in turn, walk away.

Miscommunication happens, and the easiest thing to do isn't always what you really want to do. Until, there is no where to walk (or run) away to. Because being stranded on an island during a blizzard in an abandoned tiny cottage and then having to, uh, do things to keep yourselves warm creates the perfect "storm" for some intense...communicating. Those instincts that Victor is so afraid of turning him into just another person who will use Simone unfairly can longer be denied...But what will happen when they have to return to the world and the wizard waiting for them? Will she choose love, or her work for peace between the werwolves and wizards?

I adore Moira Rogers' work and felt very lucky to get this ARC (hangs head in shame at how long it took me to get to it) and am so glad to finally finish and spread the word about this series. (Oddly enough, I have not read the first in the series and really felt like this didn't hinder my feelings at all...Victor and Simone had me so entranced I would have read this no matter what.)

Note: Undertow provided by author for review....