The Bibliophilic Book Blog

Book Review: The Selection by: Kiera Cass

2012-05-25T00:00:00.000-04:00

My Rating: 4 of 5 Ravens

Publisher: HarperTeen

Published: 24 April 2012

Synopsis (Goodreads): For thirty-five girls, the Selection is the chance of a lifetime. The opportunity to escape the life laid out for them since birth. To be swept up in a world of glittering gowns and priceless jewels. To live in the palace and compete for the heart of the gorgeous Prince Maxon.

But for America Singer, being Selected is a nightmare. It means turning her back on her secret love with Aspen, who is a caste below her. Leaving her home to enter a fierce competition for a crown she doesn't want. Living in a palace that is constantly threatened by violent rebel attacks.

Then America meets Prince Maxon. Gradually, she starts to question all the plans she's made for herself- and realizes that the life she's always dreamed of may not compare to a future she never imagined.

Review: My friend Susan got two of these books and was nice enough to offer me up a copy. I read it last night in one sitting. As far as dystopian worlds go this one was pretty easy to grasp and understand. I liked the subtle shifts in world power that caused the creation of this new land. I also thought that this book has some Hunger Games undertones.

America is independent but not so far as to forget her family. I like that about her, she knows (or at least has a pretty good idea) of what she wants and does the selection only for her family (well, and Aspen's) sake. I enjoyed Maxon al ot, he was not at all the way I started out the book thinking he was. I fell more in love with him than I did with Aspen...even though they are both dreamy in their own ways.

The plot moved rather fast although I would liked to see Maxon get rid of more girls early just for things I felt they were doing that he shouldn't have put up with. I enjoyed the emotional growth between Maxon and America as well, it was slow and sweet.

On those very positive notes...I HATE cliffhangers...HATE HATE HATE! I am so tired of them I want to scream every time I read a YA book these days. Maybe this book ending could be called a happy-for-now but ti stops at a critical part for all the main characters and that is my definition of a cliffhanger. I will read the next one only because I am dying to know who Maxon chooses.

This book is a cross between The Hunger Games and The Bachelor. Decently written and engrossing.

Contact Monica

Giveaway, Book Spotlight & Guest Post: The Cruise - All That Glitters by: Jaye Frances

2012-05-24T07:00:00.000-04:00

Publisher: Amazon Digital Services

Publish Date: May 7, 2012

Format: E-book

Order From: Amazon

Brief Synopsis: It’s love on the high seas for Dean, a thirty-something bachelor taking his first cruise, hoping for a shipboard romance. On the prowl for the elusive hard-body, he quickly becomes disillusioned, wondering if his expectation of a boatload of beautiful sea nymphs is something found only in travel brochures.

Until he meets Angel.

She is the girl of his dreams, brought to life as a bewitching goddess, ready to engage in every sensual delight. Quickly lured into submission by Angel’s seductive charms, Dean is ready to surrender his heart and soul to this provocative beauty.

Until he meets Marcie...

The Cruise – All That Glitters is available now

as a Kindle eBook on Amazon for only 99 cents!

Guest Post: Thank you, Star, for having me back on The Bibliophilic Book Blog. I really appreciate the opportunity to give your readers a sneak peek at my new romantic comedy, The Cruise – All That Glitters.

Have you ever known anyone—okay, let’s face it, a man—who lives in a “fool’s paradise?” You know, one of those self-constructed places of magic and wonder, where the world is a perfect blend of blue skies, gentle seas, and warm, tropical breezes—and lots of gorgeous women with perfect bodies are always at the ready, willing, and ripe for the harvest. Not an unlikely daydream for Dean, our sex-starved bachelor in The Cruise – All That Glitters. He’s convinced himself he’ll find exactly what he’s looking for on his first cruise vacation. But after a frustrating and disappointing start, Dean is ready to give up on fulfilling his fantasy—until he sees Angel, the woman of his dreams. Driven by an out-of-control libido, Dean falls headlong into lust, and as reason and logic are replaced by desire and passion, he is left venerable and defenseless against the real intentions of this temptress, who as Dean finds out, is not what she initially appears to be.

In the following excerpt, Dean has been waiting on the dock for Angel, who is over an hour late for their sailboat excursion. When she finally arrives, he not only forgives her, but is so captivated by her physical beauty and petulant charm, that he is quickly forfeits their day on the water (and the four hundred dollar charter fee) for Angel’s preferred alternative—a shopping trip into town.

Here’s an excerpt:

About fifty feet away, she suddenly stopped. Smiling, she began to wave. At me. I quickly dismissed the possibility that there was someone else, someone behind me also waving.

With only forty feet remaining between us, she broke into a skipping run. The noise and confusion of the port seemed to fade away and I was suddenly awestruck with the increasing detail of sheer perfection. Her lips glistened pink and glossy, and her thick, golden hair gleamed in the sun. And lower, held within a white lace-drawn halter-top, her breasts arched full and round, while below, dark blue shorts sat low on her hips, exposing a tan, flat stomach.

She reached out and grabbed my arm. Before I could respond, she bounced to her tiptoes, put her other hand on my shoulder and lightly kissed my cheek. “I’m so sorry I’m late. The cook wanted to make me something special for breakfast and then insisted on giving me a tour of the kitchen. I just couldn’t refuse.” Her eyes twinkled as she squeezed my hand.

“You’re not late,” I said, lying. “And besides, it’s our boat. We’ll leave when we’re ready.”

She forced a counterfeit frown, her lower lip turning out into a pout, her eyes still sparkling with mischief. “About the sailing,” she began. “I was wondering if we could change our plans.”

A suffocating sensation tightened my throat. She’s going to end our future right here, right now on this sweltering, rotting, filthy dock. “Well, I did buy six tickets. So we could have the boat to ourselves,” I reminded her.

“I know, and I feel terrible about the money.” She looked down, her hair falling forward over mink-brown shoulders. She quickly leaned in until her forehead touched my chest. I caught my breath and for a moment, we connected, removing any question of when and where our first lingering contact would take place.

Her mock contrition momentarily put me in charge, even though both of us knew the exchange of power was only token.

“What did you have in mind?” I asked.

“I didn’t realize this would be the only day I would have to shop. I was really hoping we could look through the stores, you know, and walk around downtown. And afterward, maybe we could have lunch at one of those little restaurants that overlook the bay.”

I briefly thought about the money. Four hundred twenty dollars. I waited, my calculated hesitation meant to restore my dignity, if not my pocketbook.

She looked directly into my eyes, placing her free hand on my shoulder. “Please?”

“Okay,” I said quickly, my lack of hesitation making it clear she had retaken control. “I’ll see if I can get a refund for the tickets.” I said it even though I knew I couldn’t.

We held hands while we walked to the opposite end of the pier, where I negotiated a ten-dollar, three-minute taxi ride to the heart of Charlotte Amalie.

She sat quietly in the middle of the back seat. Next to me.

The road to town was lined with short stretches of chain-link fence, above-ground water meters, half-paved parking lots, and unpainted concrete buildings, their lack of signage leaving doubt as to their use or purpose. Small pockets of tropical foliage defiantly broke the scruffy landscape—stubborn reminders of a pre-development paradise.

As we watched the scenery pass, she seemed to sense that I was bursting with a thousand questions. But before I could speak, she silenced them with a single knowing wink. The breeze from the open windows tossed a strand of her hair across my face.

I forgot about the money.

As we approached the shopping district, our driver slowed to a crawl to avoid the constant hazard of distracted tourists spilling into the street—ten thousand passengers from four ships bustling along narrow, uneven sidewalks, searching for cheap treasure. Some were already inside the stores, bargaining for silks, linens, cosmetics, jewelry, liquor, straw baskets, and faux scrimshaw. A few gawked over the silver and gold, asking the clerks to open display cases so they could finger the Rolex, Carrera, and Yurman. Then, after their best display of feigned deliberation, they would gingerly hand back the merchandise and walk across the street to buy T-shirts—three for twenty dollars—silk-screened with a palm tree and the words St. Thomas large and bold across the back.

Everywhere locals were busy selling. Sidewalk hawkers moved from one side of the street to the other, targeting their marks, pushing cheap Chinese knockoffs of expensive handbags and Swiss watches. Others waited for the opportunity to transfer brightly-colored parrots to unsuspecting shoulders, offering souvenir prints for five dollars.

After cautioning us to avoid the tourist traps—their prices much too high—our taxi driver dropped us a block away, where we discovered a maze of inviting side streets and cobblestone alleys containing dozens of small storefronts nestled under a patchwork of brightly-colored canopies.

“Where would you like to start?” I asked.

“It doesn’t matter, I want to see everything!” Her face beamed, and I noticed several people on the sidewalk were slowing their pace to stare.

Hundreds of shoppers jostled around us as we walked from store to store. Locals darted in and out of doorways, sidestepping through the crowd with acute determination and an occasional apology. The smothering press of people on the narrow, uneven sidewalks seemed almost suffocating. Tens of broken conversations made it impossible to talk.

But none of it mattered.

We were together, she and I. Holding hands. Touching.

Like lovers.

Author Bio: Jaye Frances is the author of the paranormal-occult romance novel The Kure, the first book in The Kure series, and The Possibilities of Amy, a coming-of-age story of high school romance. Her upcoming works include The Beach, a sci-fi fantasy about a man who is given the opportunity to receive his ultimate wish and lives to regret it, and Journeys From Above and Below the Belt, a collection of adult short stories, both scheduled for a Summer 2012 release. She is also a featured columnist for the NUSA SUN magazine. Born in the Midwest, Jaye readily admits that her life’s destination has been the result of an open mind and a curiosity about all things irreverent. When she’s not consumed by her writing, Jaye enjoys cooking, traveling to all places tropical and “beachy” and taking pictures—lots of pictures—many of which find their way to her website. Jaye lives on the central gulf coast of Florida, sharing her home with one husband, six computers, four cameras, and several hundred pairs of shoes. For more information, visit Jaye’s website at www.jayefrances.com, or Jaye’s Blog at http://blog.jayefrances.com

~~~ WIN A KINDLE VERSION OF THE CRUISE - ALL THAT GLITTERS! ~ ~ ~

Jaye Frances will be giving away a Kindle Version of The Cruise - All That Glitters! Leave a comment below to enter!

Deadline for entry is June 15. As a bonus, you could earn additional entries by doing any or all of the following: twitter about the giveaway, like Ms. Frances' Facebook page, subscribe to Ms. Frances' blog, or add the book to your Goodreads to-read list. Thanks and good luck!

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Book Review: The Plight and Plot of Princess Penny by: Michael Mullin

2012-05-23T07:00:00.000-04:00

Rating: 5/5

Publisher: Gemiknight Studios, LLC

Publish Date: February 22, 2012

Origins: From Author for Review

Format: E-book

Order From: Amazon

Synopsis: From the author of "8: The Previously Untold Story of the Previously Unknown 8th Dwarf" comes an original fairy tale about a teenage princess who hires the witch from "The Frog Prince" to get revenge on a Mean Girl at school. (Intended for YA readers and up.)

Review: Penny's a princess, sure, but it doesn't stop her from being picked on by the popular girl in school. To exact her revenge, she goes to a witch whose advertisement was in the local paper. She is so blinded by her hatred, she doesn't see what the real problem is. Jink is a troll who knows exactly what the true cost is of the witch's "help". Told in verse, with clever rhymes and an age-old lesson within, The Plight and Plot of Princess Penny is a delight to read. It's also a lot of fun to read it aloud to an audience. If you enjoy fractured fairy tales, this is the story for you!

Other Books by this Author: 8: The Previously Untold Story of the Previously Unknown 8th Dwarf

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How a Unitarian from Jersey writes about a Muslim Superhero - Guest Post & Giveaway: Parvati Tyler, author of Shadow on the Wall

2012-05-22T07:00:00.000-04:00

Shadow on the Wall Book Summary: Recai Osman: Muslim, philosopher, billionaire and Superhero?

Controversial and daring, Shadow on the Wall details the transformation of Recai Osman from complicated man to Superhero. Forced to witness the cruelty of the Morality Police in his home city of Elih, Turkey, Recai is called upon by the power of the desert to be the vehicle of change. Does he have the strength to answer Allah's call or will his dark past and self doubt stand in his way?

Pulling on his faith in Allah, the friendship of a Jewish father-figure and a deeply held belief that his people deserve better, Recai Osman must become The SandStorm.

In the tradition of books by Margaret Atwood and Salman Rushdie, Shadow on the Wall tackles issues of religion, gender, corruption and the basic human condition. Beautiful and challenging, this is not a book to miss.

Pavarti K. Tyler's Bio: Pavarti K. Tyler is an artist, wife, mother and number cruncher. She graduated Smith College in 1999 with a degree in Theatre. After graduation, she moved to New York, where she worked as a Dramaturge, Assistant Director and Production Manager on productions both on and off Broadway.

Later, Pavarti went to work in the finance industry as a freelance accountant for several international law firms. She now operates her own accounting firm in the Washington DC area, where she lives with her husband, two daughters and two terrible dogs. When not preparing taxes, she is busy penning her next novel.

Throughout history, literature and the art of story-telling have influenced politics, religion and culture. The power of the epic tale is universal. Why is it that those who never read The Iliad know Helen of Troy? Her story, Homer’s story, transcends the written word and has become a part of our human lexicon. The power of the written word is undeniable and Pavarti is honored to be part of the next wave of literary revolution.

Guest Post: "How a Unitarian from Jersey writes about a Muslim Superhero"

Have you ever gotten that feeling in the back of your head that there's something not quite right about the way you think? I've always daydreamed about things others have considered impossible or ridiculous. I'm the loon who decided statistically charting various vampires' awesomeness was a good idea.

So when the suggestion was made that someone needed to write about a Middle Eastern superhero my imagination went into overdrive. Of course we need a Middle Eastern superhero! Others have tackled this topic to great success, like Dr. Naif of the99.org, what’s different here is that I am not from the Middle East.

I sat down and started writing and a character named Recai Osman appeared on the pages before me. With green eyes and red beard, Recai stood in the middle of a windblown desert, daring me to take the challenge.

And cue the theme to Beyond Thunderdome.

A problem soon presented itself. It's impossible to discuss the Middle East in any meaningful way without bringing religion into the conversation, and while I've studied Islam, I am not a Muslim. I'm not Jewish either. In fact, I'm about as far from the religious spectrum of the Middle East as you could get. I'm a Unitarian Universalist.

UUism is based on the idea that we all have the right to our own path to Truth. For some that Truth is God, for some it's not. What connects us within the UU church is the belief that the search is valuable and that there is benefit to having a supportive and respectful community with whom to share that search. (You can read more about our principles here: Our Unitarian Universalist Principles)

For me, the importance of an individual’s expression of faith within a community is huge. I believe in God. Because of this, I often find myself listening to the fundamentalist rhetoric of all religions with a frustrated sigh. Why does someone have to be wrong in order for another to be right?

It was with this in mind that I thought about Recai. What makes a good man? What makes a good Muslim? And in a society in which religion is such a prominent part of day-to-day life, what would be the shape of evil?

Recai is a faithful man; he's erred and he's sinned, but his belief in Allah and in humanity is solid. Underneath his layers of confusion and self-doubt is a good man. His day-to-day life has been isolated from the city he lives in: Elih, Turkey (Google it for a good giggle). What would happen if a flawed man was forced to confront real evil, real sin? Could he rise to the occasion?

Islam and Judaism run throughout Shadow on the Wall. Some of the phrases and cultural idioms may be unfamiliar to Western readers, but I hope that you will see a little of yourself in the characters. The issues they face are written at high stakes, but the questions posed are ones we must all answer. Who am I? What do I stand for? Although Shadow on the Wall has supernatural elements, I like to think heroes exist in life, and I like to think that religion can fuel the good in people. Perhaps we're all capable of great things.

Pavarti K. Tyler's Web Site

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Giveaway: Enter to win a copy of Ms. Tyler's fantasy romance, Two Moons of Sera: Volumes 1 & 2. Please leave a comment with your email address by May 31, 2012 to enter!

Book Review: Power Within by: C.L. Causer

2012-05-21T07:00:00.000-04:00

Rating: 4/5

Publisher: Amazon Digital Services

Publish Date: March 12, 2012

Origins: From Author for Review

Format: E-book

Order From: Amazon

Synopsis: Charlotte 'Charlie' Gordon wants nothing more, than to be a normal girl. But having a near death accident as a child, she finds out that she has powers. After accidentally electrocuting her sister and blowing up her mother's kitchen, she suppresses her powers for ten years. Unknowing that there are more people like her out there. A lot more.

That is until a secret group of them try and hunt her down because of her unusual abilities. Forcing her family into hiding, she goes on the run. Having to learn about her powers and her past, she meets many new friends along the way. But you can't run forever. She learns that someone has betrayed her to the very people she is running from.

Review: Power Within introduces us to the Lazarus Children, special individuals whose DNA holds the key to unlocking the power within. Be the power telekinesis, empathy, enhanced physicality, fire-starting, etc. Charlie Gordon's powers were unlocked the day she nearly died in a vicious storm at sea. She's been doing everything she can to suppress them for the 10 years since their appearance. Now her time has run out and she needs to learn to unlock and control her powers before enemies she never knew existed capture her. Yet how can she stay one step ahead when she's being betrayed at every turn?

Power Within is a excellent novel, always keeping you on the edge of your seat! I loved the characters (even the bad guys) and the story flowed smoothly - full of action, intrigue, and wicked cool powers. I felt that Charlie was very mature and down-to-earth considering everything she'd gone through. One note: some of the spelling and grammar could use a polish, but it doesn't truly detract from the story. Due to the way Power Within ended, I cannot wait for the next book in The Lazarus Children series!!

The Lazarus Children Series: Power Within (1)

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Book Review: Sweet Addiction by: Maya Banks

2012-05-19T04:16:00.000-04:00

My Rating: 4 of 5 Ravens

Synopsis: He awakened a need within her…

Cole is successful beyond his dreams. He can have any woman he wants, but there’s only one he can’t stop thinking about. His childhood sweetheart, Renita. He’s never forgotten his first taste of innocent love and the desire that consumed them—or the pain he brought upon her…

But now she belongs to another…

Her long ago brush with submission awakened a longing in Ren that drove her to walk the darker edge of desire. She’s become a beautiful woman at ease with her sexuality and unapologetic about her need for a dominant man. When Cole finds her again, he’s gutted that she belongs to another. Ren’s current master agrees to give her to Cole for a short time, but then she must return to his keeping. And though Cole agrees to this bargain, he knows he will never be able to let Ren go again
Review: When I got this book Ms. Banks informed me she had to do the ending the way she did and changed it from it's original ending, in short...I was worried. After having read the book, just like she said, he couldn't have ended any other way.

I love the characters in this book, I know everyone was waiting for Cole's book for so long that is hardly seemed real that it was time to read it. Lucas definitely grew on me as the story progressed. This is probably the sexiest book yet in this series, in my opinion. I loved the varied scenes with two or even three people interacting with Ren, it was sexy and very well done.

The only problem I had with this book is the "misunderstanding" sub-plot. Ren automatically assuming things, the guys not telling her the full story, and then everyone gets worked up. I didn't find that part believable, I am a firm believer in everything can easily be cleared up, there is no need to mope around. I get it, it's fiction, just didn't like that part.

Overall, a beautifully written and sexy conclusion to the Sweet Series.

Contact Monica

Book Review: The Substitute by: Holly Barrington

2012-05-18T07:00:00.000-04:00

Rating: 4/5

Publisher: Published by Author

Publish Date: May 2012

Origins: From Author for Review

Format: E-book

Synopsis: “The Substitute" is set in an alternate Britain, where Vampires and Mortals co-exist more or less in harmony. However, that may soon be about to change...

Emily Brown starts her new job at Pathway Software, and at first everything goes well. She makes new friends there and her bosses are impressed so things are really looking up for Emily. Until her friend is killed. Murdered. The official account said it was a gang hit gone bad, and rumours suggest she had drugs in her possession.

However another, unofficial, report suggests that the bullet wounds were all post-mortem, and the drugs were planted on her in the morgue. It also says that she suffered multiple broken bones, cuts, contusions and...vampire bites. Everything suggests that her friend died a brutal and vicious death at the hands of a number of vampires.

Vampire and Mortal relations are, on the whole, very good. Ever since The Compact, there have been eighty five years of unprecedented peace between the two worlds. But there are some dissenters, the foremost of which are the sinister Circle of Ixiom. And Emily is about to become their bitterest enemy...

Review: Set in Britain, The Substitute is an interesting alternate history novel where the Vampire and Mortal worlds have merged and the inhabitants live side by side in peace. Yet there are certain factions who want to see the Vampires at the top of the heap, not held in check by the Compact, which has kept the peace for almost a century. All that might change very soon. Emily Brown was recruited for Pathway Software (a Vampire run company) and if she works out, she may be recruited for much more - which is exactly what she's hoping for. The Substitute is a chilling spy vs. spy tale which will have you hurriedly turning pages to find out what is going to happen next! I enjoyed the characters, the plot, and all the action - I believe Ms. Barrington has a great career in front of her!

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Book Review: Hell's Game by: Teresa Lo

2012-05-17T07:00:00.000-04:00

Rating: 4/5

Publisher: Stull Publishing

Publish Date: April 5, 2012

Origins: From Author for Review

Format: E-book

Order From: Amazon

Synopsis: On Halloween night in Deer Creek, Kansas, Jake Victor, Ashley and Ashton Gemini, and Kristin Grace convince Ronnie Smalls to meet them at the town cemetery, which local folklore has always rumored to be the Gateway to Hell. Their intention was only to scare him, but soon the wicked prank becomes actual horror as the group learns the Gateway is all too real. After demons snatch Ronnie and drag him to Hell, the terrified foursome vow to keep what they had seen a secret.

Two years later, the group receives a mysterious letter, an invite to play a high-stakes game in Hell. If they win, they release Ronnie’s soul as well as their own from eternal damnation. If they lose, they are stuck in Hell forever. Choosing to play, they face nightmare after nightmare as each level escalates in intensity and forces them to face the seven deadly sins.

Inspired by the legends of the Gateway to Hell in Stull, Kansas, Hell’s Game explores the cruelty that teenagers can inflict upon each other as well as the horrors that exist amongst mankind. It is a dark, action-packed young adult novel that will both scare its readers and make them question the true meaning of evil.

Review: "All that is necessary for the triumph of evil is that good men do nothing."

Come on down and play...Hell's Game! Would you play the game where Hell holds the cards for a chance to redeem your soul and the soul of the one you sent into Hell's embrace with your wicked words and deeds? Ms. Lo has written a truly scary tale which will have you examining your own actions. Based partly on an American urban legend, Hell's Game is not a tale to take lightly. A cautionary tale of the consequences we face from our daily decisions, it is a thrilling and frighting story. Gripping you by the throat and dragging you along for the ride, Ms. Lo has created a town where fear rules and there are many secrets left untold. I loved every word and savored every minute of the book. Complex and creative, I am truly impressed...and hope I never find myself invited to play Hell's Game!

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Book Review: Curbchek-Reload by: Zach Fortier

2012-05-16T07:00:00.000-04:00

Rating: 5/5

Publisher: CreateSpace

Publish Date: March 26, 2012

Origins: From Author for Review

Format: Trade Paperback

Order From: Amazon / Barnes & Noble

Synopsis: Curbchek-Reload is a darker account of the streets as they were worked by Zach Fortier. It is Curbchek's darker and meaner cousin. These are the stories I did not include in Curbchek, the original book I wrote. They are edgy, dark and a much more accurate account of the street. Hang on for a reality check.

Review: Curbchek-Reload is definitely Curbchek's darker meaner cousin, but in some ways it is also the most "hopeful" of all three books (Curbchek, Street Creds, and Curbchek-Reload). Most assuredly it is for mature adults only. There is a thread of light you can see in Curbchek-Reload, showing that all Officer Fortier does on a daily basis is not for naught. Nothing is black or white/light or dark, but composed of millions of shades of gray when you're working to protect people from others (and themselves). I still love the writing style which makes you feel as if you are riding along on the beat. While I would never want to be a police officer, I have the utmost amount of respect for officers like Fortier who put themselves and their sanity on the line daily.

Books by this Author: Curbchek, StreetCreds

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Book Review: The Vampire Underground by: Brian Rowe

2012-05-15T07:00:00.000-04:00

Rating: 3.5/5

Publisher: Amazon Digital Services

Publish Date: April 3, 2012

Origins: From Author for Review

Format: E-book

Order From: Amazon

Synopsis: 16-year-old Brin Skar hates everything to do with the supernatural, so the obsessive film geek isn't happy when she discovers that her junior year Film class at Grisly High is devoted to the horror genre. She's even more disconcerted when she learns that six groups in the class will be writing and directing their very own horror movies.

Brin and five classmates travel to Bodie Ghost Town in California to shoot their creepy film, but they soon find themselves fighting a real terrifying threat when a clan of mean, bloodthirsty vampires emerge from beneath the surface and start attacking the group. The teens, headed by Brin and the egotistical director Anaya Frost, have no help from the outside and become outnumbered by the vampires a hundred to one.

But when Brin meets Paul, a helpful and smoldering vampire outcast who's had enough of his shameful life, she realizes he might be the only key to her survival.

Review: When I started The Vampire Underground, I thought the prologue was great – let’s get to the vampires! Then Chapter One starts with Brin and her best friend Ash excited about the class you can only take in your junior and senior year, Into to Film. For huge film buffs, this is the ultimate in classes. But when they get there, Brin is disappointed because the entire class is going to be about horror films – her least favorite genre.

When the class is told they will be making a short mixed genre movie, Brin’s excited because she wants to write the script and direct. Yet, the group she gets thrown into doesn’t exactly support her creative endeavors. Brin’s bullied into letting Anaya Frost direct and write the script, which seemed out of character for her.

There seems to be a lot of whining on Brin’s part, not only about the movie, but about everything. She’s not exactly the most likable main character. Then there is Ash’s sense of movie superiority, to the point of screaming at someone who was watching a remake of a horror film (granted the original is a classic). I wasn’t much of a fan of many of the characters overall, but I liked the atmosphere the author created and the odd vampires who winter in the Bodie Ghost Town. I do wish we learned more about these vampires, but there was never enough time for Paul (the friendly vampire) to explain anything to Brin, and by extension to the reader. I did like the movie references and trivia, Ash’s two dads, and how the ‘2nd’ part of the book felt like you were watching a horror movie, instead of reading a story.

Grisly High series: The Vampire Underground (1)

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Book Review: Any Love But Mine by: Debbie Davies

2012-05-14T07:00:00.000-04:00

Rating: 3.5/5

Publisher: Night Publishing

Publish Date: March 3, 2012

Origins: From Author for Review

Format: E-book

Order From: Amazon

Synopsis: Look but don't touch has never been more true...

The gods forbade her to love, but love is a powerful force. Acacia has been created purely for Eros' pleasure but discovers within moments of being summoned into his presence that he has no interest in her whatsoever. Rejected, she is banished to Earth to serve as Eros' minion with the task of promoting the blissful state of love among all those around her, a state she must never indulge in with a human being herself on pain of immediate destruction. And then comes Josh, someone whose power of attraction over Acacia is so intense she will find it utterly impossible to resist him. But is he human? Is he a god? Or is he a trick of the gods? And what would happen should they kiss?

Review: The Erosians were created to appease Eros after he lost his true love, Psyche, to another. However, he doesn't want any of them. They all live on Earth, making love matches for humans, yet they are never allowed to have love for themselves. Even though Eros does not want them, no one else can have them. Acacia is the youngest of the Erosians and has been thrown into this world with no idea of the power plays and politics which brought her into being after the other Erosians. Then she meets Josh, who she is instantly drawn to, but obviously can't tell him the truth of who she is or the fact that he'll be killed if she loves him. Acacia's worst nightmares come true and she gets sent away, until...

I love Greek mythology and this story is a romance with some interesting twists. I loved the idea of gods on earth making love matches for humans and I do know the feeling of being instantly drawn to someone. While I know Acacia was purposely left in the dark about a lot of things, I felt as if she didn't really try to find out much until it was too late. I also found it odd how Acacia was able to fall into someone else's arms so easily after Josh, unless she was manipulated (which was hinted at). I want to see where the next book takes Acacia and the rest of the cast of complex characters! I hope we learn more of the Erosians' history...

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Book Review: Blue Eyes by: Jerome Charyn

2012-05-11T07:00:00.035-04:00

Rating: 3.5/5

Publisher: MysteriousPress.com/Open Road

Publish Date: April 10, 2012

Origins: From Publisher for Review

Format: E-book

Order From: Amazon / iBookstore / Google Books

Synopsis: A cop and his disgraced mentor attempt to bust a white slavery ring.

Before Isaac Sidel adopts him, Manfred Coen is a mutt. A kid from the Bronx, he joins the police academy after his father’s suicide leaves him directionless, and is trudging along like any other cadet when first deputy Sidel, the commissioner’s right hand man, comes looking for a young cop with blue eyes to infiltrate a ring of Polish smugglers. He chooses Coen, and asks the cadet to join his department after he finishes the academy. Working under Sidel means fast promotions, plush assignments, and, when a corruption scandal topples his mentor, the resentment of every rank-and-file detective on the force.

Now just an ordinary cop, Coen hears word that his old mentor has a line on a human trafficking operation. When Sidel’s attempt at infiltration fails, he sends in Coen. For Coen, it’s a shot to prove himself and redeem his mentor, but it could cost the blue-eyed cop his life.

Review: Blue Eyes is an extra hard-boiled tale of a disgraced detective and his protégé. Coen, the young cadet, is pulled into a human slavery/trafficking investigation by Isaac Sidel. Sidel and Coen live in a world filled with crime, unsavory characters, and wicked twists of fate. Mr. Charyn keeps you guessing via rich descriptions and gritty language. The first in a series about Detective Isaac Sidel, Blue Eyes is a wild ride through the darkest of noir.

Author Bio: Jerome Charyn (born May 13, 1937) is an award-winning American author. With nearly 50 published works, Charyn has earned a long-standing reputation as an inventive and prolific chronicler of real and imagined American life. Michael Chabon calls him “one of the most important writers in American literature.”

New York Newsday hailed Charyn as “a contemporary American Balzac,” and the Los Angeles Times described him as “absolutely unique among American writers.”

Since the 1964 release of Charyn’s first novel, Once Upon a Droshky, he has published 30 novels, three memoirs, eight graphic novels, two books about film, short stories, plays and works of non-fiction. Two of his memoirs were named New York Times Book of the Year. Charyn has been a finalist for the PEN/Faulkner Award for Fiction. He received the Rosenthal Award from the American Academy of Arts and Letters and has been named Commander of Arts and Letters by the French Minister of Culture.

Charyn was Distinguished Professor of Film Studies at the American University of Paris until he left teaching in 2009.

In addition to his writing and teaching, Charyn is a tournament table tennis player, once ranked in the top 10 percent of players in France. Noted novelist Don DeLillo called Charyn’s book on table tennis, Sizzling Chops & Devilish Spins, "The Sun Also Rises of ping-pong."

Charyn lives in Paris and New York City.

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Book Review: Yesterday's Dreams by: Danielle Ackley-McPhail

2012-05-10T07:00:00.000-04:00

Rating: 5/5

Publisher: Dark Quest Books

Publish Date: February 1, 2012

Origins: From Author for Review

Format: E-book

Order From: Amazon / Barnes & Noble

Synopsis: History...Legacy...Destiny... Triggered by an act of self-sacrifice, all three converge upon Kara O'Keefe, transforming her simple life into one both magical and menacing. Overwhelmed by the expenses of her father's cancer treatments, Kara finds herself forced to give up Quicksilver, her cherished violin and the only physical link with her long-gone Grandda. Her selflessness becomes the key to her future. At Yesterday's Dreams, a pawnshop tucked away on a quiet New York back street, she discovers her true legacy, and destiny and danger both begin to stalk her. Confused by the sudden radical turn her life has taken...pursued by malevolent forces she does not understand...Kara O'Keefe must place her trust in a dead man she loved but never truly knew and the living myth that would teach her who she really was. Has she inherited the tenacious strength of her Celtic ancestors, or would she fall beneath the onslaught of uncompromising fate?

Review: Yesterday's Dreams is a work of fantasy which rivals anything written by any of the big name fantasy authors (such as Mercedes Lackey or Andre Norton). The detail and warmth which infuse every word makes the story rich and alluring. The characters are engaging and three-dimensional with one of my favorites being the sprite, Beag Scath (Little Shadow). Set in the modern day with roots reaching back into the ancient days of Eire, Yesterday's Dreams brings the Sidhe from legend to stunning reality. Ms. Ackley-McPhail has written a very unique twist on the ancient battle between good and evil. A power-hungry ancient evil lurks on the streets of New York with only the Sidhe and some gifted humans standing between it and its ultimate prize. Yesterday's Dreams will entrance you with every word and the depth of emotion the author evokes.

The Eternal Cycle Series: Yesterday's Dreams (1), Tomorrow's Memories (2), Today's Promise (3)

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License to Kill – the Undead: Guest Post by: Justin Gustainis

2012-05-09T07:00:00.000-04:00

My novels Hard Spell and the just-released Evil Dark are set in an “alternate” universe where the supernatural really exists, and everybody knows it. Supernaturals (or “supes” in cop talk) have been part of the landscape for more than 50 years, and the popular culture of this world reflects their impact. People there read the same books and watch the same movies that we do – but often with a supernatural twist.

The protagonist of my books is Sgt. Stan Markowski of the Scranton Occult Crimes Unit. His partner, Karl Renfer is, among other things, a James Bond nut. Karl’s got all the books, the DVDs, movie posters, soundtrack albums and even (as he once admitted to Stan in a weak moment) the complete collection of 007 action figures. But Ian Fleming’s superspy is a little different in Stan and Karl’s world, as this bit of conversation from the book demonstrates:

“Let’s wait ’til we get there,” I said. “It’s a mistake to theorize in the absence of data.”

From the corner of my eye, I could see Karl turn to look at me. “You’ve been reading Sherlock Holmes again, Stan?”

“Why not?” I said. “If you can memorize all the James Bond books, I can at least read some Conan Doyle once in a while.”

“I don’t have ’em memorized,” he said. “I’m not some geek fanboy.”

“Sorry, my mistake,” I said – then asked him, “What’s the last line of From Transylvania with Love?”

Without hesitating, he quoted, “Bond pivoted, drove the wooden stake through Rosa Klebb’s heart, then slowly collapsed on the blood-red floor.” After a second’s pause, he said, “Hey – no fair. Everybody knows that one.”

“Everybody,” I said, nodding. “Yeah, you’re right. My bad.”

This kind of “supernatural difference” shows up throughout the canon of Bond books and movies. For instance, here are some of the James Bond stories from Stan and Karl’s world:

Doctor No Pulse – How can a crazed Chinese scientist, thought dead for years, be interfering with missile launches from Cape Canaveral? Secret Agent 007 is sent to Jamaica to find out.

Goldfanger – a vampire crime lord plans to rob Fort Knox and use the proceeds to corner the market on rare and precious AB-Negative. Only James Bond can stop him.

Mummies Are Forever – Bond traces an international wolfsbane smuggling ring all the way to Egypt, and finds that its fiendishly clever leader is the reanimated corpse of Pharaoh Ramses III.

Rise Another Day – The Russians have raised an army of zombies, indoctrinated them with Marxist-Leninism, and sent the undead horde against the forces of Western democracy.

Moonchanger – a gang of ex-Nazi werewolves plan to bring back the Third Reich, and James Bond has until the next full moon to stop them.

And Stan and Karl are both waiting for the release of the new Bond movie, Broomfall, in which Daniel Craig will combat a deadly coven who have kidnapped “M” for use in their next sacrifice. I’m kind of looking forward to that one, myself.

Book Review: Evil Dark by: Justin Gustainis

2012-05-08T07:00:00.000-04:00

Rating: 4/5

Publisher: Angry Robot

Publish Date: April 24, 2012

Origins: From Author for Review

Format: E-book

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Synopsis: My name's Markowski. I carry a badge. Also, a crucifix, some wooden stakes, a big vial of holy water, and a 9mm Beretta loaded with silver bullets.

A series of seemingly motiveless murders of supernatural creatures points to a vigilante targeting the supe community. Markowski wouldn't normally have much of a problem with that, but his daughter may be next on the killer's list...

File Under: Urban Fantasy [Unnatural Law | Thicker Than Water | The Bite Stuff | Duty Calls]

Review: Evil Dark, the second book in the Occult Crimes Unit Investigation Series, does not fail to deliver action, suspense, and dark humor. I am enjoying this series very much and Evil Dark brings us further into the alternate world where supes and humans live side by side. Supes are being killed and it's looking more and more like a "humans only" group is behind the killings. I love the main characters and the secondary characters stand up to scrutiny as well. I also enjoy the alternate history humor, just like we've been seeing a lot lately (i.e. Abraham Lincoln, Vampire Slayer). Rich and diverse, this gritty noir thriller will leave you thirsting for more!

Occult Crimes Unit Investigation series: Hard Spell (1), Evil Dark (2), Known Devil (3)

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Book Review: Spectral by: Shannon Duffy

2012-05-07T07:00:00.000-04:00

Rating: 5/5

Publisher: Tribute Books

Publish Date: April 10, 2012

Origins: From Publisher for Review

Format: E-book

Order From: Amazon / Barnes & Noble / Google / Smashwords / PDF

Synopsis: Convinced she’s a part of the witness protection program, sixteen-year-old Jewel Rose is shuffled around the globe with her family like a pack of traveling gypsies. After arriving at lucky home twenty-seven, she stumbles upon a mysterious boy with magical powers claiming to be her guardian . . . and warning of imminent danger. Despite the obvious sparks between them, Jewel discovers a relationship is forbidden, and the more she learns about dark, brooding Roman, she begins to question who she can even believe — the family who raised her, or the supposed sworn protector who claims they’ve been lying to her all along.

As she struggles to uncover who her family has really been running from, she is forced to hide her birthmark that reveals who she is. With new realities surfacing, unexplained powers appearing, and two tempting boys vying for her heart, Jewel battles to learn who she can trust in an ever growing sea of lies, hoping she’ll make it through her seventeenth birthday alive.

Review: Jewel has lived her entire life thinking she and her family are in the witness protection program. They've moved locations and changed names more times than an outcast mobster. In her newest home, she quickly makes a friend, Taylor. Yet she's also drawn to Roman...the 'bad boy' at school who has an unusual interest in Jewel. When Jewel finds out she's not who or what she thought she was she's not sure where to turn. Now she's trying to find out the truth and figure out who to trust. Spectral is a smashing story of magic, mystery, murder, and the haunting melody of romance. I loved Jewel, Jayden, Roman, and Taylor. The characters were well developed and the action was truly wicked. Spectral captivated and enchanted me instantly - wonderfully magical and exciting! Follow Jewel's journey as she transforms into her true self...

Author Bio: Shannon Duffy writes young adult and middle grade fiction. She grew up on the beautiful east coast of Canada and now lives in Ontario, Canada. She is the mom of one boy, Gabriel, her angel. She loves writing, reading, working out, soccer, and the sport of champions-shopping. She is the author of the young adult paranormal romance, SPECTRAL. Her upcoming middle grade fantasy novel, GABRIEL STONE AND THE DIVINITY OF VALTA is scheduled for a January 2013 release.

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Free on Amazon - May 5th and 6th: The Princess of Dhagabad by: Anna Kashina

2012-05-05T07:00:00.000-04:00

Synopsis: Sensuous and magically intelligent, The Princess of Dhagabad invites readers into the exotic world of a young Arabian princess whose coming-of-age is guided by her special friendship with Hasan, the all-powerful djinn who becomes her mentor and steadfast companion.

Book I of The Spirits of the Ancient Sands introduces a delightful trilogy of books by Anna Kashina. The Princess of Dhagabad follows the princess as she grows into a young woman of seventeen, when she proves that she is more than capable of taking her destiny -- and the destiny of Dhagabad -- in hand.

Get The Princess of Dhagabad free on Amazon today and tomorrow!

Also, visit http://blog.annakashina.com/ to enter to win an autographed copy of Ms. Kashina's next book!

Book Review: More Like Her by: Liza Palmer

2012-05-04T07:00:00.011-04:00

Rating: 5/5

Publisher: William Morrow Paperbacks

Publish Date: April 17, 2012

Origins: From Publisher for Review

Format: Paperback

Order From: Amazon / Barnes & Noble

Synopsis: What really goes on behind those perfect white picket fences?

In Frances's mind, beautiful, successful, ecstatically married Emma Dunham is the height of female perfection. Frances, recently dumped with spectacular drama by her boyfriend, aspires to be just like Emma. So do her close friends and fellow teachers, Lisa and Jill. But Lisa's too career-focused to find time for a family. And Jill's recent unexpected pregnancy could have devastating consequences for her less-than-perfect marriage.

Yet sometimes the golden dream you fervently wish for turns out to be not at all what it seems--like Emma's enviable suburban postcard life, which is about to be brutally cut short by a perfect husband turned killer. And in the shocking aftermath, three devastated friends are going to have to come to terms with their own secrets . . . and somehow learn to move forward after their dream is exposed as a lie.

Review: "Not everything that glitters is gold." This is readily apparent in More Like Her. Emma Dunham is everyone's dream - men want her and women want to be her. Yet what lies beneath the calm surface is something no one expected. When Emma's abusive husband murders her in front of a number of people, they must not only deal with the trauma and survivor's guilt. They must look inside themselves for the truths of their own secrets. While the 3 friends, Frances, Lisa, and Jill are dealing with shock and horror, they make some interesting revelations of their own. Can their secrets become a source of strength instead of the weaknesses they perceive them to be? I was easily drawn into the world Ms. Palmer created. At first it seemed like a fluffy chick-lit novel, but then you are totally gobsmacked by the turn events take. I felt it spoke eloquently to the horror which can hide beneath the most carefully constructed facade. You will laugh, you will definitely cry, and you just might be persuaded to share a secret or two...

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Book Review: The Thirteen by: Susie Moloney

2012-05-03T07:00:00.000-04:00

Rating: 4/5

Publisher: William Morrow Paperbacks

Publish Date: March 27, 2012

Origins: From Publisher for Review

Format: Paperback

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Synopsis: "Desperate Housewives" meets "The Witches of Eastwick" in this novel about a woman who returns with her teenage daughter to her childhood home, not knowing that she's stepped back into a community run by a group of witches.

Haven Woods is suburban heaven, a great place to raise a family. It's close to the city, quiet, with great schools and its own hospital right up the road. Property values are climbing, and the crime rate is practically nonexistent.

Paula Wittmore hasn't been back to Haven Woods since she left as a disgraced teenager. Now she's returning to care for her suddenly ailing mother, and she's bringing her daughter and a pile of emotional baggage. She's also bringing, unknowingly, the last chance for her mother's closest frenemies . . . twelve women bound together by a powerful secret that requires the sacrifice of a thirteenth.

Review: The Thirteen is a novel which exposes the seamy underbelly of a 'perfect' neighborhood. It's the Stepford Witches who live on Wisteria Lane. With one rule...there must always be Thirteen. Ms. Moloney's written an oddly entertaining story of murder, lust, desperation, evil, and temptation. I found the story to be fascinating, but some of the characters were off-putting, such as the 'main' character, Paula Wittmore. There were quite a few times I wanted to pull her aside, shake her hard, and yell at her to "wake up!!". She seemed overly naive, especially for a woman who has been living a hard life. I loved Rowan and Sandy, along with Old Tex - they were my favorite characters. This is definitely one of those "the sins of the [mothers] are to be laid upon the children" type novels.

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Book Review: The Tiger's Eye by: Gladys Swan

2012-05-02T07:00:00.002-04:00

Rating: 4/5

Publisher: Serving House Books

Publish Date: July 11, 2011

Origins: From Publicist for Review

Format: Trade Paperback

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Synopsis: The stories in this book have been selected from the six previous collections of short fiction, as well as from recent work, Gladys Swan has published in that genre over the past four decades. Although she also has published novels, poetry, and essays, she finds that she cannot do without the short story-"it is such a beautiful form. I love the challenges it presents in dealing with characters and situations that light upon the cusp of the moment and which must be handled with an eye to economy and unity of effect."

Review: The Tiger’s Eye contains previously and newly published short stories by Ms. Swan. The stories capture the inner and outer lives of the characters with grace and precision. Not all of the stories are ‘comfortable’ for the average reader nor are they all neatly resolved, but that’s real life. The characters are not always ones the reader can easily feel either sympathy or empathy for, but this aspect make the stories even more powerful. Detailed and showcasing a talent developed over decades, The Tiger’s Eye is a collection of stories to make you think and view things from a very different perspective.

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Kindle Giveaway & Spotlight on Unconquered by J.D. Davis

2012-05-01T08:00:00.000-04:00

Synopsis: The Saga of Cousins Jerry Lee Lewis, Jimmy Swaggart, and Mickey Gilley

In 1935 and early 1936, three cousins were born into tight-knit families in Ferriday, Louisiana. Rare piano talent, strong parental relationships, the Pentecostal church, family struggle, and a variety of musical influences worked together to produce men who changed twentieth-century music and culture. The individual stories of these three cousins illustrate their varied paths from small-town America to a world stage. Woven together, the collective story becomes even more compelling and amazing.

UNCONQUERED is a story so unlikely that it would not be believable if written as fiction. It tells of rock ‘n’ roll legend Jerry Lee Lewis, televangelist Jimmy Swaggart, and country music star Mickey Gilley. These very different men, raised in the same time and place, with similar talents, were fated for entirely different destinies even as their lives would always be profoundly intertwined. Born into poverty, each man, in his own way, would become an iconic figure blessed with the ability to thrill and inspire.

The story's touchstones of music, perseverance, and faith could wield such force only in the American South. There, in the Louisiana lowlands’ Concordia Parish, their story began in the midst of the Great Depression.

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About J.D. Davis: J.D. Davis was raised in Quitman, Texas, a quiet community in the northeast part of the state. Having grown up in a small town in the rural South—similar in many ways to the cousins’ hometown of Ferriday, Louisiana—with many similar influences as the cousins, he has meaningful insight into these three men.

Davis attended the University of Texas on a full academic scholarship, received a B.A. with highest honors in economics, and was elected to Phi Beta Kappa. He later received a master’s degree from SMU.

As a successful businessman, Davis achieved the highest credentials as an actuary and became a principal in a large firm while still in his twenties. He currently manages an employee benefits consulting practice that covers the southern region of the United States, with offices in four cities.

Davis remembers his father watching Jimmy Swaggart on television and being intrigued by the evangelist's magnificent piano talent. As a teenager, Davis became a huge fan of Jerry Lee Lewis. He first attended one of Lewis’s live performances as a college student and was awe-struck to see this man put on a breathtaking performance. Davis grew up listening to country music of the seventies and eighties, when Mickey Gilley was consistently producing number one country hits. He became fascinated by the ways these three very different cousins achieved and dealt with eventual success and has been a dedicated fan for years.

Davis has worked with a talented team of many. His editors included Elizabeth Kaye, an award winning journalist who has often written about southern music and southern preachers. As a contributing editor to Rolling Stone, she interviewed Sam Phillips and gathered firsthand experience of Jerry Lee Lewis when covering sessions at which he played with Johnny Cash, Carl Perkins, and Roy Orbison. As a contributing editor to John Kennedy’s George magazine, Kaye wrote extensively about Billy Graham and his son Franklin, traveled on several missionary trips with Franklin, and worked with ABC’s 20/20 to produce and write a major Billy Graham profile.

~~~ WIN A FREE KINDLE! ~ ~ ~

J.D. Davis will be giving away a FREE KINDLE! Fill out the Rafflecopter form below to win! This giveaway is only open to U.S. and Canada citizens. Deadline is June 1 and announced on June 2. If you are the winner, contact Dorothy Thompson at thewriterslife (at) gmail.com or Tracee Gleichner at tgleichner (at) gmail.com. You have 48 hours to reply. If we do not hear from you in 48 hours, another winner will be selected. Thanks and good luck!

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Book Review: Under Suspicion by: Hannah Jayne

2012-05-01T07:00:00.017-04:00

Rating: 4/5

Publisher: Kensington Books

Publish Date: May 1, 2012

Origins: From Author for Review

Format: Mass Market Paperback

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Synopsis: She’s the new head of the Underworld Detection Agency’s strangest division. What a nightmare…

Being a human immune to magic helped Sophie Lawson get promoted. It’s also made her a major, very reluctant player in a game that stretches beyond even the Underworld. Having handsome buttoned-down Englishman Will as her new guardian is one tempting blessing, especially since sexy fallen angel Alex is mysteriously MIA lately. But as a frightening number of demons start disappearing around the city, Sophie suspects that an Armageddon-level prophecy is about to become everyone’s nightmare. And her investigation is testing her bravery — and Will’s unexpected vulnerability — in ways neither could predict. Now Sophie and Will are fast running out of time as an unstoppable evil prepares to lay waste to demons and humans alike…

Review: I do love me some Sophie Lawson. She's sometimes flighty, but she's funny, caring, dependable, and tenacious. When her boss at the UDA dismisses her concerns about the recent disappearances and deaths of Underworld members, she's determined to find out the truth on her own. Well, mostly on her own. Every time she seems to make progress, she gets knocked back a few steps, but it doesn't keep her down. She'll need all her strength and resources to figure out this mystery. I am really enjoying this series! Sophie's heart is in the right place, even if she's not always the most coordinated or smooth talking. Under Suspicion had lots of action, lots of hot guys, and a big mystery to solve. Events unfold quickly and there's more nasty business to come...can't wait for the next book, now!

Underworld Detection Agency Chronicles: Under Wraps (1), Under Attack (2), Under Suspicion (3)

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Book Review: It's Our Prom (So Deal With It) by: Julie Anne Peters

2012-04-30T07:00:00.016-04:00

Rating: 3.5/5

Publisher: Little, Brown Books for Young Readers

Publish Date: April 24, 2012

Origins: From Publisher for Review

Format: Hardcover

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Synopsis: When Azure's principal gives her the chance to turn the school's traditional (and boring) senior prom into an event that will appeal to everyone, not just the jocks and cheerleaders, she jumps at the opportunity. Soon Azure manages to convince her best friends, Luke and Radhika, to join the prom committee as well.

Facing heavy opposition and admittedly clueless about prom logistics, the three friends are nonetheless determined to succeed -- if Luke's and Azure's secret crushes on Radhika don't push the committee members, and their friendships, to the breaking point first.

Told in two voices and filled with comical missed connections, It's Our Prom (So Deal With It) explores the ups and downs of planning an alternative prom -- while dealing with an unrequited crush on your best friend -- and shines with National Book Award finalist Julie Anne Peters's unmistakable wit and insight.

Review: Azure, Luke, and Radhika have been best friends for a very long time. Yet it seems as if senior year is the year everything starts to change. Azure is in love with Radhika, Luke's in love with Radhika, and Radhika just wants to get away from her parents' rules. It's Our Prom is told from both Azure and Luke's perspectives. Now Azure's been asked to join the prom committee (prom com) to plan an alternative prom - a more inclusive prom. Azure drags Luke and Radhika into the prom com and things start to go downhill. Can the friends remain friends and salvage the prom?

It's Our Prom wasn't my favorite Julie Anne Peters novel. I felt the main characters were overly selfish and self-centered. Teenagers can be both of those, but this seemed over the top. They were consumed with their preconceived notions and judgments of others. This is even though they were trying to be "inclusive" with the alternative prom. I did like the fact that by the end of the book, the characters learned they people aren't always so different from themselves.

Other Books by this Author: Pretend You Love Me, She Loves You, She Loves You Not...

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Book Review: Sunrise Point by: Robyn Carr

2012-04-27T07:00:00.000-04:00

Rating: 5/5

Publisher: Mira

Publish Date: April 24, 2012

Origins: From Publisher for Review

Format: Mass Market Paperback

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Synopsis: Tom Cavanaugh may think he wants a traditional woman, but in Virgin River, the greatest tradition is falling in love unexpectedly....

Former marine Tom Cavanaugh’s come home to Virgin River, ready to take over his family’s apple orchard and settle down. He knows just what the perfect woman will be like: sweet, decent, maybe a little naive. The marrying kind.

Nothing like Nora Crane. So why can’t he keep his eyes off the striking single mother?

Nora may not have a formal education, but she graduated with honors from the school of hard knocks. She’s been through tough times and she’ll do whatever it takes to support her family, including helping with harvest time at the Cavanaugh’s orchard. She’s always kept a single-minded focus on staying afloat...but suddenly her thoughts keep drifting back to rugged, opinionated Tom Cavanaugh.

Both Nora and Tom have their own ideas of what family means. But they’re about to prove each other completely wrong...

Review: Coming back to Virgin River via the 19th book in the series, Sunrise Point, was like coming home. It's almost like the opening theme of Cheers - where everybody knows your name (and your business). Nora Crane has had a very tough life and ended up dumped unceremoniously in Virgin River by her scumbag ex. She must figure out a way to make a living for herself and her two young daughters, Berry and Fay. Enter a seasonal job at Cavanaugh's apple orchard. Nora's never picked apples in her life, but she's willing to work hard. At first she's turned away, but Maxie Cavanaugh hires her on when her grandson Tom wouldn't. At the same time, Nora's past is catching up with her...

I read Sunrise Point in essentially one sitting. I love the characters and the genteel charm of Virgin River. Nora reminds me a lot of someone very close to me and I admire her strength of character and her determination. I absolutely hated Darla, the widow of a Marine buddy of Tom's. She was just not what Tom or anyone in Virgin River needed. Sunrise Point is a delicate and delectable romance, filled with great characters in a wonderful town. I sometimes wish I lived in a place like Virgin River. It just goes to show - what you think you want is not always what you truly need.

Virgin River Series: Virgin River (1), Shelter Mountain (2), Whispering Rock (3), A Virgin River Christmas (4), Second Chance Pass (5), Temptation Ridge (6), Paradise Valley (7), "Under the Christmas Tree" (novella) (8), Forbidden Falls (9), Angel's Peak (10), Moonlight Road (11), "Midnight Confessions" (novella) (12), Promise Canyon (13), Wild Man Creek (14), Harvest Moon (15), Bring Me Home for Christmas (16), Hidden Summit (17), Redwood Bend (18), Sunrise Point (19), My Kind of Christmas (20)

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Book Review: Night Sky by: Jolene Perry

2012-04-26T09:36:00.000-04:00

Rating: 5/5

Publisher: Tribute Books

E-Book Publish Date: March 1, 2012

Origins: From Publisher for Review

Format: E-book

Order From: Amazon / Barnes & Noble / Smashwords / PDF

Synopsis: After losing Sarah, the friend he’s loved, to some other guy, Jameson meets Sky. Her Native American roots, fluid movements, and need for brutal honesty become addictive fast. This is good. Jameson needs distraction – his dad leaves for another woman, his mom’s walking around like a zombie, and Sarah’s new boyfriend can’t keep his hands off of her.

As he spends time with Sky and learns about her village, her totems, and her friends with drums - she's way more than distraction. Jameson's falling for her fast.

But Sky’s need for honesty somehow doesn’t extend to her life story – and Jameson just may need more than his new girl to keep him distracted from the disaster of his senior year.

Author Bio: Jolene grew up in Wasilla, Alaska. She graduated from Southern Utah University with a degree in political science and French, which she used to teach math to middle schoolers.

After living in Washington, Utah and Las Vegas, she now resides in Alaska with her husband, and two children. Aside from writing, Jolene sews, plays the guitar, sings when forced, and spends as much time outside as possible.

She is also the author of The Next Door Boys and the upcoming Knee Deep.

Review: Have you ever been in love with your best friend? Have you ever been crushed when they start dating someone? That's what happened to Jameson (Jay) as he watched his best friend Sarah in the arms of another guy. The same night he meets Sky...a girl for whom nothing but total honesty is good enough. As Jay opens up to Sky, he realizes how authentic their relationship and how his friendship with Sarah was not. Yet, for all her requests of honesty, Sky's not exactly been entirely truthful herself. Jay is falling in love with Sky as everything else around him is falling apart. His parents split up and Sarah's new boyfriend doesn't want them to be friends anymore. Told from Jay's point of view only, Night Sky is an addictive story.

What else is there to say about Night Sky other than perfect! The story, characters, relationships, and situations are all well-written. Night Sky will keep you up late until you finish! I liked how this story was told from Jay's point of view - his feelings, thoughts, actions, and perceptions of situations and people. While reading, you can see all of this unfolding around Jay clearly. Everything is so real, you expect the book to come to life in your hands. Night Sky will touch you deeply and leave you wanting such an authentic relationship with someone.

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