Lore Lush Book Reviews

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2016-04-13T10:07:00.002-07:00

Lore Lush Books

BOOK REVIEW: Warm Bodies by Isaac Marion

2012-12-05T13:09:00.001-08:00

Warm Bodies by Isaac Marion
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Hardcover, USA Edition, 241 pages

Published: April 26th 2011 by Atria (first published October 28th 2010)

ISBN: 1439192316 (ISBN13: 9781439192313)

From Publisher: "R is a young man with an existential crisis--he is a zombie. He shuffles through an America destroyed by war, social collapse, and the mindless hunger of his undead comrades, but he craves something more than blood and brains. He can speak just a few grunted syllables, but his inner life is deep, full of wonder and longing. He has no memories, no identity, and no pulse, but he has dreams.

After experiencing a teenage boy's memories while consuming his brain, R makes an unexpected choice that begins a tense, awkward, and strangely sweet relationship with the victim's human girlfriend. Julie is a blast of color in the otherwise dreary and gray landscape that surrounds R. His decision to protect her will transform not only R, but his fellow Dead, and perhaps their whole lifeless world.

Scary, funny, and surprisingly poignant, Warm Bodies is about being alive, being dead and the blurry line in between."

Review: This was a truly unique and entertaining read. I absolutely loved R the zombie, which is something I never thought I say about something with rotting flesh and a hunger for brains and human flesh. The writing was brilliant. I laughed and cared about the characters. This story is the kind that will stay with you long after the last page. There is nothing typical about this book and I would love to read more from this author.

Also, here is a trailer for the movie

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Book Review: Something Witchy This Way Comes by H.P. Mallory

2012-08-05T09:40:00.002-07:00

Something Witchy This Way Comes by H.P. Mallory
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
On Sale: September 25, 2012
Paperback: Pages: 336 | ISBN: 978-0-345-53158-2
eBook: Pages: 288 | ISBN: 978-0-345-53159-9
Audiobook: Read by Allyson Ryan | ISBN: 978-0-449-01200-0
Published by : Bantam

From the Publisher:
A witch’s work is never done, and in bestselling author H. P. Mallory’s mesmerizing new novel, Jolie Wilkins finds that the real magic is only just beginning.

For smart and sexy witch Jolie Wilkins, being Queen of the Underworld is a royal pain. Back from a round of time travel, Jolie must now protect her realm from the sinister Lurkers—a powerful breed of half-humans bent on conquering the undead. And if there’s one thing she knows, it’s that the supernatural never go down without a fight.

At least Jolie has her soul mate (and finally official boyfriend), warlock Rand Balfour, by her side. Honorable, brave, and unbelievably handsome, Rand is everything Jolie wants in a man. So why can’t she forget the dangerously alluring vampire, Sinjin Sinclair? With her private life heating up and a battle boiling over, Jolie sets out to prove that in matters of love and war, the fairer hex has its own set of charm

*Read excerpt*

My review:
This book is full of revelations-good and bad. We find out more about Jolie's family and learn why her abilities surpass other witches and are introduced to the Lurkers and find out who they are.

I like the heroine, Jolie's character who goes through a whole lot in this book and she remained strong, smart and good throughout it all.

The only thing that kept me from giving this book 5 stars is that Jolie has too many inner conversations and arguments with herself,, and despite the fact that I love Rand for Jolie and they have a healthy and believable relationship; I didn't feel for him as I did in other books.

I did, however, finish this book in one day so that says how much I liked the story.

About the Author:
H. P. Mallory is the author of the Jolie Wilkins series as well as the Dulcie O’Neil series. She began her writing career as a self-published author and after reaching a tremendous amount of success, decided to become a traditionally published author and hasn’t looked back since.

H. P. Mallory lives in Southern California with her husband and son, where she is at work on her next book.

Source: NetGalley

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Book Review: VAMPIRE SEX by Buck Tanner

2012-07-08T04:49:00.000-07:00

Vampire Sex by Buck Tanner
My rating: 5 of 5 stars

So you've read books about sexy vampires and have seen movies or the television shows that make you want a sensual vampire experience of your own. Does a gorgeous, tall, brooding over-protective vampire sound good? Well then Eternal Love Tours will help you find one just for you by guiding you through the exciting process of getting to have sex with a vampire. Hmm...but what if things are not as advertised and are definitely not as sexy as you hoped for?

VAMPIRE SEX is a funny, quick, entertaining read that takes you Transylvania where vampires are a little different from the ones in your favorite Paranormal Romance novels. It follows the steps needed to prepare you to meet your vampire, and answers any questions and FAQs you may have during the process.

I recommend this book/story to those who enjoy a fresh and fun read.

I will definitely read the rest of the FAQs book by Buck Tanner.

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Release Party! BLOOD POSSESSION By Tessa Dawn

2012-04-15T08:15:00.000-07:00

Book Three in Tessa Dawn's Blood Curse Series is out today. Stop by her site: http://blog.tessadawn.com for an all day release party where there will be free chapters, the book trailer and a chance to win a free autographed copy. See you there!

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Order Blood Possession

Paperback: 376 pages
Publisher: Ghost Pines Publishing, LLC (April 15, 2012)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1937223035
ISBN-13: 978-1937223038

Back Blurb for Blood Possession
Napolean Mondragon is no ordinary soul. He is the sovereign lord of the house of Jadon, the very heart-beat of the Vampyr race, and a fearsome leader who rules with absolute authority and power. While he carries the blood of every vampire in his veins; he also carries a dark secret of shame in his heart…

A secret that will soon be used against him by his enemies.

When Brooke Adams comes to Dark Moon Vale for a conference, she is unaware of the hidden danger that dwells within the valley’s majestic forest. A rising star in the corporate world, she has only one goal: to sale a leading-edge concept to her boss and advance her career. Little does she know, her life is about to change…forever.

Caught in a tangled web of vengeance and deception, Napolean and Brooke are forced to confront their inner demons. Together, they must fight to survive a BLOOD POSSESSION.

Short summary for Blood Possession

The deepest recesses of the soul are exposed – and tested –- when a sovereign, vampire king and a savvy, corporate woman are caught in the wake of a timeless destiny…and a savage plot for revenge. They live two different lives. They conceal two haunted pasts. They have only once chance to survive a bitter BLOOD POSSESSION.

BOOK REVIEW: BANSHEE CHARMER By Tiffany Allee

2012-01-16T04:35:00.000-08:00

Banshee Charmer by Tiffany Allee
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

From The Publisher:

When she’s sent to a crime scene and finds her second dead woman in as many weeks, half-banshee detective Kiera “Mac” McLoughlin is convinced a serial killer is on the loose. Incubi are extinct, her boss insists. But what else can kill a woman in the throes of pleasure? When her partner is murdered after using witchcraft to locate the killer and Mac is thrown off the case, her frustration turns to desperation.

Certain the killer is an incubus, Mac works behind her department’s back to chase down slim, sometimes perilous leads. While the killer eludes her, she does discover handsome Aidan Byrne, an investigative counterpart from the enigmatic Otherworlder Enforcement Agency. Mac typically runs her investigations fast and hard, but with Aidan at her side, she’s running this one “hot” as well. But Aidan knows more than he’s letting on—something that could shatter their blazing romance and add Mac to the killer’s growing body count…

Review:

I was sent this novella (which is first of a four part series) by a publicist at Entangled publishing. Banshee Charmer was a delight to read. It's fast-paced plot, unique characters and sexy romance made it hard for me to put down. A half-banshee detective and incubus is not something you find everyday making it thoroughly refreshing. I am so glad I had the opportunity to read this book and can't wait to read the rest of the series as well as more from the very talented author Tiffany Allee.
Look for Subsequent releases in March, May, and July 2011!

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Information:

Title: Banshee Charmer (From the Files of the Otherworlder Enforcement Agency, #1)
Author: Tiffany Allee
Genre: Paranormal Romance
Length: 159 pages
Release Date: January 2012
ISBN: 978-1-937044-99-2

About the Author:

Tiffany  Allee  lives  in  Phoenix,  AZ  and  is  happily  engaged  to  a  secret  romantic.  She  spends  her  days  working  in  Corporate  America  while  daydreaming  about  sexy  heroes,  and  her  nights  writing  and  bothering  her  cats  (according  to  them).  Her  passions  include  reading,  chocolate,  travel,  wine,  and  family.

Contact Entangled Publishing
Website: http://entangledpublishing.com
Bookseller Information: http://www.entangledpublishing.com/booksellers/

Book Review: The Kure by Jaye Frances

2011-12-14T10:00:00.000-08:00

The Kure by Jaye Frances
My rating: 3 of 5 stars

First, let me say, I loved the characters that Jaye Frances created. The story is definitely unusual and unique. The details and descriptions were spot on. Though, while the saying: The cure is worse than disease, It is very difficult to think of much worse than what the main character John Tyler was ailing with except maybe from the point of view of the person who...Oh never mind. That would be a spoiler and I don't do those :). I thoroughly enjoyed reading this book and am excited to read the next book. The reason I gave this book 3 out of 5 stars (I really didn't want to) is because I expected a bit more paranormal. I would say romance as well but given the circumstances in the book, I completely understood the restraint. The Kure was a wonderful read that kept me up late at night. I would definitely read more books from this very talent author.

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Book Review: Blood Secrets by Jeannie Holmes

2011-12-11T14:48:00.001-08:00

Blood Secrets by Jeannie Holmes
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Blood Secrets is book 2 in the series but the author did a good job of weaving the events of book 1 with little interruption to the story. This book had quite a bit going in the plot and changed POVs a lot as well. While the plot was interesting and I enjoyed the book, as I read it I cared about what happened to the main character, I found that by the end of it I had little desire to read the next book which is unusual for me as I love series. But on a good note, it reminded me a little of the TV show Criminal Minds with vampires. The world Jeanine Holmes created was unique and believable.

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Drink Deep Blog Tour Interview with Merit!

2011-10-31T05:00:00.000-07:00


Publishers Description: Clouds are brewing over Cadogan House, and recently turned vampire Merit can’t tell if this is the darkness before the dawn or the calm before the storm. With the city iself in turmoil over paranormals and the state threatening to pass a paranormal registration act, times haven’t been this precarious for vampires since they came out of the closet. If only they could lay low for a bit, and let the mortals calm down. That’s when the waters of Lake Michigan suddenly turn pitch black-and things really start getting ugly. Chicago’s mayor insists it’s nothing to worry about, but Merit knows only the darkest magic could have woven a spell powerful enough to change the very fabric of nature. She’ll have to turn to friends old and new to find out who’s behind this, and stop them before it’s too late for vampires and humans alike.

******

LLBR: Merit, thank you for taking the time to meet with me today. Much has happened since our last interview prior to the release of HARD BITTEN, how are you coping with all of the changes in Cadogan House and Chicago as a whole?

Merit: As well as I can. I'm sure I handle it gracefully on some days and less gracefully on other days. But the House needs me as Sentinel, so I'm trying to keep my chin up.

LLBR: You seem to be loyal with strong values and morals. Considering the latest revelation in regards to your father, and the fact that you grew up with him, how did you become so different?

Merit: Thank you. I guess it's biology, as my sister and brother are much more like him than I am--they're much more comfortable in social situations and spending time with the uber-rich and powerful. That's not my gig. I prefer a book and a pizza. And to be fair, he does try to do what's right. It's just not my kind of right.

LLBR: Along the same lines as loyalty, now that a certain, er, element is no longer a barrier and because of the current issues in the House, what are you feelings towards the Red Guard?

Merit: I don't think it's any secret that Jonah is pushing hard for me to join. But I'm still not sure it's the right move for me or Cadogan House. Right now, they need me working with the House, not against it.

LLBR: I can totally see you on a bike (motorcycle). A Harley-Davidson V-Rod Muscle to be exact. You could ride with Gabe and the other shifters. Would you ever consider getting one?

Merit: *Laughing* Thanks, but I'm not really a motorcycle kind of girl. I prefer cars with interesting lines. Old school Stingrays and Triumphs.

LLBR: I have enough time in Chicago to visit only one of the good eats you talk about in the books. Which one you recommend?

Merit: I'd try Crust in Wicker Park. It's one of mine and Mallory's favorite pizza places.

LLBR: I know you love Chicago and I know that not all of the human population in Chicago have problems with vamps. If you ever needed a break and had time to travel, a friend of mine would be happy to show you around DC. You would love the half-smoke and chili cheese fries from Ben's Chili Bowl. Yum.

Merit: That sounds delicious. I can't believe I haven't tried that yet!

Merit, I can't wait to read Drink Deep on 1 Nov 11. Hopefully we'll be able to do this again next year. Thank you for stopping by!

Merit: Thank you for having me!

******

Chloe Neill was born and raised in the South, but now makes her home in the Midwest–just close enough to Cadogan House and St. Sophia’s to keep an eye on things. When not transcribing Merit’s and Lily’s adventures, she bakes, works, and scours the Internet for good recipes and great graphic design. Chloe also maintains her sanity by spending time with her boys–her favorite landscape photographer/husband and their dogs, Baxter and Scout. (Both she and the photographer understand the dogs are in charge.) Chloe is represented by Lucienne Diver of The Knight Agency. Chloe is a member of the Science Fiction & Fantasy Writers of America.

Book Review: Frost Moon by Anthony Francis

2011-10-09T10:28:00.000-07:00

Frost Moon by Anthony Francis
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This is a truly extaordinary Urban Fantasy and I was entertained throughout. Dakota Frost a Skindancer, magical tattoo artist and six-foot-something badass leads us through an alternate Atlanta full of the supernaturals with unique lore and depth. I think I may have found a new favorite in author Anthony Francis!

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Book Review: Illicit Magic by Camilla Chafer

2011-10-09T09:32:00.000-07:00

Illicit Magic by Camilla Chafer
My rating: 4 of 5 stars

This took me a a while to get into but once I did, this book kept me well up into the morning hours (which speaks volumes as I highly value my sleep). By the end of the book, I was left wanting more. I want to see how Stella comes to fit in her new world and develop her general witchiness. There is also the matter of finding out what happened to the others, Evan in particular. This was well written, unique and entertaining. I am definitely going to read the next installment: UNRULY MAGIC.

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Browse Inside : Alterant by Sherrilyn Kenyon & Dianna Love

2011-10-04T02:26:00.000-07:00

Browse Inside : Alterant

In this explosive new world of betrayals #1 NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLING AUTHOR and shaky alliances created by New York Times bestselling author Sherrilyn Kenyon and Dianna Love, the only free Alterant faces an impossible task—recapture three dangerous escaped creatures before they slaughter more humans . . . or her. The way Evalle Kincaid sees it, saving mankind from total destruction should have cleared her name. But when words uttered in the heat of combat are twisted against her, she’s blamed for the prison break of three dangerous Alterants. She has one chance to clear the cloud of suspicion hanging over her . . . for good. All she has to do is recapture the escapees. But deals with gods and goddesses are tricky at best, and now the lives of all Beladors, and the safety of innocent humans, rides on Evalle’s success. The only person she can ask for help wants to see her dead.

Drink Deep by Chloe Neill, Release date November 1, 2011

2011-09-21T03:32:00.000-07:00

Drink Deep by Chloe Neill will be released on November 1, 2011. I can hardly wait! What book or books are you waiting for?

Book Review: NightShade By Michelle Rowen

2011-09-09T01:27:00.000-07:00

Nightshade by Michelle Rowen

My rating: 3 of 5 stars

From Publisher:

Jillian Conrad never believed in vampires-until she was unwillingly injected with a serum that was supposed to act as a deadly poison to them. Now, tormented half-vampire Declan Reese wants her blood to destroy the undead kingdom. Unfortunately, the serum has also made her blood irresistible to all vampires-including Declan, whose desire for Jillian is more than mere hunger.

This was a good start to a new series. I really like Michelle Rowen's books and the characters she creates. The concept for Nightshade was very different from what I have read before and I was interested and entertained throughout.

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Book Review: ONE GRAVE AT A TIME by Jeaniene Frost

2011-09-08T01:23:00.000-07:00

One Grave at a Time by Jeaniene Frost

My rating: 4 of 5 stars

From Publisher:

How do you send a killer to the grave when he’s already dead?

Having narrowly averted an (under)world war, Cat Crawfield wants nothing more than a little downtime with her vampire husband, Bones. Unfortunately, her gift from New Orleans’ voodoo queen just keeps on giving–leading to a personal favor that sends them into battle once again, this time against a villainous spirit.

Centuries ago, Heinrich Kramer was a witch hunter. Now, every All Hallows Eve, he takes physical form to torture innocent women before burning them alive. This year, however, a determined Cat and Bones must risk all to send him back to the other side of eternity–forever. But one wrong step and they’ll be digging their own graves.

I am a huge fan of this series and Jeaniene Frost doesn't disappoint. Cat is maturing and I like how if affects her job as well as her relationship with Bones and others. As always, the side characters such as,Ian and the newly introduced Tyler were fun and entertaining to read. There is always a new baddy to catch so I'll be waiting patiently until the next book in this series is released. Until then, I may have to do a re-read :).

Buy One Grave at a Time: A Night Huntress Novel

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Interview & Giveaway w/ Sable Grace

2011-07-11T23:00:00.000-07:00

I really enjoyed reading your book, Ascension: A Dark Breed Novel. Thank you for stopping by and letting me ask you a few questions.

LLBR: First, how did the two of you team up?

SG: We were critique partners for several years and were working together to do warm up exercises before working on our separate projects one night in a hotel. The writing game became more fun than our respective work, and Sable Grace was born.

LLBR: The heroine in Ascension: A Dark Breed Novel, Kyana kicks butt but she is also a well-rounded, likable character and readers can relate to at least one aspect of her. Is there anything that changed drastically to her character throughout the writing process of the book?

SG: The most drastic change was that she wasn't the original heroine! The woman she rescues at the beginning of the book, Jordan Faye, was. But Kyana was too big of a character to take a back seat to Jordan and so she became the heroine. We appreciate you saying she's likeable, because technically, she's not. At least, not until you get into the story and discover the reasons why she can be such royal... Insert bad word here.

LLBR: What was your favourite chapter to write and why?

SG: The end. And not because it was the end but because several things happened in the last 50 or so pages that surprised even us. When that happens, it's a rare treat.

LLBR: Which celebrity most closely resembles Kyana? Ryker?

SG: Because there are 2 of us writing the series, we have to make sure we're envisioning the same person for each character. We based Ryker on Sex and the City's Jason Lewis, and Kyana on Firefly's Morena Baccarin.

LLBR: What can readers expect from book two in the Dark Breed series?

SG: More Kyana and Ryker for sure. More Haven, Geoffrey and the rest of the cast, too, of course, but mostly you'll get to see Kyana grow up a little more as she steps into the new roles she has to fill.

Sable Grace, Thank you for taking time out of your busy schedules to chat with me. Please stop by again soon! :)

Click here to enter giveaway!

Book Review: Deeper Than Midnight by Lara Adrian

2011-07-06T07:35:00.000-07:00

Deeper Than Midnight (The Midnight Breed, Book 9)

Product Description:

DELIVERED FROM THE DARKNESS, A WOMAN FINDS HERSELF PLUNGED INTO A PASSION THAT IS DEEPER THAN MIDNIGHT.

At eighteen, Corinne Bishop was a beautiful, spirited young woman living a life of privilege as the adopted daughter of a wealthy family. Her world changed in an instant when she was stolen away and held prisoner by the malevolent vampire Dragos. After many years of captivity and torment, Corinne is rescued by the Order, a cadre of vampire warriors embroiled in a war against Dragos and his followers. Her innocence taken, Corinne has lost a piece of her heart as well—the one thing that gave her hope during her imprisonment, and the only thing that matters to her now that she is free.

Assigned to safeguard Corinne on her trip home is a formidable golden-eyed Breed male called Hunter. Once Dragos’s most deadly assassin, Hunter now works for the Order, and he’s hell-bent on making Dragos pay for his manifold sins. Bonded to Corinne by their mutual desire, Hunter will have to decide how far he’ll go to end Dragos’s reign of evil—even if carrying out his mission means shattering Corinne’s tender heart.

----------------------------------------------------

Hunter, Hunter, Hunter :). He is one of my favorite "Breed" males in this series. Having been himself, recently freed from Dragos' Hunter program and now being a member of the order, he is the perfect choice for Corinne. Despite of all the horrible things Corinne had to face in Dragos' lab, and after, she remained strong and didn't become this whiny woman we had to take pity on. This is one of my favorite series. I love the way Lara Adrian writes and flawlessly let's us into the heads of more than one character. I do however, wish for a new villain. Dragos should have been taken care of a long time ago.

I have just pre-ordered the next book in the series, Darker After Midnight out: Jan 24, 2011

Mass Market Paperback: 416 pages
Publisher: Dell; Original edition (June 28, 2011)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 0440246113
ISBN-13: 978-0440246114

Rating: 5/5

Age Recommendation: 18 & up

YA Book Review: Breath of Angel by Karen Henley

2011-07-05T07:11:00.000-07:00

<br>

Product Description

The stranger’s cloak had fallen back, and with it, a long, white, blood-stained wing.
When Melaia, a young priestess, witnesses the gruesome murder of a stranger in the temple courtyard, age-old legends recited in song suddenly come to life. She discovers wings on the stranger, and the murderer takes the shape of both a hawk and a man.

Angels. Shape-shifters. Myths and stories—until now.

Melaia finds herself in the middle of a blood feud between two immortal brothers who destroyed the stairway to heaven, stranding angels in the earthly realm. When Melaia becomes a target, she finds refuge with a band of angels attempting to restore the stairway. But the restoration is impossible without settling an ancient debt—the “breath of angel, blood of man,” a payment that involves Melaia’s heart, soul, and destiny.

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Let me start off by saying that I do not usually read YA fiction and I did not realize this book was a YA novel when I requested it.

With that said, the world building in this book was very well done. It took me a while to to get into it but once I did, I was glad to see the story through. This is a fast paced and easy to read fantasy. Meaning that you won't need to use a glossary to figure out/remember what everything is. The story was unique and well written. It was not for me, but I will pass it along to my thirteen year old niece. I am sure she will love it.

Format: Advance Readers Copy
File Size: 469 KB
Print Length: 272 pages
Publisher: WaterBrook Press (June 21, 2011)
Sold by: Random House Digital, Inc.
Language: English
ASIN: B004J4WL5U

Rating: 3.5

Age Recommendation: YA & up

Interview w/SOUL REBORN, Author Jean Murray

2011-06-25T11:00:00.000-07:00

LLBR: Tell me a bit about yourself.

JM: I’ve been a nurse in military for close to 20 years. This year I am eligible to retire and focus on what I love to do the most—write and spend time with family. I will miss my military career, though, and leave with a heavy heart. I’ve met so many wonderful people along the way and have seen the world and its cultures. But, I have a new family, my fellow writers and authors, who are just as compelling and supportive.

LLBR: When did you first consider yourself a writer?

JM: I guess I could say I’ve been writing for about 10-years now, but solely in my head. It was only about 3-years ago that I started to write my stories into physical form. Even then it was just a hobby and I didn’t really consider myself a writer. It wasn’t until my husband read one of my manuscripts and said those fated words, “You should publish this.” I looked at him as if he was crazy, not believing for a minute that it was possible. But, he had planted a seed that began to grow in bloom in my mind. I label that part of my life, as “my awakening.” I joined RWA in 2008, went to Nationals in 2009, received a full manuscript request in 2010, and released my debut novel in May 2011. There is no measure of thanks I can express to my husband for believing in me, when I didn’t even believe in myself. I am so grateful to those who have helped me hone my craft and to be able to share my story with others is a feeling like no other.

LLBR: What inspired you to write your first book?

JM: I had written a vampire series prior to joining RWA. After attending Nationals, I realized that for me to break into publication, I needed to look for a different angle to increase my chances of being published in romance fiction. I knew I wanted to write paranormal, but what was the big question. And then it came, and of all places from my kids’ cartoon. Yes, I confess. Inspiration can come when you least expect it. I started thinking about Egyptian gods. Most of what was written about Egyptian Mythos was historical romance. The more I read about Egyptian Mythology the more convinced I was that this was an untapped resource, ripe with conflict and romance and it didn’t need to be written in the past. Imagine the present day world where the Egyptian gods rise from their 5,000 year old slumber to reclaim the world. It doesn’t get much better than that.

LLBR: What books have influenced your life most?

JM: I love the classics, of course. JRR Tolkien, the father of modern fantasy literature. Now that man had an imagination and an endless supply of creativity. To create your own language for a novel is such a commendable undertaking. As a writer and author, the romance genre has probably influence me the most in my life. Jacquelyn Frank’s nightwalker series was one of my first romance experiences. It opened an entirely new world to me and inspired me to become a romance author. It filled a void that I just wasn’t getting out of standard fiction books.

LLBR: If you had to choose, which writer would you consider a mentor?

JM: If I had to narrow it down to one author, I would have to say I would love to have JR Ward, as a mentor. Her ability to write dark paranormal romance from the male perspective is extraordinary. I tried to emulate her writing in my Key to the Cursed series. Humbly, of course. My heroes, Gods of the Underworld, are tortured souls. Each has lost their way, and of course their salvation lies in the hands of the Carrigan sisters.

LLBR: Which of your characters is your favorite?

JM: That question is so unfair. LOL. It is hard to choose a favorite. For now I’m going to say, Asar. He is the hero in Soul Reborn, although a very reluctant hero. His mistakes of the past have returned to rip out his soul, leaving him with an empty shell of hatred. He vows revenge on the goddess and those that released her. Lilly is his salvation, but he has to get past the fact that she is responsible for his suffering. Despite being the all-powerful God of the Underworld and over 5,000 years old, he has some hard life lessons ahead.

LLBR: What are you reading now?

JM: I just finished JR Ward’s Crave and am moving onto Thief of Hope by Cindy Young-Turner, a fellow Crescent Moon Press author. Teaser: Sydney, a street urchin and pickpocket in the town of Last Hope, has managed to evade the oppressive Guild for years, but there is no escaping fate when she's sentenced to death for associating with the resistance.

LLBR: What do you like to do when you’re not writing?

JM: I like to spend time with my husband and our three sons. I’m very much into crawling on the ground and getting dirty with them. I grew up with three sisters, but my dad raised us as tom-boys. The boy thing seems natural to me.

LLBR: Where do you get your ideas for your books?

JM: Everywhere and anywhere. I love mythology and have used it in my current series, Key to the Cursed. I’ve always had a fascination with Egypt and its many treasures. More importantly, mummies and curses. The series revolves around a curse, a key, a tomb and the Gods of the Underworld.

LLBR: What new author has grasped your interest?

JM: I’m not being biased when I say the authors at Crescent Moon Press are up-and-coming. I am honored to be counted among such a talented group of writers. www.crescentmoonpress.com

LLBR: If you couldn’t be an author, what would your ideal career be?

JM: I’d like to answer that question in reverse. Being an author would be my ideal career. I’d love to be able to write full time and conduct my research by traveling to the places I write about.

LLBR: What was your favorite chapter to write and why?

JM: Oh, hands down would be the chapter where my heroine, Lilly, and her sister get stuck in the Underworld and find themselves in the middle of an orgy trying to bargain for transportation to the human world. The women are in over their heads when they enter the warrior hall in their huntress uniforms of leather and steel. Needless to say the warriors think they are the night’s entertainment. It’s one of those “oh, crap” moments. Did I mention Lilly gets caught by her mate, Asar, God of the Underworld? Things get interesting!

LLBR: Why do you feel you had to tell this story?

Buy Soul Reborn

JM: I wanted to prove to myself and the naysayers that Egyptian Mythos can be more than just historical romance and it has the stuff to come out and play with the big boys of the paranormal genre. The Egyptian Gods of the Underworld are consumers by nature. They absorb the energy of life by blood or by soul, a hunger that must be sated to provide balance in the universe. The Underworld gods ensure those that are worthy find paradise in the afterlife and punish those with evil in their hearts. They are warriors and protectors of human souls, but are by no means saints. They are as gentle and loving, as they are flawed and hardened.

LLBR: Can you tell us about your upcoming book?

JM: Soul Reborn is the first book in the Key to the Cursed series. Asar and Lilly struggle to correct the mistakes of their past and forge forward towards love, redemption and war.

THE HUMAN REALM, HIS BATTLEFIELD. Asar, the Egyptian God of the Underworld, has been tortured and left soulless by a malevolent goddess, relegating him to consume the very thing he was commissioned to protect. Human souls. Now an empty shell of hatred, Asar vows to kill the goddess and anyone involved in her release, but fate crosses his path with a beautiful blonde huntress who has a soul too sweet to ignore. DEADLY SECRETS BETTER LEFT UNEARTHED. Lilly, fearless commander of the Nehebkau huntresses, is the only thing standing in the way of the goddess' undead army unleashing hell on earth. But Lilly has a secret—one she is willing to sell her soul to keep. If the Underworld god discovers her role in the dig that released the goddess, she will lose everything, including his heart.

LLBR: How do you market your book(s)?

JM: You can find my marketing on various social and professional sites. Here are my primary locations:

Web Address: www.jean-murray.com ; www.keytothecursed.com

Blog Address: www.wickedromance.wordpress.com

Face Book: http://www.facebook.com/pages/Jean-Murray-Paranormal-Romance-Author/130589967006760

Twitter: http://twitter.com/wickedromance

Book Trailer: http://www.youtube.com/user/KeytotheCursed?ob=5#p/u/0/smSJsJp5o74

LLBR: Do you have any advice for aspiring authors?

JM: Write down a plan for success and stick with it. Believe in yourself. Don’t ever give up.

LLBR: What is your writing process like?

JM: I am a pantser at heart. I do plot, but all in my head. I know where I want the characters to go, but I let them take me there.

LLBR: How long did it take you to write this book?

JM: It took me three months to write Soul Reborn, but another year to completely edit in between being pregnant, working and caring for kiddos.

LLBR: What would you like readers to know about your book?

JM: It is available in all formats for the various e-readers (kindle, nook, sony, ipad etc…) and in print at Amazon, B&N, ARe, and more.

Amazon Purchase Links:

http://www.amazon.com/Jean-Murray/e/B004WH4ND2/ref=ntt_athr_dp_pel_pop_1

Purchase Print:

http://www.amazon.com/Key-Cursed-Reborn-Jean-Murray/dp/0982820062/ref=ntt_at_ep_dpt_2

Purchase e-Book:

http://www.amazon.com/Soul-Reborn-ebook/dp/B004WDYK7A/ref=ntt_at_ep_dpt_1

Barnes & Noble Purchase Links:

Purchase Print:

http://search.barnesandnoble.com/Key-to-the-Cursed/Jean-Murray/e/9780982820063/?itm=1&USRI=soul+reborn

Excerpt:

CHAPTER ONE 

Movement flickered in the deep shadows.

Asar stilled. Midnight skin blending into the night, he slipped easily into the gloom of the New York City streets and waited.

The human heat signature he hunted lingered in the air like a fine French perfume. He was not surprised when a trio of pale-skinned, red-eyed revens zoned in on the same body heat. The undead craved the flesh of their once previous form.

It was not the human’s flesh Asar desired.

Saddled by his own hunger that burned like fire in his chest, he raced toward the haunting scent, anxious to claim the prey before the revens. He was not about to give up such a delicious soul to those ravenous cannibals.

Still too far away, he exploded with a shot of preternatural speed on the slippery, uneven pavement. Surefooted, he hurtled a foul dumpster and sprinted around the brick building. Hunger fueled his every step. He fully expected to hear a scream from the human victim before he reached the alley, but the air remained still.

He slid to a stop on the wet asphalt. The three revens he had sensed lay decapitated on the polluted street. Gaping chest wounds indicated the hearts had been destroyed.

Fragments of shimmering light illuminated the gray, decaying flesh, rising into the night air. Normally, he would have absorbed the shifting souls, but revens were tainted and doomed never to reach the afterlife. The undead were truly dead.

Where was the human?

The sound of shattering glass resonated from above, followed by a shower of diamond shards. Asar evaporated into the shadows against the cold brick of the building and narrowly avoided the carcass of a headless reven plummeting from the upper window. The body hit the pavement like a side of meat slammed onto a butcher’s countertop. Dark, putrid shrapnel of blood and bone spattered across the roadway. The reven’s head soon followed, bounced off the cement with a loud crack and rolled slowly down the sidewalk before coming to rest inches from his foot.

He did not give it a second look. Through the shattered second story window, he caught a glimpse of glowing green eyes and the flash of silver.

His body grew taut with anticipation. The humans he typically encountered at night were criminals and opportunists looting stores or transporting illegal goods — the unsavory dredges of humankind. No one else dared to be outdoors for fear of becoming a reven’s next meal.

The criminals were easy enough prey, overconfident with their modern weapons, but this opponent utilized a more ancient form of deliverance. The reven kills were calculated and completed with the precision and stealth of a skilled assassin. This hunter was no doubt getting paid top dollar for this kind of suicide mission.

The revelation made his chest burn hotter with dark need. His prey would not go down easily. The harder the fight, the more living energy he could absorb from the human’s soul.

He looked upward. The night sky was waning to lighter shades of blue. He had only an hour of darkness left before the horizon split open with the sun’s rays. He would like nothing more than to draw out the fight for his own perverse pleasure, but he had to end it soon or face the wrath of his ancient curse.

A pain he would sooner avoid.

A loud crash of metal against stone around the corner interrupted his reverie. He launched forward out of the shadows, unconcerned with revealing his location, and did not waste any time turning onto the dimly lit street.

Only to find it empty.

Asar scanned quickly around the perimeter while turning slowly in a circle. The hunter did not have enough time to scale a building or sprint down the long block. His prey had to be a short distance from here. He walked forward, following the heat trail that vanished in the middle of the street.

“Where did you go?” Asar turned, looking for some exit the hunter could have used. The pavement shifted slightly under his foot. Looking down, he rotated his foot to the right. NY City Water & Sewer.

So, his prey had gone underground to draw him into a more cramped battle. Little did the hunter know, Asar would be the only victor in this game of cat and mouse.

He would leave with the man’s soul.

Into the darkness of the small tunnel, he followed the exaggerated heat trail in the confined space. He heard the faint breathing and pounding of a human heart. Here kitty, kitty. The hunter was foolish enough to make a stand, but not for long. He followed the arresting scent, anxious to fill his hollow emptiness. Only a few more steps and then he’d see his prize—

His gaze shifted over a female with long blonde hair whose curvy hips were loaded with an arsenal of weapons. In her hand, she clasped a long, intricately carved blade—a blade she pointed directly at him.

Asar swallowed against the sudden constriction in his throat.

Not a hunter.

A huntress.

Energy rippled off her skin like streamers of bright sunlight. Her powerful essence of life called to him, the very energy that fed his unquenchable hunger. All he had to do was touch her silky skin or lips to devour the luscious beauty. He had already taken a few steps toward her when he stopped.

Another sensation of hunger distracted his senses. One he had not felt in very long time, nor cared to feel again. His hardened arousal was inconvenient, considering the moment.

An inconvenience he was willing to explore a little before he dined on her soul. Heat radiated off her skin, a sharp contrast to his own cold, dead body. His skin began to burn, even at this distance. A welcome, but deadly flame. Despite this threat, he drew in like a moth to a flame. Warm, soft and most importantly, alive.

Interview & Giveaway w/BLOOD DESTINY author Tessa Dawn

2011-06-11T07:00:00.000-07:00

Please welcome author Tessa Dawn!

LLBR: I have always loved vampires and your book has a very different and interesting take on them. Where did the idea come from and what about your vampires do you think will surprise readers the most?

TD: Thank you. The overall idea came from a documentary I watched many years ago about an ancient society that sacrificed females until it went extinct (how horrible...and STUPID...is that! :-)) I wanted to explain the origin of my vampires and to have a strong basis for the Curse. I think what might surprise people about my vampires is their dual nature: the fact that they are predators first with some very feral instincts, yet they also deeply value family, community, and honor. I also really wanted to get away from the "undead" concept: My vamps are not dead humans that have been reborn. They are an ancient, separate species with an origin and afterlife. That seems like a minor distinction, but it's not. It challenges me (and ultimately readers, too) to perceive a different moral code, social context, and behavioral motive for what the males can and cannot do...realistically. For example, where a human might have "thou shalt not kill" hard-wired into their moral DNA, a predator (such as a lion) would not perceive the death of a challenger as killing. As predators, neither would my vamps. It forces me to step outside the box.

LLBR: Who is your favorite character any why?

TD: Ah, good question, but I can't answer it...yet. I have been asked this in several interviews and have kept it a secret because I don't want to influence my readers. Also, I think at some point, I'm going to have a contest with a few clues to see if readers can guess.

LLBR: How about favorite author?

TD: I have several favorites. I like Anne Bishop and JR Ward.

LLBR: How many books do you expect to be in this series?

TD: The original plan was to write five; however, as more "prominent" characters emerge, I may consider expanding the number.

LLBR: Without giving anything away, what can readers expect from future books in this series?

TD: The same treatment of good verses evil, personalities containing both light and shadow, family loyalty, and danger. I'm not going to pull back on the portrayal of difficult issues (like death, deception, and tragedy), but I'm also going to continue to add bits of humor and spiritual "awakening" throughout. Hmm, that all sounds very good...easier said than done. Perhaps I should have said, "I'm going to try..."

Thank you for taking time out of your busy schedule to chat with me!

You're welcome! Thanks for having me.

For more information on author Tessa Dawn, visit: www.tessadawn.com

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

To enter giveaway:

1. Fill out this form:
Giveaway ends 6/12/11 @ 11:59pm

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1. Winner's will be chosen using Random.org.
2. Shipping information will be passed along to sponsoring Author/Publisher.
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6. If winner doesn't respond within 72hrs, prize will be re-drawn.

Tomorrow! Interview and Giveaway with Author of BLOOD DESTINY Tessa Dawn

2011-06-10T10:22:00.000-07:00

Tomorrow Tessa Dawn, author of Blood Destiny (see review here) will be stopping by Lore Lush Book Reviews to chat with me. She will also be giving away a copy of Blood Destiny to one lucky person!

Giveaway will run from 6/11/11-6/12/11 11:59pm

Book Review: Blood Destiny by Tessa Dawn

2011-06-10T08:01:00.000-07:00

Blood Destiny (The Blood Curse Series)

Publishers Description:

He was a lethal vampire bound by an ancient curse.
She was an agent of homeland security, investigating a dangerous cult.
Theirs was a Blood Destiny about to unfold...

Descended from the progeny of Celestial Gods and humans, Nathaniel Silivasi is handsome, seductive, and powerful beyond measure: a lethal vampire. Belonging to an ancient civilization that sacrificed its females to the verge of extinction, he is also cursed. Like all the sons of Jadon, he is incapable of producing female offspring and is required to sacrifice a first born son as atonement for the sins of his forefathers. While he belongs to a modern civilization, he is bound by primeval law.

When Jocelyn Levi stumbles upon Nathaniel's pristine mountain valley, she is not prepared for the collision of worlds she is about to encounter. As an agent of the homeland security department, ICE, the beautiful, defiant female has an agenda of her own: to stop the ritualistic slaughter of innocent young women by a human trafficking ring. Little does she know that the evil she seeks is unlike anything she has ever witnessed. She has entered a world of warriors, code, and mystery, where the predators are divided only by degrees of light and shadow, and the dark, handsome stranger who has come to her aid is the most dangerous of all.

Review by guest reviewer Wendy:

In BLOOD DESTINY by Tessa Dawn you will enter the world of Nathaniel Silivasi and Jocelyn Levi. Two beings chosen, destined to be but not without challenges along the way.

Intense ride! It's been awhile since I've read a book that played with my emotions, this one surely did. The characters are so well developed they came to life on the page making me feel I was there watching on the sidelines.

Superbly written! I love this book. The way Tessa uses her mental health background is amazing. Thank You!

Lovetiggi~~~ 5 STARS

My take:

This was one of those books that was hard to put down. If you love books with intelligent women and dangerous men then this is the book for you. I have always been a fan of books where the good guys are just as lethal as the bad ones (If not more). The sons of Jadon are not to be messed with! Author Tessa Dawn crafted a wonderful world and I can't wait to read what she does next.

Rating: 5/5
Age Recommendation: 18+

Paperback: 406 pages
Publisher: Charles River Press (December 1, 2010)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1936185210
ISBN-13: 978-1936185214

Browse Inside : Highborn

2011-06-09T03:32:00.000-07:00

Browse Inside : Highborn

Highborn

Publisher's Description:

EVERYONE DESERVES A SECOND CHANCE. BRYNNA MALAK MIGHT BE THE EXCEPTION TO THE RULE.

Brynna is a fallen angel trying to earn redemption. She's escaped from Hell in search of a new life on Earth, but Lucifer's deadliest hunters are hot on her trail. Police Detective Eran Redmond is after her for a different reason: he needs Brynna to help him find a serial killer who is terrifying Chicago . . . and the trail leads them right to Hellspawned demons of the most dangerous kind. She's also got a very human problem: dealing with a stubborn, attractive cop who makes her long for everything she knows she can't have.

Staying alive long enough to earn a shot at Heaven will mean breaking some major rules in the mortal world, as she learns just how complicated and wonderful being human can be. With so much stacked against her, even Brynna has to wonder if she's crazy. But she's not giving in without a fight.
Not a chance in Hell. . . .

Graphic Novel Review: Mercy Thompson: Moon Called, Volume 1 by Patricia Briggs, David Lawrence, Amelia Woo

2011-06-01T04:58:00.000-07:00

Patricia Briggs' Mercy Thompson: Moon Called Volume 1 TP

Product Description:

Five Mercy Thompson novels have topped the New York Times best-seller list, and her premiere graphic novel did the same. Now Patricia Briggs' heroic shape-shifter returns to comics! Mercy Thompson inhabits two worlds without truly belonging to either. To the human inhabitants of the Tri-Cities she's an oddity, a female mechanic operating her own garage. To the town's darker residents, werewolves, vampires, and fae, she's a walker, a last-of-her-kind magical being with the power to become a coyote. Mercy warily straddles the fine line dividing our everyday world from that darker dimension... 'till a boy, mauled by vicious werewolves and forever changed by the attack and on the run from those who committed the crime, appears at her door. Now her two worlds are about to collide! Outnumbered and out-muscled, can Mercy possibly save the boy... or even herself?

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I read this on my iPad. The illustrations were great and story line was nicely done as well. I have not yet read any of the Mercy Thomson series by Patricia Briggs, however this graphic novel has sparked my interest and I plan to get started on the series soon. Oh, did I mention the illustrations? They are outstanding.

Rating: 4/5

Paperback: 128 pages
Publisher: Dynamite Entertainment (March 8, 2011)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 9781606902035
ISBN-13: 978-1606902035
Source: Review Copy | NetGalley

Book Review: ASCENSION by Sable Grace

2011-06-01T03:58:00.000-07:00

Ascension: A Dark Breed Novel

Product Description:

The gates of hell have opened, and one woman will stand in the crossfire as the Dark Breed -- vampyre, demons, shape shifters -- and mankind fight their last battle for survival.

Kyana is half Vampyre, half Lychen... and the last of her kind. Determined, dangerous, and damned, she has no love for the mortals who have imprisoned and misused her. But when the Order of Ancients entrusts her with a mission -- to find the key that will send the Dark Breed back into Hell for eternity -- Kyana has no choice but to accept.

She is furious to learn her assignment comes with an escort... Ryker, a demigod and fierce warrior who long ago found a way under her skin and stayed there. In a shaky alliance, they discover an ancient cult with dangerous motive and a god who seeks to destroy all others. And as Kyana begins to feel the heat that threatens to bind her to Ryker, she knows she has to resist. For it could only mean the undoing of them both...

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I liked the world that the debut writing team Sable Grace crafted. It is an great start to what I feel will be a great series. From the beginning, there was action, mystery, tension and a kick-butt heroine Kyana, who unlike many heroines didn't take four or five books to grow. With that said, I will be looking out for more books by this very talented author and look forward to reading about the new heroine on the block.

Recommendation: If you want a refreshing and unique take on the Urban Fantasy genre, This is it. A great start to a new series.

Rating: 4/5

Print Length: 384 pages
Page Numbers Source ISBN: 0061964409
Publisher: Harper Collins, Inc. (April 26, 2011)
Source: ARC, NetGalley

For more about the author visit their website