By Norm Applegate
Publisher: Black Bed Sheet Book
Publication Date: January 2009
Pages: 305
Price: $14.00
Description: Kim Bennett (who is featured in Applegate's other books as well) is a woman who is sure of herself. She is a madame who is into the S&M game and has recently delved into solving murders. When an acquaintance calls her and asks her to help because her lover - a vampire - was murdered, Kim runs to her side.
This takes her on an adventure that has Kim (and many others) looking for this vampire book - The Black Testament. The Black Testament was supposedly written by Jack the Ripper and has all sort of secrets in it. As far as Kim is concerned vampires don't really exist. So this is all some weird story. But as she gets deeper into the world Kim has to start to wonder. Maybe they do exist.
Tuesday, June 30, 2009
Monday, June 29, 2009
Book Feature: Lovestruck Summer
By Melissa Walker
Publisher: Harper Teen
Publication Date: 2009
Pages: 266
Price: $5.99
Description: Priscilla "Quinn" likes being the alternate girl. She thrives being the girl with the blue short hair that loves bands and alternative music. When an opportunity comes up to go work for her favorite bands music label she jumps on it. Even if she is only 18 years old. So off she goes to Texas to live with her cousin "Party Penny". Penny is everything that Quinn hates - pink, bubbly, and a sorority girl. When Quinn meets the guy of her dreams - Sebastian she thinks her summer is made. But why can she not stop thinking about her cousin's friend Russ.
Publisher: Harper Teen
Publication Date: 2009
Pages: 266
Price: $5.99
Description: Priscilla "Quinn" likes being the alternate girl. She thrives being the girl with the blue short hair that loves bands and alternative music. When an opportunity comes up to go work for her favorite bands music label she jumps on it. Even if she is only 18 years old. So off she goes to Texas to live with her cousin "Party Penny". Penny is everything that Quinn hates - pink, bubbly, and a sorority girl. When Quinn meets the guy of her dreams - Sebastian she thinks her summer is made. But why can she not stop thinking about her cousin's friend Russ.
Sunday, June 28, 2009
Book Review: The Edge of Desire
The Edge of Desire by Stephanie Laurens
Description:Christian Allardyce the 6th Marquess of Dearne loved Lady Letitia Randall and expected to marry her. When he leaves for war and she doesn't hear from him - she marries another. he just doesn't understand.
So when Letitia comes to Christian for help he is definitely wondering what he can get out of her. What Christian doesn't know is the circumstances of Letitia's marriage and that she blames him for leaving her to serve his country when she needed him most. This is his chance to redeem himself. Can he find out who really murdered Letitia's husband so that her brother is not blamed for the crime? What will Letitia owe him when he does so?
Thoughts: In terms of Stephanie Lauren books - I love her Cynster novels so much more than her Bastien Club novels. Maybe it is the idea of a devil may care family or the war talk that is much found in her Bastien Club novels - but the Cynster ones just appeal to me more. Saying that though - this series is worth reading.
I am ready for the last book in the Bastien Club series (as far as I can tell) the one that is about the mysterious Dalziel. The one that all the women seem to know and the men just can't find out what his past truely is.
What genre would you consider this?
Historical Romance
Overall:
Saturday, June 27, 2009
Book Review: Sunset Bay
Sunset Bay by Susan Mallery
Description: Megan has it all. A father who dotes on her. A wonderful cardiologist fiance. A great successful job. Then one day things start to fall apart. The men in her life which were her backbone start to disappoint her and she just doesn't know if she can recover. Add to that a mother who is incredibly needy and a sister who seems to never be there for her (or could that be more of Megan's portrayal then the truth)?
Megan has great friends though and they are going to help her through it all. When bad boy Travis reenters her life she can't help but be attracted to him just like she was when she was a teen. Many bad things have happened to Travis and he isn't the nice guy that she thought he was back then - or is he? He has returned and there is more to him then meets the eye.
Thoughts: One of my favorite things about Susan Mallery books is her insite not only into people's romantic relationships but their relationships with their families. Many times her book is as much about the bonds between sisterhood or with their parents as it is about finding the person you are meant to be with. For me that was especially true in this book.
In some ways this book is about Megan finding herself and doing what she wants with her life - not so much about the romance between her and Travis. The romance is still a big part of things - but less so then the other things that are going on in her life - job, marriage, family etc.
I hope there are more in this series and we can see even more of Megan in the future.
What genre would you consider this?
Romance
Overall:
Description: Megan has it all. A father who dotes on her. A wonderful cardiologist fiance. A great successful job. Then one day things start to fall apart. The men in her life which were her backbone start to disappoint her and she just doesn't know if she can recover. Add to that a mother who is incredibly needy and a sister who seems to never be there for her (or could that be more of Megan's portrayal then the truth)?
Megan has great friends though and they are going to help her through it all. When bad boy Travis reenters her life she can't help but be attracted to him just like she was when she was a teen. Many bad things have happened to Travis and he isn't the nice guy that she thought he was back then - or is he? He has returned and there is more to him then meets the eye.
Thoughts: One of my favorite things about Susan Mallery books is her insite not only into people's romantic relationships but their relationships with their families. Many times her book is as much about the bonds between sisterhood or with their parents as it is about finding the person you are meant to be with. For me that was especially true in this book.
In some ways this book is about Megan finding herself and doing what she wants with her life - not so much about the romance between her and Travis. The romance is still a big part of things - but less so then the other things that are going on in her life - job, marriage, family etc.
I hope there are more in this series and we can see even more of Megan in the future.
What genre would you consider this?
Romance
Overall:
Friday, June 26, 2009
The Well-Read Commuter Reviews Love Equals Sacrifice
The Well-Read Commuter Reviews Love Equals Sacrifice
By: Michael Stidham
What this book is about: As a Certified Public Accountant, Michael Stidham dealt with numbers most of his career. Alzheimer's was just another passing word he heard on television. Little did he know that one word would become a focal point in his life. So began his journey back to the Catholic Faith and the realization that Love Equals Sacrifice.
Did you like this book: With Alzheimer’s set to ravage the Baby Boomer generation, I think voices of unpaid family caregivers, such as Stidham, will be of great importance and comfort to those that seek to fill the role of family caregiver. I think this was an interesting book because it was from the perspective of a male caregiver’s point of view. Many books of these sorts deal with the perspective of a female caregiver. Stidham also did not delve extensively into the back story of his family before the disease, but rather stuck to the nuts and bolts of his routine as a caregiver and his journey back to his faith. I thought there were several points in the book that Stidham really could have elaborated more so that it was not so matter of fact, but overall an interesting and short read.
By: Michael Stidham
What this book is about: As a Certified Public Accountant, Michael Stidham dealt with numbers most of his career. Alzheimer's was just another passing word he heard on television. Little did he know that one word would become a focal point in his life. So began his journey back to the Catholic Faith and the realization that Love Equals Sacrifice.
Did you like this book: With Alzheimer’s set to ravage the Baby Boomer generation, I think voices of unpaid family caregivers, such as Stidham, will be of great importance and comfort to those that seek to fill the role of family caregiver. I think this was an interesting book because it was from the perspective of a male caregiver’s point of view. Many books of these sorts deal with the perspective of a female caregiver. Stidham also did not delve extensively into the back story of his family before the disease, but rather stuck to the nuts and bolts of his routine as a caregiver and his journey back to his faith. I thought there were several points in the book that Stidham really could have elaborated more so that it was not so matter of fact, but overall an interesting and short read.
Thursday, June 25, 2009
Book Feature: The Corinthian
Author: Georgette Heyer
Publisher: Sourcebooks
Publication Date: Original 1940 - Republished 2009
Price $13.99
Pages: 261
Description: Penelope Creed will do anything to stop the marriage she is being forced into. Even if it means dressing as a boy and running from London. On her way she meets Sir Richard Wyndham. Sir Richard knows he can't let Penelope run around the countryside on her own - so he offers to be her protector. What happens when he can't escape her love?
Publisher: Sourcebooks
Publication Date: Original 1940 - Republished 2009
Price $13.99
Pages: 261
Description: Penelope Creed will do anything to stop the marriage she is being forced into. Even if it means dressing as a boy and running from London. On her way she meets Sir Richard Wyndham. Sir Richard knows he can't let Penelope run around the countryside on her own - so he offers to be her protector. What happens when he can't escape her love?
Wednesday, June 24, 2009
Book Review: The Vampire's Bride
The Vampire's Bride by Gena Showalter
Description: The King of the Vampires, Layel has been on a mission to destroy all vampires ever since the death of his soul mate and wife. They killed her in a brutal fashion and he will make sure every last dragon pays.
In a battle he meets Amazonian woman Delilah. Delilah has a past with men who don't follow through and while she can't help but be attracted to Layel she knows that her focus should be on herself and the other women in her Amazonian tribe.
When the God's focus on Atlantis it means trouble for all of them. And many creatures are swept away into a game that could mean death for all of them. Can Layel get over his idea that there was only one woman for him - even if that woman is dead? Can Delilah start to trust a man - especially a vampire one? Can they escape with their lives?
Thoughts: This was my first 'Tale of Atlantis' book. It was quite interesting and different. I loved the different creatures. While this book took us far from Atlantis for much of it - it makes me think that I should try out some of the other books!
I love that Layel is as true to his dead wife as he can be. That he realizes loving someone else just means letting go a little - it doesn't in any way make his relationship with her any less special or important to him. Especially after hundreds of years.
Delilah is a strong charecter who doesn't need a man. Yes, she likes that she has found someone who can maybe show her up once in a while. But he is so much more than that.
What genre would you consider this?
Paranormal Romance
Overall:
Description: The King of the Vampires, Layel has been on a mission to destroy all vampires ever since the death of his soul mate and wife. They killed her in a brutal fashion and he will make sure every last dragon pays.
In a battle he meets Amazonian woman Delilah. Delilah has a past with men who don't follow through and while she can't help but be attracted to Layel she knows that her focus should be on herself and the other women in her Amazonian tribe.
When the God's focus on Atlantis it means trouble for all of them. And many creatures are swept away into a game that could mean death for all of them. Can Layel get over his idea that there was only one woman for him - even if that woman is dead? Can Delilah start to trust a man - especially a vampire one? Can they escape with their lives?
Thoughts: This was my first 'Tale of Atlantis' book. It was quite interesting and different. I loved the different creatures. While this book took us far from Atlantis for much of it - it makes me think that I should try out some of the other books!
I love that Layel is as true to his dead wife as he can be. That he realizes loving someone else just means letting go a little - it doesn't in any way make his relationship with her any less special or important to him. Especially after hundreds of years.
Delilah is a strong charecter who doesn't need a man. Yes, she likes that she has found someone who can maybe show her up once in a while. But he is so much more than that.
What genre would you consider this?
Paranormal Romance
Overall:
Tuesday, June 23, 2009
Win a copy of JULIE AND JULIA
Win a copy of the Julie and Julia by Julie Powell
Same rules apply as usual - Please comment below if you are interested. Be sure to include some way for me to contact you (if I can't find you I can't get you the book). Five people will be drawn at random on July 9th so enter now!
This contest is eligible to those 18 years of age that are residents of the US and Canada. We will not be able to mail to P.O. Boxes. One entry per person.
All entries are due by July 9th - so enter now!
Julie & Julia, the bestselling memoir that's "irresistible....A kind of Bridget Jones meets The French Chef" (Philadelphia Inquirer), is now a major motion picture. Julie Powell, nearing thirty and trapped in a dead-end secretarial job, resolves to reclaim her life by cooking in the span of a single year, every one of the 524 recipes in Julia Child's legendary Mastering the Art of French Cooking. Her unexpected reward: not just a newfound respect for calves' livers and aspic, but a new life-lived with gusto. The film version is written and directed by Nora Ephron and stars Amy Adams as Julie and Meryl Streep as Julia.
Same rules apply as usual - Please comment below if you are interested. Be sure to include some way for me to contact you (if I can't find you I can't get you the book). Five people will be drawn at random on July 9th so enter now!
This contest is eligible to those 18 years of age that are residents of the US and Canada. We will not be able to mail to P.O. Boxes. One entry per person.
All entries are due by July 9th - so enter now!
Julie & Julia, the bestselling memoir that's "irresistible....A kind of Bridget Jones meets The French Chef" (Philadelphia Inquirer), is now a major motion picture. Julie Powell, nearing thirty and trapped in a dead-end secretarial job, resolves to reclaim her life by cooking in the span of a single year, every one of the 524 recipes in Julia Child's legendary Mastering the Art of French Cooking. Her unexpected reward: not just a newfound respect for calves' livers and aspic, but a new life-lived with gusto. The film version is written and directed by Nora Ephron and stars Amy Adams as Julie and Meryl Streep as Julia.
Win a copy of THE IMPOSTOR'S DAUGHTER
Win a copy of the Impostor's Daughter by Laurie Sandell
Same rules apply as usual - Please comment below if you are interested. Be sure to include some way for me to contact you (if I can't find you I can't get you the book). Five people will be drawn at random on July 15th so enter now!
This contest is eligible to those 18 years of age that are residents of the US and Canada. We will not be able to mail to P.O. Boxes. One entry per person.
All entries are due by July 15th - so enter now!
Laurie Sandell grew up in awe (and sometimes in terror) of her larger-than-life father, who told jaw-dropping tales of a privileged childhood in Buenos Aires, academic triumphs, heroism during Vietnam, friendships with Kissinger and the Pope. As a young woman, Laurie unconsciously mirrors her dad, trying on several outsized personalities (Tokyo stripper, lesbian seductress, Ambien addict). Later, she lucks into the perfect job--interviewing celebrities for a top women's magazine. Growing up with her extraordinary father has given Laurie a knack for relating to the stars. But while researching an article on her dad's life, she makes an astonishing discovery: he's not the man he says he is--not even close. Now, Laurie begins to puzzle together three decades of lies and the splintered person that resulted from them--herself.
Same rules apply as usual - Please comment below if you are interested. Be sure to include some way for me to contact you (if I can't find you I can't get you the book). Five people will be drawn at random on July 15th so enter now!
This contest is eligible to those 18 years of age that are residents of the US and Canada. We will not be able to mail to P.O. Boxes. One entry per person.
All entries are due by July 15th - so enter now!
Laurie Sandell grew up in awe (and sometimes in terror) of her larger-than-life father, who told jaw-dropping tales of a privileged childhood in Buenos Aires, academic triumphs, heroism during Vietnam, friendships with Kissinger and the Pope. As a young woman, Laurie unconsciously mirrors her dad, trying on several outsized personalities (Tokyo stripper, lesbian seductress, Ambien addict). Later, she lucks into the perfect job--interviewing celebrities for a top women's magazine. Growing up with her extraordinary father has given Laurie a knack for relating to the stars. But while researching an article on her dad's life, she makes an astonishing discovery: he's not the man he says he is--not even close. Now, Laurie begins to puzzle together three decades of lies and the splintered person that resulted from them--herself.
Monday, June 22, 2009
Book Review: Night Shadow
Night Shadow by Cherry Adair
Description:Two special agents in the T-FLAC - Lexi Stone and Alex Stone, have a lot in common. Besides their name they both are part of a special unit that helps people. Alex is a wizard who has powers that include teleportation. Lexi on the other hand is a data cruncher who is excited about finally having her chance at the action. Add to that is their attraction to one another.
What Lexi and Alex don't know is that the people they are saving are being targeted by a mad man who has been planning this adventure for years. If they don't figure out what is going on their lives could be in danger too.
Thoughts: This was my first "Night" novel and it took me a little while to figure out this wasn't just some other special crime unit novel with a romance. There are wizards and genetics and other things going on. Once I got in to the story and realized what was going on - I did enjoy it and think I may pick up the other Night novels sometime in the near future.
I think as long as you go in to it knowing a little more about what it is about you will find that this book meets all expectations in a contemporary romance.
What genre would you consider this?
Paranormal Contemporary Romance
Overall:
Description:Two special agents in the T-FLAC - Lexi Stone and Alex Stone, have a lot in common. Besides their name they both are part of a special unit that helps people. Alex is a wizard who has powers that include teleportation. Lexi on the other hand is a data cruncher who is excited about finally having her chance at the action. Add to that is their attraction to one another.
What Lexi and Alex don't know is that the people they are saving are being targeted by a mad man who has been planning this adventure for years. If they don't figure out what is going on their lives could be in danger too.
Thoughts: This was my first "Night" novel and it took me a little while to figure out this wasn't just some other special crime unit novel with a romance. There are wizards and genetics and other things going on. Once I got in to the story and realized what was going on - I did enjoy it and think I may pick up the other Night novels sometime in the near future.
I think as long as you go in to it knowing a little more about what it is about you will find that this book meets all expectations in a contemporary romance.
What genre would you consider this?
Paranormal Contemporary Romance
Overall:
Saturday, June 20, 2009
Book Review: The Shadow Queen
The Shadow Queen by Anne Bishop
Description: The people in Dena Nehele have been devastated by many bad Queens who have only been interested in what was good for them. They now need a Queen who knows how to do things properly and the war that has been going on there for decades has removed all of those.
So away they go to the Shadow Realm and ask for help. There Lady Cassidy, a Queen without a court, has been waiting for her place in life. She isn't the most beautiful or the most powerful but going to Dena Nehele may be the best thing for her and for the people there. If she agrees to go and be their Queen she will have to stand firm in what she believes in. Deal with a man who wants her so badly and yet has been abused in the past and isn't quite what she is used to. Can she do it?
Thoughts: Lately I have been reading quite a few books that when I got into them I enjoyed them. I don't know if Anne Bishop plans on writing another book that has to do with Dene Nahale or if this was a single book in the larger Black Jewels series but I enjoyed it and would but my vote in for another book.
Cassidy is a strong queen who has done what she needs to for the people (and solved some mysteries in the process). She may not have all the power but she does have willpower and a strong knowledge of what is right. It would also be fun to see how Gray progresses. At first he is a man child who has been hurt so badly he can't age. But upon meeting Cassidy he begins his progression into the man that he could be. We don't get to see this finished progression and it would be great to see where he goes from here.
The Black Jewel books can be a little confusing (which is why the needed glossary in the front is a life saver) but at the same time I think there is so much good stuff and imagination going on there in this complicated world - that it is worth spending the time to figure it out.
What genre would you consider this?
Paranormal/Fantasy
Overall:
Description: The people in Dena Nehele have been devastated by many bad Queens who have only been interested in what was good for them. They now need a Queen who knows how to do things properly and the war that has been going on there for decades has removed all of those.
So away they go to the Shadow Realm and ask for help. There Lady Cassidy, a Queen without a court, has been waiting for her place in life. She isn't the most beautiful or the most powerful but going to Dena Nehele may be the best thing for her and for the people there. If she agrees to go and be their Queen she will have to stand firm in what she believes in. Deal with a man who wants her so badly and yet has been abused in the past and isn't quite what she is used to. Can she do it?
Thoughts: Lately I have been reading quite a few books that when I got into them I enjoyed them. I don't know if Anne Bishop plans on writing another book that has to do with Dene Nahale or if this was a single book in the larger Black Jewels series but I enjoyed it and would but my vote in for another book.
Cassidy is a strong queen who has done what she needs to for the people (and solved some mysteries in the process). She may not have all the power but she does have willpower and a strong knowledge of what is right. It would also be fun to see how Gray progresses. At first he is a man child who has been hurt so badly he can't age. But upon meeting Cassidy he begins his progression into the man that he could be. We don't get to see this finished progression and it would be great to see where he goes from here.
The Black Jewel books can be a little confusing (which is why the needed glossary in the front is a life saver) but at the same time I think there is so much good stuff and imagination going on there in this complicated world - that it is worth spending the time to figure it out.
What genre would you consider this?
Paranormal/Fantasy
Overall:
Friday, June 19, 2009
The Well-Read Commuter Reviews When You Lie About Your Age, The Terrorists Win
When You Lie About Your Age, The Terrorists Win
By: Carol Leifer
What this book is about: Hollywood comedy fixture Carol Leifer faced a dilemma. She could either stop telling the story of the greatest experience of her life (seeing the Beatles at Shea Stadium) or lie about her age. Carol had always found that after finishing telling the story of singing along to every song that summer night in New York, it was followed with amazement by those that the story had just been told to and the comment “Wow, the Beatles!” However, by the late nineties the amazement was then followed with the less that amazing and slightly unsettling question, “The Beatles? God Carol, just how old are you?” Leifer then realized she could deny her authentic self, keep the story under wraps from now on and keep people guessing about her true age or continue to share the story of her night with the fab four from Liverpool. How she chose to face that dilemma and just about everything else that came her way follows in her third book.
Did you like it: In tough times good comedy can be both a gift and an escape. This book delivers both. Consider your passport stamped, as Leifer dishes on the demise of her marriage, discovering her inner lesbian, adopting seven dogs from animal shelters, calling out lazy feminists and surviving class reunions. Part advice, part biography and completely hilarious you will find yourself recommending it to all of the women in your life whether they are 31 or 71. Well written and a joy to read. I also loved the format of the book- subjects are presented in sixteen short chapters so it is the perfect book to throw in your purse and pull out whenever you are faced with a wait. However, the first two chapters were so hilarious that I read the entire book in one sitting. Being an avid Seinfeld and Larry David fan I was familiar with Leifer’s writing and straightforward sense of humor, but she outdid herself for this book.
By: Carol Leifer
What this book is about: Hollywood comedy fixture Carol Leifer faced a dilemma. She could either stop telling the story of the greatest experience of her life (seeing the Beatles at Shea Stadium) or lie about her age. Carol had always found that after finishing telling the story of singing along to every song that summer night in New York, it was followed with amazement by those that the story had just been told to and the comment “Wow, the Beatles!” However, by the late nineties the amazement was then followed with the less that amazing and slightly unsettling question, “The Beatles? God Carol, just how old are you?” Leifer then realized she could deny her authentic self, keep the story under wraps from now on and keep people guessing about her true age or continue to share the story of her night with the fab four from Liverpool. How she chose to face that dilemma and just about everything else that came her way follows in her third book.
Did you like it: In tough times good comedy can be both a gift and an escape. This book delivers both. Consider your passport stamped, as Leifer dishes on the demise of her marriage, discovering her inner lesbian, adopting seven dogs from animal shelters, calling out lazy feminists and surviving class reunions. Part advice, part biography and completely hilarious you will find yourself recommending it to all of the women in your life whether they are 31 or 71. Well written and a joy to read. I also loved the format of the book- subjects are presented in sixteen short chapters so it is the perfect book to throw in your purse and pull out whenever you are faced with a wait. However, the first two chapters were so hilarious that I read the entire book in one sitting. Being an avid Seinfeld and Larry David fan I was familiar with Leifer’s writing and straightforward sense of humor, but she outdid herself for this book.
Thursday, June 18, 2009
Book Feature: The Nonesuch
Author: Georgette Heyer
Publisher: Sourcebooks
Publication Date: Original 1962 - Republished 2009
Price $13.99
Pages: 337
Description: Ancilla Trent is a woman who chaperones others. She is too old for marriage (at least according to society). She is assigned the duties of watching Tiffany Weld she is not looking forward to it as this girl is known to be difficult. Tiffany runs off leaving Ancilla to deal wit the scandal. Sir Waldo Hawkridge is a kind man who helps Ancilla deal with this horrible occurrence. And what they both learn is love can come at any age.
Publisher: Sourcebooks
Publication Date: Original 1962 - Republished 2009
Price $13.99
Pages: 337
Description: Ancilla Trent is a woman who chaperones others. She is too old for marriage (at least according to society). She is assigned the duties of watching Tiffany Weld she is not looking forward to it as this girl is known to be difficult. Tiffany runs off leaving Ancilla to deal wit the scandal. Sir Waldo Hawkridge is a kind man who helps Ancilla deal with this horrible occurrence. And what they both learn is love can come at any age.
Wednesday, June 17, 2009
Book Feature: Frederica
Author: Georgette Heyer
Publisher: Sourcebooks
Publication Date: Original 1968 - Republished 2009
Price $13.95
Pages: 437
Description: Frederica brings her younger sisters to London in order for them to make an advantageous match. To do this though she needs the help of her distant cousin the Marquis of Alverstoke. Dispite Alverstokes concerns he can't help but listen to Frederica's compassion and straightforwardness and agree to help them. Before they know it there is danger for both of them.
Tuesday, June 16, 2009
Book Review: Sins of a Wicked Duke
Sins of a Wicked Duke by Sophie Jordan
Description: Fallon O'Rourke has fallen on hard times. Abandoned into a school where violence was taught as much as academics - she has grown into being an adult through sheer willpower. With the help of two of her friends that she met in that school she has prospered.
She now has a job working for the ton of society. Unfortunately a young woman who is attractive working leads to many problems. The young men can't keep their hands off of her. What is a girl to do?
Instead Fallon decides to become a boy and get a job as a young man - that should stop the problem. Little does she know that job will land her on the doorstep of Dominic Hale - a libertine Duke who is known for sleeping around. When she starts to work for Dominic, Fallon figures out the problem immediately - she is attracted to him. When he finds out who she really is can he keep his hands off of her? Or is she going to have to move on to another job?
Thoughts: This was a really fun romance. At first I was a bit surprised (I haven't seen a historical romance start in the way this one has - with a hot scene in a carriage involving our hero, heroine and two random women the hero has picked up). But honestly that only set the tone for the sort of man that Dominic was before he met Fallon.
Fallon can't help but change the man that she has fallen in love with. The real problem is - can he admit his own love for her. I am looking forward to reading Margauerite and Evie's books which will be coming soon.
What genre would you consider this?
Historical Romance
Overall:
Description: Fallon O'Rourke has fallen on hard times. Abandoned into a school where violence was taught as much as academics - she has grown into being an adult through sheer willpower. With the help of two of her friends that she met in that school she has prospered.
She now has a job working for the ton of society. Unfortunately a young woman who is attractive working leads to many problems. The young men can't keep their hands off of her. What is a girl to do?
Instead Fallon decides to become a boy and get a job as a young man - that should stop the problem. Little does she know that job will land her on the doorstep of Dominic Hale - a libertine Duke who is known for sleeping around. When she starts to work for Dominic, Fallon figures out the problem immediately - she is attracted to him. When he finds out who she really is can he keep his hands off of her? Or is she going to have to move on to another job?
Thoughts: This was a really fun romance. At first I was a bit surprised (I haven't seen a historical romance start in the way this one has - with a hot scene in a carriage involving our hero, heroine and two random women the hero has picked up). But honestly that only set the tone for the sort of man that Dominic was before he met Fallon.
Fallon can't help but change the man that she has fallen in love with. The real problem is - can he admit his own love for her. I am looking forward to reading Margauerite and Evie's books which will be coming soon.
What genre would you consider this?
Historical Romance
Overall:
Monday, June 15, 2009
Book Review: First Comes Marriage
First Comes Marriage by Mary Balogh
Description: Three sisters have lived in a small country village for most of their lives. They have sacrificed and done whatever they needed to after their father died and left them caring for their younger brother. When one day a rich Viscount comes to the village and tells them their brother is the heir to a fortune and that he is going to take him away. These sisters aren't going to let that happen - they are going with him.
So away they go to city life. But the women need to have a sponsor, they are in their 20's and ready to be released to society and for Viscount Lyngate there is no one appropriate out there. Then again he is ready to marry so why not marry one of these sisters.
Elliott can't help but be attracted to what many characterize as the least attractive sister - a widow who cared for a dieing husband. But the thing about her that is so attractive is her personality. She is witty and always putting him on his toes. Is he ready to let her be the wife that he needs? Can it be more then just a marriage of convenience - can it be a marriage filled with love?
Thoughts: I have loved some of Mary Balogh's books and not liked others. But this one I really enjoyed. I don't know if it was the foil of the cousin Con who you don't know if he is good or not. I don't know if it is the fun characters of Elliott - who feels responsibility with is title or Vanessa - who is so much more than just another widow looking for a husband. But something about it just kept me entertained.
I can't wait to see where this family goes next. The sisters are fun, the other charecters are fun, and there is just a lot going on where you can't wait to see what is around the corner. Things are not always what they appear to be in this family that is for sure.
What genre would you consider this?
Historical Romance
Overall:
Description: Three sisters have lived in a small country village for most of their lives. They have sacrificed and done whatever they needed to after their father died and left them caring for their younger brother. When one day a rich Viscount comes to the village and tells them their brother is the heir to a fortune and that he is going to take him away. These sisters aren't going to let that happen - they are going with him.
So away they go to city life. But the women need to have a sponsor, they are in their 20's and ready to be released to society and for Viscount Lyngate there is no one appropriate out there. Then again he is ready to marry so why not marry one of these sisters.
Elliott can't help but be attracted to what many characterize as the least attractive sister - a widow who cared for a dieing husband. But the thing about her that is so attractive is her personality. She is witty and always putting him on his toes. Is he ready to let her be the wife that he needs? Can it be more then just a marriage of convenience - can it be a marriage filled with love?
Thoughts: I have loved some of Mary Balogh's books and not liked others. But this one I really enjoyed. I don't know if it was the foil of the cousin Con who you don't know if he is good or not. I don't know if it is the fun characters of Elliott - who feels responsibility with is title or Vanessa - who is so much more than just another widow looking for a husband. But something about it just kept me entertained.
I can't wait to see where this family goes next. The sisters are fun, the other charecters are fun, and there is just a lot going on where you can't wait to see what is around the corner. Things are not always what they appear to be in this family that is for sure.
What genre would you consider this?
Historical Romance
Overall:
Sunday, June 14, 2009
Book Review: Once Upon a Valentine's
Once Upon a Valentine's by Holly Jacobs
Description: Carly Lewis had a bad breakup. It left her a single mother raising two children alone. Her ex is ok with only being peripherally involved - if it doesn't mess with his schedule. After years of supporting him to be left on her own is devastating. So the last thing Carly is looking for is a relationship. In walks Lieutenant Charles Jefferson. When a small mistake turns into something criminal Carly and Chuck are forced to spend a little more time together. And that blooms into a friendship and attraction. But Carly isn't willing to put down her walls quite yet. Instead Carly is going to focus on planning the Erie Elementary Valentine's dance. Is Chuck - Carly's valentine whether she is planning that or not?
Thoughts:
For a quick read and a fun romance this is a cute one. I actually wanted to go back and read the other books in the trilogy (and was disappointed that Andy doesn't seem to be getting his own story either). I love the fact that Carly was hurt and didn't want to open herself up - but she let herself be drawn in when she isn't looking - because I believe many times that is how it works.
So I would definitely recommend it to any Harlequin readers out there looking for a fun and flirty romance.
What genre would you consider this?
Romance
Overall:
Description: Carly Lewis had a bad breakup. It left her a single mother raising two children alone. Her ex is ok with only being peripherally involved - if it doesn't mess with his schedule. After years of supporting him to be left on her own is devastating. So the last thing Carly is looking for is a relationship. In walks Lieutenant Charles Jefferson. When a small mistake turns into something criminal Carly and Chuck are forced to spend a little more time together. And that blooms into a friendship and attraction. But Carly isn't willing to put down her walls quite yet. Instead Carly is going to focus on planning the Erie Elementary Valentine's dance. Is Chuck - Carly's valentine whether she is planning that or not?
Thoughts:
For a quick read and a fun romance this is a cute one. I actually wanted to go back and read the other books in the trilogy (and was disappointed that Andy doesn't seem to be getting his own story either). I love the fact that Carly was hurt and didn't want to open herself up - but she let herself be drawn in when she isn't looking - because I believe many times that is how it works.
So I would definitely recommend it to any Harlequin readers out there looking for a fun and flirty romance.
What genre would you consider this?
Romance
Overall:
Saturday, June 13, 2009
Book Review: Smooth Talking Stranger
Smooth Talking Stranger by Lisa Kleypas
Description:Ella Varner grew up with a mother who put herself first always. So when Ella went out into the world she formed relationships with people that were very surface relationships - even with her boyfriend. She didn't want marriage, she didn't want children.
Then one day she wakes up and finds that she is the one that her family is counting on to take care of her sister's child while she gets herself better. The last thing Ella wants is to be left with a child - let alone deal with a man who left her sister alone and pregnant. If her sister is going to be the responsible one - she will find out who the man is and make sure he makes arrangements to take care of the child.
This leads Ella to Jack Travis. He says he isn't the babies father - but isn't that what they all say. When proof shows that he is telling the truth - Ella doesn't understand why he doesn't walk away. Instead he stays to help. Why? What does he want? Maybe he wants Ella.
Thoughts: I really enjoyed this book. Once I started reading this book I remembered that I had read a previous book in the series and enjoyed it as well. They both deal with families that love you, families or people that wrong you in some way and how sometimes what you think you want is really what you don't want at all.
In this case the main heroine doesn't want a certain type of romantic relationship because of how she grew up. She is the child that decided to love someone and be stable - and yet distancing herself from things that made her feel to deeply. But who can resist a child.
I loved the interaction between a woman who had no desire to have a child but when put in the situation couldn't help but love him. I know this wouldn't always be the case but for her who had put her other relationships in a holding pattern this was all she needed to recognize that she could open her heart and it may hurt - but is the good stuff worth the pain - definitely.
What genre would you consider this?
Romance
Overall:
Description:Ella Varner grew up with a mother who put herself first always. So when Ella went out into the world she formed relationships with people that were very surface relationships - even with her boyfriend. She didn't want marriage, she didn't want children.
Then one day she wakes up and finds that she is the one that her family is counting on to take care of her sister's child while she gets herself better. The last thing Ella wants is to be left with a child - let alone deal with a man who left her sister alone and pregnant. If her sister is going to be the responsible one - she will find out who the man is and make sure he makes arrangements to take care of the child.
This leads Ella to Jack Travis. He says he isn't the babies father - but isn't that what they all say. When proof shows that he is telling the truth - Ella doesn't understand why he doesn't walk away. Instead he stays to help. Why? What does he want? Maybe he wants Ella.
Thoughts: I really enjoyed this book. Once I started reading this book I remembered that I had read a previous book in the series and enjoyed it as well. They both deal with families that love you, families or people that wrong you in some way and how sometimes what you think you want is really what you don't want at all.
In this case the main heroine doesn't want a certain type of romantic relationship because of how she grew up. She is the child that decided to love someone and be stable - and yet distancing herself from things that made her feel to deeply. But who can resist a child.
I loved the interaction between a woman who had no desire to have a child but when put in the situation couldn't help but love him. I know this wouldn't always be the case but for her who had put her other relationships in a holding pattern this was all she needed to recognize that she could open her heart and it may hurt - but is the good stuff worth the pain - definitely.
What genre would you consider this?
Romance
Overall:
Friday, June 12, 2009
Book Review: Along Came You
Along Came You by Karona Drummond - Illustrated by: Estelle Corke
Description: A book written to tell a child from mother to daughter how much life changed when they were born. In a fun way it explains all the things that they now get to do because there is a wonderful child in their life.
Thoughts: I loved this book. I can't wait to read this to my own child once they are born. The funniest thing I think about this book is that when I showed it to my husband for him to see how cute it is - he finished it and looked at me and said the only thing wrong in the book is there is no Daddy.
What genre would you consider this?
Children's Book
Overall:
Description: A book written to tell a child from mother to daughter how much life changed when they were born. In a fun way it explains all the things that they now get to do because there is a wonderful child in their life.
Thoughts: I loved this book. I can't wait to read this to my own child once they are born. The funniest thing I think about this book is that when I showed it to my husband for him to see how cute it is - he finished it and looked at me and said the only thing wrong in the book is there is no Daddy.
What genre would you consider this?
Children's Book
Overall:
Thursday, June 11, 2009
Win a copy of In Over Her Head
This is is your chance to win a copy of In Over Her Head Do by Julie Fennell
Same rules apply as usual - Please comment below if you are interested. Be sure to include some way for me to contact you (if I can't find you I can't get you the book). One person will be drawn at random on June 15th so enter now!
This contest is eligible to those 18 years of age that are residents of the US and Canada. We will not be able to mail to P.O. Boxes. One entry per person.
All entries are due by June 15th - so enter now!
Same rules apply as usual - Please comment below if you are interested. Be sure to include some way for me to contact you (if I can't find you I can't get you the book). One person will be drawn at random on June 15th so enter now!
This contest is eligible to those 18 years of age that are residents of the US and Canada. We will not be able to mail to P.O. Boxes. One entry per person.
All entries are due by June 15th - so enter now!
Guest Post: Judi Fennell
Judi Fennell Guest Blog, author of In Over Her Head
I love fairy tales, especially the Disney versions I grew up with. I love almost everything about them - the heroine in jeopardy, the (royal) guy who just has to save her, the villains, the action and adventure, the comeuppance and of course, the sidekicks.
So when it came time to put my own spin on the fairy tales (In Over Her Head was my twist on The Little Mermaid), I had to have the sidekicks.
Now, if your story takes place under the ocean, the sidekicks will have to be sea creatures.
And, of course, they have to talk.
The first sidekick to introduce himself to me, was Chumley Masticar. Chum, for short. Yes, I know, how silly was it to have a fish named Chum? The thing is, when I started writing this story, I didn't plan to write a humorous piece. But once you meet Reel, the hero, you'll see that I pretty much didn't have a choice.
Reel has an attitude. A swaggering, devil-may-care, life's-a-beach attitude and anything is fair game for him. His buddy needed to be able to keep up with him and not be a doormat.
Chum is that guy.
A remora (one of those fish you see stuck to sharks and manta rays and the occasional diver) who lost his sucker due to an unfortunate boat propeller incident, Chum has been loyal to Reel since the day Reel saved him from humiliating himself by having to beg for scraps from the lobsters. So when Reel gets called on the carpet, er, sand, for turning a Human, Chum is all about going along for the ride to make sure The Council gives Reel a fair hearing.
As for his posturing along the way? Well, when you're faced with a puffer fish who's overcompensating for his size, Chum is pretty fierce with his defense.
Another sidekick is Chipper, a young parrotfish with a dental problem. Chipper's out to prove himself and when he sees a Human in need of some help from a moray, the little guy zips right over to help. Never mind that he's been told time and again not to talk to strangers, he speaks moray, so he can help her out.
Our villain has to have her sidekicks of course, and since she's nasty, they have to be as well.
Sharks, by default of being sharks, are pretty nasty, but I think a more nasty-looking fish has got to be the barracuda. Have you seen their "teeth"? More like deadly spikes poking out from their bottom jaw, ready to turn your body parts into a sieve. *shudders
So, Ceto (the sea monster) has Mato and Rasgo.If you speak Spanish, you'll recognize those words. Their verbs, actually, for "I kill" and "I tear" (as in lacerate). Needless to say, not two guys you'd want to meet in a dark tunnel... like our heroine, Erica, does.
Then there's the two pelicans, Amelia and Ernie, and Lancelot and Galahad, who transport Reel and Erica on their marlin-drawn chariot through the ocean. We've got talking starfish, chattering seahorses, the electric rays: Dufus One and Dufus Two as Reel likes to call them, whose real names are Bob and Ray-not much better... and a whole cast of characters on the ocean floor. Each one was a blast to get know, but also a hard act to follow when it came time to write the next books in the series.
I have to say, though, that after years of reading every Doctor Doolittle and Wizard of Oz book there is when I was a kid, my imagination is just peppered with talking animals, and what a tremendous pleasure to be able to introduce all of you to them throughout this series.
Here's one of my favorite passages from In Over Her Head:
"Surely this Council will understand? I mean, it was either that or let me die."
Chum cleared his throat. Which was another interesting thing to contemplate but she had enough on her shellfish plate as it was. "The Council wouldn't care if you'd died. Honestly, do you know how many Human idiots there are in the waters of the North Atlantic alone? Forget about the Great Barrier Reef. Why your kind ventures into that sharks' nest is beyond me. Talk about stupid. They should just dangle bait from their arms and be done with it. Then there's that whole shark-cage phenomenon-"
"Chum, if you don't mind, I'd like to stick to the subject," Reel said.
"Yeah, you're doing so well with that." Chum used his tail to scratch under his left pectoral fin.
"Look, Erica. Yes, I turned you when I shouldn't have. But it was either that or let you die."
"So you saved me to live on the bottom of the sea?"
"It was a split-second decision. I have to live with the ramifications as much as you do."
"Ramifications?"
Reel swiped a hand over his mouth.
"Who do you think is responsible for you now?" Chum pointed out. "Who has to keep you safe, teach you how to survive here? Provide you shelter? Teach you their ways so you'll be able to live among them because, trust me, you do not want to be an outcast in their world. All on the threat of death if he fails?"
"Do you mind?" Reel swam in front of the remora, the ripples from his kicks sending Chum tumbling to the other side of the room.
The ripples from his nudity sent her nerves tumbling around in her tummy.
"Look, Erica." His green eyes softened somewhat, and he had that glimmer of a grin starting. "I knew exactly what I was doing when I did it. Someone shot you. I couldn't let you die. It wasn't an option. So I did the one thing I could to protect you. I'm willing to deal with the fallout."
"Oh, God. Joey. I'd forgotten." She rubbed the sore spot on her head. "He threatened to shoot me."
"Looks like he succeeded," came the muttered grump from the far wall.
© Judi Fennell, Sourcebooks Casablanca, June 2009
Thanks so much for having me and I hope everyone enjoys In Over Her Head!
About The Author
Judi Fennell has had her nose in a book and her head in some celestial realm all her life, including those early years when her mom would exhort her to "get outside!" instead of watching Bewitched or I Dream of Jeannie on television. So she did--right into Dad's hammock with her Nancy Drew books.
These days she's more likely to have her nose in her laptop and her head (and the rest of her body) at her favorite bookstore, but she's still reading, whether it be her latest manuscript or friends' books.
A three-time finalist in online contests, Judi has enjoyed the reader feedback she's received and would love to hear what you think about her Mer series. Check out her website at www.JudiFennell.com for excerpts, reviews and fun pictures from reader and writer conferences, and the chance to "dive in" to her stories.
Contest
To celebrate the release of each of her books, Judi Fennell and the Atlantis Inn (www.AtlantisInn.com) and the Hibiscus House (www.HibiscusHouse.com) bed and breakfasts are raffling off three romantic beach getaway weekends. All information is on Judi's website, www.JudiFennell.com
Wednesday, June 10, 2009
Book Review: In Over Her Head!
In Over Her Head by Judi Fennell
Description: Erica Peck has always been a little afraid of the water - ever since an experience that she had as a child. But being part of a marina owning family means that Erica must get over her fears if she wants to be respected by her tough big brothers.
She thougth she found love with a fiance who was not what she expected. She learned quickly before any lasting damage was done. But that has left her heart a little hurt.
For Reel Tritone being the second son of a king who doesn't seem to have time for him is quite the burden. He has learned to rebel. And his favorite thing to do when rebelling - find Erica. He has been attracted to her since the first time he saw her. He isn't the traditional merman but he lives the life that has been assigned to him.
When Erica's life is endangered Reel does what any self respecting merman who loves a human would do. He breaks all the rules to save her. But that leads both of them down a path that means some hard decisions. Are these decisions something they can both live with?
Thoughts: This is done perfectly. I mean who can have a book about a mer-man and a woman finding romance without the twists that Judi Fennell includes in this book. It is one of those cross-species things that could be creepy (at least to me) but instead because of how it is done, you want to see the two of them get together.
I have to admit that I am not much of an underwater person (maybe it has to do with my own brush with a shark the first time I went snorkeling) but the world that is described in this book almost makes me want to give it another try. (Sorry I won't be because snorkeling and hyperventilating just doesnt' mix as I have learned.)
The world is beautiful and fun. And even the charecters you think you shouldn't like for whatever reason have redeemable qualities - much like the real world. How many people are truely evil - some but not them all!
This is a fun and different romance and I can't wait to see what is next in the trilogy.
What genre would you consider this?
Paranormal Romance
Overall:
Description: Erica Peck has always been a little afraid of the water - ever since an experience that she had as a child. But being part of a marina owning family means that Erica must get over her fears if she wants to be respected by her tough big brothers.
She thougth she found love with a fiance who was not what she expected. She learned quickly before any lasting damage was done. But that has left her heart a little hurt.
For Reel Tritone being the second son of a king who doesn't seem to have time for him is quite the burden. He has learned to rebel. And his favorite thing to do when rebelling - find Erica. He has been attracted to her since the first time he saw her. He isn't the traditional merman but he lives the life that has been assigned to him.
When Erica's life is endangered Reel does what any self respecting merman who loves a human would do. He breaks all the rules to save her. But that leads both of them down a path that means some hard decisions. Are these decisions something they can both live with?
Thoughts: This is done perfectly. I mean who can have a book about a mer-man and a woman finding romance without the twists that Judi Fennell includes in this book. It is one of those cross-species things that could be creepy (at least to me) but instead because of how it is done, you want to see the two of them get together.
I have to admit that I am not much of an underwater person (maybe it has to do with my own brush with a shark the first time I went snorkeling) but the world that is described in this book almost makes me want to give it another try. (Sorry I won't be because snorkeling and hyperventilating just doesnt' mix as I have learned.)
The world is beautiful and fun. And even the charecters you think you shouldn't like for whatever reason have redeemable qualities - much like the real world. How many people are truely evil - some but not them all!
This is a fun and different romance and I can't wait to see what is next in the trilogy.
What genre would you consider this?
Paranormal Romance
Overall:
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