Where The Wicked Read.... My Spot To Talk About, Review, Share My Love Of Books, and Anything Else That Comes To Mind..

Monday, May 31, 2010

Review: Entwined Fates- Captive by. Trista Ann Michaels


From the back of the book....

Aliens? Attacking Earth?

Her home is being destroyed. Her friends killed. Her freedom taken away. Escape from the man or alien responsible is the only choice she has but deep down, it’s the last thing Mikayla truly wants and she hates herself for it. Falling in love with her captor is not an option, despite how seductive he is. He might get her body, but she refuses to give him what he truly wanted…her soul.

How the hell has Sidious been talked into this and more importantly, how the hell is he going to get out of it?

The last thing he needs while working as a mole for the rebel forces is another complication, no matter how enticing a package. But the second Mikayla opens her sarcastic mouth, he can’t resist putting her in her place. Seducing her is going be the most fun he’s had in years. Unfortunately, someone is onto his secret and time is running out…for both Sidious and his captive.

REVIEW:

The Earth is being invaded by aliens, Mikayla and her friend Krista are on the run trying to make it to Florida to get to her mother. On the way Mikayla is kidnapped by aliens, who take her to their spaceship as a slave. On the ship she is forced to work as a waitress in the ships bar. Mikayla is afraid and angry about her predicament, and is constantly trying to find a way to escape. She has a smart mouth and lots of sass that's constantly getting her in trouble, and drawing all sorts of attention to her. Unfortunately or maybe fortunately Mikayla draws the attention of Captain Sidious. Sidious is the most handsome man Mikayla has ever laid eyes on, and she's helpless to stop the way her body and heart responds to him. Mikayla is confused by her feelings for Sidious, she can't understand how she can have feelings for the enemy, a man with the blood of her people on his hands.

Sidious hates what he has to do in the name of the prime minister he abhors, He is really a spy for the rebels and hates that Mikayla believes him to be the evil enemy of her people. Sidious knows that the atrocities he was forced to commit to prove his loyalty will only make Mikayla the more resistant to him. He also knows that the sacrifices he has made will eventually lead to the end of the prime ministers reign, and give peace to the universe. Sidious knows he must continue with his ruse , even though it causes the woman he loves to hate him. He knows his feelings for Mikayla will only put her in danger if his cover gets blown, but he can't stay away from her.

I loved this story, I have always been a fan of futuristic fantasy romances, and this story did not disappoint. Mikayla and Sidious are strong characters and I was completely drawn in. When I finished this book I felt like I had ran a marathon, I was right there with the characters feeling their emotions. The chemistry between Mikayla & Sidious was HOT and burned the pages up. Sidious was the perfect hero, he was noble, compassionate, and sexy. Mikayla was very feisty, headstrong, smart, and very likable. I loved how she struggled with her feelings for Sidious, it was interesting to see her go back & forth with her feelings for him. The world building in this story was very believable, I was transported to a different world while I read this story. The Author left the door wide open for a sequel, Sidious has two brothers Stefan & Taron who are just as fascinating as he is. If you like futuristic romances with lots of steamy sex, then you will absolutely love this book, and I recommend you pick it up.

4 1/2 Stars


Series Note: Captive is the prequel to Destined for Two.

Format: Kindle Edition

Genre: Futuristic Science Fiction/Fantasy
File Size: 426 KB
Simultaneous Device Usage: Unlimited
Publisher: Loose Id LLC (April 28, 2009)
Sold by: Amazon Digital Services
Language: English
ASIN: B002ZG8RM0

Saturday, May 29, 2010

What I am reading?

I thought I would post this weekend since Tawania is unable to. Please send all your love and prayers to Tawania and her family during this time of overwhelming loss! We love you, Tawania!
What are you all reading this week? I just finished the latest Kresley Cole IAD book. Kresley Cole is the best paranormal romance author writing today. I would give all her IAD books 4 1/2 to 5 stars. The last book in the series so far is Pleasure Of A Dark Prince. This is the love story of the Valkyrie, Lucia the Huntress and Garreth MacRieve, Prince of the Lykae. This book is full of adventure, hot sultry sex, wonderful emotional love and incredible secondary characters. If you haven't read her Immortals after Dark series -RUN to the bookstore and buy book one and read them in order! I can't wait until her next book!
I am currently reading C.L.Wilson's first book in her Tairen Soul fantasy romance series. I can tell this is going to be an addictive series!! So far the storytelling and world building are fantastic. Not as sexy as K. Cole but great series! Beautifully written. C.L. Wilson has a distinctive voice that is like reading poetry.

Thursday, May 27, 2010

Dear Followers & Visitors

Due to personal tragedy in my family, I will not be posting new content on the blog until Tuesday June 1,2010. My nephew was Murdered in cold blood on Sunday May 23,2010. The police have no suspects & no motives at this time. As you can imagine this tragedy was unexpected & has hit my family hard. There is just to many things that need my attention right now, and I am unable to give the blog the attention it deserves. I will have Wicked Readings back up & running after the funeral on Tuesday. You still have time to enter my Follower Appreciation Giveaway, just click the link at the top of my left sidebar. I appreciate your understanding & continued support.

Tawania

Tuesday, May 25, 2010

Tuesday's featured poem.. I Have Loved Flowers That Fade.. by. Robert Bridges

I have loved flowers that fade,

Within whose magic tents

Rich hues have marriage made

With sweet unmemoried scents:

A honeymoon delight--

A joy of love at sight,

That ages in an hour--

My song be like a flower!



I have loved airs that die

Before their charm is writ

Along a liquid sky

Trembling to welcome it.

Notes, that with pulse of fire

Proclaim the spirit's desire,

Then die, and are nowhere--

My song be like an air!



Die, song, die like a breath,

And wither as a bloom;

Fear not a flowery death,

Dread not an airy tomb!

Fly with delight, fly hence!

'Twas thine love's tender sense

To feast; now on thy bier

Beauty shall shed a tear.


~Robert Bridges~

Monday, May 24, 2010

Blood Born.. by. Linda Howard & Linda Jones


Heidi Cheramie
Blood Born Review
Linda Howard and Linda Jones-Author
Random House-Publisher

Blood Born


Blood Born Review
Blood Born is a new series for Linda Howard and she collaborates with Linda Jones.  The story is about Luca Ambrus a Blood-born vampire who is an agent for the Council, the centuries-old clan that governs the vampire race. The Council is located in Washington D.C.  The setting gives it a political feel and is interesting.
Chloe Fallon is the human Luca teams up with. Chloe is able to channel spirit warriors and thus protect people from vampires.  Chloe also has a unique ability to remember Luca.  No human who interacts with Luca remembers him and haven’t for centuries.  Luca and Chloe discover a group of rogue vampires determined to destroy the Council and humankind.  As Luca and Chloe work together they fall in love.
There is a lot of background in this book.  The first eight chapters set up the world and the back stories.  There is some interesting world building and some new twists on vampires but it became slow reading waiting for Luca and Chloe to meet.
There wasn’t enough dialogue in this book and I would have liked some deeper character building. However Chloe is likable and Luca is hot! The book becomes more interesting and starts to come together in the second half.  This could become a very good series and I will read the second book. Many series I have read have a rough start and improve in later books. So I have high hopes for these books.
These are very talented writers and the vampire world and spirit warriors are interesting and could end up being an excellent series.  I give this book 3 STARS!!




Thursday, May 20, 2010

It's Thursday... What are you reading?


Wow, this month went by so fast. Can you believe it's almost the end of May? I swear some times it feels like the world is on fast forward. I read a really good book this week, and I couldn't wait to review it. If you haven't had a chance please check out my review for When Love Survives by. Susan Hanniford Crowley. You can check out the review & other related info HERE. Did you know, I'm giving away books & swag? Well... I am. I want to thank my awesome followers for following me, so if you haven't had a chance to enter my giveaway please take a minute and ENTER it now.

So.... this is what I'm reading.....











The Stormy Love Life of Laura Cordelais by. Susan Hanniford Crowley


From the back of the book...

LIGHTNING


Being descended from an ancient race blessed by Zeus doesn't help Telkhine Laura Cordelais, when she's desperate and standing between life and death. Her destiny looks bleak. Every choice leads to death, and there is no winning door. Or is there?

THUNDER

Begging God for love, Vampire David Hilliard finds his request answered in the form of the tormented and dying Laura. In saving her, he falls in love and dooms them both to a dark underworld of voodoo and sorcery from which nothing can escape.

THE STORM BEGINS

Curses, Keres, demons, oh, my! And the unicorn's horn.

THE STORMY LOVE LIFE OF LAURA CORDELAIS IS AVAILABLE AT

http://www.allromanceebooks.com/product-thestormylovelifeoflauracordelais-374695-139.html

That's my rundown...

So... What Are you Reading?

Wednesday, May 19, 2010

Review: When Love Survives... by. Susan Hanniford Crowley













From the back of the book...

MAGIC


Regina O'Malley is a college student who's just discovered she's magic. Today is the first day of her internship at a prominent brokerage house at the World Trade Center, and she's late. She doesn't know disaster is right around the corner.

LOVE

Gregor Vasiliev is a financial advisor at the World Trade Center. This shapeshifter hates the office coffee, and while on a donut run he gazes out the window of his favorite coffee shop. There in the street stands the lifemate he's been searching for. If he doesn't act now, he'll lose her forever.

IT'S SEPTEMBER 11, 2001...


Review:

Bravo Susan! I really enjoyed this story, you will absolutely fall in love with the hero & heroine in this book. Susan  took one of our most devastating and tragic events in American history, and created a brilliant, compassionate, and loving story out of it. She reminds us that love can develop out of the most heart wrenching circumstances. Regina is a wonderful heroine, she finds out on the morning of the attack that she is half Elf and half Leprechaun. Regina doesn't really believe it until after the attack,when she starts hearing the cries of the survivors and feel their pain. She knows that she shouldn't go to the attack site, but she can't help herself. Regina has to go and help find any survivors she can, she can't ignore the cries in her head.

When Gregor sees Regina in the street outside his favorite coffee shop, he knows immediately that she is his life mate. He pulls her inside the coffee shop, seconds before the tower collapses. When he touches Regina, she realizes that his touch comforts her, and stops the cries and the pain she feels in her head. When Regina tells Gregor that she has to go to the site of the attack to help, he doesn't want her to, but he understands why she has to go.

I loved Regina, and Gregor's characters, there was the perfect mix of love, compassion, and sexiness. Regina is young, but stronger then even she knows. Gregor is a fierce protector of his life mate, but he understands why she has to do the things she do. The relationship between them is steamy and moved  fast, but you don't feel like it takes away from the story. This story is truly a love story, and you don't forget that through out the  book. I also loved that their were paranormals or Nats as they like to be called in this book. I thought it was cool that the supernaturals in the city were helping in the recovery effort trying to  save people. You get a sense through out the book of how easily people come together in tragic circumstances no matter if you are human or not.

This book had me all emotional, it caused me to think back to that day on September 11, 2001. I thought about all the feelings and emotions that were going on that day. I am so happy that Susan wrote a story that made me smile, and leads me to believe that something good can come out of the most tragic circumstances.

 Rating: 4 1/2 STARS / 5

When Love Survives is available at:

http://www.allromanceebooks.com/product-whenlovesurvives-362921-143.html


Title: When Love Survives

Author: Susan Hanniford Crowley
Publisher: Tease Publishing LLC
Ebook ISBN: 978-1-60767-075-9
Release Date: Oct 2009
Format: Ebook
Genre: Paranomal/ fantasy/Sci Fi
Length: novella

You can learn more about Susan Hanniford Crowley & her Vampires in Manhatten series at her website & blog.

http://nightsofpassion.wordpress.com/

http://susanhannifordcrowley.com

Tuesday, May 18, 2010

Matterhorn Review


Heidi Cheramie
Matterhorn Review
Karl Marlantes-author
Atlantic Monthly Press
May 18, 2010


MATTERHORN REVIEW

Matterhorn is a war novel. A Vietnam war novel. But, I am a woman who never reads war novels, however once I picked up Matterhorn I could not put this book down. This is 566 pages of riveting, classic, American literature.
The novel takes place in a two month period in early 1969 in the mountains of South Vietnam. Matterhorn was the name the Americans gave to an anonymous 5000 foot hill. The Colonels see Matterhorn as a way to gain glory for themselves. Enemy body count is what is important to them.
Young 2nd. Lt. Waino Mellos, a reserve officer out of Princeton University has been assigned to lead a rifle platoon of forty Marines. Most of these Marines are teenagers. Mellos is twenty-one. We see the war through Lt. Mellos’s thoughts. He goes through unbelievable emotional, psychological, physical, moral and spiritual transformations in his first two months in Vietnam. While he will become a combat leader, he also comes to realize the absurdity of war. One of my favorite quotes is Mellos thinking of Matterhorn. “It was all absurd without reason or meaning. People who didn’t even know each other were going to kill each other over a hill none of them cared about.”
The Marines fight under the most horrible conditions, hunger, thirst, exhaustion, monsoon conditions, leeches, jungle rot, immersion foot, fear and inefficient weapons. Such as the M-16 that had springs too weak to feed the 20 bullets in its magazine and men died when it jammed. Or the agent orange dumped on the soldiers and told it was a harmless spray to kill vegetation. Marlantes describes these hardships so realistically I could feel the slimy leeches and smell the jungle rot.
This novel is about teenagers and young twenty-somethings fighting a war far from home and struggling into adulthood. The many subplots include racism, the politics of war, leadership, bravery and friendship. I fell in love with these Marines and the many complex characters in this book. I laughed and cried with them and feel I know them. This is a book that will always stay with me. I will never forget it.
Everyone should read Matterhorn. It is a classic written by a Vietnam veteran. It is realistic and eye opening. It is about a war that was too political. The tragedy of war lives within these young kids forever. As Lt. Mellos states “There was no filling the holes of death. The emptiness might be filled up by other things over the years--new friends, children, new tasks--but the holes would remain.” And as the Marines in Bravo company would say, “There it is.”

Tuesday's Featured Poem.. Days That I Have Loved by. Rupert Brooke


Tenderly, day that I have loved, I close your eyes,


And smooth your quiet brow, and fold your thin dead hands.

The grey veils of the half-light deepen; colour dies.

I bear you, a light burden, to the shrouded sands,


Where lies your waiting boat, by wreaths of the sea's making

Mist-garlanded, with all grey weeds of the water crowned.

There you'll be laid, past fear of sleep or hope of waking;

And over the unmoving sea, without a sound,


Faint hands will row you outward, out beyond our sight,

Us with stretched arms and empty eyes on the far-gleaming

And marble sand. . . .

Beyond the shifting cold twilight,

Further than laughter goes, or tears, further than dreaming,

There'll be no port, no dawn-lit islands! But the drear

Waste darkening, and, at length, flame ultimate on the deep.

Oh, the last fire -- - and you, unkissed, unfriended there!

Oh, the lone way's red ending, and we not there to weep!


(We found you pale and quiet, and strangely crowned with flowers,

Lovely and secret as a child. You came with us,

Came happily, hand in hand with the young dancing hours,

High on the downs at dawn!) Void now and tenebrous,


The grey sands curve before me. . . .

From the inland meadows,

Fragrant of June and clover, floats the dark, and fills

The hollow sea's dead face with little creeping shadows,

And the white silence brims the hollow of the hills.


Close in the nest is folded every weary wing,

Hushed all the joyful voices; and we, who held you dear,

Eastward we turn and homeward, alone, remembering . . .

Day that I loved, day that I loved, the Night is here!


~Rupert Brooke~

Sunday, May 16, 2010

Heidi's What I am reading!

I am reading The Drowning Tree: A Novel  The Drowning Tree by Carole Goodman. My book club friend Brandi suggested it and it is very good so far!! Only on page 53.

I just finished Matterhorn, Matterhorn: A Novel of the Vietnam War  A Vietnam war novel that was incredible! Haunting book that stays with you! I will be reviewing it this week on Wicked Readings. I know it isn't paranormal romance but this book is fantastic and worth reading! Of course, my love is romance especially paranormal. My next book is K. Cole's Kiss of A Demon King. I love everything K. Cole writes!
I love all of Tawania's reviews and have so many books I am trying to read. Love Wicked Readings by Tawania!!

What are you reading? I would love to know...

If you haven't had a chance yet, please enter my follower appreciation giveaway. Just click here or on the link at the top left sidebar to enter. Good Luck!

This week was little crazy for me, I recently moved and I'm currently playing catch up. So.. since I missed out on Thursday's what are you reading post, I decided to do it today.

I'm currently reading two books this week. I know I previously said I don't like to read two books at once, because I don't feel like I'm giving each book it's proper respect. The reason I felt that way is, I am the type of reader who gets swept away with a book. When I sit down to read everything else drops away, and I am transported to whatever land, circumstances, or situation my characters are experiencing. I know a book is good when I feel like I have experienced every emotion the characters in the book are going through like I was right there with them. In the past if I tried to read two books, I would stop and just concentrate on one of them, because it felt like I was cheating on the other book. Silly, I know but that's how I felt.

Well... As you can probably guess by now, I have had to re-evaluate my personal policy. I have learned that if you want to do what I do, you have to make sacrifices. I also realized that I wasn't really making a sacrifice, it's just time management. I now know that I can still experience the same things that I get from reading just one book, as easily when I'm reading two. I just focus wholly on whatever book I'm reading at the time,and vice verse with the other book. Well... There you have it, I'm a believer.

This is what I'm reading now....

Kiss Of A Demon King (Immortals After Dark, Book 7)Kiss Of A Demon King (Immortals After Dark, Book 7)


From the back of the book...

HIS OBSESSION...


Sabine, Sorceress of Illusions: the evil beauty who surrenders her body, but not her heart.

HER DOWNFALL...

Rydstrom Woede: the ruthless warrior who vows to keep her at all costs.

THEY WERE NEVER SUPPOSED TO WANT EACH OTHER THIS MUCH...

With each smoldering encounter, their shared hunger only increases. If they can defeat the sinister enemy that stands between them, will Sabine make the ultimate sacrifice for her demon? Or will the proud king lay down his crown and arms to save his sorceress?

I am on page 88 of Kiss Of A Demon King. I am so loving the IAD series!

I am also reading..

Ecstasy: The ShadowdwellersEcstasy: The Shadowdwellers

From the back of the book...

Among the Shadow dwellers, Trace holds power that some as willing to kill for. Without a stranger's aid, one rival would surely have succeeded, but Trace's brush with death is less surprising to him than his reaction to the beautiful, fragile human who heals him. By rights, Trace should hardly even register Ashla's existence within the realms of Shadow scape, but instead he is drawn to everything about her - her innocence, her courage, and her lush, sensual heat.After a terrifying car crash, Ashla Townsend wakes up to find that the bustling New York she knew is now eerie and desolate. Just when she's convinced she's alone, Ashla is confronted by a dark warrior who draws her deeper into a world she never knew existed. The bond between Ashla and Trace is a mystery to both, but searching for answers will mean confronting long-hidden secrets, and uncovering a threat that could destroy everything Trace holds precious.

I am only on page 31 of Ecstasy. This is the first book in Jacquelyn Frank's Shadowdwellers series. I loved her Nightwalker series, and I am thinking I will feel the same way about this series.

Reviews will follow upon my completion of these two fantastic books.

So.. That's my run down...

What are you reading?

Saturday, May 15, 2010

Saturday's Matters Days & Giveaway! My follower appreciation Giveaway!

I was trying to think of what I wanted my Saturdays Matters Days post to be about this week, and I decided on this. I want to Thank my followers!! When I started this blog, I didn't really have a plan. All I knew was..  I wanted to talk about the books I love to read. I never really expected to have five followers, let alone thirty five followers. I am so appreciative and humbled that there is people out there that actually want to read what I have to say. So Thank You Followers!! Now on to the giveaway..

I will be giving away three gifts. One gift will be just  for international readers, and two gifts will be for US/Canadian readers.

The gifts will be..

1 international reader will receive a gift bag full of swag, and a book of their choice up to $10 from the book depository.
1 US or Canadian reader will receive 2 books of their choice up to $10 a piece from Amazon or the Book Depository
1 US or Canadian reader will receive a bag of swag & a book of their choice up to $10 from Amazon or the Book Depository.

What's in the bag of swag? It's a surprise, but I promise it will be a really good surprise. It will definitely be book related, could be signed book marks, signed books, chocolates, etc.

Now for the rules...

1. You must leave a comment with your email address at the end of this post.
2. You must be a follower (this giveaway is for my followers)
3. You get 5 extra entries if you are a twitter follower @tawania_e
4. You get 3 extra entries if you are a networked blogs follower
5. You get 3 extra entries if you add my button to your blog
6. You must leave verification links for your extra entries

That's it, easy right?

I reserve the right to add more prizes at any given time.

This giveaway will run until June 5th, 2010 at 11:59 Pm. The winners will be posted & emailed on June 7, 2010.

Happy Reading & Good Luck!!

Thursday, May 13, 2010

Announcement: Heidi's a permanent addition!


I am so happy to announce that my good friend Heidi Cheramie will have a permanent place here at Wicked Readings. If you follow my blog regularly then you will recognize her from Heidi's Weekly Review. We haven't worked out a schedule yet, but we will definitely be reading and posting reviews regularly. I hope you all will love Heidi as much as I do, and appreciate what she brings to Wicked Readings.
Happy Reading!

Heidi Cheramie's Weekly Review.. This week Heidi reviews..Envy series by Joss Ware

Heidi Cheramie

Beyond the Night Review
Embrace the Night Review
Abandon the Night Review

ENVY SERIES BY JOSS WARE
Author-Joss Ware
Publisher-Avon
Beyond the NightEmbrace the Night EternalAbandon the Night


BOOK ONE: BEYOND THE NIGHT
BOOK TWO: EMBRACE THE NIGHT ETERNAL
BOOK THREE: ABANDON THE NIGHT

Joss Ware has written three urban fantasy/paranormal romance adventure books in the Envy series and I love them! These stories are set in a post apocalyptic world which is complex, original and current with all the 2012 concerns. A few extremely wealthy people who are now called the strangers caused the devastation and also gained immortality.

Five men trapped in a cave in Sedona when the world was destroyed emerge five decades later with some unusual individual powers and without aging. Dr. Elliot, Simon, Quentin, Wyatt and Fence are these diverse men who wake up with their old lives gone. Book one takes place when the men are trying to adapt to this devastated world where everything is destroyed and their family and friends from their old life are long dead. Mentioned briefly is the fact that Wyatt was happily married with small children. So each man has his own demons to deal with after losing everything they have worked for and loved.

Many people now live in a compound called Envy in New Vegas which was previously Las Vegas but is now next to the ocean and humid. Joss Ware does a great job with the setting and this new futuristic world. The characters are trying to restore some order to their lives and trying to survive on a daily basis. They must fight the mysterious strangers, bounty hunters and zombie like creatures called gangas. Book One is Dr. Elliot and Jade’s story. Jade was a prisoner of the immortals and is scarred by that experience and fearful of bounty hunters. Elliot is trying to deal with his new “gift” which has the power to heal but also has deadly consequences. Now Elliot is in a world where there is no such thing as a doctor. The sexual tension is hot! And these are two wonderful characters with much psychological damage. Can they heal each other?

Book Two is Simon and Sage’s story. Simon is a dark, dangerous, incredibly sexy hero with an intriguing past. He also has a new “power” that is very super hero. Sage was born after the change of course and has never known the modern world. She is extremely intelligent and working with the Waxnicki twins to restore some type of computer system. We will be seeing more of Lou and Theo Waxnixki in future books. Simon and Sage’s romance is unexpected and smoldering. Sage has two very sexy men in love with her and it makes the story quite delicious.

Book Three is Quentin and Zoe’s story. Zoe is my favorite heroine. She is a kick ass archer, a woman warrior and quite the loner. Quent and Zoe burn up the pages!! Hot! Hot! Hot! Joss Ware’s characters are never predictable. Quent was a rich playboy with an abusive, sadistic father and he feels he has nothing to offer this new civilization. Without his money, he feels he has no skills, no resources, and his story is wonderfully written.

All the Envy characters are flawed and complex. The stories have some cool twists and as in real life it is often surprising who the different characters fall in love with. This is urban fantasy at its best. Great adventure stories with danger and cool battles. And kudos to Joss Ware for having diverse characters! Zoe is Indian, Fence is African American and Simon is Hispanic. Finally books with different cultures like in real life!

This is my new favorite paranormal series and author. I can’t wait until Book Four! Write fast Joss!

I give these books 41/2 stars and recommend them to everyone. Enjoy and Happy reading!

Monday, May 10, 2010

Review: Daring the Moon By. Sherill Quinn

Daring The Moon
From the back of the book....

It takes a lot to ruffle Taite Gibson. But the enormous, snarling werewolf that's stalking her through the streets of Tucson? Yeah, that oughta do it. Those terrifying attacks convince Taite to seek out Ryder Merrick, a reclusive British horror writer reputed to know everything about werewolves, including how to kill them. Turns out he also knows how to leave her shaking with desire...On his remote private island, Ryder can live safely with the beast inside him, unable to harm others or himself. Then Taite arrives, her lush, sweet scent and gorgeous curves tempting him to give in to every wicked hunger. And as a full moon rises, the only way to keep Taite safe from the evil that's followed her here is to convince her to trust in an attraction that's deeply dangerous, and wilder than she ever guessed...

Review:

In Sherill Quinn's Daring the Moon Taite Gibson is being harassed by a stalker, and chased by a werewolf. What's a girl to do? Taite seeks help from her sexy friend Declan who is like a brother to her. Declan tries to protect Taite, but soon enough the werewolf finds them. Declan suggest they travel to this remote island owned by his childhood friend Ryder Merrick. Ryder is a horror author and Declan thinks his experience can help them. When Taite and Ryder meet there is a instant attraction, that Ryder wants to ignore. He is torn between helping Taite, and sending her away to protect his secrets.

I love shifter stories, and I was excited about reading this book when I picked it up. The story wasn't very original, but it flowed well. I liked Taite's character very much at first. She is smart, feisty, sexy, and she doesn't give up. Ryder is a sexy recluse, and doesn't have a clue how to deal with the attraction between them. The chemistry and banter between them is endearing, and the sex is hot, hot, hot.

This book was full of intrigue, suspense, and romance, and didn't disappoint in the action department. It was pretty easy to guess the identity of the werewolf early on in the storyline, but that's OK because the story is written well enough to keep you interested. The secondary characters Declan and Cobb offered some comic relief among the suspense, and intrigue. I am wondering how the author will tell Declan's story in the next installment of this series. It will be interesting to see how she incorporates his back story with his current circumstances. I will admit that some parts of the book got on my nerves. I thought that Taite took to long to get over her anxiety, and fear of Ryder once he revealed his secret to her. Ryder has a heart of gold, and tragic history. I couldn't help but be sympathetic to his situation. Don't get me wrong, Taite did come around, but in my opinion she just took too long. Other then that, it was a good read, I didn't get bored with the story. The plot was well written, and believable. If you are a true shifter lover you will enjoy this book.

3***

Product Details


Paperback: 320 pages
Publisher: Brava; Reprint edition (February 1, 2010)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 0758231881
ISBN-13: 978-0758231888
Product Dimensions: 6.8 x 4.2 x 0.8 inches

Other books in this series..
                       

Friday, May 7, 2010

Review: Night of the Huntress (The Brotherhood of Blood, Book 2) By. Kathryn Smith

Night of the Huntress (The Brotherhood of Blood, Book 2)

From the back of the book....

"I am the vampire known as Bishop. And I have sworn to destroy evil in this world."


Since the foul murder of my beloved wife three hundred years past, I have dedicated myself to the destruction of monsters. My obsession is rivaled only by the raging blood-lust that sets me apart from ordinary men. But now there is another who seeks vengeance as well. She is called The Huntress -- and when our paths cross, one of us must die.


But now that I have seen Marika Korzha, how can I be the instrument of her ruin? The beauty and courage of this determined vampire slayer move me in ways I no longer believed possible. And I alone know her dark secret. We are more alike than the exquisite Huntress realizes. We both crave justice...and passion...and absolution. And we dare not deny the desire that consumes us both... 
Night of the Huntress (The Brotherhood of Blood, Book 2)

Review:

What I really liked about this story was the creative spin Kathryn developed for how Bishop and his brothers became vampires. I have read several vampire novels, and I'm always interested in their beginnings. In this second installment of the Brotherhood of the Blood series, Bishop is confronted by Marika who is a damphyr (half Vampire, half human). Marika's sole purpose in life is to hunt all vampires in her quest to find the one who is supposed to have murdered her mother. When Marika meets Bishop she thinks he is like any other soulless blood sucker, but she soon learns that he is more honorable then any man she has ever met. Bishop lost his one true love 300 years ago, he never thought he could love another but he is intrigued and captivated by Marika's courage, strength, and beauty. When Marika's threatened and her life is in danger, it is Bishop who comes to her rescue, and they both find out that they have bigger problems then either one of them could have imagined.

I loved this book, and I read it twice. The relationship between Bishop and Marika is emotional, hot, and very passionate. There is also a lot of page turning action, I literally couldn't put this book down I had to know what happened next. Marika and Bishop are two strong,  intriguing, memorable characters that you will absolutely fall in love with. The background behind the evil organization that is manipulating the Brother's and Marika is fascinating, as well. You don't find out right away, who is behind their evil plans but they drop enough bread crumbs, twist & turns that you will be wanting more.  Oh, and did I mention that this book is set in the 19th century? I stopped reading historicals a long time ago, but with this book it doesn't matter. There was enough suspense, intrigue, passion, and hot sex that you won't care what century the book is set in. This book could easily be read as a stand alone, you get enough of a back story on both lead characters that you are not lost or wondering what's going on. I highly recommend this book to Vampire lovers, I totally enjoyed it. I find myself thinking about Bishop and Marika's story all the time. SO.. If you want to read a hot paranormal featuring vampires, this is the book for you. (In my opinion)

5*****

Product Details


Mass Market Paperback: 384 pages
Publisher: Avon (January 30, 2007)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 0060849916
ISBN-13: 978-0060849917
Product Dimensions: 6.7 x 4.2 x 1 inches

Other books in the series:




Thursday, May 6, 2010

It's Thursday.... What are you reading?

Happy Thursday! This week I'm reading two books, I don't usually read two books at the same time but I really had to play catch up this week. I have a question for you... Have you ever bought a sequel to a book you loved, a hesitated to read it? I bought the sequel to this book that I love way back in December. I have attempted to read it several times, but I always sit it back down and move on to something else. I finally concluded that the reason I was dreading reading the book is, I am afraid that it won't live up to the first book and ruin the series for me. So I was wondering, have any of you ever hesitated to read a sequel book for that reason? OK.. Moving on...
This week I am reading Desire Unchained (Demonica, Book 2) Desire Unchained by. Larissa Ione

From the back of the book...
Pleasure is their ultimate weapon . . .

Runa Wagner never meant to fall in love with the sexy stranger who seemed to know her every deepest desire. But she couldn't resist the unbelievable passion that burned between them, a passion that died when she discovered his betrayal and found herself forever changed. Now, determined to make Shade pay for the transformation that haunts her, Runa searches for him, only to be taken prisoner by his darkest enemy.

A Seminus Demon with a love-curse that threatens him with eternal torment, Shade hoped he'd seen the last of Runa and her irresistible charm. But when he wakes up in a dank dungeon chained next to an enraged and mysteriously powerful Runa, he realizes that her effect on him is more dangerous than ever.

As their captor casts a spell that bonds them as lifemates, Shade and Runa must fight for their lives and their hearts-or succumb to a madman's evil plans.

I am also reading.. Daring The Moon Daring the Moon By. Sherill Quinn
 From the back of the book...
 It takes a lot to ruffle Taite Gibson. But the enormous, snarling werewolf that's stalking her through the streets of Tucson? Yeah, that oughta do it. Those terrifying attacks convince Taite to seek out Ryder Merrick, a reclusive British horror writer reputed to know everything about werewolves, including how to kill them. Turns out he also knows how to leave her shaking with desire...On his remote private island, Ryder can live safely with the beast inside him, unable to harm others or himself. Then Taite arrives, her lush, sweet scent and gorgeous curves tempting him to give in to every wicked hunger. And as a full moon rises, the only way to keep Taite safe from the evil that's followed her here is to convince her to trust in an attraction that's deeply dangerous, and wilder than she ever guessed...

I loved Pleasure Unbound, and I am also really getting into Desire Unchained, I am currently on page 147. I will be reviewing this book whenever I finish it. I am on Chapter one of Daring the Moon. I won this book from the Author, This is a new series for me and the first book I have read by Sherrill Quinn. This is the second book in her Moon series. I will be reviewing this one as well, it's pretty good so far.


The Goods!

These are some of the books I got in the mail this week.


Wild Fire By. Christine Feehan
Descent Into Dark By. Jacqueline Lepore


 
Blood Tapestry By. Ishbel Moore


And That's The Goods!





Wednesday, May 5, 2010

Review: Pride Mates (Shifters Unbound) By. Jennifer Ashley

Pride Mates (Shifters Unbound)

From the back of the book...


CALL OF THE WILD

To most, they are animals-- even when in human form. They are to be collard and kept on the fringes of society, scorned because they are feared, hated for their extraordinary powers. And DA Kim Fraser has to go right into the heart of their lair.

It's her job to defend those in need. But there's absolutely nothing defenseless about Liam Morrissey. His soft Irish lilt and feline grace can't disguise his sheer strength. Nor can the silver chain at his throat, designed to control the aggression of his kind, completely reassure her that this man has been tamed.

Yet when a feral shifter begins to stalk them both, Liam is the only one she trusts with her life. She'll let him claim her -- for her protection, for her pride, and for a passion that knows no bound.

*Review*
 
I really liked this book, I'm always down for a good shifter story and this one didn't let me down. Shifters have been out in the open for 20 yrs now. They are made to wear collars, and live in the poorest parts of the city. They are denied up to date technology, and modern conviences that humans take for granted. One of the reasons I enjoyed this book so much, was it focused on the family structure of the shifter packs. How they had to band together to stay alive, how they protect their families and loved ones, and how fiercely they love. It was very  believable. The romance between Kim and Liam is hot, I loved their banter and chemistry. I also like the fact that Kim didn't play the weak heroine, she stood up to the shifters and proved that she was strong enough to handle anything she was given. Liam was the ultimate alpha, and the one that everyone in the community came to when they had a problem. He had the right amount of compassion, humor, bad boy attitude,and good looks to keep you interested in the story. There were a few plot twist that I didn't see coming, and a few times I was frustrated because I thought the romance was moving to fast. (I think it was just me though) The book was fast paced, and I found myself turning the pages wanting to know what was going to happen next. As a fan of shifter stories, I was very happy that Jennifer didn't try to make the story so far out there that it wasn't believable. To the contrary it was very believable, I could absolutely see humans, behaving and responding to the shifters the way they did. I am very much looking forward to the second installment in this series.

4****


Product Details

Mass Market Paperback: 304 pages
Publisher: Leisure Books; Original edition (January 26, 2010)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 0843960051
ISBN-13: 978-0843960051
Product Dimensions: 6.8 x 4.3 x 0.9 inches

Tuesday, May 4, 2010

Tuesdays featured Poem is...ECHO...By: Christina Rossetti

Echo...
Come to me in the silence of the night;


Come in the speaking silence of a dream;
Come with soft rounded cheeks and eyes as bright
As sunlight on a stream;
Come back in tears,
O memory of hope, love of finished years.


Oh dream how sweet, to sweet, too bitter sweet,
Whose waking should have been in Paradise,
Where souls brimfull of love abide and meet;
Where thirsting longing eyes
Watch the slow door
That opening, letting in, lets out no more.


Yet come to me in dreams, that I may live
My life again tho' cold in death:
Come back to me in dreams, that I may give
Pulse for pulse, breath for breath:
Speak low, lean low,
As long ago, my love, how long ago.


Christina Rossetti




Monday, May 3, 2010

Guest Reviewer Heidi Charamie's Weekly Review... This week Heidi reviews Bloodroot by. Amy Greene

Heidi Cheramie


Boodroot Review

Bloodroot

Bloodroot is Amy Greene’s multi-generational tale of life in the Appalachian Mountains. It is also Amy Greene’s debut novel and it is haunting. Like her characters Ms Greene has lived most of her life in the Tennessee mountains and the setting is a main character in this book.


This novel soaked into me. While not reading it I thought about the characters and found myself looking around my own Kentucky hills with a deeper appreciation for their beauty and serenity.


The rural, isolated life of Bloodroot Mountain seems timeless. A place that time doesn’t quite touch where people live simple though not uncomplicated lives. The folk cures, beliefs and faith of the mountain people reminded me of the Cajun folk of Grand Isle where my husband was born and raised. The speech, the way the people live on what nature provides, the generosity of neighbors, the old-fashioned roles of men and women, and the seeming disinterest in school-taught education speak of rural lives all over the world.


The story is told in many voices through several generations. Byrdie is the grandmother who raises the mysterious Myra. Myra who loves Bloodroot Mountain but later realizes how the choices she made took her away from her beloved mountain and grandmother.


Choices is a main theme that runs throughout the story. Choices that don’t only effect the characters but spread out like roots and touch everyone in their life.


This is a haunting novel that contains several colorful characters and their narratives. Byrdie and Macon’s love story, Doug’s unrequited love, Myra and John and the most compelling story Johnny and Laura, the twins.


Bloodroot is about love. Love that can be wonderful and warm or love that can scar and maim. It is about nature versus nurture. Are we destined by our blood to repeat the same mistakes of our parents and grandparents.? Or can we change inside and bloom into something new and different.


Bloodroot is an epic family drama with touches of folk magic sprinkled throughout. These characters will live inside you long after you finish the book. I give this book a 4 1/2 and encourage everyone to read it. Happy Reading!



Hardcover: 304 pages
Author: Amy Greene  

Publisher: Knopf; 1 edition (January 12, 2010)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 0307269868
ISBN-13: 978-0307269867
Product Dimensions: 9.5 x 6.6 x 1.2 inches

Sunday, May 2, 2010

AND THE WINNER IS......

I want to thank everyone who participated, and commented on Friday's Author Spotlight featuring Susan Hanniford Crowley. So....  Without further ado, the winner is.... Rebecca Leigh who said..

Anything vampire is definitely my weakness, but the Vampire for Christmas sounds fabulous!

Tall, dark, and handsome -- the forbidden kiss that could also kill you -- oh yeah!

Congratulations Rebecca!  Susan will be emailing you shortly with your copy.

Saturday, May 1, 2010

AND THE WINNER IS......

I want to thank everyone who entered my Saturday's Matters Days Giveaway. I hope I have shamelessly turned y'all into Bleach lovers like myself. If you didn't win don't worry, I will be hosting another Bleach giveaway Saturday May 8, 2010.

I put all the entries in my big old black top hat, and my 7yr old Daughter Miss Anaya Rose  drew the winner

So without further ado...

The winner is..... (insert drum roll)  Comment #5 Amanda Leigh! who said...

"Oh my gosh! This show sounds like so much fun! I'm so glad you did this post and giveaway Tawania! I'd love to win this because I want to watch it. It sounds like something I'll love! If I don't win I'll have to track it down somehow."

Congratulations Amanda, I will be emailing you shortly.