Fire Pages

Taste Cover Reveal

noreply@blogger.com (Zee) — Wed, 07 Mar 2012 07:17:00 +0000

Kate Evangelista

Website | Facebook | Twitter | Excerpt

Taste is set to come out in Fall 2012. The cover is everything dark and beautiful. I mean, seriously, where can I get a dress and an adventure like this?! I can't wait to read your novel Kate!

Blurb:

At Barinkoff Academy, there's only one rule: no students on campus after curfew. Phoenix McKay soon finds out why when she is left behind at sunset. A group calling themselves night students threaten to taste her flesh until she is saved by a mysterious, alluring boy. With his pale skin, dark eyes, and mesmerizing voice, Demitri is both irresistible and impenetrable. He warns her to stay away from his dangerous world of flesh eaters. Unfortunately, the gorgeous and playful Luka has other plans.

When Phoenix is caught between her physical and her emotional attraction, she becomes the keeper of a deadly secret that will rock the foundations of an ancient civilization living beneath Barinkoff Academy. Phoenix doesn’t realize until it is too late that the closer she gets to both Demitri and Luka the more she is plunging them all into a centuries old feud.

Running Wide Open By Lisa Nowak

noreply@blogger.com (Zee) — Mon, 20 Feb 2012 16:00:00 +0000

Lisa Nowak

Running Wide Open

Webfoot Publishing

I have to admit I am not the one to love male lead narrator, however Nowak’s story successfully enthralled me from the start. Nowak’s story concentrates on Cody – a 15 year old male teenager. “ Running Wide Open” takes place in Oregon in the 80's. Cody is sent to live with his uncle, who goes by Race, when he gets busted for vandalizing a zoo wall. He only has two choices either live with an uncle he barely knows or go to military school. Of course, he chooses to be with his uncle for sure.

Coming from a broken-home background, Cody’s struck me as an ungrateful brat at first. I didn't like him, however as the story unfolds, I could see WHY he is the way he is. He is full of anger, cheeky, disrespectful to others, ungrateful, and hostile. He became the way he is because his parents don’t care about him; His mother is a total nightmare, his father a wuss, and his grandparents are no better. When something bad happens, nobody wants him, nobody cares and he forced to live with his uncle, Race, who's very into stock car racing. (He's got the lady mechanic.)

Cody has been looking for someone to care to him, someone to guide him in his young life. Apparently, nobody cares about him, nobody even take a second glance to him. Race his uncle is the perfect miracle in Cody’s life. He becomes the most important person in Cody’s life and heart. Race is Cody’s mentor, guidance, and perhaps the father figure that he never had before.

Under Race’s guidance Cody finally finds a good direction in his life. He manages to put his life back on track. He searches for perfect girlfriend, becomes a writer for the school paper and finally finds the dreams of his life - racing.

Next, come along another character, Race’s sponsor, the attractive Kasey. Her sisterly / motherly influence on Cody is positive for everyone. Through her, he learns lessons in teamwork and sportsmanship as his life begins to stabilize.

Through Cody’s story Lisa Nowak brings about a good fact that people can always change. Bad people can become good people as long as they have unconditional love and acceptance. I enjoyed watching the relationships between Cody, Race and Kasey blossom. It's a beautiful example of how if we love someone, we have to accept them all the way they are.

Cheerio Aretha Zhen
Fire Pages Associate Reviewer

Golden Mane by SJB Gilmour

noreply@blogger.com (Zee) — Mon, 23 Jan 2012 06:05:00 +0000

SJB Gilmour

Golden Mane (Book One)

The Adventures Of Sarah Coppernick

Golden Mane is a great start to a new fantasy series. Although this is a story about werewolves, don't groan and think that this is just another wolf story because it is far from it. Sure, Sarah and her family are werewolves, but they are not the only creatures of interest in this fantasy book. Gilmour has created a fascinating world full of characters with their own distinct personalities, like the pixirazzi which are a personal favorite of mine. Each character that is introduced enhances the story, adds interest, dimension and a little intrigue. Gilmour has created a great cast of supporting characters to compliment the story.

There are many small details that I enjoyed very much in this novel. The first is that Sarah is an eleven-year-old girl. It's quite refreshing to read about a girl about to be thrust into a crazy world that hasn't entered high school, found her love of boys, and that obsesses about her appearance. This is not another teen fantasy romance between humans, vampires and werewolves, and I loved the absence of that type of drama. It allows for other elements of a great story to present themselves center stage, like the path to self discovery, friendship, adventure, and good old fashion fun.

While Golden Mane is a great lighthearted read, it is also quite unpredictable. Combine that with exceptional writing and an equally great story, and you have a fantastic book and a running start into a wonderful series.

Critical Focus by Alan Zendell

noreply@blogger.com (Zee) — Wed, 18 Jan 2012 06:07:00 +0000

Alan Zendell

Critical Focus

Blurb:

Jamie Williams had fought against corruption, war, and oppression all his life. A former campus radical, he published the popular newsletter, Uncommon Sense. Middle age had banked some of his fire, but not his values. And it had taught him that if he wanted his voice to be heard, it had to be reasoned and balanced.

A fragile economy exacerbated by corporate greed, unchecked militarism, terrorism, and out-of-control energy prices, had let millions of people feeling powerless and disenfranchised. Now, a new Internal Security Agency was eroding civil liberties, and there were rumors of a secret military initiative in Africa.

With a weak, indecisive President, Uncommon Sense was needed more than ever. Jamie had a loyal following, but it was growing too slowly to make a difference. Big changes were coming and Americans needed to hear his voice... if only there were a way to reach them.

Review:

I've had the wonderful pleasure of reading all three of Alan's novels, but if I had to choose a favorite, it would be Critical Focus. This book would make a fantastic play, and Alan sets the tone of a grand performance waiting to happen by providing a list of the cast in the beginning of his book. I really appreciated this often overlooked convenience, especially when there are many characters and relationships in the story. I didn't have the play the "who is that again?" game with myself and spend time searching a PDF to remind me who a specific character was - Thanks Alan.

I also liked that Alan threw me right into the middle of the chaos, starting with a funeral. Nothing like a little death to create an uncertain, chilling atmosphere. This set an exciting tone for the novel and left me filled with anticipation. The scheming in this story is unreal. Individuals who are close to the President have created a way to misrepresent the poll results, ultimately wanting to mislead the entire country. Secrecy, threats, and plotting weaves its way through this novel seamlessly, leaving you jaw-dropped at some parts and wide-eyed in others. I also like Jamie and the Uncommon Sense publication. Uncommon Sense is a different concept that Jamie started from the ground up. I would like to read a copy of the newsletter.

I enjoyed Critical Focus. I think people who like reading about political thrilling stories will definitely want to read this, yet I also believe that those who don't usually read this genre will like this story as well. I am one of those people who don't normally read politically focused novels but Critical Focus really drew me into the story. It is quite a catching read.

Rook, Rhyme & Sinker by Michael Phillips

noreply@blogger.com (Zee) — Mon, 16 Jan 2012 06:01:00 +0000

Michael Phillips

Rook, Rhyme & Sinker

Asylett Press

Rook, Rhyme & Sinker is a marvelous mystery novel and Michael Phillips is the reason why! Michael drops us right into the drama as a dead body is found in Regent's Canal. The dead man's wallet and watch is missing, track marks are found on the body suggesting drug use, and a suicide note has been found. The hair on the back of my neck was already standing on page one. The story is quite chilling as mystery, intrigue and darkness clouds fill the atmosphere.

"Despite one's desire to end their life,... most people have the involuntary reaction to preserve it, especially in the water. Drowning is not a first choice for those opting to off themselves..."

Rook, Rhyme & Sinker is a thrilling tale and excellently written. The story is rich with descriptive details that make the story come alive, like a 3D movie, all around you. There is movement... life in these pages that will captivate your curiosity. The conversation between the characters flowed smoothly, making this book very easy to read and fall into. You can feel the warmth of the crackling fire in the fireplace and see the texture of the long trench coat the detective wears. Rook, Rhyme & Sinker is a true mystery. Every character played their roles so well, the clues were revealed timely and, most importantly, I was not able to guess the ending.

Finger's Breadth by M. Christian

noreply@blogger.com (Zee) — Wed, 11 Jan 2012 06:01:00 +0000

M. Christian

Finger's Breadth

Zumaya Boundless

Someone is abducting young gay men in San Francisco, drugging them and cutting off the tip of their pinky. The entire city if on edge, especially after dark. The gay community fear for themselves, as they know that anyone could be next. Even though the police are looking for the Cutter, no one really knows who this person is nor the motivation of cutting a finger. Suspicion divides the community. There are people who have only nine-and-a-half fingers, and those who have ten fingers. The niners suspect the Cutter may have ten fingers and those who walk around with ten fingers hope they are not next.

M. Christian has to be the most amazing writer I've ever read. He is a master manipulator with his words. You read his stories and begin to feel exactly what he wants you to feel - arousal, desire, anger, fear, hope. Readers find themselves surprised to feel this way, yet it is M. Christian's way of pulling dormant and primal emotions out of you. And the crazy part is that you don't mind embracing these perverse feelings as you are that pulled into the story. Not only does M. Christian push his characters in his stories to their limits, but he also pushes his readers minds to meet him in these faraway places.

I loved how M. Christian addressed multiple facets of storytelling, like horror, thriller, and societal issues. The way the community split between those with 9.5 and 10 fingers was genius, and the horrible experience that the victims go through is downright chilling. Finger's Breadth has a way of getting under your skin and sending chills to your bones in both a terrifying and arousing kind of way. Finger's Breadth is not a story; it is an experience I highly recommend.

Murder Never Tasted So Sweet! Giveaway

noreply@blogger.com (Zee) — Tue, 03 Jan 2012 06:01:00 +0000

Joanne Fluke

Murder never tasted so good... and it's all because of Joanne Fluke's delicious Hannah Swenson Murder Series. Not only is Joanne's writing easy to read, the mysteries always keep me on the edge of my seat. When you read a Joanne Fluke murder mystery, you also get lots of sweet recipes. I've baked a few recipes myself, and my treats came out very good. And what's even better is that you don't have to read the series in order to enjoy it.

I'm giving away one of each of the above books. That's 5 winners. How do you enter this sweet giveaway? Leave a comment! Want extra entries? Like my new Facebook page and/or follow me on Twitter. This giveaway will close on Wednesday, January 25, 2012. The winners will be announced on Thursday, January 26, 2012.

2012 Reviews Start...

noreply@blogger.com (Zee) — Mon, 02 Jan 2012 06:01:00 +0000

2012 is going to be a busy year. Lots of book reviews and fun giveaways to come. Fire Pages will start posting reviews on Wednesday, January 11, 2012.

Happy New Year 2012

noreply@blogger.com (Zee) — Sun, 01 Jan 2012 06:01:00 +0000

Happy New Year! I'm so excited to start a new year. This time of year always makes me hopeful, refreshed and rejuvenated. I feel strong, like I can accomplish anything. And with that said, I always make new year's resolutions.

2012 Resolutions:

Lose weight. I've already lost 8 pounds and I'm excited at the jump start I've made towards my goal.
Stick to a blogging schedule. It is my goal to post only on Mondays and Wednesdays.
Be a more organized blogger.

Are you an organized blogger, author, or book lover? How do you keep everything straight? I would love to hear what works for you as well as your resolutions for 2012!

Happy Birthday To Me!

noreply@blogger.com (Zee) — Tue, 27 Dec 2011 04:41:00 +0000

I am 29 years old on December 27th!

Yes, it is my very merry birthday today and I couldn't be more excited. No matter how old I get, the anticipation of celebrating my birthday makes me as giddy as a child. What will I be doing on my birthday? Working and well.... not much else. I know, not very exciting at all. That's the downside of living away from family and having your birthday so close to Christmas - I usually spend my birthday with myself. But never fear, I have a grand imagination and have yet to have a normal day, so I'm sure tomorrow will be quite interesting. ;)

Speaking of wild imaginations, I made a "If I could have anything I want for my birthday" list. Take a look see and let me know what you would put on your list!

If I could have anything I want for my birthday list:

Lots of books. (Like you couldn't see that one coming! LOL!)
A Kindle Fire (Oh goodness, I've been drooling over this since it came out.)
A subscription to Self Magazine (I love their advice and workout tips!)

Now that I've gotten the daydreaming out of the way, I should start thinking about my 2012 resolutions. Yes, I'm a resolutions girl to the max. I usually go for huge, skyscraper tall goals, but I'm thinking about making more manageable goals this coming year. I will definitely post those in the new year!

A Dog Gone Christmas by Lindsay Downs

noreply@blogger.com (Zee) — Sun, 25 Dec 2011 17:35:00 +0000

Lindsay Downs

A Dog Gone Christmas

Astraea Press

Just like the cover of this book, A Dog Gone Christmas is warm, endearing, and completely touches the heart. This family friendly story is perfect for all ages, and will be sure to keep you smiling from the inside out as you read it. Although there are humans and dogs in this story, the dogs, led by Kebi the matriarch of the family of pups, steal the show. The dogs are so great to read about. They are playful, and happy, and get into all sorts of adventures. The dogs had me laughing out loud.

I really enjoyed reading about the conversations and interactions between the dogs. Even though we humans know that animals are able to communicate with each other, it is a world which we cannot see, and a world Lindsay reveals to us with as much wonder and splendor as a Disney movie. A Dog Gone Christmas could very well have been made into a fantastic animated movie. The dogs each have their very own personality, no two canines are like. Nibs is my favorite. A little arrogant, but very fun and playful.

A Dog Gone Christmas is the perfect holiday read. It is more than a great story because I loved how it made me feel - good, happy and positive. Just the way I want to feel this time of year.

Santa Watch at Coffee Time Romance

noreply@blogger.com (Zee) — Sat, 24 Dec 2011 14:35:00 +0000

Happy Christmas Eve everyone. I hope your travels have been safe and your loved ones have been blessed this year. Today I will be at Coffee Time Romance beccause they are having a huge event full of great guest posts (including my guest post which will be featured at 3:00 PM today) and 13 giveaways which will be posted at the middle of every hour today! Insane, right? I want to thank every single one of you for visiting my website, leaving comments, and even contacting me for reviews. I have made so many new friends and I am so fortunate to still be in touch with old friends. Have a wonderful day, spread the word about my guest post, and enjoy your Christmas and Chanukah.

Snowed In Together By Ann Herrick

noreply@blogger.com (Zee) — Tue, 20 Dec 2011 13:53:00 +0000

Ann Herrick

Snowed In Together (ARC)

5/5 Stars

Snowed In Together reminded me of one of my favorite movies - The Breakfast Club. While the plot, the characters, the setting, really everything is completely different than the 80s hit movie, yet the magical essence of being a teenager and having the unexpected happen when you least expect it remains. I liked Wes, our main character. He is a little shy and as normal as can be. He hasn't found his stride with the girls at school yet (neither has his friends Tony and Jeff), but doesn't turn his back to the opportunity that presents itself when his friends and their dream girls get snowed in together.

I was thrilled that Ann wrote from a teenage male's point of view. I have not read a story from this point of view before, as romance novels are usually told from a female point of view, but I really enjoyed it. I found myself laughing out loud at the things males go through that we females never see, like having to place your books in front of your pants when you need to hide an erection, or the conversations guys have with themselves before they work up the courage to talk to a female.

Ann completely stayed true to the characters and their age. Teenage hormones were very active, but not overdone. And I loved how everything turned out in the end for Wes and his friends. Things didn't end perfectly - I mean, it's high school - but the things that really matter, like self-confidence, self-discovery, and self-growth, was accomplished in spades. Ann Herrick's "Snowed In Together" is definitely a five star story!

Blurry by Sherri Fulmer Moorer

noreply@blogger.com (Zee) — Fri, 23 Sep 2011 12:57:00 +0000

Sherri Fulmer Moorer

Blurry

5/5 Stars

Blurry is pure awesomeness! I was completely blown away by this novel. I will not reveal any details about this intriguing mystery (read it for yourself!) so to get a better understanding of what Blurry is all about, here is the blurb:

What happens when Little Miss Perfect's life is turned upside down? Rachel Shull is about to find out. A year ago she broke up with her boyfriend, Danny, over suspicions that he was hiding something from her. Now Rachel's life is full of accomplishment, achievement, friends, and even a boyfriend. It all seems perfect, until a childhood friend dies in a tragic accident. When it's discovered that Danny had a heated argument with Kirsten shortly before her death, suspicions about his double life resurface. As the case unfolds and tragedy strikes people close to Rachel, she discovers that Danny isn't the only one with dangerous secrets. Life in the small town of Woodland, South Carolina becomes blurry with lies and deceit, and Rachel finds herself questioning everybody; even her new boyfriend.

Blurry is full of mystery, intrigue, secrets, lies and deceit. I love that combination. People are not always what they appear to be and Sherri definitely nailed her characters, plot and story development. Sherri's characters are so full of life, and come off a real people. Rachel was my favorite character. I can relate to her nerdy band life and see understand why she fell for Danny, our resident bad boy, once upon a time ago. I love her honesty, her integrity. She is so loyal, and I believe a lot of women can relate to a character like that. The plot was unbelievable. I like to solve mysteries ahead of time and feel like a regular Sherlock Holmes, but I was stumped with Blurry. There were too many people, too many secrets, and how lives are connected and effected kept me on the edge of my seat. This story is very much a roller coaster ride as everything you think you have figured out changes, and changes again. I was glued to the pages and couldn't flip them fast enough. Blurry is definitely a five star novel and I would recommend it for every mystery lover out there!

Interview with Laura Burks

noreply@blogger.com (Zee) — Thu, 22 Sep 2011 03:36:00 +0000

Today I have Laura Burks dropping by to chat with us about Altered, writing, and life in general. Thank you so much for stopping by Laura. I appreciate it so much! If you missed out on the review of Altered, or the two previous interviews with Laura, here are some links below. Enjoy!

| Read My Review of Altered | Altered Interview | Jenna Larson Interview |

What is the most interesting thing that has happened to you while writing Altered?

I discovered I like to write. The self-discovery and excitement along the way was almost too much to control. I’m not one to hide my feelings, so yes; you could see something was going on. I wore a smile so big and would tell everyone I knew I was writing a book. I can’t even keep my own secret. But that’s okay; it was a good one to tell.

Where do you write? Do you have any writing quirks?

We have a bedroom that’s part office and part TV room. I have a big window behind me so I don’t feel like I’m closed in. My house if very open which helps when keeping up with what’s going on with the rest of my family.

As far as writing quirks, I have to have it quiet to write. Although with two teenagers, I’m learning how to tune things out and write anyway.

How did you overcome writing challenges, like writer's block, making the time to write, etc.?

Writer’s block is so annoying. You know where you want the story to go, but it’s getting from the point you’re writing to where you want to go that can drive you crazy. For me, I have to take time every single day to at least sit and read my work. I find that if I skip a day, it’s so easy for another day, then another to slip by. Even if I don’t write or edit, which usually doesn’t happen, I still feel like I’m doing something.

What advice would you give other authors writing their first novel?

If you feel the passion to form words into a story, then you should write. Don’t let a dream sit solely in your head. Make it happen. Get started because you’ll never know the answer to “what if?” if you don’t try.

Are you working on another book? If so, can you share a little bit about it with us?

I actually have two more in the works. Both are young adult, but as of now, not paranormal. The young adult genre is what I like to read, and so, that’s the genre I plan on writing in.

As for a second book to Altered, it’s so tempting. Not sure just yet, but the idea is building.

Did you always know that you wanted to be an author?

No. I wanted to do so many things, but author was not one of them. Writing a book is so different from the other types of writing I’ve done. I would say a few months before I actually started writing my first novel, Altered, that it hit me that I wanted to write. I didn’t realize how much I wanted to continue until I put those first words down. Strange how writing starts to become an addiction, but in a good way, and you crave to see it through.

What do you like to do when you are not writing?

My family comes first, so anything we can do together is what I like to do. We love movies, boating, vacations to Disney World, the beach, and I can’t forget Hawaii. That was a trip of a lifetime. Yes, I like to read, but I have to admit, I don’t have my head in a book all the time. I just don’t have that luxury. Plus, to be a writer, you have to gain ideas from real life and the only way to get those ideas is to live it.

Thanks, Zee! As always, it’s wonderful chatting with you.

Altered Interview with Jenna Larson

noreply@blogger.com (Zee) — Wed, 21 Sep 2011 04:50:00 +0000

Welcome everyone! I would like to introduce you to Jenna Larson, the protagonist in Laura Burks' debut novel, Altered. In my review of Altered, I told the world that Jenna is my favorite character. Thankfully, I get to see her again in this exclusive character interview. Enjoy!

| Read My Review of Altered | Altered Interview |

What is it about Jess that made you fall for him?

At first, it was his eyes and gorgeous face. Then, I remembered what Pops told me about looking beyond the face. Yes, the face and muscular build helped, but it was his heart that made him even more appealing.

Tell me about your relationship with your grandfather?

I love my grandfather. We’re very close, but not in a smothering way. He’s protective, which is okay when he’s not asking a ton of questions, but I understand. He’s just trying to make sure nothing happens to me. I worry about him, too, so that makes us even.

How did you cope when you realized that Jess was keeping a secret with you?

I wanted it to be a lie, or at least some other Jess. I didn’t want to believe he would keep a secret from me, especially the secret he was keeping. I wanted him to trust me more than he did. In fact, I never wanted to see him again, but then, my heart changed. I couldn’t stay away.

Knowing how everything turned out in the end, would you have followed that voice and do it all over again?

Yes! In a heartbeat, yes. Now, if I could control some of the outcome, too, that would be nice. But we don’t always get what we want how we want it. I learned that the hard way.

Why did you decide to tell your grandfather the truth?

I feared for his safety, and I wasn’t ashamed or too self-centered to know I was in over my head. I needed help.

What is your most memorable moment with Jess?

Everything about him is memorable. The way he looked at me, the way he held me close, the smell of leather on his skin, riding behind him on his motorcycle, and of course, our first kiss. That was THE moment. I almost forgot to breathe!

What are you looking forward to now?

Pops getting better, and if it’s not giving too much away, I’m looking forward to my life the way I thought it would turn out. If only it were that simple.

Thank you Laura for your time! You are so talented and sweet, and I appreciate you giving us the opportunity to speak to Jenna and dive back into the world of Altered.

Altered Interview by Laura Burks

noreply@blogger.com (Zee) — Tue, 20 Sep 2011 04:23:00 +0000

I am so excited to have Laura Burks stop by for the next three days to talk about her debut novel, Altered (Read the 5/5 Star Review!), my favorite character Jenna, and life as an author. Thank you so much Laura for sending me Altered. It's an absolute fave of mine!!! Today Laura will be answering a few burning questions we have about Altered. Stay tuned and enjoy!

Altered Interview

What was your inspiration for Altered?

Altered sort of inspired me. The title and the cursed book writing on foggy nights were the first elements. In my mind, I kept playing out different scenes and parts, and before I knew it, I was so excited about the idea I had to share it with my family. I knew the last word before I knew the first. I do have to say, during the time of writing Altered, I became very aware of how people talked, moved, certain dialogue, even songs inspired me. When writing, I felt so connected to the story; it almost consumed my every thought. When an idea would hit, look out! I would use whatever was near to jot it down: a receipt, napkin, my daughter’s homework. Ooops … that last one was a mistake. Luckily she didn’t need that one!

Did you have anyone in mind when you created your characters?

The characters in Altered were not based on any one person, but a combination of several people. Plus, as I wrote, they took on a personality of their own. The only character, which in fact was a deceased character, was Jenna’s grandmother. She reminded me of my own grandmother who passed away several years ago. To me, I felt my grandmother had a big part in me writing Altered. If she were alive today, she would be so proud.

Do you plan out your story before you write or let the words just flow?

Besides using what I jot down when the idea hits, I let the words flow. I find that when writing I get lost in the moment creating and moving through a scene. I begin to feel, smell and hear all that’s around me to create just the right emotion. Emotion is so important when writing, especially when you write in first person. Everything is that character’s point of view. You want your reader to form a connection as if they know that character, and to feel the situations through their eyes instead of an outsider looking in.

Who is your favorite character?

Okay, this is a tough one. I love them all for so many for different reasons. But if I had to pick only one it would be the main character, Jenna. Why? Because everything is through her voice and feelings, and she’s the one I felt the most.

Which character did you become closest to while writing?

Because Jenna is my favorite you would think I’d be the closest to her. I am, but I also felt very close to Pops and Jess. Pops because of his protective, loving side and Jess because he longs to be loved and accepted by Jenna. Jess might be a bad-guy, but his reasons were full of heart.

I loved the romance between Jess and Jenna, especially how they take things slow and just enjoy being with one another. What went through your mind when deciding how far to take their relationship?

I am so glad you asked that question. First of all, I didn’t want their relationship to be based on too much, too soon. That’s not romance. Romance is a slow building and longing for the other person and waiting for just the right moment for that first kiss. That “wow” factor. I wanted the reader to feel Jess and Jenna’s growing love and caring for each other. To live or relive what it’s like to have every moment count waiting to be with the other person. And yes, even the pain of knowing that your first love might be gone forever.

Will there be a prequel to Altered? (Please say yes!)

You are so kind! I would love to say yes, but as of now, I’m not sure. Altered ends with closure, but with a hint of what if. I can say that I do have ideas for a second, and even a name.

Thanks so much for this interview and I can’t wait to see what you have planned next.

Thank you so much Laura! I can't wait to meet Jenna tomorrow and ask her all of my burning questions!

Wednesday's Child by Alan Zendell

noreply@blogger.com (Zee) — Mon, 19 Sep 2011 05:23:00 +0000

Alan Zendell

Wednesday's Child

5/5 Stars

Blurb:

Dylan Brice is living his days out of order, but it hasn’t always been that way. One Tuesday evening in July, he went to sleep expecting tomorrow to be Wednesday, but when he woke up the next morning it was Thursday instead. A frightening and confusing day ensued with Dylan trying to figure out whether he was losing his mind or the victim of some cosmic prank.

If struggling to come to terms with his new reality on his surreal Thursday wasn’t enough of an ordeal, late in the afternoon, just as his anxiety was finally beginning to subside, a voice from the past he’d hoped never to hear again added a terrifying new dimension to his situation. Dylan had once been a warrior in the battle against nuclear terrorism. A sleeper since the months following nine-eleven, he has suddenly been activated to help combat a new, deadly threat. His nerves in a shambles, he finally drops off to sleep hoping he’ll wake up to find Thursday was a dream.

When, after his harrowing Thursday, he awakens on the Wednesday morning he thought he’d missed, he doesn’t know what to believe. He cannot believe Thursday’s events were coincidental. He must be living his days out of order for a reason — some powerful, unknown entity has cast him in a role he never asked for, and everything he holds dear may be at stake. He “knows” he will continue to live Thursdays before Wednesdays until he figures out how to use the unique perspective that gives him to avert a disaster that may be global in scope.

Review:

Would you change anything if you lived Thursday before Wednesday? Would you do anything differently? This is precisely the situation Dylan Brice finds himself in.

Dylan definitely thinks that what he has experienced, living his days out of order, is just crazy. Or maybe he is crazy. But discards the idea, knowing that he has been given a rare gift, knowledge of the future. This is especially helpful as Dylan fights terrorism that has the potential to lead to a full fledged war.

Thankfully, he doesn't have to do everything in one day, but is able to fight the threats that face him on a weekly basis. I really like how, given such a monumental task, Dylan doesn't have to go through this alone, and has the full support of his wife and a couple of agents.

It seems that a Higher Power is using Dylan to do His work, but that comes across through actions, not words. Dylan living his days out of order are obviously not his doing. Having the right people to support Dylan may seem like a coincidence too. It definitely makes your mind wonder. How much does fate play a role into what is happening?

I liked the strong relationship Dylan has with his wife. They are equals and hold each other up throughout the novel. They are strong for one another, especially when their relationship is tested by incredibly stressful situations. Dylan is able to handle all of this craziness because of his stable marriage to his wife.

Overall, Wednesday's Child is packed with adventure after adventure, fast paced, fun, and very easy to read. Although this book has science fiction and political elements, it is written in a very easy to digest manner, and would be enjoyable to those who don't regularly read those genres. The storyline is fantastic, and I found this to be a great read. Definitely my favorite Zendell novel.

Valley of Obsessions by Betty Gordon

noreply@blogger.com (Zee) — Fri, 16 Sep 2011 05:09:00 +0000

Betty Gordon

Valley of Obsessions

4.5/5 Stars

Blurb:

Desiree's passion for ancient Egyptian culture leads her on a dangerous trip down the Nile. Can Desiree Roberts leave her law career in Texas and become a 1980's Egyptian? Will the country that has captivated her since childhood embrace her, or will it lead her down dangerous paths fraught with deception and betrayal? As Desiree follows her dreams and treks through shifting sands, she enters portals of pharaohs long since entombed. Her obsessions lure her into alien territory filled with suspicious characters-where someone wants to end her fantasies. How far will he go?

Review:

Betty Gordon does a fabulous revealing this mystery one piece at a time. This mystery is very unique. As you read the story, you get to sit in on interviews, listen to the order of events, get to know the major players involved with Desiree and their past, and get all the details surrounding Desiree's death so that you can help solve this mystery. Most novels skimp on the dirty detective details, but this title intertwines it into the plot so well that you gladly take on the mental challenge of trying to figure this puzzle out.

I love the Egyptian details throughout this novel. Betty Gordon definitely did her homework. Her description of pyramids, Egyptian Kings and Queens, Egyptian history, and their travels through Egypt are so real, it is as if you are there. But as much detail as Gordon gives us, it never comes across as overwhelming or filler. It truly adds to the storyline.

Valley of Obsessions is a fantastic novel full of twists and turns that kept my mind racing and the pages turning! I definitely recommend this title to mystery fans!

Altered by Laura Burks

noreply@blogger.com (Zee) — Mon, 12 Sep 2011 05:07:00 +0000

Altered by Laura Burks

Laura Burks

Altered

5/5 Stars

"Altered is everything I could have asked for and more! Laura Burks delivers paranormal, suspense, and a touch of romance in a major way. Altered is beyond 5 stars!"

Favorite Character

Jenna Larson is my favorite character. She is curious by nature and doesn't mind following her curiosity and exploring her surroundings. That is partly what gets her in trouble, but unlike other leading ladies in books and movies take on their problems by themselves, Jenna doesn't keep what she finds to herself. She shares her experiences with her lovable grandfather, John Larson. Jenna is independent, but also knows when she is over her head, when she needs to accept help.

Although young, Jenna is a very mature teenager. She is kind, honest and considerate to her grandpa. She is a good friend to her friends, Shelly and Danny. And most importantly, she is honest and respectful of herself. Regardless of the other worldly mess she gets into, Jenna is a friend I would like to have!

Quotable Quote

"Another day, another time, I would go back. But for now, my day had turned out much better than what was originally planned. Sometimes the unexpected is way more exciting." - Jenna Larson, Page 47

"'I've waited for someone like you all my life,' he breathed." - Jess Parkin, Page 254

Final Thoughts

Altered is an amazing story, one which kept me guessing all the way through. I loved that this was not your typical paranormal title. The paranormal aspect of this novel was more subtle, more disturbing. Let's talk about Louisiana and a curse from a deal gone wrong. This title makes you think twice before shortchanging someone you have made a deal with. Altered makes you think again before deciding to have your cake and eat it too.

I enjoyed reading about the budding romance between Jenna and Jess. It was slow, sensual, and deliberate. Jenna and Jess would let each other know where their heart was. There were no games. No drama. It was honesty in it's purest form. To just be with each other was enough. Every hand held, every gaze in each other's eyes, every secret shared was monumental. They lived in the moment with each other. I was often taken back to the days when my young heart was filled with that much innocence, when I experienced my first throws of love. The romance in Altered will make your heart leap more than once in fond remembrance.

Burks kept surprising me at every turn of the page. I would have it in my head where I thought the story would go next, and it never did. I was glued to this book. Quite literally. Every second I had, I whipped out one of my devices - HTC smartphone, iPod Touch, Kindle, HP Touchpad - to finish a chapter or read one more sentence. Altered is just that good of a novel! Laura Burks writing style is flawless. I don't remember seeing a typo nor did I have to reread a paragraph to understand what was going on. She kept her plot tucked away nicely, waiting on the right moment to reveal information to the reader, and as a result, everything fell smoothly into place.

Laura Burks is a seriously talented author and very creative to boot. Altered, her debut novel, is a hit and a personal favorite. I can't wait to read more novels from Laura! :)

Anasazi by Emma Michaels

noreply@blogger.com (Zee) — Thu, 18 Aug 2011 18:04:00 +0000

Emma Michaels

Anasazi

5 / 5 Stars

Favorite Character

Although I enjoyed Megan Haines's quick witted humor, Lucas Taawa was hands down my favorite character. He is a tall, native , young man who has not been jaded by the hardness of life. He is honest, happy, and loyal. There is a certain innocence that Lucas carries that makes every kind word and considerate gesture that much more endearing.

Favorite Scene

Oh, there are so many great scenes to choose from. I would have to say that my favorite scene is when Lucas takes Megan to the cave for the first time, and an attempt is made on her life. This close call made the danger in the story feel real. I realized how invested I was in these characters, and knew that the story would only get better from here.

Quotable Quote

The humor in Anasazi is well timed and always appropriate. when Megan and David are trying to out run men intent on harming them, their converssation goes something like this:

"Can't this thing go any faster?" David yelled to Megan over the sound of the wind and motor.

"Not unless you want to get off!" Megan exclaimed. "There are two people on here versus two trucks."

"Hey don't look at me," David shouted back. "I know I lost weight while I was back there."

"And just what are you trying to say?" Megan growled back.

Final Thoughts

Emma Michaels is a phenomenal story teller. Anasazi is the first novel I have read from this blogger turned author, but I must admit that I'm incredibly impressed. Michaels words are effortless to read and I could imagine every scene unfold like a movie. I was very invested in Megan, Lucas and David's happiness. As the mystery and intrigue was ramped up, I was hoping that these characters would be all right, uncover the mystery and find what they are looking for. I can honestly say that this story is so unique and spellbinding. I've never read a novel like it. I look forward to seeing what Michaels produces next.

Steamrolled by Pauline Baird Jones

noreply@blogger.com (Zee) — Tue, 16 Aug 2011 14:43:00 +0000

Pauline Baird Jones

Steamrolled

5/5 Stars

"Pauline is the Queen of Steam! Steamrolled is a wild adventure full of wit, intrigue, and an evil overlord to boot. Every page was better than the next!"

Steamrolled is amped up with energy and sets the stage for a thrill seeking, machine hunting, boy meets girl, time warped adventure! From each character's unique point of view, Jones sets up a series of crazy, conflicting, and mind boggling events that will have your head spinning and saying WHAT?!! But don't worry. Everything comes together seamlessly and in grand style mid book that will then have you asking Now What?!! I love how Pauline is able to assemble a plot with multiple twists and turns with varying levels of complexity in such a simple and easy to digest fashion. I believe this was accomplished by giving Robert Clementyne, our super smart hero, and Emily Babcock, our stunning curator, their own disticnt voices. This went a long way in making perspective changes and the overall flow of the story smooth and enjoyable.

Steamrolled wouldn't be a Pauline Baird Jones novel is it didn't have a sassy humor to it. :) The nanites were so funny, and always lightened the mood with humor even when the timing seems most inappropriate, thus making it even funnier! And the technology is simply awesome! Pauline has some seriously wicked science fiction tech at work here. Robert is on the hunt for a transmogrification machine! Yes, I spelled that right - a TRANSMOGRIFICATION machine. Although I have encountered this device as well as Pauline's out of this world writing style in Tangled in Time, one doesn't necessarily have to read other books in her Project Enterprise series to love Steamrolled. If you love science fiction, then you must read Steamrolled! Fantastic job Pauline!

A Murderer Among Us by Marilyn Levinson

noreply@blogger.com (Zee) — Tue, 12 Jul 2011 04:01:00 +0000

| Marilyn Levinson | A Murderer Among Us | 5 Stars |

Connect with Marilyn on Twitter!

Favorite Character

Lydia Krause, our novel's protagonist, is the star of this killer mystery novel. Lydia is the perfect character. She has a robust personality, full of life and curiosity that attracts everyone to her like a magnet. I like the fact that Levinson doesn't give too much away on physical appearance. This makes Lydia diverse and a character that every reader can adapt to their own interpretation. She is definitely a next door neighbor you would want to have.

Favorite Scene

Lydia is up early in the morning, has her swimsuit on, and is swimming laps in the community pool, when suddenly the pool cover begins to close on her. At first, Lydia panics, knowing that if the cover closes before she gets out of the pool, then she will drown. She swims harder than she has ever swam in her life and climbs out of the pool just in time. This scene literally put goose bumps on my arms as the nearness of the killer really hit home.

Quotable Quote

"Someone in Twin Lakes was now a murderer, and thought like a murderer. Claire's murder had involved the use of her car, which meant the plan had occurred to the killer sometime that evening."

-- Lydia Krause, Pg.281

"That was how life was: it took away, and it gave back - as long as you kept an open heart, and a willing mind."

-- Lydia Krause, Pg. 297

Final Thoughts

A Murderer Among Us is absolutely phenomenal. It has become a favorite in my personal book collection, which I plan to re-read over and over again. This story is so rich with detail. You get to delve deep into the world of Lydia Krause, her family, her friends, and the community in which she and an unknown killer dwells. Levinson's writing style is fluid, allowing me to fully immerse myself in the novel. I literally couldn't put this novel down. Levinson's writing is perfection, and I strongly encourage you to read A Murderer Among Us. Please write another Twin Lakes Mystery. I am unashamedly hooked and will be looking to read more of Marilyn Levinson's work.

Enemy Within by Marcella Burnard

noreply@blogger.com (Zee) — Wed, 22 Dec 2010 16:37:00 +0000

| Marcella Burnard's Website | Buy at Amazon |

Blurb:

After a stint in an alien prison, Captain Ari Rose wonders why she even bothered to survive. Stripped of her command and banished to her father's scientific expedition to finish a Ph.D. she doesn't want, Ari never planned to languish quietly behind a desk. She wasn't built for it, either. But when pirates commandeer her father's ship, Ari once again becomes a prisoner.

As far as pirate leader Cullin is concerned, Ari's past imprisonment puts her dead center in Cullin's sights. If she hasn't been brainwashed and returned as a spy, then he's convinced she must be part of a traitorous alliance endangering billions of lives. Cullin can't afford the desire she fires within him and he'll stop at nothing, including destroying her, to uncover the truth.

Review:

Burnard's debut novel, Enemy Within, is an excellent futuristic romance! Ari is a well-trained soldier, highly intelligent, and an overall leader. But when the Chekydrans capture and release Ari after three months of torture and starvation, she suffers terrible memories and flashbacks. I am very glad that Burnard included the post traumatic stress that Ari went through from her experience. It made her character feel more flawed, more human. The last thing Ari needed was to have someone hijack her team again, but that is exactly what happened. Enter the sexy, mysterious stranger - Cullin Seaghdh. I really enjoyed reading about the romance that blooms between Ari and Cullin. Although each of them are holding on to secrets, that doesn't stop the sexual tension from building between them. There was not much sex in the novel, but I found that to be quite appropriate.

Enemy Within is a very well balanced novel. While the romance between Ari and Cullin is the focus of the story, there are equal parts of action, deception, conspiracy, intrigue, suspense, aliens, and fighting. The novel has a nice, high enery pace, and that combined with the great characters makes this a winning debut novel. I can't wait to read the next installment in Burnard's series.

5 Questions with Marcella Burnard

1. What inspired you to write Enemy Within?

Scenes and conversations just started popping into my head. The one story you’ll hear over and over is about a friend’s husband who served two tours of duty in Iraq. He came home the second time with a horrific case of PTSD. He couldn’t sleep unless he was in the bathroom with the shower running. That was the only time he felt safe. That formed the basis for Ari’s issues. I was interested in whether or not a hero could both use that against her and help her out of it at the same time.

2. What is your favorite scene in the book?

The duel near the beginning of the book. I think that was the first scene that came to me. It happened very quickly and that one seemed to write itself.

3. Which character did you connect most with during the writing process?

Ari. She’s the kind of smart I’d always wished I could be. She’s driven and bright and good at assessing people, but she’s also damaged and she feels very alone. That isolation is something that every one of us who has ever been an angst-ridden teen knows all about. :D

4. What is one exciting thing that happened to you while you were writing Enemy Within?

Hell if I can remember…Oh. I guess it was a contest. I knew this book had some potential when I sent the first ten pages in for an RWA sponsored contest. I had three judges – one unpublished, but experienced critique judge and two judges who were published. I didn’t final in that contest – I gather my first judge didn’t like scifi romance. She scored me low. The two published judges gave me copious feedback in detailed notes. One scored the entry with 100 out of 100 points. The other gave me 98 out of 100 points. Both said to make my edits and get the book out the door – it was ready. That was the day I thought I might have something going with SFR and with that story in particular.

5. Are you working on a new novel. If so, can you tell us a little bit about it?

I’m working on book three in the series…I can’t say much of anything because it would be too much of a spoiler…but let’s say that the heroine of book three is a munitions expert. That means explosions. Lots of explosions.

Sparks by Laura Bickle

noreply@blogger.com (Zee) — Tue, 21 Dec 2010 17:24:00 +0000

| Laura Bickle Website | Read an Excerpt of Sparks |

| Buy at Amazon | Buy at Barnes & Noble | Review of Embers |

Blurb:

Anya Kalinczyk is the rarest type of psychic medium, a Lantern, who holds down a day job as an arson investigator with the Detroit Fire Department—while working 24/7 to exterminate malicious spirits haunting a city plagued by unemployment and despair. Along with her inseparable salamander familiar, Sparky, Anya has seen, and even survived, all manner of fiery hell—but her newest case sparks suspicions of a bizarre phenomenon that no one but her eccentric team of ghost hunters might believe: spontaneous human combustion.

After fire consumes the home of elderly Jasper Bernard, Anya is stunned to discover his remains—or, more precisely, a lack of them; even the fiercest fires leave some trace of their victims—and she is sure this was no naturally occurring blaze. Soon she’s unearthed a connection to a celebrity psychic who preys on Detroit’s poor, promising miracles for money. But Hope Solomon wants more—she’s collecting spirits, and in a frantic race against time, Anya will face down an evil adversary who threatens her fragile relationship with her lover, her beloved Sparky’s freshly hatched newts, and the wandering souls of the entire city.

Review:

Sparks is a fantastic sequel to Embers. In this installment, things seem normal - Anya still works at the fire department, continues to hunt for DAGR, and is still seeing Brian - until a series of human combustion cases needs to be solved. We have a fabulous new villain on the scene who is not only responsible for the human combustion cases, but is also targeting Sparky, Anya's familiar.

I loved Embers, but I must admit that Sparks is even better than Embers. Bickle does an excellent job at weaving different storylines (the origin of Anya's supernatural abilities, her romance with Brian, her work at the fire department, and her after hours hunting with DAGR). Although it might not see how one storyline has anything to do with another in the beginning, you will definitely be surprised how everything comes together in the end.

I can't stress how much I love Anya. Although she is able to devour souls, she desperately wants to be normal, and she is very conflicted about her relationship with Brian. I think all women can relate to her soft heart as well as her strength. Sparks is a fascinating novel that will keep you guessing. Thankfully there will be another book in the series to satisfy my addiction to this series.