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Thursday, September 30, 2010

Contest Time! Win A Copy Of Safe Harbor by Moira Rogers


Win a copy of A Safe Harbor by Moira Rogers!
A Safe HarborFind out how it all began...
During the bite of the Great Depression, sole female dominant Joan Fuller struggles against the rise of cruelty among her alpha counterparts. The men tolerate her interference--until she breaks from the pack and allies with a witch and a vampire. Now the Boston alpha intends to bring them all forcibly back into the fold--and teach her a lesson she may not survive.
Seamus Whelan and his werewolf bootleggers intend to retire from smuggling and savor their fortune, but first they must do a favor for an old friend: escort some female wolves to safety. An easy job, if their leader wasn't a prim ex-debutante with enough power to challenge Seamus himself. Chance makes them allies; powerful need makes them lovers.
Together, they have the opportunity to build a sanctuary for their kind, but first they must free themselves from Joan's past, and the powerful man who would see her destroyed.
Leave a comment for a chance to win a digital copy of A Safe Harbor!
This contest is a part of Moira Rogers' & Vivian Arend's Fall Frenzy Event. For your chance to win books, gift certificates, ereaders and more, visit http://www.moirarogers.com/contests/

RULES:

No rules! Just leave a comment with your email addy, and the randomly chosen winner will be announced & notified on October 15th.

Good Luck!

Wednesday, September 29, 2010

Review: Jane's Warlord - by. Angela Knight

Tawania
Review: Jane's Warlord
Author: Angela Knight

Jane's Warlord (Berkley Sensation)

Blurb...

Reporter Jane Colby is shocked by a gruesome murder in her small southern town, but she is even more stunned to learn that the murderer isn't from this century and that she is his main target. Her only chance at surviving is fighting fire with fire, or, in this case, future with future, as embodied in Baran Arvid, a twenty-fourth-century warrior. Baran's orders are to keep her from dying, and Jane's mission is to stop the murderer before he kills again. As the tension mounts and their trust grows, both realize they're also trying not to lose their hearts.

Review:

This book was all kinds of hot, which is not surprising coming from Angela Knight. This story had all the elements that make a story great. A sci-fi romance, suspense thriller with a humorous twist.

Jane Colby is a newspaper owner, reporter, and photographer. She's investigating the murders of young women in her town. Jane returns home one night from covering a woman's murder, and is surprised by two visitors.

Baran Arvid is A Warlord  from the 24th century, he and his partner Frieka who is a genetically engineered talking wolf, have been sent back in time to protect Jane from the Jump Killer (serial killer) who is also from the future. Baran is genetically engineered, he is 5x stronger, and faster then humans, and so is the jump killer. Baran knows he must save Jane at all cost, or the consequences will be unimaginable.

Jane can't believe what Baran is telling her, and it doesn't help that he's the most handsome man she has ever seen. All Jane knows is that she has to protect herself, and the other women in the town from the killer. Baran informs her that she has to stay next to him at all times, because the killer can just jump into any room , anywhere. Jane is a strong heroine, so she doesn't feel like she needs Baran, and his hilarious sidekick with her at all times. She soon changes her mind, when she witness first hand what the killer is capable of.

Baran, knows he can't let his attraction to Jane distract him from his primary mission of keeping her safe, there is just too much at stake. He can't seem to keep his hands off her though, and he realizes that she's making him feel emotions he never thought he would feel again. There are other complications too, a cop that was friends with Jane's father. He knows something is off about Baran, and he's convinced that he has something to do with the murders in the town.

This story was scorching, the chemistry between Jane, and Baran was HOT HOT HOT! I literally couldn't put this book down. There was excitement, a steamy romance, and lots of action.

Baran was the ultimate hero, he was tough, caring, and willing to risk his life to save others. oh, he tried to act the tough part, but his goodness shown through time and time again throughout the story. Jane, wasn't a pushover either, she was smart, witty, beautiful, and she did her fair share of saving as well. They were perfect for each other.

The sidekick talking wolf, Frieka was the perfect companion for Baran, and he provided most of the humor for the story. Freika is really smart, and full of knowledge. He was like a walking talking library. The banter between him, Jane, and Baran was priceless, and the story wouldn't have been the same without it.

This book was one of my favorite reads, and I know I will be picking it up again. It was so exciting to read! Jane, and Baran has to stay one step ahead of the killer at all times, while trying to make the most of the time they have together. It was so sweet! It was also one of the most sexiest, steamiest reads I have ever read that wasn't labeled EROTICA. I repeat the sexual scenes in this book were on FIRE! HOT HOT HOT..  Angela Knight's world building was excellent as well, the future she envisioned is wondrous. I have already picked up the book Warrior that's also set in her future world. I'm super excited to be reading that one next. 

If you want to read a fast paced, sci-fi futuristic, suspense thriller romance, then this is the book for you.. Really it is.. I want to read it over again right now.
****4 1/2 Stars


Product Details


Paperback: 320 pages
Publisher: Berkley (June 1, 2004)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 0425196844
ISBN-13: 978-0425196847
Product Dimensions: 6.6 x 4.5 x 0.9 inches




Tuesday, September 28, 2010

Tuesday Is Poem Day! Afton Water - by. Robert Burns


Afton Water


Flow gently, sweet Afton, among thy Green braes,

Flow gently, I'll sing thee a song in thy praise;

My Mary's asleep by thy murmuring stream,

Flow gently, sweet Afton, disturb not her dream.



Thou stock-dove whose echo resounds through the glen,

Ye wild whistling blackbirds in yon thorny den,

Thou green-crested lapwing, thy screaming forbear,

I charge you disturb not my slumbering fair.



How lofty, sweet Afton, thy neighboring hills,

Far marked with the courses of clear winding rills;

There daily I wander as noon rises high,

My flocks and my Mary's sweet cot in my eye.



How pleasant thy banks and green valleys below,

Where wild in the woodlands the primroses blow;

There oft as mild evening weeps over the lea,

The sweet-scented birk shades my Mary and me.



Thy crystal stream, Afton, how lovely it glides,

And winds by the cot where my Mary resides;

How wanton the waters her snowy feet lave,

As gathering sweet flowerets she stems thy clear wave.



Flow gently, sweet Afton, among thy Green braes,

Flow gently, sweet river, the theme of my lays;

My Mary's asleep by thy murmuring stream,

Flow gently, sweet Afton, disturb not her dream.



~ Robert Burns ~

Saturday, September 25, 2010

Recipe Saturday - Greek Style Shrimp Scampi and Linguini

Hello All,

It's Saturday, and recipe time again. The recipe I chose for this week is Greek Style Shrimp Scampi and Linguini. I got this recipe out of Rachel Ray's cookbook a few years ago. I prepared this recipe for my friend Michele who was having a dinner party. Michele called me after the party, and told me how much everyone liked it. I have made it for her three times since, so I guess they really do love it. It's easy to make, and I hope you all enjoy it too.

Greek Style Shrimp Scampi and Linguini


Prep: 12min Cook: 15min Yield: 4 Serving



Ingredients



1 pound linguini


Salt

Pepper


1 pound medium to large shrimp deveined and peeled, tails removed


1/3 cup extra-virgin olive oil


4 cloves garlic, thinly sliced


Couple pinches red pepper flakes


1/2 lemon, zested and juiced


2 sprigs oregano, finely chopped


Handful pitted kalamata olives, chopped


1/2 cup white wine, eyeball it


1/2 cup chopped flat-leaf parsley


1 cup feta cheese crumbles 
 
Directions: 
 
1. Place a large pot of water on the stove to boil. Salt water and cook pasta to al dente.



2. Season the shrimp with salt and pepper. While the pasta water comes to a boil, heat extra-virgin olive oil in a deep skillet with garlic. When garlic is brown, remove and reserve. Add shrimp and cook 3 to 4 minutes. Add red pepper flakes, lemon zest, oregano, olives, and wine and cook together  couple of minutes more.

3. Remove from heat. Add a ladle of starchy pasta cooking water to sauce and some lemon juice. Remove the sauce from the heat. Drain pasta and add to the skillet. Let pasta soak in juices for a minute then toss with parsley and feta. Use tongs to pull pasta from skillet, giving it a turn to twist in as many ingredients as possible. Then, use the tongs to remove and arrange the shrimp and ingredients that may remain in the pan, distributing them evenly among the portions.


Enjoy!!

 






Friday, September 24, 2010

Review: Magicus Catonium - by. Udita Plaha

Tawania
Review- Magicus Catonium
Author- Udita Plaha




Synopsis: Taken from author's Website


In the introductory book of the Praesidis series, two fourteen year old girls start a journey to correct the damage done to Magicus Catonium. In the process, they develop abilities unknown to most and finally discover their true identities. Even under the protection of two young but capable wizards, their journey is marked with many battles, not all ending in victory.They meet people along the way who change the way they see the world, in a positive or negative way. To really defeat their villain, the girls must learn to distinguish between enemies and friends while under the pressure of a world spiraling out of control. Follow the girls as they rise to their full potential and assume their roles as the next Praesidis of Magicus Catonium.

Review:


Reading this book was like being on an adventure. The author's world building was phenomenal, I felt like I was right there with the characters. I felt as if I were seeing every aspect of Magicus Catonium through their eyes.

Ria and Anna are two typical teenagers. They are best friends, and have grown up together in the same house with their two single mothers, who also happen to be best friends. Ria and Anna are often mistaken as twins, but in all actuality are not related. Ria and Anna have more in common then they know, or can believe as they learn upon their journey together.

Ria and Anna are out on a run one day when Anna hears something in the bushes, and stops to investigate. She is pulled through a tunnel under ground, and Ria jumps in behind her. When Ria and Anna land on the other side of the tunnel, they meet Lita. Lita informs them that they have been summoned through a portal, and that they are no longer on Earth, but in a alternate universe known as Magicus Catonium. Lita tells the girls that they have magic inside them, and that it's their destiny to save Magicus Catonium from an evil Wizard name Solan.

Ria and Anna are confused by all they hear from Lita, they are even more shocked to learn that their mothers can also do magic, and have subtly been training them for this day. Lita also confides to the girls, that the universe will fall to Solan, and it will be the end of them all if they don't learn to use their magic and defeat him. The girls agree to stay and learn, to find out more about their heritage and the secrets that have been kept from them regarding their parents.

Ria and Anna start their training with Lita, Leon, and Ricky. Leon, and Ricky are twins who also attend Lita's magic school. There is an attraction between the four of them, that they can't explain.There is also something not quite right about the brothers, but the girls need all the help they can get. While in the midst of their training the school is attacked by Solan, and the girls are smuggled out, by Leon and Ricky, then the adventures begin.

The group meets several secondary characters on their journey to train, and face Solan. They first come upon Marn, a Water Nymph cast out by her people for being the runt of the clan. Marn joins them, and helps them in ways they never imagined. Then they come upon Joy, and Rain, two humans known as tills who stumbled across a portal and have been trapped in Magicus Catonium since, and Finally Selene who lost her husband and son to the war with Solan . The small group form a bond, and band together.

The path the group must travel is wrought with danger, betrayal, and pain. They all must continue for the sake of the universe. Ria and Anna learn so much about themselves on this journey, but they are still in the dark about so many things. The universe of Magicus Catonium is depending on the Praesidis to save them. Can Ria and Anna learn to wield their magic, find out and understand their past so that the world will have a future? Will they learn what it means to be the true Praesidis? To get those answers, and so many more Read Magicus Catonium book one of the Praesidis Series.

I really enjoyed this book, I have a teenage daughter and I can't wait for her to read this adventure. I thought the world building was excellent, the author wove her story together so magnificently, that I could very well see this story turned into a movie. The secondary characters were interesting and fun to read about as well. I couldn't put this book down, I kept finding my mind wandering to where I left off. I had to pick the book up and continue reading to find out what happens next. Really, that's how good it was. The heroines and secondary characters grow so much, in such significant ways in this book. I felt a sense of motherly pride while reading it. Udita Plaha did a wonderful job setting up this series with Magicus Catonium. The ending leaves you with so many questions, that you will be tearing your hair out waiting for the next installment. I can't wait to find out what happens, next on their journey together.

I have to admit, I'm not a big YA fan but I think this book might have turned me into one. I now understand what all the hype is about.

If you want to read an exciting beginning to a series, that I know will be most excellent you should definitely check out Magicus Catonium. I promise you won't be disappointed, I wasn't.

****4 1/2Stars

You can purchase Magicus Catonium at the Online Store

To learn more about Magicus Catonium and the Praesidis Series you can visit the Author's website HERE

Here is an Excerpt from Magicus Catonium

*EXCERPT*

Wind whipped her hair around her face as she stared in shock at the man approaching her cautiously. His footsteps echoed off the wet cobblestone path and bounced off the walls of the darkened alley. Disbelief cast a strange look on the man’s face, along with the dim light of the torches he passed. The look mirrored the one the woman gave him now.


“No. Not you.” Horror darkened the woman’s face and brought out the small crinkles in her forehead.


“I told you to stay away Jenn.” He stopped just before the lamp’s light started; hiding in the shadows.


“Why are you helping him?” Jenn asked, distraught.

“Some things are best left unknown. You know what my orders are, yet you still won’t give up.” The man said quietly. His face was expressionless, but confusion filled his eyes.


“You’re right.” She said coldly. “I know what you’re here for. But this isn’t about me anymore. It’s about what I can do, what I can prevent.” Her voice dropped to a whisper. “I can save us. I won’t let them harm you when I’m done. You have to help me. All you have to do is step away like I was never here.”


“I don’t have a choice in this Jenn. He can-” the man took a step forward. The light shone off something on his neck; a silver collar. “He can do things you’ve never imagined. Just leave before he finds out. I can’t hide you much longer. Soon it’ll wear off and he’ll know you’re here.”


“Look, it’s not about us anymore. There are too many people involved now for this to end happily. Rianne and Ean are in this now too. Stand up to him for once. Fight this hold he has on you. At least for them.”


“I told you I can’t. It’s too late now. There is so much you don’t know. I can’t risk-”


“Is he threatening you?” Jenn scoffed. “If that’s it-”


“No! Jenn I wish it were that simple. Please just turn back. You still have a few minutes.”


“You’re just another coward. Kyaro was strong enough-”


“To get himself killed? I am not a coward. I am not proud of what I have done, I admit. But you have no idea what he can do to a person.” The man’s sounded bitter.


“Is this your way of being noble?” Revulsion filled her voice. “Once he gets what he wants, he won’t spare anyone. And you’re ready to help him destroy everything we once worked for. You betrayed your own children, you abandoned the world, and you lied to me.”


“I have made my decision.” The man waved his hand, and the woman fell over, as if struck by an invisible hand. His voice drained of all emotion, “I will prove to you that I am not a coward. To get to him, you have to go through me. You can defeat me, any day. But I should warn you, I can’t soften my blows. It’s not under my control. Despite that, you have to fight me back; I need you to and so does everyone else.”

“No.” Jenn said quietly. “I can’t believe we ever had anything. I will not fight back. I can’t kill you.” The expression on the man’s face changed to a sorry smile.


“Then there is no other way out. The end is near for the rest of the world, but for you and me; our world can end here. Kre-”

There was a flash of light and the woman disappeared. The man let out a guttural cry, filling the doom-ridden air, haunting the tenants of the village for years to come.

Thursday, September 23, 2010

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

Hi All!

Well it's Thursday again, and you know what time it is. I want to know what everyone is reading this week. I've been buying books like crazy, and I have picked up a few free reads & ARCs. I have been doing some reading, but not as much as I would like. I've noticed that I have been really distracted lately, and books that should have taken me a day, two tops have been taking me 4 or 5 days to read. Hopefully I can get back into my groove, and get my reviews posted sooner then I am now. Anyway..

This Is what I'm reading this week...

HellfireHellFire by. Kate Douglas

From the back of the book...

A new, more dangerous vortex has opened in the besieged Earth and the innocent souls of animals are being invaded by the malevolent strength of a powerful demon. For Ginny Jones, there can be no greater wrong - and to make it right, she joins forces with the Lemurian, Alton, a hard-bodied hero not of her world. Under a black moon, pitched battles for the survival of all that is good will be fought once more. The heat of their sensual passion emboldens the two warriors...but such passion may well betray them...Yet Alton is willing to make the ultimate sacrifice - life itself - for the human woman he loves. But time is fast running out...and time, like fire, devours all...

I really enjoyed DemonFire, I know HellFire will be just as good.

I am also reading...


Entwined (Eternal Guardians)Entwined by. Elisabeth Naughton

From the back of the book....

Forces of daemons are gathering and have broken through the barriers of the Underworld. Now more than ever the Eternal Guardians are needed to protect both their own realm and the human world. Zander can-t afford to think about what might have been with the bewitching physician he once regarded as his soul mate. But with eternity stretching out before him, he also can-t fathom spending his life without the one woman who makes him feel most alive. Perhaps he-s found his weakness, after all.

I definitely enjoyed Marked, I know Entwined will not disappoint.


That's my rundown....

What Are You Reading?





Tuesday, September 21, 2010

Tuesday Is Poem Day! A Song of Sighing - By. James Thomson

A Song Of Sighing



Would some little joy to-day


Visit us, heart!

Could it but a moment stay,

Then depart,

With the flutter of its wings

Stirring sense of brighter things.



Like a butterfly astray

In a dark room;

Telling:--Outside there is day,

Sweet flowers bloom,

Birds are singing, trees are green

Runnels ripple silver sheen.



Heart! we now have been so long

Sad without change,

Shut in deep from shine and song

Nor can range;

It would do us good to know

That the world is not all woe.



Would some little joy to-day

Visit us, heart!

Could it but a moment stay,

Then depart,

With the luster of its wings

Lighting dreams of happy things,

O sad my heart!



~James Thomson~ 

Monday, September 20, 2010

Review: Sins Of The Heart by. Eve Silver

Tawania
Review: Sins Of The Heart
Author: Eve Silver
Sins of the Heart (Hqn)

From the back of the book....

Half human, half god, Dagan Krayl is the Underworld's most powerful soul reaper. When one of his brothers is murdered, Dagan must use every ounce of his power to hunt down those responsible for his brutal death. But he must move swiftly—and carefully—if he's to have any chance of resurrecting his brother.


Yet that resurrection could wreak havoc on the mortal world. As an Otherkin, Roxy Tam has sworn to protect the human race, and it's her mission to stop Dagan. But when she sees him face-to-face, she realizes that she has seen him once before—a meeting that changed her life forever.

Neither Dagan nor Roxy expect to join forces for the sake of mankind, or to have their loyalties tested as they struggle against the potent desire that threatens to consume them both….


Review:

This book was amazing! It had everything a paranormal romance should, It was action packed and kept me engaged throughout the entire book.

Roxy Tam is an orphan, her mother left her when she was five, never to be seen or heard from again. In the world all alone, at nineteen she finds herself in a situation where she has been kidnapped and she knows she will die. Roxy's situation is hopeless, but she won't give up hope.

Dagan Krayl is a soul reaper, the son of  Sutekh, the underworld god of chaos. Dagan is half mortal and half god, His job in top world is to harvest dark souls for his father. Doing his job is how he runs into Roxy Tam, Dagan is there to harvest the dark souls of her captors. In taking the souls of Roxy's captors Dagan sets her free. He tells Roxy to go and live a normal life, one he can never be a part of.

Roxy Tam is an Asetian Guard of the Daughters of Aset, mortal enemy to soul reapers, and the very thing Dagan told her to avoid. Roxy has never forgotten Dagan Krayl, for eleven years she has dreamed about him. Fearing that she would never see him again, and fearing that she would see him again. She thinks she's crazy for being so attracted to him after finding out exactly what he is, but she can't help herself. Then Dagan enters her life again, they are both on the trail of a killer, and trying to put all the pieces together to solve the mystery of Dagan's brother Lokans murder, and the whereabouts of his body and soul.

There is a lot of mistrust between Roxy, and Dagan. They are essentially enemies, but the attraction between them is strong. Will they be able to put aside the mistrust, and work together towards there common goal, or will the attraction they share be the end of both of them?

This book was all kinds of awesome! Like I stated at the beginning of this review, I was thoroughly engaged in this book from  beginning to end. It was fast paced, heart stopping, and sexy as hell. The sexual scenes were steamy, but they didn't over shadow the story at all. As a matter of fact, the sex didn't even happen until I was two thirds into the book. Eve Silver is a force to be reckoned with in the paranormal romance world, and I for one will be picking up everything I can of hers. Oh, and did I mention that this book is the beginning of a trilogy, and book two Sins Of The Soul is already out on shelves. The final book in the trilogy Sins Of The Flesh is scheduled for release next month.

If you want to read a fast paced dark paranormal romance, with twist and turns that you can't even imagine. I suggest you pick up Sins Of The Heart, and let the ride begin!

****5Stars


Product Details

Mass Market Paperback: 384 pages
Publisher: HQN Books (August 1, 2010)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 0373774826
ISBN-13: 978-0373774821
Product Dimensions: 6.6 x 4.4 x 1 inches











Saturday, September 18, 2010

Recipe Saturday - Beefy Taco Rice Skillet

Hi All,

It's Recipe Saturday time again, and I have A fun easy recipe for you. This Beefy Taco Rice Skillet recipe is courtesy of my good friend Allison. I had this for dinner at her house, and fell in love. I hope all of you enjoy it as mich as I did.

Beefy Taco Rice Skillet
 
PrepTime: 30 Min Total Time: 30 Servings: 5


Ingredients:

1lb lean (at least 80%) ground beef
 
1 envelope (1 oz) Old El Paso® taco seasoning mix
 
1 1/2 cups water
 
1 cup Old El Paso® Thick ‘n Chunky salsa
 
1 cup  frozen whole kernel corn (from 1-lb bag)
 
1 1/2 cups uncooked instant rice
 
3/4 cup shredded taco-seasoned cheese (3 oz)
 
1 cup shredded lettuce
 
1 medium tomato, chopped (3/4 cup)
 
Sour cream, if desired
 
Directions:
 
1. In 10-inch skillet, cook beef over medium heat 8 to 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until brown; drain.
 
2. Stir in taco seasoning mix, water, salsa and corn. Heat to boiling; stir in rice. Boil 1 minute; remove from heat. Cover; let stand 8 minutes.

3. Fluff rice mixture with fork; sprinkle with cheese. Cover; let stand 1 to 2 minutes or until cheese is melted. Sprinkle lettuce around edge of skillet; sprinkle tomato in circle next to lettuce.

 Serve with sour cream

ENJOY!!

Wednesday, September 15, 2010

Blog Fest 2010 Winners!

Hello My Lovelies,

I want to thank everyone again that stopped by Wicked Readings, and entered my Blog Fest Giveaway. I had over 400 entries, and gained 160 new followers! I had a lot of fun reading all the comments, and I can't wait to be apart of it again next year. So with out further ado.. The winners are.. (insert drumroll)

US Winner - Donna

Canadian Winner - Tynga

International Winner - Susan K. Mann

The winners were chosen using Random.org

I will be notifying the winners via email momentarily.

Make sure you come back and visit Wicked Readings soon, I have some exciting giveaways lined up for October.

Happy Reading

Tuesday, September 14, 2010

Tuesday Is Poem Day! From The Sea.. By. Sara Teasdale

From The Sea


All beauty calls you to me, and you seem,


Past twice a thousand miles of shifting sea,

To reach me. You are as the wind I breathe

Here on the ship's sun-smitten topmost deck,

With only light between the heavens and me.

I feel your spirit and I close my eyes,

Knowing the bright hair blowing in the sun,

The eager whisper and the searching eyes.

Listen, I love you. Do not turn your face

Nor touch me. Only stand and watch awhile

The blue unbroken circle of the sea.

Look far away and let me ease my heart

Of words that beat in it with broken wing.

Look far away, and if I say too much,

Forget that I am speaking. Only watch,

How like a gull that sparkling sinks to rest,

The foam-crest drifts along a happy wave

Toward the bright verge, the boundary of the world.



I am so weak a thing, praise me for this,

That in some strange way I was strong enough

To keep my love unuttered and to stand

Altho' I longed to kneel to you that night

You looked at me with ever-calling eyes.

Was I not calm? And if you guessed my love

You thought it something delicate and free,

Soft as the sound of fir-trees in the wind,

Fleeting as phosphorescent stars in foam.

Yet in my heart there was a beating storm

Bending my thoughts before it, and I strove

To say too little lest I say too much,

And from my eyes to drive love's happy shame.

Yet when I heard your name the first far time

It seemed like other names to me, and I

Was all unconscious, as a dreaming river

That nears at last its long predestined sea;

And when you spoke to me, I did not know

That to my life's high altar came its priest.

But now I know between my God and me

You stand forever, nearer God than I,

And in your hands with faith and utter joy

I would that I could lay my woman's soul.



Oh, my love

To whom I cannot come with any gift

Of body or of soul, I pass and go.

But sometimes when you hear blown back to you

My wistful, far-off singing touched with tears,

Know that I sang for you alone to hear,

And that I wondered if the wind would bring

To him who tuned my heart its distant song.

So might a woman who in loneliness

Had borne a child, dreaming of days to come,

Wonder if it would please its father's eyes.

But long before I ever heard your name,

Always the undertone's unchanging note

In all my singing had prefigured you,

Foretold you as a spark foretells a flame.

Yet I was free as an untethered cloud

In the great space between the sky and sea,

And might have blown before the wind of joy

Like a bright banner woven by the sun.

I did not know the longing in the night--

You who have waked me cannot give me sleep.

All things in all the world can rest, but I,

Even the smooth brief respite of a wave

When it gives up its broken crown of foam,

Even that little rest I may not have.

And yet all quiet loves of friends, all joy

In all the piercing beauty of the world

I would give up--go blind forevermore,

Rather than have God blot from out my soul

Remembrance of your voice that said my name.



For us no starlight stilled the April fields,

No birds awoke in darkling trees for us,

Yet where we walked the city's street that night

Felt in our feet the singing fire of spring,

And in our path we left a trail of light

Soft as the phosphorescence of the sea

When night submerges in the vessel's wake

A heaven of unborn evanescent stars. 
 
~Sara Teasdale~

Monday, September 13, 2010

Blog Fest 2010 Giveaway Update & Recipe Saturday on Monday -Spicy Cashew-Chicken Bundles

Hello My Darlings,

First I just want to say, I am awed and amazed at the number of entries I received for my Blog Fest giveaway. I can honestly say it was a success, and I am so happy to have been a part of it. Now.. With that being said, I will not be posting and notifying my winners until Wednesday September 15th. I had over 400 entries, and I have to go through each comment and categorize them by US, Canadian, and International. Then I will let randomizer choose 1 winner from each category. That is going to take a while, so please bare with me, and be looking for my winners post Wednesday. Thanks to all my followers old and new for participating, It was a lot of FUN!


Recipe Saturday On Monday

I didn't do my recipe Saturday post, because I wanted to have my Blog Fest 2010 post readily available for everyone when they visited my page. So... I'm posting it today. This weeks recipe is... Spicy Cashew-Chicken Bundles. I made these this weekend for a event that I catered, and I was very happy with how they turned out. I received several compliments on them, so I wanted to share this recipe with you.

Spicy Cashew- Chicken Bundles

Prep time: 20 Min
Total time: 40 Min
     Makes: 4 sandwiches

Ingredients:

1 1/2 cups chopped cooked chicken

1/4 cup finely shredded carrot

3 tablespoons sliced green onions (3 medium)

3 tablespoons chopped cashews

1/2 teaspoon grated gingerroot or 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger

1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes

1/4 cup hoisin sauce

1can (8 oz) Pillsbury® refrigerated crescent dinner rolls or 1 can (8 oz) Pillsbury® Crescent Recipe Creations® refrigerated seamless dough sheet

Additional sliced green onions, if desired.

Directions:

 1. Heat oven to 375°F. In medium bowl, mix all ingredients except dough and additional sliced green onions; set aside.

2. If using crescent rolls: On ungreased large cookie sheet, unroll dough; separate into 4 rectangles. Press each into 7x4 1/2-inch rectangle, firmly pressing perforations to seal. If using dough sheet: On ungreased large cookie sheet, unroll dough; cut into 4 rectangles. Press each into 7x4 1/2-inch rectangle.

3. Spoon about 1/2 cup chicken mixture onto one end of each rectangle. Fold dough in half over filling; firmly press edges with fork to seal. With fork, prick top of each to allow steam to escape.

4. Bake 13 to 18 minutes or until deep golden brown. Immediately remove from cookie sheet. Garnish with additional sliced green onions. Serve warm.

This recipe can be doubled to feed 8, or tripled to feed 12, and so on. I served 40 at my event :))

ENJOY!!!

Friday, September 10, 2010

Blog Fest 2010 Giveaway! Sept.10-12th Open Internationally



Hello Fellow Readers & Bloggers,

Welcome to my little corner of the blogging universe! Isn't this event exciting? There are over 250 blogs participating, and they are all offering some fabulous prizes. Blog Fest Is hosted by Cinnamon at A Journey Of Books and  runs from September 10 - 12th, so you have plenty of time to visit all the participating blogs. You can keep track of your progress by going HERE or type this in your browser http://ajourneyofbooks.com/blogfest . You can also find a list of all participating blogs HERE or  http://ajourneyofbooks.halfzero.net/ . Oh yeah.. I almost forgot, If you use the tracking site, you will be entered into a massive giveaway. Now, how cool is that?

So... Here are the details of my giveaway

1. You don't have to be a follower of my blog, but I would sure like it if you were.
2. Just leave a comment at the end of this post. Please include your email address so I can notify you if you win, and let me know if you are a US, Canadian, Or International reader.

That's it, easy right?

I will be choosing three winners, one US, one Canadian, and one International readerEach one of my winners will receive a bag of swag, and two books of their choice, not to exceed $10 each.

So.. Go a head leave that comment, and then move along to Kara's blog World According To Books or http://worldaccordingtobooks.blogspot.com/ .

Good Luck Everyone!

Happy Reading :))

Thursday, September 9, 2010

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

Hello My Lovelies,

It's Thursday again, so you know what that means.. I want to know what everyone's reading this week. There were a lot of great new releases this week, I totally splurged on books Tuesday. I bought books online, at B&N, and Borders. So.. Who else splurged on books this week? Come on... You can tell me.. I told you about my spending. I have a book addiction, I acknowledge and accept it. O.K...  Moving on.... This is what I'm reading this week...

Sins of the Soul (Hqn)Sins Of The Soul. By. Eve Silver

From the Back Cover..

Alastor Krayl's world shattered when he learned that his father was the Underworld god of chaos and evil. All that saved him from self-destruction were his newfound brothers and the bond they shared as soul reapers. So when one of his brothers is murdered, vengeance becomes Alastor's obsession. And the enigmatic Naphré Kurata, a witness—or is she the killer?—has the answers he seeks.


A reluctant Underworld enforcer, Naphré trusts no one, especially not a seductive soul reaper who makes her burn with lust. Torn between duty and desire, she fights to keep her secrets safe from Alastor, even as she longs to surrender.

Sins Of The Heart was phenomenal, I cant imagine this book being any different. I am super excited to be reading it.

I am also reading...

Marked (Eternal Guardians)Marked. By. Elisabeth Naughton

Blurb...(Taken from Amazon)

Conniving Greek gods, horrifying demons, vengeful warriors, and true love clash in this sexy, fast-paced paranormal romance series launch. Cocktail waitress and bookseller Casey Simopolous leads a lonely life until the night she rescues a mysterious man from a pack of hideous monsters. The handsome stranger is the Argonaut Theron, a guardian of a realm inhabited by the descendants of Greek demigods, and Casey soon finds herself thrown into a dangerous romance amid secrets and prophecies that may hold the key to her own mysterious past and the salvation of Theron's besieged race. Naughton (Stolen Fury) occasionally stumbles in her narration, but she has a tremendous skill with steamy passion, dynamic characterization—especially of strong, multifaceted women whose friendships and family relationships play a crucial part in the story—and thrilling action.

This is the first novel by Elisabeth Naughton that I have read. I have heard great things about her books, and I already have Entwined to start reading when I finish Marked.

I will definitely let you know my thoughts on both books.

Well... That's my Rundown.

What Are You Reading?

Tuesday, September 7, 2010

Tuesady Is Poem Day! Cheer Up.. by. T.K. Varenko

Cheer up


 

Persistence, faith and intuition

Are sure to encourage you

When you are on a hopeless mission

Of living life with all its due.



It's a severe undertaking

That can at times make you lose heart

When amid doubts, lies, and aching

Your world is falling fast apart.



Despite the hardships rest assured

That better times are still ahead

And every wound with time gets cured

No matter how it feels bad.



Dream on and never get disheartened

In front of obstacles you face,

And things are certain to get smartened,

Fortune will smile on you with grace!

~ T.K. Varenko ~

Saturday, September 4, 2010

CSN Stores Winner! & Recipe Saturday - Pizza Stuffed Shells

Hi All,

I want to thank all my followers who participated in the CSN Stores Giveaway. It was fun, and I hope to do another one in the future. So without further ado... (Insert Drumroll)

The Winner is ...... elaing8!  who said...
That is a cute shelf. I have so many bookshelves right now I need one that I can hang from the wall :)

Congrats to elaing8, I have sent your email address to Jessica from CSN, and she should be getting back to you soon.

*You all still have time to enter my FB fan page giveaway. I'm giving away two $20 Gift Cards to any online book reatailer, all you have to do to enter is 'like' Wicked Readings by Tawania's fan page. You can enter HERE. The Giveaway ends at 11:59 pm Eastern time on 9/5/10 & it's open to everyone*

O.K.... Now It's recipe Time!!

I found this recipe in a magazine a few months back, and it has become a hit with family and friends alike.


 Pizza Stuffed Shells

Prep time:40 Min
Total time:1 Hr
Makes:4 servings

INGREDIENTS

12 uncooked jumbo pasta shells
1 tablespoon oil
1 cup chopped green bell pepper
1 medium onion, chopped (1/2 cup)
1 1/2cups chopped pepperoni (about 6 ounces)
1 cup chopped Italian plum tomatoes (about 3 medium)
2 cups shredded 6-cheese Italian cheese blend
1 (15-oz.) can pizza sauce

Directions

1. Cook pasta shells to desired doneness as directed on package. Drain. Meanwhile, heat oven to 350ºF. Spray 11x7-inch (2-quart) glass baking dish with nonstick cooking spray.

2. Heat oil in large skillet over medium heat until hot. Add bell pepper and onion; cook and stir 3 to 4 minutes or until tender. Remove from heat. Add pepperoni, tomatoes and 1 1/2 cups of the cheese; mix well.

3. Fill each cooked pasta shell with pepperoni mixture. Place in sprayed baking dish. Spoon any remaining pepperoni mixture between shells. Spoon pizza sauce over stuffed shells. Cover with foil.

4. Bake at 350ºF. for 30 minutes. Uncover; sprinkle with remaining 1/2 cup cheese. Bake an additional 5 to 10 minutes or until sauce is bubbly and cheese is melted.

This recipe can be doubled to serve 8, just double all ingredients.


Enjoy!!


Thursday, September 2, 2010

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

Hello My Darlings,

It's Thursday again, and you know what I want. I want to know what every one's reading. There was some great new releases this week, did anyone go on a book buying binge? I spent way too much money on books this week, but hey I can explain it away. I bought them for research purposes... I'm researching my addiction to books, so that makes it A O.K. ..LOL.. Really.. It's my money, and I can spend it like I want to! Just don't tell my daughters I said that... Anywhoo.. This is what I'm reading this week....

Demonfire: The DemonslayersDemonFire by. Kate Douglas

From the back of the book...

Newspaper reported Eddy Marks thinks she knows everything about her quite hometown. She couldn't be more wrong. Turns out Evergreen, California, is the site of a vortex that allows demons to cross over to Earth, and the only one who can stop them is an unbelievably sexy fallen demon named Dax who has just crashed into Eddy's life.

I'm a fan of Kate's Wolf Tales series, and I know it will be the same with this series. Kate's stories burn the pages up.

I'm also reading..


House of Immortal PleasuresHouse of Immortal Pleasures by. Katie Salidas

From the back of the book...

Explore the sensual side of the vampire world at the House of Immortal Pleasures.


Blindfolded and kidnapped, Daphne is whisked away to the famed, House of Immortal Pleasures, a Vampire-run Brothel in Pahrump, Nevada.

Sometimes the only way to mend a broken heart is to get back in the saddle. At least that is how Daphne’s friends see it. And since Daphne isn’t showing any signs of letting that happen, they take it into their own hands. With a few shots of liquid courage, a pat on the ass, and a donated gold card, Daphne is unwillingly sent into fantasy room 123 to meet her creature of the night, Connor.

It’s Connor’s job to seduce and entice Daphne to try all the expensive, sexual services on the menu. And he is prepared to do just that, until he peers into her mind and sees the damage done by her broken heart. After learning of her past pain, Connor’s plans change. No more is this a game of seduction to pad the pockets of the brothel owner. Connor decides to lavish Daphne with real attention and affection. Something she desperately needs. He will heal her heart the only way he can, by showing her she is beautiful, desirable, and sexy.

This is the first book by this author that I have read. The blurb is what made me pick it up, and so far I'm really liking it. I will definitely let you know my thoughts when I'm finished reading it..

So....  that's my Rundown..

What Are You Reading?





Wednesday, September 1, 2010

Review: Vampire In The Basement.. by. Susan Hanniford Crowley

Tawania
Review: Vampire In The Basement
Author: Susan Hanniford Crowley



Blurb...

A broken heart can never heal. That’s what Lorraine believes until this shapeshifter who keeps forgetting her clothes meets Theo.


Tall, blond, and handsome Theo, ‬vampire and‭ ‬Arnhem Knight,‭ assists supernaturals in need but when he meets Lorraine, he needs her in everyway. It’s more than desire. He wants her heart.

Review:

Well... What can I say? Susan has done it to me again.. Vampire In The Basement was a great read, really it was. I was so happy to see Gregor and Regina again, and Theo and Lorraine was such fun to read about. I have to admit it was also fun to see the Vampire David Hilliard in action again, he is all kinds of awesomeness. It was really good to find out what happened with Gregor and Regina after they left New York. For those of you who haven't read Susan's Vampires In Manhattan series, you are really missing out on some sexy vamps and shifters. Gregor and Regina's story from When Love Survives (my review of it is HERE) continues in Vampire In The Basement.

Gregor and Regina have left New York, and are on their way to Visit Gregor's parents to prepare for their wedding. Regina is nervous about meeting his parents, but he's her man and she loves him. The first person they meet upon their arrival is Gregor's sister Lorraine. Lorraine is recovering from a painful divorce, and feeling insecure about herself. She welcomes Regina with open arms and they quickly become friends.

Regina's parents arrive for the couples nuptials, and something strange happens to Regina. She has a vision of doom, a strange man, and a haunting voice. Her mother explains to her that this is a gift of her elf heritage, so Regina and Gregor go through with the wedding. A strange Elf appears claiming that Regina is suppose to be with him, and that he will help her develop her powers, and teach her how to use her magic. A fight breaks out between the elves and the shifters at the wedding. Regina, and Lorraine escape, but her parents, Gregor, and all the other guest are trapped by a spell.

Enters the devastatingly handsome Vampire David Hilliard, and Theo. Regina summons them to her to help  save the others. There is an instant attraction between Lorraine and Theo, and the more they are around each other the stronger it gets. The small group accompanied by their werewolf friends put a plan together to save everyone. Will the plan work, will Regina be reunited with Gregor?

Theo recognizes Lorraine as his life mate, the difficulty will be in convincing her of it. They have only been together once, but all the signs scream lifemate, he knows its forever. Lorraine can't imagine being with someone like Theo for the long haul. She feels as if she's not good enough for him, she knew her ex husband for twenty years and their marriage lasted two months. Will Lorraine get over her fear and embrace the idea of being Theo's life mate, will Theo risk everything for Lorraine?

If you want to know the answers, you will have to go buy Vampire In the Basement. Go ahead.. buy it, I promise you won't be disappointed. This story has everything humor, hot sex scenes, a sweet love story continuing and brand new. Susan kept the story interesting with the back ground facts about Regina's Elf mother, and Leprechaun father. It was also great to meet Gregor's family, and they were a diverse bunch.

This story had everything, sexy heroes, smart strong heroines, every kind of shifter you could think of, and a solid story that kept you entertained. I loved it, and if you give it a chance you will too.

****4Stars

You can buy your copy of Vampire In The Basement at All Romance