Intense Whisper

Review: Decieved by the Others

noreply@blogger.com (Robin K) — Fri, 27 Jan 2012 01:59:00 +0000

by Jess Haines

They’re here, and they’re real…werewolves, vampires, mages, and other creatures of the night. For New York P.I. Shiarra Waynest, taking care of Others business started out as a way to stay solvent. But now business is getting very, very complicated…

Shiarra’s relationship with sexy werewolf Chaz may be somewhat unconventional. Still, after a few bumps, Shia is finally ready to get serious. That means meeting family–or in this case, bringing Chaz’s entire werewolf pack along for a rollicking full-moon weekend in the Catskills.

Soon after they arrive, threatening notes appear, warning Chaz to go home. Then their cabin is ransacked. Shia starts digging to find out whether it’s the work of upstart teenaged werewolves or something more sinister. Yet as rumors about her vampire connections arouse the pack’s hostility, Shia has to contend with other dangers. Not just from an adversary about to make his fatal intentions known, but from a threat that’s even closer than she knows… From http://www.jesshaines.com

Absolutely spectacular! I loved Hunted by the Others and Taken by the Others, so I am not surprised by my adoration of the third book in the H&W Investigations series, Deceived by the Others. I adore Jess's writing style and voice. In all honesty, Jess has given the term "guilty pleasure" an entirely new definition for me. I cannot wait for the forth book, Stalking the Others which releases in July, 2012. What a perfect Birthday present!

So why do I love these books!? For me it is the heroine, Shiarra. I just GET her. I love that she is a down-to-earth character. She is real and believable. The best reluctant heroine I have read. From the first page to the last I was as committed to her character as I could be. I blazed through the pages and agonized over the nearness of the end.

IT CANNOT BE OVER!

The setting and background characters add liveliness and unique situations to the story. From humorous to heart-wrenching, Jess guides Shiarra through some of the most surreal situations and realities. Focusing on real word struggles and complicated relationships the story reveals both the good and evil of beings regardless of humanity.

If you are looking for fast paced books filled with paranormal fun, please give this series a try. Filled with lush settings, mystery, suspense, and loves promise, Deceived by the Others is a wonderful escape to a new reality.

Who's team are you on now!?

For more information on this series and other writing

by Jess please visit her website and on Amazon!

Private I Interview/Giveaway: Ciara Knight, Curse of Gremdom

noreply@blogger.com (Robin K) — Sun, 22 Jan 2012 12:00:00 +0000

Please welcome Ciara Knight to Intense Whisper! Make sure to check out all of Ciara's tour stops!

Private I with Ciara Knight

The dark building looms over the bay. It's shadows casting a black void in front of the entrance. The author quietly stalks into the building...

Thank you for coming in. Were you informed of the reason you were brought in today? No, I’m afraid not. I just left the castle from visiting Tardon and then you brought me here.

We believe your character may be involved in suspicious activity. When and where is the last time you saw your character? I was interviewing him, for a post on my blog tour, when I was urgently escorted out by a guard. There was a threat on the castle.

For the record, can you please say and spell your characters full name and any known aliases.
Tardon Mandelack.

Do know where your character may be now? Don’t tell the Elders, please! Um…I last saw him sneaking Arianna into his family chambers. I’m sure they are just strategizing for the next mission.

Can you please give a brief description of your character? He is tall, muscular, and has a warrior mark on his chest. I must say, he is intimidating in person.

Do you have a recent picture of the subject? Yes.

What was the demeanor of the subject like when you last met? Itching for battle. The Elders had informed the warriors that some Cursed were heading for the castle walls.

Have they been fraternizing with anyone new as of late? Please keep this confidential as it is forbidden for two warriors to be together, but he has been spending extra time training with Arianna.

We understand that you are the author of the character, but can you describe your personal relationship with them? Oh, I totally have the hots for him. I think I’ll keep my distance, though. I’m afraid Arianna would run me through with her sword.

Do you know your character intimately? No. He only has eyes for Arianna, but I can dream *grin*.

We found this with your characters prints on it. Can you please tell me what it is? It’s a forbidden book passed down to him from his grandfather that depicts life outside the castle, prior to the Curse.

Is there anything else you think may be helpful? Tardon is an Elite Warrior. I’d be careful questioning him and/or the warrior code.

If we, or our associates have any further questions, where can you be found?
I can be found online: Website | Facebook | Twitter

"Thank you for your candid answers. I believe the threat to your castle has been... dealt with."

The author startles as the front door slams open, spilling the night into the room, when she turns back the inquisitor is gone. As the author leaves, a pile of folders of the desk can be seen. Each stamped as containing confidential information for the Office of Fictional Unaccounted for Characters or O.F.U.C.

The Curse of Gremdom by Ciara Knight

In a world where marriage is forbidden, sex is only granted to male warriors, and the outer realm is full of murderous creatures, Arianna fights to protect the life of her only living relative, her brother.

Tardon, an elite warrior, is granted anything he desires by the Elders, but finds little joy in the voluptuous women presented to him. Born for the bloodlust found only in battle, complicated emotions emerge when he discovers his equal in the alluring warrior, Arianna.

Charged by the Elders with saving the castle from attack, Tardon and Arianna risk the curse when they traverse the vast outer realm to retrieve serum from the Tree of Life. If successful, the Elders have promised Tardon the right to marry and Arianna the cure for her brother’s death fever. Will their love carry them through or will the discovery of a great deception be their ultimate demise?

We are offering a reward for any information leading to the apprehension of this character. Leave a comment to win an ebook copy of The Curse of Gremdon!

Contest ends January 27th, 2012. International entries welcome. Please leave your email address (name AT domain DOT com). One entry per household.

Ciara Knight always had a passion for storytelling. At an early age, she wrote several short stories and poems, and in college she started work on her first novel. It wasn’t until late 2008 that she returned to her true passion of writing. Over the past few years she has penned five novels and joined several professional writing organizations to better her craft. When not writing, she enjoys reading all types of fiction. Some great literary influences in her life include Edgar Allen Poe, Shakespeare, Francine Rivers and J K Rowling.

Ciara is happily married and enjoys family time. She has learned to embrace chaos, which is a requirement when raising three boys, and utilizes the insanity to create stories not of this world including, Fantasy, Paranormal, Sci-Fi, and Young Adult Dystopian.

Her first love, besides her family, reading, and writing, is travel. She’s backpacked through Europe, visited orphanages in China, and landed in a helicopter on a glacier in Alaska.

Make sure to visit Bewitching Book Tours for more tour dates.

Review: The Tritone Trilogy

noreply@blogger.com (Robin K) — Fri, 20 Jan 2012 16:38:00 +0000

I had the opportunity to meet Judy Fennell first at Authors After Dark in 2010 and again in 2011. I was even fortunate enough to share a panel with her in 2011. She is one of the most easy going, spirited woman I have met and as it turns out a spectacular author as well. During the panel the attendees created a spontaneous paranormal story which had us all laughing at the characters' possible problems involving adaptations to new settings. Little did I know that Judi is a bit of a master at such character imaginings.

In her Tritone Trilogy, which includes In Over Her Head, Wild Blue Under and Catch of a Lifetime, Judi plunges her characters into unbelievable situations and creates unforgettable stories. Imagine yourself a woman become mermaid or a merman beached in a world where ocean treasures are trinkets to be sold. A world so upside down and backwards that you cannot seem to find your footing or fins!?

Judi not only immerses her readers in these worlds but brings her characters along for the adventure. From the beautiful underwater world of Atlantis to the country streets of Kansas and the simmering heat of Florida's shores I was swept away into Judi's lush settings. Judi creates rich worlds to stimulate all of the senses. Of the three books my favorite setting was Judi's underwater world in book one, In Over Her Head. Written in intricate detail the ocean and reef comes alive for the heroine and reader. I thoroughly enjoyed swimming with the Mers.

In each book Judi introduces passionate, stubborn and futile love. Romances so improbable that I could not imagine a future for the characters. As with all such love stories, I laughed, cried, and raged. Note: Shaking the book does NOT knock sense into the characters *g*. Oh the angst, we all hate to love it. That being said, In each moment of utter confusion and helplessness the main characters suffer, Judi finds humor and liveliness. Judi's characters prove that though love at first sight is never easy, it is worth every moment of delicious despair.

In additional to fantastic settings, heroes and heroines, all three books are filled with magic and fantastic side characters, but I especially enjoyed the talking fish in book one. YES! Talking fish. I can also say that the car chase in Wild Blue Under is unlike any I have even envisioned. In each story the main characters are surrounded with unique creatures giving plenty of opportunity for the kind of witty, unapologetic banter such characters can create. My personal favorite quick wit remarks were the brief suggestions of "Little Mermaid" type characters and their not-so-eloquent moments.

If you are looking for fast reads with colorful characters and brilliant environments these books are for you. The trilogy is a fantastic escape during cold winter nights. So take a journey and enjoy the splash in Judi's MER-IFFIC trilogy!

For more information on these titles and more please visit Judi's website or on Amazon!

Whispers of Winter: Trinity Blacio

noreply@blogger.com (Robin K) — Wed, 18 Jan 2012 12:00:00 +0000

Whisper of Winter by Trinity Blacio

During the dark of the night, on a crisp winter eve a whisper on the wind rustled the last autumn leaves. Animals scurried here and there, looking for a hiding place before the moon rose to its full position in the sky. Even the trees seemed to whisper the warning to anyone that would listen. “Hide, they come.”

The lone female wolf lifted her head; blood dripped down her muzzle, and landed back on her meal at her feet. The tree’s warnings reached her ears, as she glanced up at the full moon, and knew her time had run out. Five alpha males now circled her and howled their joy of finding a mate. Their cries, now whispers of winter.

Trinity Blacio

Website | Facebook | Twitter | Author Page

My Silly Cat

noreply@blogger.com (Robin K) — Mon, 16 Jan 2012 21:47:00 +0000

Whispers of Winter: Jess Haines

noreply@blogger.com (Robin K) — Wed, 11 Jan 2012 12:00:00 +0000

Whisper of Winter by Jess Haines

During the dark of the night, on a crisp winter eve a whisper on the wind rustled the last autumn leaves. The winter fairies danced on the edge of a biting frost, creeping over the once lush greenery that was now dulled with the onset of the cold season.

Bright eyes shone in the deep shadows of the forest, watching for the return of life and laughter, quieted now by the whispers of winter.

Jess Haines

Website | Fan Forum | Facebook

HUNTED BY THE OTHERS
Amazon

Shiarra Waynest's detective work was dangerous enough when her client base was strictly mortal. But ailing finances have forced her to accept a lucrative case that could save her firm-if it doesn't kill her first. Shiarra has signed on to work for a high-level mage to recover an ancient artifact owned by one of New York's most powerful vampires. As soon as Shiarra meets sexy, mesmerizing vamp Alec Royce, she knows her assignment is even more complicated than she thought. With a clandestine anti-Other group trying to recruit her, and magi being eliminated, Shiarra needs back-up and enlists her ex-boyfriend-a werewolf whose non-furry form is disarmingly appealing-and a nerdy mage with surprising talents. But it may not be enough. In a city where the undead roam, magic rules, and even the Others aren't always what they seem, Shiarra has just become the secret weapon in a battle between good and evil-whether she likes it or not.

Whispers of Winter: Caddy Rowland

noreply@blogger.com (Robin K) — Wed, 04 Jan 2012 12:00:00 +0000

Whisper of Winter by Caddy Rowland

During the dark of the night, on a crisp winter eve a whisper on the wind rustled the last autumn leaves. Had it really been sixty years? She sighed. Ah, yes. Sixty years. Gone in what seemed like one intake of breath. Her life; put on hold.

She remembered the last time she had held him in her arms. They were both eighteen then; both in their senior year of high school. They were each other’s “forever love”. It was Christmas Eve and he had just given her an engagement ring. It was a simple ring, as they were very young; and he did not have much money. There was not even a diamond in it. But that ring was the most beautiful thing Kara had ever seen. It symbolized a love so strong, so pure that nothing in this world could end it.

Nothing, that is, except death. They had gone out on New Year’s Eve and he had brought her home, as promised, by a few minutes after midnight. Always the good girl, she never disappointed her parents. He then went back out. He must have gone to a party, and he must have been drinking.

The phone rang at 4am. Kara answered it quickly, thinking that is was James calling to wake her with a sweet “I love you” in her ear. That would be just like him, calling in the middle of the night to tell her how he could not wait until they were finally husband and wife. Instead, it was his father. It seemed there had been an accident-a horrible car crash out on highway 29. James was dead.

That night, almost sixty years ago, her world had ended. People said she should get over it, move on with her life. They had patience only so long and then that patience ran out. She was young, they said. There were so many possibilities for her life, so many other men she could meet! After all, they had only been eighteen. Who knew if would have even lasted? Most young marriages don’t, they reminded her. It was time to shake it off and start a new life with a new man!

Over the years, people finally gave up on her. Everyone now simply thought of her as the “crazy old lady” in the blue Victorian house on Main Street; that woman who lived in the past and sat by her window waiting. She didn’t care. She was no longer sad or angry. Emotion had left her decades ago. She felt nothing. All she heard were whispers of a lover who had left her stranded in this place of desolation. Even those whispers were starting to fade.

She shifted positions on the window seat. Her aching bones told her that it would not be much longer before she was finally with her lover once again. She hoped those bones did not lie. Kara did not know how many more years she could bear to sit and listen to the whispers of winter.

Caddy Rowland

Blog | Gastien Fanpage

Gastien Part 1: The Cost of the Dream
Nook BN | Amazon

One man: Stunningly handsome; with desires that burn relentlessly inside of him.

Two dreams: Become a great artist; an even greater lover.

The scene: For an artist, Paris is a hotbed of new ideas. For a lover, nineteenth century women can only dream of a man who cares if he actually satisfies them.

The problem: No training, no money, no connections. In nineteenth century France naïve young men, hoping to achieve impossible dreams, die in the gutters of Paris every day. And, he is a virgin...so far.

The tools: Raw, natural talent. Willingness to learn. Incredibly irresistible. The vow to stop at absolutely nothing in order to achieve his goals.

Gastien Beauchamp, Paris is yours for the taking. Sometimes, the "impossible" is possible. But the cost can be extremely high.

And newly released...
Gastien Part 2: From Dream to Destiny
Nook BN | Amazon

I am Gastien Beauchamp, artist and lover. Any Frenchman would tell you that a peasant could never own property in nineteenth century France. Yet here I am, in my very own studio.

The personal cost was horrendous. I barely survived the choices I made, and my sanity was pushed to its limits.

Still, I finally now have security, peace, and freedom. For the rest of my life I can spend time “making love to the color”, making love to beautiful women, and enjoying the wild nightlife of bohemian Montmartre. What more could a man need or want?

Then, one night, I see her. One look at Sophie, and my heart wants to betray me! I try to tell myself that I know better. Who needs love, anyway? I am already married-to my art!

No woman would ever understand and accept my lifestyle; nor am I about to give that lifestyle up! Not when I paid so dearly for it. Besides, I am too badly damaged to ever open up my heart…

Winner Announcement!

noreply@blogger.com (Robin K) — Tue, 03 Jan 2012 17:32:00 +0000

Thank you to everyone who entered my
2nd Blogoversary Celebration Contest and Happy Holidays Contest!

Special thanks for following my blog, tweeting and posting the contests.

The winner of my 2nd Blogoversary Celebration is: Valia Lind
The winner of my Happy Holidays Contest is: Sariah
The winners have been emailed.

Book-Cased (32)

noreply@blogger.com (Robin K) — Fri, 30 Dec 2011 21:04:00 +0000

The Reluctant Vampire
By Lynsay Sands

Publisher: Avon
ISBN: 978-0061894596
Amazon

Has this immortal finally met her match?

Rogue hunter Drina Argenis (from the Spanish side of the Argeneau family) has been many things in her years as an immortal, but bodyguard/babysitter to a teenage vampire is something new. There's an incentive, however: the other vampsitter, Harper Stoyan, may be Drina's life mate.

Trouble is, having just lost a life mate, Harper is resigned to being alone. He's completely unprepared when sexy and unpredictable Drina bursts into his life to reignite his passions. Can Drina, with a little matchmaking help from their teen charge, tempt this reluctant vampire to take a chance?

Or will a dangerous, unseen renegade kill Drina and Harper's one chance at happiness?
Read an excerpt...

Book-Cased the week of December 26th

Whispers of Winter: Judi Fennell

noreply@blogger.com (Robin K) — Wed, 28 Dec 2011 12:00:00 +0000

Whisper of Winter by Judi Fennell

During the dark of the night, on a crisp winter eve a whisper on the wind rustled the last autumn leaves. The stage was set. All he needed now were the perfect candidates.

Jonathan checked his watch. Almost ten. They should be along any minute—if he’d planned this correctly.

That was always the problem. No matter how much Jonathan planned, something always seemed to go awry.

Well, not this time. He was this close to earning his wings. The buds on his shoulder blades were itching something fierce now. Matter of fact…

Jonathan reached over his left shoulder with his right hand to give a good scratch.

Unfortunately, he hit the inn’s sign so that the woman who’d just emerged from the front door couldn’t help but notice.

She paused, looking both ways down the street.

Jonathan held his breath. She had to get moving. There were only a few seconds built in for error. And he didn’t mean his error.

His back itched as if on fire, but Jonathan refused to end his suffering, choosing instead to remain in the shadow of the oak so Nikki would take that first fateful step off the porch.

Finally, she did. And just in time, too. Both for Jonathan to breathe again and for Trent to round the corner.

Jonathan looked between the two of them. Twenty steps separated them. Nineteen now. Eighteen… Moments away from the meeting that would change their lives.

And earn him his wings. Finally.

At twelve steps apart, the street lamp by the inn came on.

At ten, the snow started to fall.

At eight, the puppy waddled into the sidewalk to sit right in the middle.

Well, not that Mortimer was a puppy, but Jonathan had chosen the little white ball of fluff Pekinese because he was small enough to be mistaken for a puppy and he knew how to act the part of something entirely too cute to be ignored. Those two needed to take to notice.

And they did. First of Mortimer, then… each other. Just as Jonathan had planned.

“Is he yours?” Nikki smiled at Trent.

Trent smiled back and shook his head. “No. And I guess it’s not yours either.”

She took the last two steps off the porch with a leap, her sneakers leaving an impression in the coating of snow. “Does he have a tag?”

Trent bent down to pick Mortimer up. Jonathan had counted on the Pekinese being a chick magnet, and he was proven right as Nikki walked up, her hand meeting Trent’s when they both went to pet Mortimer.

They laughed, embarrassed. But they didn’t stop looking at each other.

Jonathan smiled as the moment changed. It was just a slight thing, almost imperceptible—but not to guardian angels. Especially those who were on a mission to bring together two people who deserved the happiness they’d find with each other.

“It’s too cold to leave him here.”

“It’s too late to take him to a shelter.”

Again, they laughed as they spoke at the same time.

Jonathan waved his finger. The sign on the diner at the end of the street came on. It was Christmas Eve, but two strangers in a strange town wouldn’t think anything of it. Nor the fact that they would be the only patrons there.

He tapped his pocket. Best get to work then and put the apron on. They’d need someone to serve them.

Jonathan tapped his nose and pointed to the diner. Mortimer licked his own nose in acknowledgment.

“I think he’s hungry,” said Nikki, her fingers trailing slowly away from Trent’s.

“I am too, actually.” Trent moved his hand toward her, prolonging the contact. “Would you care to join me for something to eat at the diner?”

Nikki nodded. “Thanks. That’d be nice. I’m hungry, too. I think that’ll be nice.”

It would be more than nice; Jonathan would make sure of it.

And he did, dimming the street lamps as Trent and Nikki headed to the diner amid the softly swirling snow and the whispers of winter.

Judi Fennell

Website | Blog

Thanks, Robin, for allowing me to stretch my wings. Jonathan is a recurring character in my Once-Upon-A-Time Romance series that I hope will see the light of day soon. Jonathan has to earn his wings like any good guardian angel: by bringing people together for their own happily ever after. Sadly, though, Jonathan’s projects, like the path of true love, don’t always run smoothly, and he finds himself becoming very inventive in his job. Nikki and Trent are two completely new characters to me as of this short intro and I have no idea what their story is. But if you want to learn about one I have written and do know what happens in, check out Beauty and The Best, my American Title story on my website.

But in the meantime, if you’d like to see my latest release that has seen the light of day, Genie Knows Best, the second story in my Bottled Magic series, is now available:

Be careful what you wish for...

Samantha Blaine is about to make a fateful discovery. A tall, dark, handsome, ohmygosh kind of fateful discovery...

Kal is very pleased to meet his attractive new master--especially since he intends to seduce her into granting him freedom.

But when seriously dark magic spells trouble for both of them, Kal can't help himself from falling for the woman who holds his fate in her hands...

Warmly acclaimed by readers and critics alike, Judi Fennell brings to life a fabulous world of magic and mayhem where wishes come true in the most unexpected ways!

Happy Holidays to All

noreply@blogger.com (Robin K) — Sun, 25 Dec 2011 12:00:00 +0000

Wishing you all a warm

and wonderful holiday...

To all of my visitors, followers and friends regardless of celebration, or lack thereof, this season I hope you have a wonderful New Year and a life filled with love and happiness.

It is my deepest desire for you to find yourself lost in a story. Whisked away by magic, mayhem and merriness.

Live. Laugh. Love. Literature!

HAPPY HOLIDAYS!

Happy Holidays Contest

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

Happy Holidays

from my family to yours!

I just want to take a moment to wish everyone a happy holiday season and wonderful new year.

To celebrate the season I am sharing some love with two wonderful books!

What a Goddess Wants by Stephanie Julian

Ripe for Pleasure by Isobel Carr

One lucky winner will win both new books

(not signed) and some wonderful swag!

Just comment with some holiday cheer to win!

Please include your email address (name AT domain DOT com). One entry per household.

USA shipping addresses only please. Contest ends December 30th, 2011.

Following is not required but always appreciated.

Review: Elemental Assassin Series

noreply@blogger.com (Robin K) — Thu, 22 Dec 2011 12:00:00 +0000

I just finished reading the fifth book in Jennifer Estep's Elemental Assassin series. What a journey. I received the Spider's Revenge ARC at Authors After Dark for review this fall. Unfortunately, I had not read the first four books in the series. So I took the two on my shelves, bought two more and started reading. Thus my sincerest apologies for the delay of this review. I never start a series in the middle, at least not knowingly.

Being that I have read all five of the first books in the series in succession (Spider's Bite, Web of Lies, Venom, Tangled Threads and Spiders Revenge) I am going to do a series review as oppose to reviewing just the fifth book. The series reads very well from book to book with very little time passing between them. My only complaint with reading them one after the next was that some of the story descriptions got a bit repetitive. That being said, had I took more time between each book I would probably be praising Jennifer's excellent retelling and summarizing skills.

The world, rules, magic and characters are written with fantastic detail. I can still see each character clearly in my head as well as an imaginary, yet well detailed, map of the city of Ashland (the setting for al five books). I can clearly recite Gin's history, Mab's coterie, the secondary characters and all their reasons for being. The stories are very intriguing and I often found myself following my husband around filling him on all of Gin's affairs.

As far as the characters went, my favorite character was not Gin. She did grow on me, but I was actually a bit shocked at her brutality and indifference. I love kick-ass heroines but I also love some redeeming characteristics. The series start as harsh and cold as Gin, which made her hard to relate to. Almost as though she was unapproachable as a character. I do believe though that she is exactly what an assassin should be. No whining, no second chances, she kills because she is good at it. That is the part of Gin that makes her character both disturbing and strangely admirable. I most definitely want to keep reading her story and I love how she grows in the books. So though not my favorite character I can honestly say I would not change her in the least.

Who is my favorite character? Her step-brother, Fin. I always fall for the quirky side kicks. I adore the characters that bring a little lightness into a story and the main character's life. He is dapper, savvy and has a touch of snark. I must also state my infatuation with Owen (who appears later in the series). Owen is hot and uses a hammer as a weapon. I could not help but picture him as an avenging mythical god. Enough said *grin*. It was also intriguing to read about a second female assassin in Tangled Threads, LaFleur. Her interactions with Gin are just as explosive as one would imagine they should be. The comparisons of the two assassins was also entertaining.

As easy as it was to picture Gin and her leading men, I did struggle a bit picturing the giants and dwarfs. I imagine that they should have appeared mostly human, with different body types, but all I could see were the fairytale sorts. I was able to overcome this to some extent while reading, but perhaps not entirely. The vampires and magical qualities of "Elementals" (those with the magic of the elements) were much easier for me to picture. Nothing is as striking as a woman in leather with magic literally dripping from her fingers. The descriptions of the magical talents of various characters were stunning.

Of the five books I read my favorite was book four (Tangles Threads), followed by book three (Venom). The characters were already well developed, Gin had a bit of a coming-of-age, she discovered a new love interest and the books were just plain fun. The action in all of the books is fast passed and vivid. Jennifer held nothing back with Gin or her exploits. I still giggle at the thought of FIn driving a monster truck over a dwarf.

If I have not yet raised your curiosity about these books, I am not sure what would, lol. I would describe the series as urban fantasy sprinkled with magic and filled with action. One does not just read these books... you immerse yourself in them. I cannot wait to read the sixth book in the series, By a Thread which is to be released in early 2012.

Whispers of Winter: Leonard White

noreply@blogger.com (Robin K) — Wed, 21 Dec 2011 12:00:00 +0000

Whisper of Winter by Leonard White

During the dark of the night, on a crisp winter eve a whisper on the wind rustled the last autumn leaves.

"He's coming." Amy said

"I know." Margret replied. She stood up and stepped toward the little folding table. As she did this each of them rose to do the same. Margret stood on the west side of the fire, a dish of water in front of her. Amy stood in the south, her table covered with candles. Sam stood in the east with incense burning in a bowl surrounded by feathers. Tammy stood in the north, her table held a large broken geode and an urn. She looked a little green and more than a little nervous.

"Are you ready?" Margret asked.

Tammy nodded and stepped forward so that she was beside the fire burning between all of them. She knelt down and lowered her head.

Four women had been coming to this spot in the woods for years. Friends at first, then family. One of their number had left the circle. Each of the others now wore a tiny pink ribbon to honor her memory. Memories of fighting and loving; joys and tears and everything else the you could share with a sister.

Now, they gathered again. These three, without their fourth, as they had for most of the last year. tonight was another turn of the wheel. Just as all things are, it was a beginning and an end.

Each one called to him. The craftsman, the maker of wonders, the God. The fire jumped and sparks flew as they all became aware of his presence among them.

The urn was uncapped and the ash within was given to the fire. Committing her to their god forever. The north was now vacant. The open door allowing in the intense whispers of the spirits of the earth. An opening in the circle that just would not do. Luckily, it wouldn't be vacant for long.

Tammy raised her head and called to the god. Pledging herself to their circle, whispering promises into the smoke. The fire answered; shifting and popping as a high pitched whistle escaped it. She had been accepted, even granted a sign and now she would join the others. The three came forward, dropping their robes to the ground so that their skin was touched by the chill night air. They bound her to them with gentle kisses and soft touches. Tammy was surrounded by her new family as the four of them formed the bonds of their new circle. Their soft gasps and quite moans lost among the whispers of winter.

Leonard White

Smashwords | Wordpress

New Guest Post Feature

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

I am excited to announce a new feature coming to Intense whisper.

This winter season I will be sharing guest posts from various authors with a new Whispers of Winter feature. The authors represent many different genres and backgrounds. Authors include small and large press, as well as, some who are self published. Each post is creatively written, but will start and end with the same text.

I love exploring different writing styles and I cannot wait to share each authors' unique post with my followers. The first post will go up tomorrow and on following Wednesdays as I have submissions.

If you are an author or just love writing and are interested in participating, just let me know as I will continue to take posts throughout winter.

2nd Blogoversary Celebration Contest

noreply@blogger.com (Robin K) — Mon, 19 Dec 2011 23:43:00 +0000

Happy 2nd Blogoversary to me!

I cannot believe that it has been two years since I started my blog on December1st, 2009!

I am so thankful for all of the wonderful people I have met and the unique opportunities that blogging has graced

me with. To share my continued love of books I am offering a contest in celebration of my blog's anniversary...

Changeling Moon by Dani Harper

Blood Song by Cat Adams

One lucky winner will win both new books

(not signed) and some wonderful swag!

Just comment with some blog love to win!

Please include your email address (name AT domain DOT com). One entry per household.

USA shipping addresses only please. Contest ends December 30th, 2011.

Following is not required but always appreciated.

Another contest will be posted in just a few days... stay tuned.

Authors After Dark 2012 Reading Challenge

noreply@blogger.com (Robin K) — Fri, 09 Dec 2011 22:11:00 +0000

The lovely Midnyte Reader is hosting an Authors After Dark 2012 Reading Challenge on her blog!

The challenge will run from January 1, 2012 to December 31, 2012. Books must be read and reviewed in 2012. You can join at anytime during the year. Anyone can join (not just book bloggers).

The authors eligible for the challenge can be found on the Authors After Dark website.

CLICK HERE for more information!

What angel are you?

noreply@blogger.com (Robin K) — Fri, 09 Dec 2011 04:40:00 +0000

I just popped over to Cynthia Eden's blog and filled out her Angel Quiz. Not only is it scary accurate, but by playing along you can also be entered to win a Kindle this Christmas. The winner will be announced on December 17.

Check it out here: Angel Quiz

My results...

You're an Angel of Death. You can kick the ass of any being out there. You watch others, but your job isn't about protection. You focus on duty. On doing what must be done. But when you're alone, away from everyone else, you realize there's more that you want in life. Darkness is your companion, but you want to taste the light, if only for a little while.

"I've seen everything this world has to offer…And you're the only thing in my existence that has ever made me feel."–Keenan in ANGEL OF DARKNESS.

Habitual Reading

noreply@blogger.com (Robin K) — Tue, 06 Dec 2011 15:39:00 +0000

Are you a habitual reader? Do you have rules for which you read by? I most certainly am. Here are some of my reading nuances:

1. Read only one book at a time. Reading one is hard enough with my business and kids. Reading more than one would be mind boggling to me. To all you bloggers who read more then one book at a time, you have my uptmost respect and utter astonishment :)

2. Immediately after finishing write the book review. I am not a note taker, all of the brilliant thoughts I have about a book happen as I read. If I am lucky, I retain some for the review. If I were to wait it would be simply tragic *winks*.

3. Read no other reviews before or during reading. A rule I almost never break. I am terrified of accidentally plagiarizing in my own review. So no tainted waters for me. I do, however, often read reviews after I have read the book to see other readers opinions.

4. Read the WHOLE series from book one to end. Often times all in a row, back-to-back. It is a bit of an obsession for me. I also have a shelf of poor orphaned books that have come out since I finished the series. Woes to the lonely book 9...

5. Always finish. Always. Always. I commit. There is no gray area for me here. And yes, there are books I have slugged thru and counted the minutes. But I think all writing has redeeming qualities and all books are worthy of my attention. Besides if I stopped reading them, my husband would not let me keep getting more!

6. Keep it quiet. Or as quiet as possible with kids and men. That being said, I have become very astute at ignoring sporting events blaring in the background. My husbands military type video games are a bit more of a challenge. BOOM BOOM BANG BANG BANG CRASH... you get the drift.

7. Watching my step. I read and walk. On the treadmill, to the bus stop and down the steps. I have done so since being young and walking home from school. Amazing how one can memorize intersections.

I am sure that I have more reading behaviors that would be highly entertaining, but I want to hear yours. Do you have the same rules I do? Some fantastic ones I missed and must now add? Please share!

Anne McCaffrey Remebered

noreply@blogger.com (Robin K) — Thu, 24 Nov 2011 00:55:00 +0000

There is a moment when every reader becomes a reader. An "ah ha" moment. When a book catches your imagination, pulls your heart and inspires your life. Thanks to a very dear friend of mine, I was introduced to Anne's books and had my moment.

Anne's Pern series thoroughly entranced me and I bought and read every one. Many readers and bloggers ask, "Who is your "for sure" buy?". Well, Anne was mine. Pern was the most spectacular setting I have read to date. The characters had a magnetism and strength I will always admire. Her Freedom series is one of the best series I have read. I could continue indefinitely with compliments on Anne's writing and never express my gratitude or awe of her literary mind.

Anne started my love for reading fantasy and science fiction. She kept me turning pages to escape into her magnificent worlds. I am so saddened by her passing. My heart goes out to her family, friends and fans around the world.

Your worlds will live in my heart for all days.

Anne Inez McCaffrey (1926 – 2011)

Guest Post: Theresa Meyers, Steampunk

noreply@blogger.com (Robin K) — Tue, 15 Nov 2011 12:00:00 +0000

Please welcome Theresa Meyers to Intense Whisper! Make sure to check out all of Theresa's tour stops!

Steampunk: A New Way
of Looking at the Old

Steampunk. Maybe you’ve heard of it. Maybe you haven’t.

Well, if you have and you are scratching your head wondering what it still is, let me say this it’s fun. If you’re curious because you’ve never heard it before, let me tell you, you’ve got some fantastic new worlds to explore.

At its most basic steampunk is Victorian era science fantasy where society relies mostly on steam power and the possibilities utilizing Victorian era materials are endless. Part of what makes steampunk so fun is the aesthetic’s interest in reusing, repurposing and recycling to make old things new again. Looking at steampunk stories, you’ll see that same thing happening. It is literally taking the old and making it new again.

Steampunk doesn’t just have pirates, it has sky pirates. There aren’t just adventurers or scientists, but adventurers and scientists who do amazing things like tunnel deep into the earth with disastrous consequences, like in Cherie Priest’s book Boneshaker, or those who try to find a means of science to stop vampires, like in Gail Carriger’s Souless, or have 1880s cowboys who ride mechanical horses and use guns powered by Tesla coils, like in my own Legend Chronicle stories.

Steampunk isn’t simply just slapping goggles or gears on something, dressing it in a bustle or top hat and calling it good. There’s so much more to it. It’s reimagining how people in the Victorian era might have envisioned and approached their future.

Take for instance H.G. Well’s Time Machine. While the story starts in the Victorian era, it quickly takes a turn into fantasy as the good doctor’s machine takes him so far into the future that society has completely deconstructed, turning into a horrifying version of hunters and gatherers. While it goes far beyond what you’ll often see in today’s steampunk, the story still embodies that ideal that perhaps if we can tinker enough with time, using machines and science, perhaps we can make a difference in our future.

That’s part of the reason why technology is a critical part of steampunk storytelling. If you can take the technology out of the story and still have a story, then you probably aren’t writing steampunk. Like the comic Girl Genius, technology is a vital part of the story itself. It directly changes the abilities and behaviors of our characters and determines the limits of their actions.

It’s a fictional lens to rewrite history in a fun, fantastical way. Literally a new way of looking at the old. Where else could you imagine gigantic mechanical scorpions, stage coaches that run on steam or automatons that function as well as any of today’s artificial intelligence?

If course, like many in steampunk, I like to buck against the traditional. While you could certain set a story in London, why should you? The whole world existed for the better part of a century during Queen Victoria’s reign. Why not make use of the extensive culture and history happening during that time of discovery, expansion and colonial upheaval?

Sure this isn’t your regular historical romance. But then that’s part of the essence that makes steampunk so much fun. It isn’t average. It isn’t something normal. It’s a fusion of the past, the present, and fantasy all blended together to create a world of might have been.

Thank you so much for your post Theresa. What a fantastic description of the new genre.
I thoroughly enjoyed reading The Hunter and would love to invite readers to see my review.

THE HUNTER
by Theresa Meyers

They’re the Chosen—Winchester, Remington and Colt—brothers trained to hunt down supernatural beings using the latest steam-powered gadgetry. It’s a hard legacy to shoulder, and it’s about to get a lot more dangerous…

A DEVIL OF A JOB

Colt Jackson has gotten his name on many a wanted poster with success in the family business: hunting supernaturals across the frontier. Lately, though, there’s a sulfur stink in the wind and the Darkin population is exploding. A rift in the worlds is appearing. To close it, Colt will have to do the unthinkable and work with a demon to pass arcane boundaries no human alone can cross.

Except when he summons his demon, he doesn’t get some horned monstrosity: he gets a curvy redheaded succubus named Lilly, who’s willing to make a bargain to become human again. He also gets Lilly’s secret expertise on the machinations on the dark side of the rift. And her charm and cleverness help to get them out of what his silver-loaded pistol and mechanical horse can’t. Of course, when all hell breaks loose, he might have to sacrifice his soul. But what’s adventure without a little risk?

About Theresa Meyers: Raised by a bibliophile who made the dining room into a library, Theresa has always been a lover of books and stories. First a writer for newspapers, then for national magazines, she started her first novel in high school, eventually enrolling in a Writer's Digest course and putting the book under the bed until she joined Romance Writers of America in 1993.

In 2005 she was selected as one of eleven finalists for the American Title II contest, the American Idol of books. She is married to the first man she ever went on a real date with (to their high school prom), who she knew was hero material when he suffered through having to let her parents drive, and her brother sit between them in the backseat of the car. They currently live in a Victorian house on a mini farm in the Pacific Northwest with their two children, three cats, an old chestnut Arabian gelding, an energetic mini-Aussie shepherd puppy, several rabbits, a dozen chickens and an out-of-control herb garden.

You can find her online on Twitter, Facebook, at her website or blogging with the other Lolitas of STEAMED! Make sure to visit Bewitching Book Tours for more tour dates.

Winner Announcement!

noreply@blogger.com (Robin K) — Sat, 05 Nov 2011 21:20:00 +0000

Thank you to everyone who entered my Halloween Contest!

Special thanks for following my blog, tweeting and posting the contest.

Winner: Lexi
The winner has been emailed.

New Release: The Guardian

noreply@blogger.com (Robin K) — Wed, 02 Nov 2011 11:00:00 +0000

The Guardian
by Sherrilyn Kenyon

As a Dream-Hunter, Lydia has been charged with the most sacred and dangerous of missions. She’s to descend into the Nether Realm and find the missing god of dreams before he betrays the secrets that could kill all of them. What she never expects is to be taken prisoner by the Realm’s most vicious guardian.

Seth’s time is running out. If he can’t hand over the entrance to Olympus, his own life and those of his people will be forfeit. No matter the torture, Seth hasn’t been able to break the god in his custody. Then there’s the beautiful Dream-Hunter Lydia: She isn’t just guarding the gates of Olympus—she’s holding back one of the world’s darkest powers. If she fails, an ancient curse will haunt the earth once more and no one will be safe. But evil is always seductive...

Website: www.officialsanctuary.com and www.sherrilynkenyon.com for more about SHERRILYN KENYON, THE GUARDIAN, and all of her novels.

To sign up and access an exclusive bonus scene from THE GUARDIAN, visit: http://www.heroesandheartbreakers.com/features/series/the-guardian?WT.mc_id=10336

Review: Darker Still ARC

noreply@blogger.com (Robin K) — Tue, 01 Nov 2011 13:00:00 +0000

Darker Still (Magic Most Foul #1)
by Leanna Renee Hieber

The Picture of Dorian Gray meets Pride and Prejudice, with a dash of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde.

New York City, 1882. Seventeen-year-old Natalie Stewart's latest obsession is a painting of the handsome British Lord Denbury. Something in his striking blue eyes calls to her. As his incredibly life-like gaze seems to follow her, Natalie gets the uneasy feeling that details of the painting keep changing...

Jonathan Denbury's soul is trapped in the gilded painting by dark magic while his possessed body commits unspeakable crimes in the city slums. He must lure Natalie into the painting, for only together can they reverse the curse and free his damaged soul. From Goodreads

Darker Still is unlike any other book I have read. I do not read a ton of YA and when I do they are heavily paranormal. Leanna's tale has supernatural aspects but is more of a haunted historical romance then paranormal. Regardless of this departure from my most-read genres I thoroughly enjoyed the read and found myself more and more captivated by the characters as the story unfolded.

The story is told from Natalie's viewpoint. In diary format. So I quite literally was stepping into her world via her words. Let me say that Natalie is a fantastic story teller. Her language is easy to follow and she does not get caught up in flighty thoughts. Though the diary format does limit dialog, there was still plenty of secondary character development and interactions.

The setting as described is sublime. Natalie's story takes place in a world filled with ruffle, lace, carriages, teas and high society. The intrigues of the well-to-do and the less fortunate abound filling the pages with rich color. Leanna describes New York with passion and love and imbues the same awe into Natalie. The city is defined in such a way as to lend perfectly to the magical feeling of the novel.

Then there is love. The love of family, of life and of self. The characters combine a plethora of personalities and backgrounds which enhance the experiences of Natalie and her world. Leanna writes of understanding, fortitude, resilience, honor, loyalty and strength. But in such a way that all of these strong characteristics are subtle, perhaps understated. There is an incredible patience in the story. Which could be lent to the era of the setting. The book gives a very regal and innocent feel with just the smallest hint of sass.

There is also romantic love. Both Natalie and Jonathan must have faith in each other and their spirituality. To conquer their demons they must find goodness, magic and angels. Through tragedy and plight they find an extraordinary kinship. Against propriety and thought most definitely scandalous, they sneak an occasional caress. A stolen kiss. I loved the purity and consideration. Jonathan is the epitome of a gallant gentleman.

As you may have found in this review the book inspires more intricate descriptions and adjectives than some. I had to open both my dictionary and thesaurus. Leanne writes with a beautifully flowing lint. With elegant flourish much like the author herself. If you enjoy a opulent tale with magic, mystery and love please delve into Natalie's world and immerse yourself in her modest and much unexpected quest.

For more information on this book please visit Leanna Renee Hieber's website!
Darker Still ~~will be available November 8th, 2011~~ is available now!

Halloween Contest

noreply@blogger.com (Robin K) — Mon, 31 Oct 2011 17:44:00 +0000

Happy, Happy Halloween!

In celebration of this wonderful holiday and day of treat sharing I am offering a special contest!

What better to tantalize then the steamy heroes and their goddesses in these three wonderful books:

Nocturne by Syrie James

Lover Revealed by J.R. Ward

Eternal Rider by Larissa Ione

One lucky winner will win all three shiny,

new books (not signed) and some wonderful swag!

All you need to do is share your favorite treat, costume or fall tradition in the comments to enter.

Please include your email address (name AT domain DOT com). One entry per household.

USA shipping addresses only please. Contest ends Nov 4th, 2011.

Following is not required but always appreciated.

The winner will be posted on the blog this weekend.