Wednesday, April 30, 2014

Written in Red (The Others, #1) by Anne Bishop


    Title: Written In Red: A Novel of the Others
    Series: A Novel of the Others (Book 1)
    Classification: Adult Fiction
    Genre: Urban Fantasy/Paranormal
    Format: Paperback; 512 pages
    Publisher: Roc; Reissue edition (March 4, 2014)
    ISBN-10: 0451417909
    ISBN-13: 978-0451417909
    Author's Website: Notes: I bought this one.


Meg Corbyn is on the run and desperate enough to seek out the shelter of what most would perceive as a deadly enemy. A blood prophecy helped her escape her captors and foretold of her death. It is to the Others that Meg has run to, not truly expecting to gain their protection but merely to find a place where the hand of her former captors cannot reach. The Others own the continent known as Thaisia and the humans who live there are, for all intents and purposes, their tolerated guests. When guests overstay their welcome or abuse the hospitality extended to them, heads literally roll as well as other bodily appendages. In this case if you bite the hand that feeds you they'll bite back, for to the Others humans are the other dark meat. Meg knows she's unlikely to escape her own death, but she'd rather try and die on her own terms than by the hand of those who have imprisoned her since the day she was born. They say the enemy of my enemy is my friend. If that proves to be the case, Meg may have a fighting chance....

Photobucket

Have you ever seen a book and something about it compels you to buy it? Well, that's what happened to me. This book isn't the one that enticed me, but it's sequel, Murder of Crows, did. Trying to be good, because I often tend to jump right in to the middle of a series, I decided to read the first book in the series first and that is how I came to read this one. Luckily, my book intuition didn't fail me, and I immensely enjoyed the world that Ms. Bishop created.

Some may find the pace of this book a bit slow, but the author is trying to establish the groundwork for the world she's created. Instead of info dumping as many authors do, she slowly introduces us to her characters and a world which in some ways is very similar to our own, yet very different.

Once upon a time two species were created. The first, the Others, were given the majority of the land to rule and were content to stay there. These beings are fierce with extraordinary powers. Some have control over the elements. Some can shift into different forms. But all are dangerous and in the hierarchy of life, they're at the top of the food chain. Humans were created second and were given a significantly smaller portion of the world to live and eventually began to explore and fan out from their designated space. Eventually they found themselves in Thaisia dealing face to face with the Others. The Others would have driven them out but for the machinations of one individual who proposed a trade of goods and services for use of the land the Others owned. Through mutual agreement rules were created and boundaries established. These laws did not guarantee the safety of those who lived there, but raised the odds of survival significantly. Over the years some humans have forgotten their place and have tested the boundaries of their constraints. Punishment is swift, fatal, and uncontested. At time whole towns would be annihilated for the crimes of a few to demonstrate the Others' no tolerance rule.

Written in Red begins at the first large scale organized stirrings of dissent among the humans against the Others. While most series focus on the human viewpoint, we get the viewpoint of the Others and their take on what is happening. We also get to see the reaction of a handful of humans who believe that relations with the Others need to evolve and hope to change the dynamics of how the Others see humans. Not an easy thing to do when a revolution appears to be on the rise. Meg, the human seeking sanctuary among the Others, is the catalyst and key to that change.

Meg is in some ways is a typical human being, but in others ways she's not. We find out early on she's a cassandra sangue, a blood prophet. She can reveal bits about the future, but the clues need to be deciphered. She's also spent her life confined with limited access and knowledge of the world around her. This makes her a bit naive and perhaps more open minded about how she regards the Others. The only knowledge she's gained about the Others was gleaned from those who held her hostage, and so she takes heed of what she's learn, but takes into account the source. What makes this character fun is that Simon, the resident leader of the Others finds her confusing because while he knows she's human, she doesn't smell like prey. Something every other human does.

Simon and his father Elliot, are in charge of the Lakeside Courtyard. Courtyards are the areas within large cities that the Others have kept control of and deemed theirs. Their presence is a constant reminder of their existence and ensures the rules and guidelines agreed upon by their forefathers are kept. Humans are rarely permitted to enter these areas and do so at their own risk as human laws do not apply in these areas. Those who foolishly enter are at the mercy of the Others. Each Courtyard requires one liaison to act as a go between for the Others and the human delivery personnel. It was sheer luck for Meg when she stumbled across the Lakeside Courtyard that Simon was looking for someone to fill the liaison position. Ironically, had it not been for a prophecy made by another blood prophet, years prior, that told Simon one day a person would come seeking his help who would in turn save the life of one of his loved ones he might not have hired her.

Overall, I adore this new series and gave this story 4 1/2 out of 5 roses. It felt like I walked into a dark fairy tale of the Brother's Grimm making--you know the kind that's a little darker with blood in the shoe instead of the sweet Disney Cinderella version. The world building was wonderful and I believe we've only seen a small portion of it. I have to confess, however, that at first the use of the Other's shape shifting animal paired with the word guard for last names kind of put me off until I thought about the etymology of last names. They were usually created using a person's profession or a family member's name. For instance, most people with the last name Miller probably had a person in their family tree who was a miller by profession. A person with the name Johnson probably had an ancestor with the first name John and their son became known as John's son (ie Johnson). So while the author wasn't overly creative with the names, I felt she chose wisely. I look forward to learning more about the world Ms. Bishop created as the series progresses.

Order of the series:

Monday, April 28, 2014

Early Review of Searching for Perfect (Searching For, #2) by Jennifer Probst


Title: Searching for Perfect
Classification: Adult Fiction
Genre: Contemporary Romance
Series: Searching For
Format: Paperback; 352 pages
Publisher: Gallery Books (April 29, 2014)
ISBN-10: 1476744947
ISBN-13: 978-1476744940
Author's Website: http://www.jenniferprobst.com/
Notes: I received a copy of the book from the publisher. As this appears to be a final copy, I'm using quotes.

Ned 'Nate' Dunkle is a smart, brilliant and sweet guy, but when it comes to women and relationships he's a complete and utter mess. Think Eliza Doolittle meets Clark Kent with a dash of nerd mixed in for good measure. He can't walk the walk, can't talk the talk, and his attire could win an award for being a complete and utter wardrobe malfunction--with clothes that don't fit right and do nothing for the wearer. Pair his botched attempt at self tanning, which gave him a freakishly unnatural orange glow, with the strong odor of a cologne gone wild, and for some strange reason, the opposite sex is not falling all over themselves to be near him. Hmmm...go figure. It was his fumbled attempt at speed dating that led to Kennedy Ashe singling him out to have a nice little chat. Thinking he was a Grade A class jerk, she'd been prepared to chew him out for almost making one of her clients cry, but as she starts talking with him she quickly realizes the sheer magnitude of the man's cluelessness. Now she's determined to help him find his perfect match.

When all is said and done, and she discovers how much the two have in common, will she still be willing to pair him up with someone else?

     "Ken?"
     Her name ripped from those lips in a husky growl. She blinked and tried to find her footing, startled by his referring to her so intimately, but not entirely sure she minded. "Yeah?"
     "What about us?"
     Brain alert. She tried to break the weird spell, but he slid his hands up to cup her cheeks and thunder shook the ground, and somehow his body was pressed tight against hers. He engulfed her with a quiet, intense presence that demanded her response. As though on cue, her body lit up and begged for more. She grew damp between her thighs, and her nipples hardened to tight little points, and within those few seconds, she was completely turned on by her geek rocket scientist.
     "There is no us. I'm your matchmaker."
     Her victory of sane speech was short-lived. Those thumbs stroked under her jaw and began to trace the lines of her mouth. The fascinated, intense look on his face thrilled her. Had a man ever looked at her so...hungrily? As if he craved to feast on her for hours without end? A shiver bumped through her. 
     "Eliza and Professor Higgins hooked up at the end of the movie."

Photobucket

It's no wonder after reading this book that Jennifer Probst has quickly become one of my favorite contemporary romance authors. She writes romances that are smart, funny, real and oh so sexy. In Searching for Perfect, Jennifer Probst takes us on a journey of discovery that will have some women giving those slightly unkempt, conversationally challenged guys a second look.

On the surface Kennedy Ashe seems to have her act together, but deep down she has relationship issues that can be tracked back to her high school years. She has major problems with self esteem that keep her from investing in long term commitments. Over the years she's tried to make herself look perfect to mask the imperfections she sees in herself. While she believes in love for others, she just doesn't see it in the cards for her.

In many ways Kennedy and Nate have a lot in common. Perhaps she singles him out to be her pet project because she sees a little of herself in him. He's got all the essential ingredients that will make him a good match for someone. He's got a good heart, knows what he's looking for, and is open to love. He's also gotten some bad advice from the big brother he's looked up to all his life. It was interesting to watch Nate transforms from zero to hero in the span of 341 pages.

Throughout the book we witness Kennedy and Nate's attraction for one another grow as they open up to each another on a very personal level. Kennedy has never been in a relationship that's lasted longer than a few months. She knows Nate's looking for someone to settle down with, and she does not see that happening with her. Sometimes people don't see themselves as worthy of happy endings, and Nate is just the guy to show her she is.

Interspersed with all the serious issues Kennedy faces is the underlying humor that makes Jennifer's books so enchanting and fun to read. It lightens up the mood of the subject matter and softens the hard edges. The infusion is a heady combination that endears the characters to the reader and makes them seem all the more real and believable. Plus, there are the swoon worthy moments and dialogue that make you sigh. My favorite moment is when Nate makes the following declarations:

"This isn't about me, baby. It's about you. I can chase you forever, promise you the world, but until you take the leap with me, I can't win. I don't just love your body. I love your incredible mind, and your sweet soul, and your inner strength. I love the life you built for yourself with your friends and your career. I love every part of you--good and bad--dark and light--and I want to share it all. But you have to let me."

I gave this one 5 out of 5 roses. I never would have believed I'd end up liking the hero in this story so much. The relationship which evolves between Kennedy and Nate has a enviable foundation to build on. It's the kind of story that if you've given up on love and romance, it'll encourage you to give it one more try. On the Lisarenee Romance Rating Scale, this one get a SHOWER rating - a cold shower may be necessary (need I say more?). Some books should come with a warning--make sure your significant other is handy or your shower is in working order. lol Please note that while I'm giving this a shower rating, I wouldn't necessarily label this one erotic. It's definitely has some steamy scenes and there is a touch of colorful language used, but it doesn't have the feel of most erotic novels.You can see the mutual respect and feel the love between them. I guess what I'm trying to say is it goes a little deeper than most erotic reads. It was a total an utter book seduction and I highly recommend this one.  


Order of the series:

Cover Reveal for The Witch With No Name (The Hollows #13) by Kim Harrison


At long last... The final book in the New York Times bestselling Hollows series by Kim Harrison!

Rachel Morgan's come a long way from the clutzy runner of Dead Witch Walking. She's faced vampires and werewolves, banshees, witches, and soul-eating demons. She's crossed worlds, channeled gods, and accepted her place as a day-walking demon. She's lost friends and lovers and family, and an old enemy has become something much more.

But power demands responsibility, and world-changers must always pay a price. That time is now.

To save Ivy's soul and the rest of the living vampires, to keep the demonic ever after and our own world from destruction, Rachel Morgan will risk everything.

About the Author:


Kim Harrison, a New York Times bestselling author, was born and raised in the upper Midwest. Her bestselling Hollows novels include Dead Witch Walking, The Good, The Bad, and The Undead, Every Which Way But Dead, A Fistful of Charms, For a Few Demons More, The Outlaw Demon Wails, White Witch, Black Curse, Black Magic Sanction, Pale Demon, A Perfect Blood, Ever After, The Undead Pool, plus the short story collection Into the Woods and The Hollows Insider. She also writes the bestselling Madison Avery YA series.



Pre-order your copy today at the following retailers:

Barnes & Noble:

http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/the-witch-with-no-name-kim-harrison/1119221237?cm_mmc=affiliates-_-linkshare-_-mdxm68jzjz8-_-10%3a1&ean=9780061957956&isbn=9780061957956&r=1

Amazon:
http://www.amazon.com/Witch-No-Name-Hollows-ebook/dp/B00JOGB1DQ/ref=sr_1_1?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1398697640&sr=1-1&keywords=the+witch+with+no+name

Sunday, April 27, 2014

Early Review of How to Seduce a Vampire Without Really Trying (Love at Stake, #15) by Kerrelyn Sparks


Title: How to Seduce a Vampire Without Really Trying
Classification: Adult Fiction
Genre: Paranormal Romance
Series: Love at Stake (Book 15)
Format: Paperback; 384 pages
Publisher: Avon (April 29, 2014)
ISBN-10: 0062107763
ISBN-13: 978-0062107763
Author's Website:  http://www.kerrelynsparks.com/
Notes: I received an eARC loan from the publisher.

For centuries Zoltan Czakvar has been trying to find the person or persons responsible for his father's death. His only clue is an arrow that was unique yet no one could identify. In all his years of searching, he's never seen another like it until now. The trail will lead him to a very unexpected band of female warriors who live in a secret valley in the Himalayas. His questions will finally be answered and secrets about his family he never knew will be revealed.

Neona comes from a long line of warrior women who live in Beyul-La, a valley where women rule and men are not allowed to enter. They are the guardians of something so secret they'll kill anyone who discovers it. Recently, a vampire army has come searching the land surrounding their valley convinced they know what the women guard. They've heard the rumors and stories and are hopeful a new acquisition will help them gain the power they seek. If any vampire is found on their land the guardians will kill first and ask questions later.

Photobucket

This was a very fun and enjoyable read. I hadn't read any of the previous Love at State novels, but I didn't feel lost. This is the fifteenth book in the series and it is Zoltan's story.

 Zoltan has been a vampire for over 800 years. Unlike many vampires he chose to become one. His decision was based around his desire to know who had killed his father. For over 800 years he's searched and thought his window of opportunity to find or glean any information about his father's murder had vanished. It's known that after a vampire reaches his five hundredth birthday a state of deep depression can set in, and Zoltan was definitely starting to get bored and looking with a  more critical eye at his life and decisions. The discovery of an arrow similar to the one that killed his father gives him a renewed sense of purpose as does the beautiful female warrior he finds while searching for answers. A woman who sparks Zoltan's desire for a mate but who is only interested in one thing from Zoltan and one thing only--his seed. You see these warrior woman tend to mate and then kill their lovers. Of course if she learns he's a vampire, his days, if not hours and seconds, will be numbered.

Neona and the women she lives with all have different special abilities. They've been raised to believe men are untrustworthy and will let you down. That men are unnecessary after you get from them want you want. While she might toy with the idea of a relationship that lasts a little longer than a one night stand, it's a somewhat foreign concept. It is her ingrained belief that makes this book so much fun. While the title suggests Neona would be doing all the seducing, it's really Zoltan who has his work cut out for him and he does a fine job of it. *big grin*

Overall, I gave this one 4 out of 5 roses. It's a fun and lighthearted read with a touch of drama on the side. The relationship between Neona and Zoltan was equal parts sweet, fun, and steamy. I love that Neona literally knocked Zoltan off his feet when they first meet. Plus, it has something I've always loved in it--dragons. On the Lisarenee Romance Rating Scale, this one scores a STEAM rating--too hot for a fan, but you still have a handle on things. You should use extreme caution when reading a book with this rating in public. People may inquire as to why you looked flustered and flushed.

Order of the Love at Stake series:

Saturday, April 26, 2014

Early Review of How to Lose a Duke in Ten Days (An American Heiress in London, #2) by Laura Lee Guhrke


    Title: How to Lose a Duke in Ten Days: An American Heiress in London
    Classification: Adult Fiction
    Genre: Historical Romance
    Series: American Heiress in London
    Format: Paperback; 384 pages
    Publisher: Avon (April 29, 2014)
    ISBN-10: 0062118196
    ISBN-13: 978-0062118196
    Author's Website: http://lauraleeguhrke.com/
    Notes: Received and eARC loan from the publisher.

    Once upon a time a young heiress made a deal with a Duke. She would pay off his substantial debt, manage his estates, support both him and his sponging relatives in the lifestyle they desired, and allow him to lead the life he longed to in Africa. In exchange, he'd marry her and, this is the most important thing of all, never ever return home. For five years the young Duchess lived the life of her choosing with respect and no one to account to but herself. Then one day while attempting to help her younger sister board a train headed to a finishing the most unbelievable thing happened--her husband returned home.

Once upon a time a young Duke agreed to marry an heiress most would overlook as plain, but to him she was anything but. He found her interesting and intriguing and was enchanted by her forthrightness. He agreed to her marriage terms thinking he could change her mind. After one month of a celibate marriage to a wife he'd fallen in love with, he saw the error in his logic and let the wanderlust that had besieged him his whole life have its way and left for the planes of Africa. Five years later, however, having stared death (in the shape of a lioness) straight in the eye, he felt the call to go home. As happens with most people who stare down death and survive, his priorities realigned and his longing for the wife he'd left behind and the desire for children whom could carry on his legacy called to him. He was determined to win his wife's love.

In a desperate attempt to save his marriage, the Duke proposed a challenge--if he can seduce his wife into giving him a kiss within ten day she'll give their marriage a chance otherwise he'll lose her forever.

Photobucket

This book has some very sweet and romantic moments, but it's submerged in the serious subject matter of a woman attempting to deal with the aftermath of a sexual assault. Physically she's okay, but mentally the night of her attack lives on in her memories years after it happened. For her, physical contact with any man is difficult as it brings back the memories and the fear of that terrible night. Luckily for Edie, her husband is an understanding, caring, patient and determined individual who once he's set his mind on something, doesn't tend to sway from it. He's determined to get past the barriers she's erected over the years and help her deal with her fears. 

While I liked the story, at times the methods Stuart utilizes to overcome Edie's fears felt a bit textbookish. I can only assume Ms. Guhrke did a lot research on the subject and incorporated what she found into her story. This isn't a bad thing, but to me it felt a touch like Stuart had been coached rather than naturally making things up as he went and seeing what worked. I would have liked to see him fumble a bit more about how to handle Edie. Perhaps what truly bothered me was that I felt Edie needed to be counselled, but I doubt such a thing existed at the time.    

What I liked about Stuart is that he was willing to take things slow with Edie. I found it odd that no mention of correspondence between the two was ever mentioned during the five years of separation. Edie, apparently, had been determined to cut all ties with her husband once the 'I do's had been said. Stuart was basically trying to build a relationship on a very weak, if not crumbling, foundation. I found his attempts to build a relationship out of virtually nothing admirable. The fact he was still determined to make a go of the marriage after finding out what happened to Edie made me like him even more.

Overall, I enjoyed the book and gave it 3 1/2 out of 5 roses. I wish we had witnessed more personal bonding between Edie and Stuart given they had only ten days to bond. I admired Stuart for not thinking less of his wife when he found out what happened to her. It reminded me a little of the movie Braveheart where instead of blaming his wife for being raped, William Wallace--played by Mel Gibson, recognizes his wife was not at fault. She'd done nothing to deserve what happened to her and had done nothing to encourage it. She was victimized. An idea that would probably not be shared by many of the men who lived at the time. Additionally, there are some swoon worthy declarations at the end that made me smile. On the Lisarenee Romance Rating Scale, this one earned a FAN rating - the temperature in the room seems to have suddenly gone up a couple of degrees and a fan would be nice.


Order of the An American Heiress in London series:

Friday, April 18, 2014

Styxx (Dark-Hunter, #22) by Sherrilyn Kenyon

Title: Styxx (Dark-Hunter Novels (Unnumbered Paperback)
Classification: Adult Fiction
Genre: Paranormal/Fantasy
Series: Dark-Hunter (Book 23)
Format: Hardcover; 848 pages
Publisher: St. Martin's Press (September 3, 2013)
ISBN-10: 1250029880
ISBN-13: 978-1250029881
Author's Website:
Notes: I bought this one.

Once upon a time a King and Queen were blessed with the birth of twin sons. But as the two babies were being inspected and bathed, the words no parent wishes to hear were uttered--that one of the boys was malformed. In the days of old, when Gods still walked among us, such a birth defect could mean only one thing--at least one of the twins was not the King's, but rather the son of a God. Instantly a family was torn apart. A wife and Queen was accused of adultery, the paternity of both boys was called into question, and a King, loyal to his Gods, lost a little if not all of his faith.

The Fates, in this instance, were particularly cruel. For one of the boys was indeed the son of a God but also the son of a Goddess. He had been placed in a human surrogate to protect him. For the Fates, three of the most powerful beings in their pantheon, had declared he would be then end of them all and thus he had a target figuratively tattooed on his back. For what the fates declared always came to be and so the Gods began a race against time to find the babe and kill him before he came into his full powers at the age of 21.

The twin suspected of being a God's was shunned by the King and at the age of 7, was sent off to be raised by his uncle, a man who should have had the young child's best interest at heart, but didn't. He was sold to the highest bidder to fulfill their every sexual fantasy and desire. His name was Archeron. The other twin was groomed to be his father's heir, and by all historical accounts, was the beloved son of his father. But as been said time and time again through the ages, you can't always believe what you read nor what is whispered. For until you walk in another man's shoes, you truly don't know his true and full story.

“Life has a way of breaking even the strongest among us.”

This is Styxx's story, and what you think you know of the man isn't going to compare to what you don't. 

“The most beautiful heart of all is the one that can still love even while it bleeds, and especially after its been broken into thousands of pieces.”


Photobucket

Sherrilyn Kenyon is in my top ten list of favorite authors. She excels at writing the tales of tortured heroes, quotable dialogue, and stories which inspire the downtrodden to never give up and to believe things will get better. In an age where suicide seems all too common, Ms. Kenyon's stories masterfully bring a ray of hope to her readers one book at a time. That said, at times this book was too painful to read and that's something I don't think I've ever said about a book before. On several occasions I had to put the book down, something I've never had to do, because what happens to Styxx was just too unbearable--the emotions and pain conjured up were just too much to take in. I needed to skip over some scenes because I just couldn't take that amount of abuse in one sitting. Nor did I wish to.

From all our previous knowledge of Styxx it appeared he'd done his brother wrong and had written him off many years ago. Acheron's impression of him was that he was pampered, conceited, spoiled, and arrogant. Funny how the interpretation of how another person acts or responds to particular situations can easily be misinterpreted to mean one thing when the exact opposite can be true. I feel the following passage accurately describes Styxx. “The strongest of metals is forged under the most violent of conditions, my lord. It is buried deep in the hottest coals and then beat and pounded until it is bent into shape. Then it becomes the strongest, most lethal of weapons. A thing of absolute beauty and force.”  This story delves into how, without being able to step into another individual's shoes or mind, we can't truly determine if our interpretation of them is correct--and that is so very true of Styxx.

What blew me away about this tale is how perfectly all the pieces of Styxx's story fit together with the previous stories we've read in the series. The amount of planning and forethought that had to go in to this is mind boggling and awe inspiring. I feel like I've watched a magic trick and need to go back now and reread a bunch of the previous books to make sure I saw what my mind thinks it saw. The next time you wish you could swap places with someone you admire or envy, remember to be careful what you wish for. Sometimes that seemingly perfect life someone leads is only the facade they let you see. Some scars, as Ms. Kenyon would probably say, can't be seen by the naked eye--they run much deeper. Others lie all to close to the surface while remaining unseen carefully hidden under that which clothes us.

I gave this book 5 out of 5 roses. I can't help but wonder if the book was as painful to write as it was for me to read. A tale of about deception, deceit, misconceptions, misinterpretations, hope, forgiveness, love, loss, and joy. A word of caution to anyone wishing to read this one, make sure you're in a good state of mind because you will be taken on a journey to a place where the word nightmare isn't truly strong enough. I kept hoping Kenyon had done her worst and then she'd take us down even lower. I'll leave off with my favorite quote which we all should keep in mind, “Every man, woman, and child is capable of extreme and utter prejudice and cruelty when they feel justified in their hatred. Right or wrong. We are all capable of lashing out when we’re in pain. No one, not even you or I, is immune from that. As Plato said, be kind to everyone you meet for we are all fighting difficult battles."

Monday, April 7, 2014

Attention! Attention! Do you have what it takes to be one of the next Avon Addicts?


Avon is once again looking for 25 super readers for its Avon Addicts program. During the course of 6 months, if you're chosen, you'll receive lots of books, lots of swag, and lots of insider information as well as get to know some of the authors a little more personally than you would otherwise. So if you're looking for a little fun, a lot of romance, and good times and are willing to write some reviews and get the word out about new releases, then you may be the person Avon is looking for. To apply simply fill out an application by CLICKING HERE. You have until May 1st to apply. As a former Avon Addict myself, I highly recommend the experience and if given the opportunity I'd do it all over again. Good luck.

Wondering who some of the Avon's Authors are? Here's a list:

Candis Terry              Carla Swafford        Caroline Linden               Cathy Maxwell
Cynthia Sax               Elizabeth Boyle      Eloisa James                  Emma Cane
Gaelen Foley             Gayle Callen           Jeaniene Frost                Jennifer Bernard
Jennifer McQuiston    Joss Ware              Julia Quinn                      Julie Anne Long
Karen Ranney           Katharine Ashe        Kay Thomas                   Kerrelyn Sparks
Laura Kaye               Laura Lee Guhrke    Lecia Cornwall                 Lena Diaz
Lisa Marie Rice         Lizbeth Selvig          Lori Wilde                       Lorraine Heath
Margo Maguire          Maya Rodale           Miranda Neville                Pamela Palmer
Sara Bennett             Sarah MacLean       Sophia Nash                   Sophie Barnes
Sophie Jordan           Stephanie Laurens   Susan Elizabeth Phillips  Tessa Dare
Toni Blake

Plus, Ilona Andrews is about to join the crew.

Wondering what kind of things you'll get? Here are some examples of what I got:

PhotobucketPhotobucket


Tuesday, April 1, 2014

Cover Reveal of Burn For Me (Hidden Legacy 1) by Ilona Andrews

A brand new series by the one of my favorite authors--Ilona Andrews:


Ilona Andrews on her reaction to the cover for BURN FOR ME:
It is such a gorgeous, distinctive cover, melding together unique paranormal aspect of the world and the sizzle of the relationship between Mad Rogan and Nevada. It's rare when the cover captures a scene from the book exactly the way the author had imagined it. You learn to resign yourself to it. Covers aren't meant to be a literal representation of the narrative, but BURN FOR ME is. It actually shows a pivotal scene, especially when combined with the aerial view splashback. If you read the book, you'll know exactly what I mean. When I got the cover file, I sent it to a friend. She emailed back in minutes. The email said, "Who did you sacrifice to Cover Gods to get this?"

Erika Tsang, Ilona’s Editor extraordinaire's thoughts about the HIDDEN LEGACY series:
BURN FOR ME is a slight departure from Ilona Andrews’ other bestselling urban fantasy series. There’s still the trademark snappy dialogue/narrative and action-packed scenes, but there’s a stronger romance thread here that we wanted to get across right away with this cover. Our hero Rogan is not just hot and sexy, but he’s powerful. Like kill-you-with-a-stare powerful. And Nevada is just as strong, only she doesn’t realize her full potential yet. So I wanted to show off our couple, have that intimacy between them and not lose any kickass-ness (I know, not a real word, sorry). The background with the exploding buildings around them…the idea was Ilona’s and the execution is just exquisite.

About Burn For Me:

#1 New York Times bestselling author Ilona Andrews launches a brand new Hidden Legacy series, in which one woman must place her trust in a seductive, dangerous man who sets off an even more dangerous desire…

Nevada Baylor is faced with the most challenging case of her detective career-a suicide mission to bring in a suspect in a volatile case. Nevada isn’t sure she has the chops. Her quarry is a Prime, the highest rank of magic user, who can set anyone and anything on fire.

Then she’s kidnapped by Connor “Mad” Rogan-a darkly tempting billionaire with equally devastating powers. Torn between wanting to run or surrender to their overwhelming attraction, Nevada must join forces with Rogan to stay alive.

Rogan’s after the same target, so he needs Nevada. But she’s getting under his skin, making him care about someone other than himself for a change. And, as Rogan has learned, love can be as perilous as death, especially in the magic world.

About Ilona Andrews:

Ilona Andrews is the pseudonym for a husband-and-wife writing team. Author Ilona is a native-born Russian and Gordon is a former communications sergeant in the U.S. Army. Contrary to popular belief, Gordon was never an intelligence officer with a license to kill, and Ilona was never the mysterious Russian spy who seduced him. They met in college, in English Composition 101, where Ilona got a better grade. (Gordon is still sore about that.)

Gordon and Ilona currently reside in Oregon with their two children, three dogs and a cat. They have co-authored three series, the bestselling urban fantasy of Kate Daniels, the romantic urban fantasy of The Edge and now the new urban fantasy the Hidden Legacy series.

Pre-Order At:
Amazon:
http://www.amazon.com/Burn-Me-Hidden-Legacy-Novel-ebook/dp/B00I7V11WU
Barnes and Noble:
http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/burn-for-me-ilona-andrews/1118611576?ean=9780062289230

Most Anticipated New Releases of April 2014

The following list is comprised of books and novellas my friends, family, and I are most looking forward to reading in April. It also consists of books by popular authors and others I've heard a lot of hype about. I am not flawless and sometimes I'll accidentally leave one or more books off the list that I shouldn't. Let me know if one of your favorites is missing. Sometimes my search techniques just don't work as well as I wish they did.

The list is divided into weekly releases. If you'd like to read a book's description, just click on the cover photo and you'll be magically transferred to Goodreads. Remember a book a day keeps the boredom at bay! Happy reading.


April 1st - A Biscuit, a Casket (A Pawsitively Organic Mystery) by Mugavero, Liz
April 1st - Ghost of a Gamble (Granny Apples Mystery) by Sue Ann Jaffarian
April 1st - I've Got You Under My Skin: A Novel by Clark, Mary Higgins
April 1st - Illusion (Chronicles of Nick, #5) by Sherrilyn Kenyon
April 1st - The Insider (Kingdom Keepers VII) by Pearson, Ridley
April 1st - A Killing Notion (A Magical Dressmaking Mystery) by Melissa Bourbon
April 1st - The King (Black Dagger Brotherhood, #12) by J.R. Ward
April 1st - Love Letters to the Dead by Dellaira, Ava
April 1st - A Roux of Revenge (A Soup Lover's Mystery) by Archer, Connie
April 1st - Saucer: Savage Planet by Stephen Coonts
April 1st - A Shocking Delight by Beverley, Jo
April 1st - Stolen Songbird (The Malediction Trilogy #1) by Danielle L. Jensen
April 1st - Sugar and Iced (Cupcake Bakery Mystery) by McKinlay, Jenn
April 1st - Vampire's Hunger (The Awakening Series) by Garner, Cynthia
April 1st - The Whole Cat and Caboodle: Second Chance Cat Mystery by Sofie Ryan
April 1st - Wild Wolf (Shifters Unbound Series #6) by Jennifer Ashley
April 1st - The Winter Bride (A Chance Sisters Romance) by Gracie, Anne


April 8th - Carnal Curiosity (Stone Barrington) by Stuart Woods
The Here and Now by Brashares, Ann
April 8th - Keep Quiet by Lisa Scottoline
April 8th - Night Diver: A Novel by Elizabeth Lowell
April 8th - Rebel Belle by Hawkins, Rachel
April 8th - Sea of Shadows (Age of Legends 1) by Kelley Armstrong
April 8th - Toxic Heart (Mystic City, #2) by Theo Lawrence
April 10th - Dare to Desire (Dare to Love) by Phillips, Carly


April 15th - Falling for Owen: Book Two: The McBrides by Jennifer Ryan
April 15th - Far Gone by Laura Griffin
April 15th - The Forever Song (Blood of Eden) by Kagawa, Julie
April 15th - Once Upon a Billionaire (Billionaire Boys Club Novel) eBook ONLY by Jessica Clare
April 15th - Seasons of Tomorrow: Book Four in the Amish Vines and Orchards Series by Woodsmall, Cindy
April 15th - The Space Between: An Outlander Novella by Diana Gabaldon
April 15th - Sunrise (Ashfall #3) by Mike Mullin
April 15th - What I Thought Was True by Fitzpatrick, Huntley
April 17th - Dreams of Gods & Monsters (Daughter of Smoke and Bone #3) by Laini Taylor


April 21st - Slope of Love (Love in Bloom: The Remingtons, Book 4) by Melissa Foster
April 22nd - Everything to Lose: A Novel by Andrew Gross
April 22nd - The Inventor's Secret (The Inventor's Secret, #1) by Andrea Cremer
April 22nd - Otherwise Engaged by Amanda Quick
April 22nd - The Serpent of Venice: A Novel by Moore, Christopher
April 22, 2014 - To All the Boys I've Loved Before by Jenny Han


April 29th - Burning Dawn (Hqn) by Showalter, Gena
April 29th - Dead Giveaway by Joanne Fluke
April 29th - Dreams of Lilacs by Kurland, Lynn
April 29th - How to Lose a Duke in Ten Days (An American Heiress in London) by Guhrke, Laura Lee
April 29th - How to Seduce a Vampire (Without Really Trying) (Love at Stake) by Kerrelyn Sparks
April 29th - Live to See Tomorrow (Catherine Ling) by Iris Johansen
April 29th - The Masterful Mr. Montague: A Casebook of Barnaby Adair Novel by Stephanie Laurens
April 29th - Searching for Perfect by Probst, Jennifer
April 29th - Secrets of Seduction (Legendary Lovers) by Jordan, Nicole
April 29th - Sweet Reckoning (Sweet Evil) by Wendy Higgins
April 29th - The Taking (The Taking #1)by Kimberly Derting
April 29th - The Witch of Clan Sinclair by Ranney, Karen
Related Posts Plugin for WordPress, Blogger...