Early review. Surrender to Sultry - Macy Beckett

Leah McMahon is back in Sultry Springs, Texas to help her dad recover from surgery. But there's a new sheriff in town and he's none other than Colton Bea, the wild-as-weeds boy who stole her heart a decade earlier. Colt's a changed man now, and the feelings between these high school sweethearts are stronger than ever. But Leah's got a secret so devastating that he may never forgive her. Can she find a way to earn absolution and build a future with the sultry man she's loved half her life?

Mass Market Paperback, 320 pages,....Expected publication: August 6th 2013 by Sourcebooks Casablanca......Sultry Springs #3......Contemporary romance.....From the publisher for a review

My thoughts:

First I must mention that the book was good, but there was something that made me really really mad. Leah had done something unforgivable. Of course there is a HEA, but I would not have forgiven her. Some things are not to be forgiven. Even if she thought it was for the better good. When I have that off my chest I can get on with the review.

Colt was around in the two previous books, but he is changed now. And in comes the lost love of his life. Yup he hurt her cos he was young and an ass. But he still loved her, he should have gotten a punch in the face and shaped up. Leah is mad at him still, and he wants her back. So the whole book is a dance between these two. He tries to win her affection and she starts to fall for him again. It's sweet and funny to watch.

I love small town romances. I love meeting old friends and watching these fight their way back together again. What I did not like was the THING. I hated that. It made me so mad.

Conclusion:

It was a cute book filled with passion and drama.

Oh and if you wanna know why I am mad?

SPOILER ALERT She was pregnant, ran away, did not tell him and gave the kid up for adoption. She gets to meet the kid every month. What does Colt get, nothing cos he does not KNOW. Ends

Cover

Cute :D

Review: The Wish List - Gabi Stevens

Kristin Montgomery is more than a little shocked when her aunts inform her they’re fairy godmothers. Worse, after dropping that bombshell they hand her a wand and head off on a world cruise. Now Kristin’s uncomplicated life as a CPA in San Diego has disappeared like magic and she not only has to deal with her burgeoning magical powers, but also a reluctant—and distractingly sexy—magical arbiter.

Tennyson Ritter is a historian. A scholar by choice, he is yanked from his studies to act as arbiter for the newly chosen fairy godmother. He doesn’t want to waste his time with a woman who doesn’t know anything about magic or the magical world, but soon the beguiling Kristin draws him away from his books and into her life.

But before Kristin can hone her skills and pass the tests necessary to fully claim her powers, she and Tennyson must work together to defend the world – both magical and human – against those that would claim her powers for their own.

Paperback, 384 pages, Published April 27th 2010 by Tor Books, Time of Transition #1, Paranormal romance, Own

My thoughts:

I do like this cover more than the rest of the series. This one just looks more fun, and cute.

There is magic in the world, but we do not know it. And there are also Fairy Godmothers. Though honestly, I never truly got the whole Godmother idea. They explained but I was still..eh what? Maybe it's explained more later on, or not.

Right Kristin was, oh I do not know. Honestly she felt a bit daft at times. Especially when it comes to a certain gentleman that showed up. But then Tennyson was no better. I was all, hello! She is in danger so why on earth does no one check things better?

But it was a cute little story about two people falling in love...after a while. Her discovering her powers. Meeting new people and hearing about the magical power struggle.

Conclusion:

Magic, fairy godmothers and meddling aunts.

Cover

Cute

Review: Skies of Steel - Zoe Archer

In the world of The Ether Chronicles, the Mechanical War rages on, and appearances are almost always deceiving . . .

Daphne Carlisle may be a scholar, but she's far more comfortable out in the field than lost in a stack of books. Still, when her parents are kidnapped by a notorious warlord, she knows she'll need more than quick thinking if she is to reach them in time. Daphne's only hope for getting across enemy territory is an airship powered and navigated by Mikhail Denisov, a rogue Man O' War who is as seductive as he is untrustworthy. 

Mikhail will do anything for the right price, and he's certain he has this mission—and Daphne—figured out: a simple job and a beautiful but sheltered Englishwoman. But as they traverse the skies above the Mediterranean and Arabia, Mikhail learns the fight ahead is anything but simple, and his lovely passenger is not entirely what she seems. The only thing Mikhail is certain of is their shared desire—both unexpected and dangerous.

Mass Market Paperback, 277 pages, Published November 6th 2012 by Avon Impulse (first published October 9th 2012), The Ether Chronicles #3, Steampunk romance /adventure, own

My thoughts:
I do hate writing a review 24 hours later, by then I am all meh, I felt what?

But it was a cool world. Where men could become Men O'War. Tied to their flying ship. A steampunk world that was at war. I liked this world and wanted to read more set here. Sometimes I complain that steampunk books do not have enough steam. Many puts in one mechanical clock and is all steampunk! While this blended romance and steampunk well. A steampunk should be filled with steampunk and this one was. But not too much that it got confusing. That is no fun either. So + on steampunk.

Romance then. Mikhail (did I mention that it's one of my fav Russian names?), and Daphne are very very different. But they worked together and brought in some drama that I will not spoil for you all.

Conclusion:

All in all making it a good novel. There is romance, steampunk, an interesting world and a bit of action.

Cover

Ok this guy is supposed to be BIG. But he looks so lean

Mishel Reviews: The Tycoon's seductive revenge - Kristi Avalon

Series or Stand Alone: Stand Alone

Release Date: April 2013

Publisher: Smashwords

Pages: 174 (ebook)

Author Site:
http://www.kristiavalon.com/

My Rating: 2.75/5

Source: Kindle Freebie

Cover: Thumbs down

I tried to keep in mind that I was reading a kindle freebie but I found myself waiting around for the story to get going. While the characters were fine and the plot was mildly interesting I had to push myself forward a couple of times. The ebook numbers at 174 pages but it literally took me two weeks to read it. It wasn’t bad, it was kind of just – meh…

I liked Ellie more than Carter, but not by much. Ellie is strong and independent but then becomes defenseless and irrational too quickly. I wanted Carter to have some more depth. I get that he had his heart broken when the two were younger but he seemed a little juvenile in his attempts at revenge. I never really took his intentions seriously either. 

I was slightly turned off by the author’s need to specifically name the brands of a number of clothing items and accessories the characters wore/used. I basically thought to myself, “Who cares?!”

As I said the contemporary plot was interesting but it didn’t grab me enough. I found the ending to be entertaining but a little over the top. To prevent spoilers let’s just say I enjoy a HEA but not when the heroine risks her life unnecessarily like that. It was definitely a “get a grip” kind of moment, seriously. 

Overall, I had an okay reading experience and will likely read another story by the author if it is another kindle freebie. 

 Mishel

Review: Destiny - Alex Archer

An ancient order tied to the Vatican . . . A blood fortune buried in the caves of France . . . A conspiracy of power, greed and darkest evil . . .

Archaeologist and explorer Annja Creed's fascination with the myths and mysteries of the past leads her to a crypt in the caves of France, where the terrifying legend of the Beast of Gevaudin hints at the unimaginable. What she discovers is shattering: an artifact that will seal her destiny: a brotherhood of monks willing to murder to protect their secret; and a powerful black-market occultist desperate to put his own claim to centuries-old blood money. Annja embarks on a high-tension race across Europe and history itself, intent on linking the unholy treachery of the ages with the staggering revelations of the present. But she must survive the shadow figures determined to silence her threat to their existence.

My thoughts:

 I was not impressed by this book, it felt rather B. Like the show Relic Hunter, a total B tv-series, but still at least that show was funny while this book was lacking.

I also saw that there are like 40 books out! All with the same plot. Annja finds an artifact, is hunted by bad guys, kidnapped yada yada. The first few books are written by one author, the rest by different ones so I am sure there is a difference in quality too. I decided not to read any more.

Yup Annja, she is great at everything! She is special too. There is some complaining when she works for a crappy network tvshow, well do some teaching or digging then. Anyway, she finds a coin, bad guys comes, monks comes, God comes (almost) and she finds two weird guys.

First, why was the baddie after her? It was stupid. Do some research man instead of sending goons after an innocent woman. Honestly worst baddie ever, there is something called google. Then there were the monks...eh, secret? Lame secret! One would think the Catholic Church would not bother about something that happened 250 years ago when they have bigger problems right now. There were some eyerolls there.

Conclusion.

The book has something promising, but I wont read 40 books of the same story when the story was lacking.

Cover

Eh

Mass Market Paperback, 346 pages
Published July 11th 2006 by Gold Eagle (first published July 1st 2006)
Rogue Angel, #1
Adventure / paranormal
Own

Review: Ten Ways to be Adored when landing a Lord - Sarah McLean

“Lord Nicholas is a paragon of manhood. And his eyes, Dear Reader! So blue!” Pearls & Pelisses, June 1823

Since being named on of London’s “Lords to Land” by a popular ladies’ magazine, Nicholas St. John has been relentlessly pursued by every matrimony-minded female in the ton. So when an opportunity to escape fashionable society presents itself, he eagerly jumps—only to land in the path of the most determined, damnably delicious woman he’s ever met!

The daughter of a titled wastrel, Lady Isabel Townsend has too many secrets and too little money. Though used to taking care of herself quite handily, her father’s recent passing has left Isabel at sea and in need of outside help to protect her young brother’s birthright. The sinfully handsome, eminently eligible Lord Nicholas could be the very salvation she seeks.

But the lady must be wary and not do anything reckless…like falling madly, passionately in love.

My thoughts:

After many so and so books, and books that were just bad I went for HR. HR books are not always so awesome that I fall off the sofa, but they are almost always sweet, cute and makes me smile. They are the perfect escapism read.

This is a series where I read book 3 first, so I did know about Georgiana. But that did not matter. What is a few secrets really? ;)

Ten ways to describe this book:

1. A heroine who is helping people, but who also needs to be helped herself (even if she is in denial)

2. A hero that everyone in London wants to wed...and me too

3. An estate with many many secrets

4. Side characters that may or may not fall in love too

5. Passion

6. A woman falling in love who does not wanna fall in love

7. A story that makes you wanna read about the other couples too

8. I am finding it hard to make it to 10

9. Cute

10. Sweet

Cover
Eh

Mass Market Paperback, 357 pages
Published October 26th 2010 by Avon
 Love By Numbers #2
Historical romance
Own

Review: Dragon Blood - Patricia Briggs

As the rebellion grows against High King Jakoven, Ward, ruler of Hurog, realizes he must join with the rebels. However, Jakoven can crush his enemies with dragon's blood. The very blood that courses through Ward's veins.

My thoughts:

Ok so I started this one right after having finished book 1 and it takes place 4 years after the events in book 1. The book was not as good, but then all the things that were new and shiny then, were not new and shiny here anymore. But hey it was still a good book that I read in a day.

Ward is rebuilding Hurog and is staying away from the wicked king Jakoven. But  the king is the baddie in this one so he comes after Ward. Civil war is close to breaking out and things are not good...*music of doom*

Ward is a true hero, and then I mean hero as in the word hero. If someone is on trouble he will help them. He is the best Lord there can be. Well after they got over the Ward is not simpleton thing ;)

People are finding their way in this book. The land around Hurog is free from the curse and I kept waiting for Jakoven to get thrown down. An icky king. Icky is too sweet a word but I do not wanna give away any spoilers.

Conclusion:

And now I want the rest of Brigg's fantasy books. I am slowly going through them all. Only 3 more now.

Mass Market Paperback, Reissue, 275 pages

Published by Ace Fantasy (first published December 31st 2002)

Hurog, #2

Fantasy Own

Review: Dragon Bones - Patricia Briggs

Ward of Hurog has tried all his life to convince people he is just a simple, harmless fool...And it's worked. But now, to regain his kingdom, he must ride into war-and convince them otherwise.

My thoughts:

I have not have the best of luck with Brigg's fantasy books. I did like the Hob, it was light. Raven was good, then turned worse. Wolf was gone, it just showed it was her work early on. But Dragon, I was hooked from page one. It's still light fantasy somehow, but there is a true darkness in it too. I am not saying that makes it more fantasy, I am just saying here she was not afraid to talk about things that I might not want to know, but that makes it so much better.

Ward started to act like he was simple so his father would not kill him. His father was cruel, liked to beat his children and wife and rape the servants. It was difficult to read about Ward and how everyone looked down at him for being an idiot. They said he was nice, but an idiot. Which made it the more interesting to read about him. He had played the act for so long so when it was time to let go who would believe it. 

This was a troubled land. A king who grow more disturbing the more I learned about him. And then there is Hurog and Ward would not be allowed to Lord over it if he is a simpleton. War is brewing from the south too, well actually most people are pissed they just hide it. I do like conflict in fantasy and here after the book ends, well one battle done but there are more to come and I wanted to read book 2 at once. I did start it at once too. Things are never simple.

Ward, him I liked. Oreg who met was nice too. Ward's sister, well she was not really in focus. Then there are other men (and women) who were interesting to to read about. Some I did not know whether to like or not, but that is the good part. Everyone plays a role.

Conclusion:

It was short, but I liked it. I will still call it light cos it does not have the epicness, it would have, but does not. Totally recommend it too.

cover

ok

Mass Market Paperback, , 295 pages
Published by Ace Fantasy (first published February 26th 2002)
Hurog, #1
Fantasy
Own

Carole Reviews: Tilda Pinkerton's magical Hats - Angela Shelton

Author: Angela Shelton

Title: Tilda Pinkerton's Magical Hats - By the Red Tractor Mailbox (book 1)

Genre: kid's book

Pages: 196

First Published: September 7th, 20102

Where I Got It: On my shelf (Given to me from the publisher/author to read and review for my honest and unbiased opinion)

"Eleven-year-old Madison Mae and her younger brother, Albert, want to help save the family farm during troubled times. When a mysterious Magical Hat Shop appears by their grandpa's red tractor mailbox, the children meet Tilda Pinkerton who presents them with one-of-a-kind hats, causing new ideas and talents to suddenly burst forth. As a flood of harm comes rushing towards the farm, Tilda Pinkerton teaches the children how they can accomplish much more than anyone ever imagined."

Like earlier stated I was given this book to read and review from the author/publisher for my unbiased and honest opinion.

Though I am an adult and I have no kids of my own yet, there are little rugrats running around my life in many different ways (family, friends, and etc). When I first got the book in the mail, I opened it and left it on the counter at my parents. One of the little girls who my mom babysits seen it and begged to read it. I, being impressed that she so wanted to read it, allowed and encouraged her. In one sitting she read half of the book on her own. She is seven years old. She is an avid reader and barely had to ask about the big words. I asked her what she thought and she said, "I liked it! I want to read more! Can I have the sticker?" (a sticker came with the book). 

I was excited that she liked it! So it is approved by a 7 year old.

Once she was done, I took the book and read it myself. It is a quick and simple read. However, it was simply adorable! I can this becoming a little kid show one day. Tilda Pinkerton reminds me a lot of Mary Poppins with her magical hats and cute cat. She teaches that imagination and creative is a good thing! Trying new things makes life unique! Also, it teaches about family and loving one another even though they may differ in opinions. Like Grandpa who is stuck in his ways and doesn't like new things. Good lessons for the young minds of today.

The ending was cliffhanger-ish, so I expect to see more books following Tilda and her hats. Exciting! It was a nice ending, so the cliffhanger-ness didn't annoy me as much as it normally does. I also loved how she added a glossary of the big words she introduced. Very nice. Very clever of her. Along with that, at the end of every chapter she lists all the big words she used in that chapter, so the kids can then look up the words that were used. Very, very cool.

In the end, this was a cute book. The author did a wonderful job blending in moral lessons into a fun book! This would defiantly make a cute TV show or movie for the youngsters. For all my friends and family members that have younger kids I recommend this for them. The age group ranges between 6-12, I believe. There are some bigger words, but with the help of the glossary they should be fine. I grant this 5 stars. ^.^

Favorite Character(s): The cat and Tilda

Not-so Favorite Character(s): None.

*CaroleRae*


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

Ok a few words from Blodeuedd :) Stealing Carole's spotlight here

First up is my interview in The Examiner. They are interviewing historical fiction bloggers

I am also on Anachronist' blog today and reviewing the movie The Host

Review: The Riven Kingdom - Karen Miller

The King of Ethrea is dying. His only surviving heir is the Princess Rhian. But if her enemies have their way, Ethrea will not be ruled by a woman.

Dexterity Jones is a toymaker. To protect Princess Rhian and his country, he must place his trust in an exile from Mijak. Yet, as Ethrea comes ever closer to civil war, a greater danger awaits. 

Across the sea, an Empress has already slaughtered millions in the name of her god. And the war will not end -until the world kneels before her.

My thoughts:

Book 1 was one tough cookie. I hated and feared the main character, and I was glad this one moved on to another person, cos honestly I could take no more of Hekat's crazy brutality (still one good dark book!). Book 2 is different but here something else had me all riled up. The same old thing, religion. I will explain soon enough.

Rhian is a princess in a country far far away from crazy Mijak. Her father is dying, the Church prolate is pressuring her to marry some idiot. But Rhian gets her POV stronger later on. First the book is about Dexterity, a simple toymaker who sets out to save his kingdom and the princess. Just a crazy old man who gets visions. Zandakar also shows up in this book...and I will say nothing more, but he is different now, you know after his mother Hekat killed his wife and child. These 3 come together and journey through the kingdom.

Ok can I now go off about religion? Yes? Yay. Ok Marlan, the Church prolate, grrrr, I want to smite him  and tear apart his wicked soul (yes this series makes me violent). I hate, I loathe people who do bad things and make them seem right by telling people it's God's work. Marlan was a greedy man who wanted to rule the kingdom and use poor Rhian as a breeding mare. If I could go into the book and punch him I would. So yes he is one of those bad guys you just love to hate.

And while Rhian is trying to become queen the mighty army of Mijak is continuing to conquer. How on earth she will be able to save her kingdom I do not know. Hekat and her army is unstoppable. And they have their evil Scorpion gods on their side. Yes everything they do is right in the eye of God. How can one stop that?

Conclusion:

It's a book I had a hard time putting down, it made me wanna keep on reading and I really wish I had book 3 right now.

cover

Ok

Paperback, 768 pages
Published September 1st 2008 by Orbit (first published 2007)
The Godspeaker Trilogy, #2
Fantasy
Own

Review: Mist - Susan Krinard

Centuries ago, all was lost in the Last Battle when the Norse gods and goddesses went to war. The elves, the giants, and the gods and goddesses themselves were all destroyed, leaving the Valkyrie Mist one of the only survivors. Or so she thought.

When a snowy winter descends upon modern-day San Francisco in June, Mist’s quiet existence starts to feel all too familiar. In quick succession, Mist is attacked by a frost giant in a public park and runs into an elf disguised as a homeless person on the streets…and then the man Mist believed was her mortal boyfriend reveals himself to be the trickster god, Loki, alive and well after all these years.

Loki has big plans for the modern world, and he’s been hanging around Mist for access to a staff that once belonged to the great god Odin. Mist is certain of one thing: Loki must be stopped if there is to be any hope for Earth. But the fight is even bigger than she knows….

Because Loki wasn’t the only god to survive.

My thoughts:

I did expect more from this cos it had such a cool premise with Norse Mythology. The myths of my genes (my soul is another business). But I just never connected with Mist. For someone that old she was not very smart. She is like 1000s of years old, but does not act it.

I know I read an ARC but I just came across such an unforgivable thing. "The Border of Norway and Switzerland", oh I did not now that. Has Norway moved? And do not give me the they both begin with Sw. I expect more from an ARC that deals with Norse mythology. I hope it's fixed in the final book.

 I wondered how others would feel about this book, strange words and things are scattered through out it I know Norwegian, I know my myths so that was not a problem, but did others feel the same? Or would it be confusing?

Still it had its good moments. Action with frost giants, a strange Elf, and of course the great trickster Loki causing havoc. And I know he is a lusty devil, but enough is enough. It just got icky and he was not a baddie I was scared of. But there is a good cliffie ending that promising bad things to happen. How on earth Mist will get out of this one I do not know. Maybe Ragnarök will finally happen.

Conclusion:

But for me connection is important and sadly it did not happen for me this time. But the story was promising.

Cover.

Ok

Mist #1
Urban Fantasy
Paperback, 384 pages
Published July 16th 2013 by Tor Books
For review

Review: The Elephant Girl - Henriette Gyland

Peek-a-boo I see you…

When five-year-old Helen Stephens witnesses her mother’s murder, her whole world comes crumbling down. Rejected by her extended family, Helen is handed over to child services and learns to trust no-one but herself. Twenty years later, her mother’s killer is let out of jail, and Helen swears vengeance.

Jason Moody runs a halfway house, desperate to distance himself from his father’s gangster dealings. But when Helen shows up on his doorstep, he decides to dig into her past, and risks upsetting some very dangerous people.

As Helen begins to question what really happened to her mother, Jason is determined to protect her. But Helen is getting too close to someone who’ll stop at nothing to keep the truth hidden...

My thoughts:

This book is about one angry young woman, and she has every right to be angry. Her mother was murdered right next to her. Her family did not take care of her after it, instead she was put into the system. And life growing up was not easy as she is epileptic and kids can be cruel. Not to mention that adults can be stupid.

That is our introduction to Helen. The book takes off when she comes back to England as her mum's killer has been let out of jail. Revenge and answers is what she wants. Her anger and resentment felt real. She was lost and she had never dealt with her grief. I liked her determination to find answers.

The blurb talks about a certain Jason, yes we all know these two will meet and fall in love then. But that takes time. Helen has her anger and wants the truth. Jason wants to escape from his father's shadow (as his dad is a crook.) Their "friendship" starts with lies and there is darkness over it all. But he is a good guy, I liked him and as Helen changes something grows.

But the book is more than that. There is the whole mystery part. What happened 20 years ago when her mother died? Was the killer really caught? There are many questions and she finds it piece by piece. And as the hunt continues it gets more dangerous.

Conclusion:

The book has friendship, romance, mystery and suspense. And real characters.

Cover

Simple, but still good

Romantic Fiction / Suspense
Paperback, 400 pages
Published July 7th 2013 by Choc Lit (first published June 11th 2013)
(It's out in ebook form in the US now, but in print first in August)
For review

Author interview and giveaway: Shona Husk and The Outcast prince

Today I am interviewing Shona Husk and giving away a copy of her new book, The Outcast prince.

Welcome!

1. Tell me 3 strange things about yourself...

Shona: I love the smell of coffee but not the taste. I have a seahorse tattoo and I don’t like horror films as I scare easy.

2. Your new book, The Outcast Prince is out now, could you tell us a little about it?

Shona: The Outcast Prince is the first in a series about the fairy court of Annwyn and the interaction between the fairy world and our world. Caspian is the outcast prince, a changeling with psychometry who has spent his life avoiding all things fairy, but he gets dragged into court politics and is forced to act when the woman he’s just started seeing is threatened. It’s set in Charleston and there’s a haunted house, a fairy mirror and a trip to Annwyn.

3. What was the inspiration behind this new series?

Shona: I’ve always liked the old concept of fairies, they are the old gods and should be feared and respected. They don’t have the same moral compass as humans and love deals and games and plotting the downfall of their enemies. But the idea for the series came from a conversation about what mazes are made of with my kids which lead to what would become book 2. Caspian, a hero I’d had in my mind for a while, became the hero of book 1 and then it all came together.

4.  How many more books can we expect in this series?

Shona: There are two more planned at the moment both of which will be released in 2014, but I’d like to write a few more that look at the banished fairies and what they get up to.

5. Now to the good stuff, could you tell us something about Caspian?

Shona: Caspian was a different kind of hero for me, while he’s been burned by love before (he is divorced) he isn’t tormented and dark. He is however very secretive because of what he is. He can’t tell people that he’s half fairy and he can’t easily explain his psychometry. When he loses his soul things get even more difficult for him.

6. And last, is there any genre you would love to explore still?

Shona: I’ve just started exploring sci-fi romance, which is a lot of fun. I’d love to write a time slip novel one day but at the moment I’m fairly busy.

Thanks!

Giveaway

1 copy of The Outcast prince

1. US and Canada only

2. Ends July 23rd

3. Just enter :)

THE OUTCAST PRINCE BY SHONA HUSK – IN STORES JULY 2013

Just One Taste Is All It Takes...

This is no ordinary mirror. Caspian caught a hint of color, a whirl of a waltz just past his reflection—a glimpse into the decadent Fairy Court of Annwyn. The home he could never have. It called to him, whispering temptation after temptation...if he could only reclaim his rightful heritage.

To Be Forever Lost...

Caspian has an even stronger reason to stay in the world of humans. He's just met a woman who captivates him like no other. But loving him has proven to be dangerous. And he will do whatever it takes to protect Lydia from the vicious, seductive world of Court—even if doing so requires the ultimate sacrifice: his soul.

Praise for The Outcast Prince:

“Brilliantly unique, beautifully sensual, The Outcast Prince had me spellbound from the first page! Shona Husk's engaging voice and vivid, creative world-building make every one of her books a must-read!” — Larissa Ione, New York Times bestselling author

“Innovative fantasy... An emotional and engaging tale.” —RT Book Reviews, 4 Stars

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

A civil designer by day and an author by night, Shona Husk lives in Western Australia at the edge of the Indian Ocean. Drawing on history, myth and imagination, she writes about heroes who are armed and dangerous but have a heart of gold—sometimes literally. Look for the next book in the Annwyn Series, Lord of the Hunt in January 2014. You can find out more information about Shona and her edgy romances at http://www.shonahusk.com/ or follow her on Twitter, @ShonaHusk.

To purchase The Outcast Prince:

Amazon

Barnes and Noble

Books-a-Million

IndieBound

iBooks

Discover a New Love

Sourcebooks

Review: Life After Death - Lillie J.Roberts

Chelsea Karmikel has led a pretty uneventful life…until she finds herself electrocuted. Now, she’s discovered her family’s secret heritage. She’s a seer of the dead, lending her sight to help those in need. Ghosts are her new reality.

Her mission is to encourage those who have lost their way to follow the Watchman, the crazed guide for the Inbetween…a way station where souls move from one existence to the next. But, there’s something deeper and darker than the ghosts who come to her for help. If Chelsea’s not careful, those eager to swallow her soul’s light may devour her alive… if she allows herself be drawn into the Nevernever.

When Brad Rearden, a darkly handsome, insufferable private detective and walks into her life, he touches off a wild-fire of desire that entraps them both, scorching them with need. Together, they work to solve the mystery of his Aunt Deloris’s death, because Chelsea’s next on the murderer’s list. But who will catch whom—the murderer or Chelsea?

My thoughts:

I confess that I do know the author so I wondered first and hoped it would be good ;) Well it was. Lillie Roberts has a wonderful voice, there was this warmth in the book (even when death and danger was near). There was also an easiness to the book, which was short, but good at getting it's point through.

To the book then. Chelsea, the heroine sees dead people, well not at first as it has a taken a while for her gift to emerge. And like any sane person she thinks she is loosing it. But she does her best, and she is scared. Which I also liked cos she felt very human, crying in her PJs.

Right that was Chelsea, dealing with her new life. In comes the book's love interest and there is distrust and anger at once. A little drama to overcome is always nice. And Brad is a good guy when we get to know him. Sweet and protective. So there is romance growing and plenty of passion.

What to call this book? Well there is the passion, suspense and mystery so just mix all those things. There is danger and creepy ghosts and secrets to find out.

Conclusion:

A good book that kept me hooked. All sweetness and suspense.

Cover
I like the hair

Published March 18th 2013 by Crimson Romance
Ebook, under 200 pages
Paranormal romance /suspense mystery
For review

Review: Paradise Valley - Rosanne Bittner

Maggie Tucker's life is forever changed when outlaws murder her husband, leaving her alone and lost in the wilds of the Wyoming Territory. She vows to find the men who killed him and who tried to destroy her spirit.

Sage Lightfoot, owner of a ranch called Paradise Valley, is hunting for three men who murdered his best ranch hand. When he finds Maggie collapsed beside an open grave, they embark on a life-changing journey along the famed Outlaw Trail. But a secret Maggie carries and a woman from Sage's past could destroy their fragile love.

My thoughts:

A brutal beginning, but then to have made life easy for Maggie would not have been right. It had to be brutal and leave her angry. It was the time.

Maggie is left with a dead husband and a thirst for vengeance after the outlaws hurt her too. Not something I want to happen to a heroine, but that she would have been left unhurt after something like that, yes not likely. But she was such a strong woman, she did not let it hold her down. She is also a true pioneer woman, ready to work like any man. At first I was a bit wary as her husband was dead after all and I knew she and Sage would find each other. But, a loveless marriage is nothing to cry over in the end.

Sage then, half Indian, owner of one big ranch and with scars of his own. A very colorful past that we learn more of. He is a good man, kind and strong. Now who would not fall for him?

It's a slow building romance as they both are scarred. But it also about the hunt for the outlaws and riding through wild country. Both animals and bad men out there. And with that it was different, because it showed the more brutal side.

Conclusion:

Love can grow in the most unlikely places.

Cover

Ok

Paperback, 352 pages
Published July 2nd 2013 by Sourcebooks Casablanca
Historical romance /western
For review

Review: The Rogue Steals a Bride - Amelia Grey

Matson Brentwood has finally met the woman of his dreams. The lovely, red-haired Sophia Hart heats his blood like no other lady. Her alluring countenance has stopped him dead in his tracks. But no matter how attracted he is to her, he can’t give into his desire to possess her in every way because she is the ward of the man he’s sworn to hate. 

Newly arrived in London, Miss Sophia Hart is in need of a husband, but not for herself. She has twin, spinster aunts and one of them has decided she wants a man. Sophia agrees to help her aunt by allowing older gentlemen to call on her and then make sure Auntie spends more time in the gentleman’s company than Sophia does. But when Sophia meets the darkly handsome and intriguing Mr. Matson Brentwood, she knows that for the first time, she in danger of losing her heart. 

But there’s more than just an adversarial guardian and a long list of beaus standing between Sophia and Matson. Sophia promised her dying father she would honor his lifelong plan for her as an heiress and marry a titled gentleman. Matson isn’t titled so she must deny her love for him and make up to her father for costing him the love of his life.

My thoughts:

Amelia Grey's books are always so cute and this one did not disappoint.

This book is the last in the Rogue series. The 3 first are loosely connected to these 3, and these 3 last are about three Brentwood brothers. Now it's Matson's turn. A rich young gentleman who comes to London and scandal breaks. He looks like someone else, ohhh his mum had an affair. To makes things more complicated he falls for a young woman, who is the ward of his father (the one he did not know about). Should we make it even more complicated? Yes why not. The lady in question, Sophia promised dear old dad to marry a man with a title. Alas poor Matson does not have one.

And this book is then about Sophia looking for a match, accompanied by her 2 aunts. And Matson finding every opportunity to be near her. Because you know they are gonna make it somehow, but the road there is long.

I did wonder one thing at the end, what about Lord Snellingly? Lol, you who have read it will understand. I want him to find someone.

Conclusion:

A sweet romance.

Cover

Nice

Paperback, 340 pages
Published July 2nd 2013 by Sourcebooks Casablanca
The Rogues' Dynasty #6
Historical romance
For review

Blod and Ram discuss World War Z

We lost a Lady Scoundrel in a mountain of books so from today it's just me and Ram discussing braaaaaaaaaaains!

World War Z: An Oral History of the Zombie War - Max Brooks

Ram: Are you sorry that I talked you into reading this?

Blod: Well....honestly I can’t make my mind up. Some parts were really good, other parts were boring and I skimmed. But still totally worth it.

Ram: That’s probably why it took me several days to read this book. Instead of skimming through the boring parts I pushed and read them too. And then the next oral account was brilliant and I’d read until I realised there was something else I had to do. 

Blod: Good for you. Alas, I am lazy and some military parts were just sooooo snoozeworthy. I had to skim those

Ram: The endless lists of ammunition and weapons capabilities weren’t my idea of fun but I managed because of what those parts represented. The wastefulness of existing hierarchies and the lack of common sense. 

Blod: First, yes, god, the weapons stuff. I can’t stand that stuff, so I fear I did not think as much as you did in those parts. Though there were some military stories that were really good. I guess it was the heavy tech ones that was not for me. And I am not big on the whole military=heroes thing.

Ram: That’s because you’re a Finn and not an American and this book definitely is an American novel written for Americans. Even the parts set in other countries felt like criticism towards some American values and fears to me. Like it would have been too much if everything had happened in continental USA only. And it wouldn’t have been believable considering the modern world and how easy it is to travel around the globe.

Blod: Totally. This was truly the American we will win over those freaking zombies too! And how in the end it was those who rallied and first cleaned their own country and then went forward. Not a fan of that. Why did everyone else suck except for the US...oh and Cuba, ha. 

Ram: And why was the Finnish story not about Finns?

Blod: Sad sad day. I am sorry but why did we perish. Do we not know how to survive when it gets cold and it snows...

Ram: And practically every house has a firearm or ten because people hunt and then there are the crazy gun collectors but that’s a story for another day. I’m pretty sure I’d just gone home and we’d have managed just fine without escaping North. I don’t have any castles near by where I live like you do ;)

Blod: Lol, I forgot that Finland and Yemen has most guns per people ;) And the whole go North...eh, I already live in the North. The whole of Finland is in the north, we can deal. It gets cold, it gets dark. And my castle is sadly far south, the one up here we tore apart and build other things. Stupid us.

Ram: Anyhow, what did you think about the post Zombie War world? 

Blod: Maybe...MAYBE the learned that people should stick together and also learned to treat our planet better. Hopefully, andI like to think so

Ram: I thought that it showed how fixing one thing doesn’t magically fix all the other problems and that there’ll always be new challenges for humanity. And as for the Russians, that felt like the author’s true fear for what could happen to Americans. The religious extremism and assassin priests. 

Blod: Still a cool part, the whole making babies for Russia...scary!

Ram: You almost typed Stalin, didn’t you? Making babies for Stalin. Another fear that’s dangerously close to becoming reality seeing how the abortion issue is being handled in the US right now.

Blod: Now you are scaring me, I do not like to think about the dark hole US could fall into. Religion, crazy people and guns...

Ram: I’ve yet to start speculating the hot mess Europe is turning to so...

Blod: Crazy racism? We do have that. I read something in the paper about the sound of boots echoing through Europe, nice. We are such a sweet people.

Ram: I don’t know about that. We do try but sometimes we make idiotic mistakes and because people are inured to being told what to do after centuries and millenia of authority figures, kings and queens and such, we’re slow to take action sometimes. The French have their riots occasionally though.

Blod: I think we need to get back to the zombies ;)..ok any favorite story you remember?

Ram: I didn’t have a favourite story, I thought the different accounts blended in together nicely and I just liked the whole thing.

Blod: Some stories stand out more for me. Like the Chinese sub and the blind guy in Japan. And I still wonder what happened to Israel after the wall and civil war.

Ram: That’s true, we never got back to those but we had the Canadian girl saying she tries not be bitter. What was that? 

Blod: We always did get back to the US stories....

Ram: Because this is an AMERICAN book.

Blod: Oh I forgot ;)

Ram: Would you recommend it?

Blod: Yes, sure some parts dragged but hey zombies! And I still think about where I would run. I am deadly scared of zombies.

Ram: I feel like I need to get a shovel now and ask Dad to sharpen the blade for it. So, yes, read it. For the society critique if not for the zombies.

Blod: I did like the society critique. And then I think about the movie I have not seen...yeah, we have to see it and discuss it in the fall.

Ram: Let’s do that. 

Author Inteview and Giveaway: Kris DeLake

Today's guest is Kris Delake, and there is a giveaway at the end :)

Welcome!

Tell me a little about yourself.

I’d love to tell you that I’m just like Skylight Jones, a little dangerous, a lot adventurous, and very sexy, but I’m just a typical writer. I spend my days in my grubbies, herding cats (literally) and making things up. I’ve been writing for more than thirty years, and am an award-winning bestselling writer under a variety of names. I write nonfiction, mystery, fantasy, science fiction, romance, science fiction romance—you name it, I’ve done it. And enjoyed it.

I noticed that  you have a lot of pen names. I have actually read your fantasy books. Does it get confusing changing between them?

Only at book signings. Seriously, I can’t converse and sign at the same time if someone has books from different pen names. I’ll sign the wrong name! 

The stories are easy to keep track of. They’re alive in my head, and I know what happens with each. The pen names are a way to keep track.

I started using pen names so that I could sell books in a variety of genres. Fifteen years ago, science fiction writers didn’t write romance (or so everyone said) and romance writers didn’t write science fiction (or so everyone said) and mystery writers didn’t write science fiction or romance (or so everyone said). Since I wrote all of that and more, I had to put a pen name on the books just to sell them.

By the time attitudes changed, the pen names were established as authors in their own right. So I write science fiction and fantasy under Kristine Kathryn Rusch, mystery under Kris Nelscott (and short stories under Kristine Kathryn Rusch), funny light romances as Kristine Grayson, romantic suspense as Kristine Dexter, and these science fiction romances (excuse me. Futuristic romances) as Kris DeLake. And a few books under names I won’t tell you under pain of death.

I’m being more open about the names now than I was in the past, but some will remain. We’ll see as time goes on. I love how they’re less necessary now.

Your new book is called A Spy To Die For. Could you tell my readers about it?

A Spy To Die For is set in a rather grungy future, filled with assassins, spies, and other nefarious types. Skylight Jones runs into Jack Hunter in a very filthy restaurant on a space station, and falls for him. But they work for organizations that are at odds, and the two might be enemies. But they find a way to work together, and stop something sinister—all the time exploring their little section of the universe. 

What was your inspiration behind this sci-fi romance?

I wrote a short story under my Rusch name called “Drinking Games,” which was just the opening of the first book in the Assassins series, Assassins in Love. In Assassins, Jack makes an appearance as the friend of Rikki, the heroine. In fact, the scene with Jack was much longer in the original draft and my editor made me cut it. I knew from that moment that Jack would be the hero of the next book; I just needed a great woman for him, and then Skylight showed up.

What’s coming next from you?

As DeLake, I have one more novel to do. As Rusch, my next novel out is a time-travel thriller called Snipers. It’ll be out on July 15. Like A Spy To Die For, it’s been getting great reviews. Then another Rusch novel in my Diving series, Skirmishes. That’s September. And in March, my next Kris Nelscott Smokey Dalton novel, Street Justice, something the fans have been waiting years for. There’s also assorted short stories and I hope a new Kristine Grayson Christmas novella. Oh, and I’m editing a Christmas romance anthology that will be out in October called Christmas Ghosts, with stories from Carole Nelson Douglas, ML Buchman, and Mary Jo Putney. So all in all, a busy year. I’m really having fun. Can you tell?

Thanks!

Thanks for asking me to visit.

Giveaway

1 copy of A spy to die for

1. Open to US and Canada

2. Ends July 20th

3. Just go ahead and enter :D

And if you wanna ask a question or tell me our fav sci-fi book/movie/show

Review: A Spy to Die For - Kris DeLake

Agent: Skylight

Profile: Seasoned Assassin Guild Super-Sleuth. Talented enough that she can write her own rules. 

Budget: Unlimited.

Agent: Jack

Profile: Main investigator for the loosely federated Rover Assassins. Guided by a strict moral code, fierce loyalty, and a sense of duty.

On opposite sides of a high-stakes game, lust lures two spies together in a passionate encounter. Little do they know that the heat of the moment would bind them, turning their worlds upside down. Hunted by deadly assassins, can the pair and their love withstand the onslaught?

Mass Market Paperback, 384 pages, Published July 2nd 2013 by Sourcebooks Casablanca, Assassins Guild #2, Science-fiction /romantic suspenseFor review

My thoughts:

I am jumping straight in. Ok girl eats at a shady burger joint, in comes hot guy. Girl is a bit lonely, she is a spy after all without any friends. Girl and boy ends up in bed. Boy is a spy too from another organization. Soon boy and girl are running and falling in love and lust. Now that is what this book is about.

Sky is a bad (that means she sucked at it) assassin who turned spy. Jack is good at finding things so he turned spy too. Set in a distant future where assassins are for hire and nothing wrong with that. Which makes this into a sci-fi romantic suspense story. If you are not into sci-fi then do not worry, you can take a few ships and sonic showers. If you like sci-fi then good, you will get some romance too thrown in. And of course the suspense part as something fishy is going on and someone is unhappy. Which means run you fools!

It was interesting to see them fall cos they fitted each other well but Sky had her issues. A lone wolf. While Jack, oh I do like when I guy falls first.

It made me wonder about book 1 too, sounds quite interesting too.

Conclusion

A spy novel set in space and a promise of passion.

Cover

Nice

Review: The Outcast Prince - Shona Husk

Caspian Mort can feel the history in anything he touches, a gift he inherited from his father, the Crown Prince of Annwyn. Devastated over his ex-wife's infidelity, Caspian has withdrawn from human contact except when working as an antiques dealer. 

While assessing the contents of the historic Callaway House he encounters the beautiful Lydia Callaway and senses that her home is haunted by a banished fairy. But what does the dangerous exile want? Unbeknownst to Lydia, she's the owner of the last remaining portal to Annwyn—a mirror hidden somewhere in the house. To keep Lydia safe, Caspian will have to divulge the secrets of his heritage, and risk losing his heart again.

Paperback, 320 pages, Published July 2nd 2013 by Sourcebooks Casablanca, Court of Annwyn #1, Paranormal romance, For review

My thoughts:

I read her Goblin series and when I saw that she was to publish a series with fairies I was intrigued. I liked what I heard about Annwyn, it was the not so kind Fae types. ..

Caspian is a changeling and has never been to his father's court. He is human, but still got those fae qualities too. I must confess that I sooo wanted his father's story while I read it, to see him fall in love. Le sigh, wonderful :) But that is a future book. Now we got Caspian and he falls for Lydia. A nice and sweet woman. They suited each other. Both with pasts and secrets.

But that was not all it was about. We need some drama and danger too and in comes the hunt for a mirror. And the court of Annwyn is in trouble and the ripples are causing bad things to happen in our world. I can't spill it all, but Annwyn was different, and I liked what she did there.

Conclusion:

Romance and a man caught between two worlds. A good start to this series.

Cover

Ok

Carole R Reviews. My Year as a Clown - Robert Steven Williams

Author: Robert Steven Williams

Title: My Year as a Clown

Genre: Fiction, Drama

Pages: ebook

First Published: December 26th, 2012

Where I Got It: Given to me by the author and publisher to read and give an honest review

"With My Year as a Clown, Williams introduces us to Chuck Morgan, a new kind of male hero—imperfect and uncertain—fumbling his way forward in the aftermath of the abrupt collapse his 20-year marriage.

Initially, Chuck worries he’ll never have a relationship again, that he could stand in the lobby of a brothel with a hundred dollar bill plastered to his forehead and still not get lucky. But as his emotionally raw, 365-day odyssey unfolds, Chuck gradually relearns to live on his own, navigating the minefield of issues faced by the suddenly single—new routines, awkward dates, and even more awkward sex."

Like earlier stated, I was given this to read for my honest and unbiased opinion.

I was initially drawn to this book by the title and the cover. Such an interesting title. The cover is plain, but it really matches the story and the main character, Chuck. It fits. Chuck is an interesting character, but in the end he is just the guy next door. An average Joe of sorts. I really enjoyed reading the book in the guys view. There are a scarce amount of books following the man's POV after a divorce or break-up (or just in general). I also loved how it seemed that Chuck was writing some sort of journal to keep his sanity throughout Claudia leaving him.

Poor guy. He went through so much shit throughout that year. Stupid Claudia...if I was him I would give her not a dime. She was the reason for the divorce...she cheated and left him for another man. Stupid...>.> I hate women like her. I do. He did really nothing wrong (besides for get fired) and wanted to live his dream of being a writer. They didn't suffer of lack of funds. They had enough money for him to try and become a writer. He paid for her college and that is how she repays him????!!!!! GAH! I must leave this ramble....

*clears throat* Sorry. But women like her give good girls, like me, a bad name. *grumbles* stupid chit....

I really enjoyed the array of characters the author gave us. Chuck met some rather interesting people along the way. However, sometimes I was rather stunned by how cheesy and odd the Rabbi was. I didn't trust the man at all throughout the whole book. He seemed too cool and I was right that it was too cool to be true. I can not say more on this point without spoiling anything...but I have never heard of a Rabbi being a pot-head. JUST saying.

What else can I really say? I did like this book. It was a different book, but pretty good. Though I found some spots cheesy and unbelievable (aka, the Rabbi), I did enjoy it. Claudia needed a good punch to the face. Also, the ending left me dried mouth and a little empty. The epilogue was a little dry in my opinion and I really wanted to know more about future events for Chuck...like did he ever really settle down again? What about the other characters/friends of his? Sighs.

In the end, this was a good book. I enjoyed the journey and it really made me think about myself and what I would do in a similar situation. Even though I'm a chicka and he is a male, I still found myself connecting to him once in a while. I'm glad I agreed to read this book, because it was a mighty shake up to my reading bookshelf. I would recommend this to people who like people stories and for those that need a good shake up in their readings. Chuck was an interesting character. He was not at all perfect and I liked that. Just an average Joe with complexities. I shall stamp this with 4 stars.

Favorite Character(s): Chuck, Pauline, and Siobhan

Not-so Favorite Character(s): Claudia (*grumble*whore*grumble*), Jimmy, Bart, and the Rabbi