The Geeky Bookworm

I'm moving in with @pattepoilue

noreply@blogger.com (SusiSunshine) — Sun, 24 Apr 2011 13:31:00 +0000

Hey everyone!
I have some great news to share. I will leave The Geeky Bookworm behind and share a blog with Caroline aka pattepoilue. Our new place is called Secret HEA Society and we plan some really funny stuff.

So everyone who wants to stay in touch jump on over to http://secretheasociety.blogspot.com/ and join the fun!

I'm looking forward to see you there.

Hugs to all and Happy Easter!

My March Reads

noreply@blogger.com (SusiSunshine) — Mon, 04 Apr 2011 18:11:00 +0000

Another month and some new authors discovered. I have to say this don't review so much routine is a really reading mojo savior for me. I discovered some great new authors this months. So here is what I read:

1. Dirty by Megan Hart - 5 cubes
Pleasure re-read. It always surprises me again how much I love this book. Perfect. the characterisation is awesome and the plot is captivating. And to my shock I discovered that I never reviewed this book. Will actually do that now.

2. Friendly Fire by Megan Hart (my review) - 4 cubes
Friendly Fire is funny, sexy and very emotional. It will show you about how deep and thoughtful a short story can be. Another keeper by Ms Hart- we all have to thank Carina Press for re-releasing this one. Highly recommended read for the short entertainment- it will leave you smiling and happy.

3. Taken by Lilith Saintcrow - 3 cubes
This one was not what I expected it to be. It dragged a bit and it wasn't as kick-ass I thought it would be. It felt a bit too whiney and even though I expected that it didn't have enough to balance it out. In the Dante Valentine books Dante was a bit like this too from time to time but she was also strong and fought and wasn't that weak. And this book was smut free- that kind of surprised me. *shrug* Should probably pick up the Jill Kismet books when I feel like reading a Saintcrow again.

4. Enemy Within by Marcella Burnard - 4 cubes
Wow- just wow. This one was really good. Good developed science fiction world with really nice romance. The characters were engaging and the plot had some really good points that will make you think. I loved how everything fit together and I'm eagerly awaiting book 2.

5. Crash Into Me by Jill Sorenson (my review) - 5 cubes
I loved this book- it had everything I love about books and so much more. I had high expectations and this book didn't disappoint at all- it exceeded everything I could have imagined before I started it. LOVED it! If you haven't read this author I urge you to give her a try-I was blown away and I hope you will be too.

6. Set the Dark on Fire by Jill Sorenson - 4 stars
Again I'm so happy I discovered this author. Her writing is something really unique. Her characterization is really awesome and done with so much love for detail. I love how she actually includes to love-stories and how both are so different from each other. I already order her 2 new releases. *g* Can't wait to get my next fix.

7. Alien in the Family (Katherine "Kitty" Katt, #3) by Gini Koch (my review)
This one is full of funny action, romance, emotion and so much more. It will make you squee and perhaps even wet your eyes at times. I loved every second of it. It's a thrilling ride you won't forget. So to sum it all up: Alien in the Family will rock your socks of. And OMG the poofs are made of awesomesauce!

8. Grave Witch (Alex Craft, #1) by Kalayna Price - 4 cubes
I admit I bought this book because of the great cover and I love stories about witches. The story and world were really unique and greatly realized. I loved Alex and OMG Death is made of yum- and yes I realize that this sounds so many kinds of wrong. Can't wait to get the next book.

9. Desire Unchained (Demonica, #2) by Larissa Ione - 3 1/2 cubes
It was not as good as book 1 and it just didn't grab me completely. I really liked Shade but sometimes I wanted to strangle him. I'm sure I will read the rest of the Demonica novels though. I think I might just be a bit PNR burned out. *sad face*

10. Lady Doctor Wyre: Jane Austen Space Opera by Joely Sue Burkhart (my review) - 4 cubes
Lady Doctor Wyre really fascinated me. An inventive setting with an enthralling adventure plot. The mix of historical, steampunk and science fiction is masterly woven together and the detailed view you get in the novel will leave you breathless. I say bring me more Lady Burkhart!

11. Newly Fallen by Megan Hart- 4 cubes
This one was really nice. A quick entertaining read. Who wouldn't wish for a sexy guy falling naked in your backyard? Very cute and sexy- it'S made to be read for the short entertainment in between.

12. Tithed by Megan Hart
The magical Dirty so to say. It actually revolvels around the same issues as Dirty but adds a paranormal twist. I really enjoyed it even though it sometimes gave me a really weird sense of deja vu.

13. Gabriel's Ghost (Dock Five Universe, #1) by Linnea Sinclair - 3 cubes
This one rather disappointed me. Everyone always told me to read Ms Sinclair's book because as a scifi lover I just have to and this one really just dragged along. The middle couldn't hold my attention at all and I read 2 other novels before I finished this one. In the end it really picked up and I was sitting at the edge of my seat but there still was something missing. Will try to get some more recs and perhaps try one of her better ones.

14. Out of the Blue by Annemarie Hartnett (my review) - 4 1/2 cubes
This book is made of win. A story full of love and emotion with the right amount of witty humor and sexy scenes thrown in. I loved the characters and their easy banter. A book made for my keeper shelf. Highly recommended read!

That was my month? How was yours?

Review: Out of the Blue by Annemarie Hartnett

noreply@blogger.com (SusiSunshine) — Sun, 03 Apr 2011 19:00:00 +0000

Description:
Georgie knew that hooking up with her ex would bring complications. For one, Anthony is trying to help her out by getting her a job with his latest boyfriend, Etienne. For another, he’s hinting that he and Etienne might want her to join them the next time they get together to play. It isn’t long before Anthony’s suggestion ignites a bit of after-hours fun between the boss and his new employee, and Georgie finds herself enjoying the attention of two gorgeous men at the same time. And it doesn't stop there.

But it can’t be multiple orgasms all the time for Georgie, not when one of her boyfriends decides he’s not happy, making everyone unhappy. The high of being a part of a scorching threesome wears off, leaving Georgie fighting to keep the perfect relationship intact.

Twice the boyfriend. Twice the fun. More trouble than she ever imagined.

Publisher's Note: This book contains explicit sexual content, graphic language, and situations that some readers may find objectionable: Anal play/intercourse (implied), male/male sexual practices, menage (m/m/f, m/f/m).

Review:
I really don't know where to start- this book blew me away. I already fell in love with Hartnett's writing in the past but I think this one may just be my favorite of hers. This book has it all- hilarious witty scenes, deep emotion and inner struggle and a love story so hawt and sexy it will blow you away too. But lets start at the beginning.

In Out of the Blue we meet some wonderful characters. Georgie is living through some rough times right now. She lost her job and has to move out of her apartment cuz she can't afford the rent anymore. But still she doesn't lose her wit and humor. She is strong and open minded and I would love to have a friend like that. She's game for all the crazy stupid things that make life more interesting and fun.

On the other hand we have her ex, Anthony and I actually fell in love with him from the start. He is a strong character and 100% alpha material. He's bisexual and even though he and Georgie realized some time back that they aren't made to be an item they have a certain friends with benefits arrangement going on. They are a fun non-couple and make the best of the time they have together. I loved how Anthony always teased Georgie- he certainly knows how to build up the excitement. *wink*

But in the last few months another man joined the equation- Etienne is Anthony's new boyfriend and they seem to have the potential to become something serious. Etienne is so funny- I loved how cluttered he was but still never lost focus of the important things.
Quote Georgie to Etienne about his office moving plans:

“Screw the boxes. Go up to Citadel Hill and ask to borrow one of the cannons from the fortress. Then you can stuff everything into it, aim it north, and then blow your shit into your new office.”

He's also such a social engaged character and he KNOWS what he wants. He is a wonderful character I deeply admired. He stole my heart even though I thought Anthony already had it.

I loved how geeky the guys could be at times. You may have noticed that I have a little soft spot for pop-culture references and this book made me happy.

One of the things that makes this book special to me is the glimpse we get into Georgie's mind. She made me burst out laughing so often.

Georgie's thoughts before first "date" with Etienne:

I suppose it won’t hurt. Then again, I’ll bet that’s what the guy on the Internet said right before he tried to have sex with that horse.

I loved how the relationship between our 3 characters built up slowly and their dynamics were spot on. It's not one of those rosy painted relationships that make you shake you head. These three just seemed so real with human flaws and appealing little twists. I was glued to the pages. Even when they fought the wit and fun never were completely gone.

“I'm going home. You two can stay here and club one another to death with raw pieces of brontosaurus meat, but I'm leaving.”

But there are also those deep emotional situation that left me teary eyed once or twice. This book is just such a great mix of everything- I can't say enough how much I liked it. And lets not forget the sexy time. *swoon* Oh my these two guys are hot on their own but together they are force you just can't ignore. *fans herself*

“Naked Saturday. Remember? We can bend the sex rule seeing as my vagina is probably broken at this point, but I'd really like to remain naked and toasty.”

Out of the Blue is a highly recommended read. Wonderful characters, perfect pace and a story that will touch your heart. It's witty, funny and such a sexy read- it just has it all. It kept me glued to the pages all day and I couldn't put it down until I read the last word. Hartnett did it again- I can't wait to get my hands on her next book.

To learn more about Annemarie and her books please visit her website here.
Read other reviews @goodreads. Buy the book at @LooseID.

I survived the Presentation Madness

noreply@blogger.com (SusiSunshine) — Wed, 30 Mar 2011 16:12:00 +0000

Today I had my presentation in front 100+ people and I survived. Yay, go me! Nearly forgot to add that I passed so my internship wasn't for nothing. Wooot!

So in celebration here is a bit yummy rock!

And after a long twitter discussion yesterday we decided and I can have Gavin and Eicca and Michele Hauf gets Perttu so sorry ladies you have to take what's left. ;)

Now hurrying to work!
How was your day?

Another day of lectures + Reading Observations

noreply@blogger.com (SusiSunshine) — Tue, 29 Mar 2011 07:58:00 +0000

So yeah I'm still bored but today I will actually put some content in this post. *wink*

Last week I granted myself a pleasure re-read of Dirty by Megan Hart- I have to say I so adore this book, I remembered that but every time I re-read it I'm surprised about how much I love it.

Here's the blurb for you:

I met him at the candy store. He turned around and smiled at me and I was surprised enough to smile back. This was not a children's candy store, mind you -- this was the kind of place you went to buy expensive imported chocolate truffles for your boss's wife because you felt guilty for having sex with him when you were both at a conference in Milwaukee. Hypothetically speaking, of course.

I've been hit on plenty of times, mostly by men with little finesse who thought what was between their legs made up for what they lacked between their ears. Sometimes I went home with them anyway, just because it felt good to want and be wanted, even if it was mostly fake.

The problem with wanting is that it's like pouring water into a vase full of stones. It fills you up before you know it, leaving no room for anything else. I don't apologize for who I am or what I've done in -- or out -- of bed. I have my job, my house and my life, and for a long time I haven't wanted anything else.

Until Dan. Until now.

So last weekend I also read a Megan Hart novella I wanted to buy for quite some time now. I have to admit I never read blurbs of my auto-buy authors- I know it's crazy but I never want to spoil the story or get a false idea of what the books is about. So I didn't read it. So please take a look:

He loves her, or he loves her not.

There's only one way to find out— take a chance.

For most people, Arithmancy is no more than a jumble of numbers. For Somnus Keep instructor Elspeth Valerin, those numbers are her refuge, her passion. Her magic—her only magic since a painful incident from her past cripples her ability to unlock the inner power of the thrall.

Today her calculations indicate change is in the air. That’s not what she smells when she enters The Slaughtered Lamb, though. She smells ale. Smoke. And when she catches a glimpse of the owner of the Lamb, memories.

Tonight there’s a new face among the regulars in Connell Byrne’s pub. The woman he once loved with all his heart—before she left it in pieces. And one thing hasn’t changed: she is still clearly—inexplicably—afraid of him.

Elspeth’s heart is racing. That she and Conn are here at this moment means her numbers were right. Beyond this moment, though, is a fate she cannot comprehend. The one equation she’s never been able to calculate. The one outcome she cannot control—love.

This title has been previously published under the title Everything Counts.

Warning: Star-crossed lovers who need a little push to fully understand the phrase, “The whole is more than the sum of its parts.” Explicit sex with enough steam to prove the Chaos Theory.

So all the non-hardcore Megan Hart fans will ask themselves "What's the problem with these 2 books?"

So I wouldn't say there is a problem but these books have some things in common:
- The heroine's name is Elspeth (Elle's real name as mentioned in Dirty) and they both have a counting disorder- they count to keep their mind occupied.
- There's a tragic incident in both heroine's past that nearly completely identical.
- The heroine is scared of commitment or better said of deep emotion- to bind herself to someone else.
- the bar in both novels is called "The Slaughtered Lamb"

But both books are also completely different: Tithed is a paranormal novella that only touches these rather complicated topics lightly in contrast to Dirty which puts a rather large focus on the characterization and emotional development of the relationship between or two protagonists.

I thought the two stories both handled the topic good in their own way. Tithed was a compact and light approach but still everything was balanced and the additional magical touch gave the story an extra charm.
Dirty is and will probably always be one of my favorites novels- it's hard to explain how much this story touched me emotionally. It's an intense book with characters that could easily jump of the pages.

I know that Tithed is a re-published work so perhaps it was the original Dirty. Not sure about that though.
I never noticed something like this before- the same storyline in two different settings and length.

Have you ever noticed something like this before?

What do you think: nice twist to a storyline or not your cup of tea?

Susi is bored!

noreply@blogger.com (SusiSunshine) — Mon, 28 Mar 2011 08:44:00 +0000

The university started again today and now I have to spend 5 days in a lecture auditorium listening to what everyone experienced in their internship. I tell you I am bored. So now I'm thinking about making one of those:

There are even instructions to be found here. *g*
And perhaps I should read some more....even though it always confuses me to read English while someone is talking nonstop in German. My mind has a problem with multi-language multi-tasking. Yeah I know it's sad.

I finally started a new science fiction romance- Gabriel's Ghost by Linnea Sinclair. I heard so many good things about her scifi books that I just couldn't resist anymore. I have to say it started rather slow. The first 140 pages were not really boring but they didn't grab my attention as I wished they would. But now it gets better so I'm again full of hope.

But okay. So perhaps I will post some more this week.

How did your week start?

ARC Review: Lady Doctor Wyre by Joely Sue Burkhart

noreply@blogger.com (SusiSunshine) — Thu, 24 Mar 2011 14:45:00 +0000

Description:
A dangerous technology could conquer the universe. Love could set it free.

Jane Austen Space Opera, Book 1

Charlotte, Duchess of Wyre, once held the Queen’s highest confidence—and the technological secret that keeps the royal heart beating. Fearful of what atrocities that Britannia might commit with her research, Charlotte turned to the galaxy’s most infamous assassin, Lord Sigmund Regret, to stage her own death.

Even without the simplest of luxuries, seven years hiding in the Americus colony is preferable to one day in the Tower of Londinium. Until a bounty hunter’s bullet forces her to revive her research. Now the same nanobots that keep the Queen alive also run rampant in Lord Regret’s body. Making his yearly Solstice visits increasingly…intimate…and complicating her courtship with the safe and honorable Sheriff Gilead Masters.

When the Americus colony declares independence, and her humble sheriff makes a shocking confession, Charlotte has had enough. Weary of running, tired of living without tea and silks, she fires a warning shot across Britannia’s bow: cease hunting Lady Wyre, or lose the technological power the crown holds so dear.

Her next task isn’t so simple. Somehow she must keep the two men she loves alive—and prevent them from killing each other.

Warning: Ladies in positions of power, stylish spaceships, BDSM. A ménage a trois featuring a duchess on the run, a gentlemanly assassin, and a rough-and-tumble sheriff willing to gun down anyone who gets between him and his lady.

Review:
A Jane Austen Space Opera- that's was the first thing I heard about Lady Doctor Wyre and I wasn't sure what to expect. I'm not a huge fan of Jane Austen inspired books because I usually like the originality of the author's own imagination more but let me assure you this novel didn't feel like one of those inspired stories.

Lady Doctor Wyre is set in a steampunk universe that resembles our world in a rather inventive way. It's a mix of historical and science fiction with more than just one steampunk element- very intriguing and something I haven't seen before. We visit a galaxy of planets like Britannia, Americus, Francia and so on which resemble the countries we know. Each one has it's own way to live with what their ressources allow. One thing all of them have in common is the reversed gender rules. In this world the women rule and take the lead in every situation- politically socially and sure in bed too. *wink* It was very interesting to see how Burkhart envisions such a world and I smile so often while reading about a shy men or the incredulity of a man proposing a woman.

As the title suggests the story centers around Charlotte the widely known and feared Lady Doctor Wyre. She's a Duchess in exile but more know for her obsession with everything technology can produce. She's an inventor and probably the one who created the most advanced technology know to this world. Her reputation makes her seem ruthless but deep inside she is a woman who loves all things pretty and shiny. I loved to see this contrast in her character- a sharp mind that still appreciates a pretty dress or good tea. She's a really complex character and with every page we discover another facet of her personality. Charlotte is a woman I can imagine myself being friends with even more if she would invite me into her world.

Her life wasn't easy in the past and she was forced to leave the life she knew behind in a exciting coup that left her dead in the eyes of the world. This wouldn't have been possible without the assistance of the master assassin Lord Sigmund Regret who nearly lost everything while helping her. Her lives are connected now and not only by emotions.

In her seven year long exile Charlotte missed her "lost" live but in the last year she met Sheriff Gilead Masters- who captured her heart with his thoughtful courtship and admiration. These 2 were so cute together- they reminded me of a typical historical romances couple just with reversed roles. Gil is heartfelt and headstrong and he would do anything to keep our lady safe.

The story wrapped around this love-triangle was really engaging and I was fascinated by the world. I think this is the strongest factor of Lady Doctor Wyre- the world-building is exceptional. I loved how everything was different from what I normally read- it's a very fresh and unique approach for a romance novel.

But there were also some things that rubbed me the wrong way. The characterization of our two heroes could have been a bit more thorough. I didn't really connect to them as I would have liked to even though I really liked the idea behind them. Perhaps I would have needed more time to really warm to them. I think this is also the reason why I actually didn't care that much about the actual smex scenes or the romance aspect of the story- with the missing connection to the male lead characters I wasn't touched.

Lady Doctor Wyre really fascinated me. An inventive setting with an enthralling adventure plot. The mix of historical, steampunk and science fiction is masterly woven together and the detailed view you get in the novel will leave you breathless. I would have wished a bit more time and space for the romance part but I still really enjoyed this one. I say bring me more Lady Burkhart!

To learn more about Joely and her books please visit her website here.

- read other reviews @goodreads
- read pattepoilue's aka The HEA Lover's review @Book Lovers Inc
- pre-order the book @Samhain Publishing (for only $2.45 right now)

Review: Wilder's Mate by Moira Rogers + Giveaway

noreply@blogger.com (SusiSunshine) — Tue, 08 Mar 2011 16:49:00 +0000

Description:
Think a vampire-hunting bloodhound is dangerous? Try threatening his woman.
Bloodhounds, Book 1

Wilder Harding is a bloodhound, created by the Guild to hunt down and kill vampires on America’s frontier. His enhanced abilities come with a high price: on the full moon, he becomes capable of savagery beyond telling, while the new moon brings a sexual hunger that borders on madness.

Rescuing a weapons inventor from undead kidnappers is just another assignment, though one with an added complication—keeping his hands off the man’s pretty young apprentice, who insists on tagging along.

At odds with polite society, Satira’s only constant has been the aging weapons inventor who treats her like a daughter. She isn’t going to trust Wilder with Nathaniel’s life, not when the Guild might decide the old man isn’t worth saving. Besides, if there’s one thing she’s learned, it’s that brains are more important than brawn.

As the search stretches far longer than Wilder planned, he finds himself fighting against time. If Satira is still at his side when the new moon comes, nothing will stop him from claiming her. Worse, she seems all too willing. If their passion unlocks the beast inside, no one will be safe. Not even the man they’re fighting to save.

Warning: This book contains a crude, gun-slinging, vampire-hunting hero who howls at the full moon and a smart, stubborn heroine who invents mad-scientist weapons. Also included: wild frontier adventures, brothels, danger, betrayal and a good dose of wicked loving in an alternate Wild West.

Review:
The first thing I loved about Wilder's Mate was the wonderful setting. The mix of western and steampunk is fascinating and the detailed description of all the steampunky gadgets totally drew me in. In addition to that we also have the supernatural element of vampires and bloodhounds- which add a certain edge to the story and make it stand out.

But what is this book actually about? On the one hand we have Satira the assistant of an inventor who just went missing. She has to find him ASAP or her life will be ruined. A woman would never be allowed to be an inventor without a male supervisor and without Nathaniel, her missing boss, she would be forced to give up the job she loves so much and would probably be doomed to do a more "womanly" work. She's even more desperate to find him because he's not only her boss, he's more like a father and friend to her and just imagining what might be done to him drives her crazy. Being independent and more tomcat than girl she decides to venture into the Frontier lands, a region where the strong survive and the general rules of society don't apply, to rescue Nate and bring him back home. The only thing or person that stands between her and her rescue mission is the bloodhound who will be send to investigate the disappearance. Satira is a strong woman who knows what she wants, but she also knows what her limits are. I really loved to see this strong woman who's also able to give someone else the reign. Often you only get these stubborn women who want to be strong no matter what just to be seen as independant. I hate that because a smart woman would see what her abilities are instead of just being stubborn to prove a point. I loved that Satira was exactly like that. A smart woman with a strong heart.

On the other hand we have Wilder, the oh so mysterious bloodhound. *swooooon* This is one super hot alpha male. At first he has this exciting mysterious touch. we don't know what he really is or what being a bloodhound means. We just get a little hint here and there and the allure of him practically rises exponentially. He's what we love most about our alpha heroes- strong, protective and adorable even though he has some rather rough edges. But even more he's not overbearing or suppressive. He sees in Satira what she really is- a strong woman who is capable and doesn't need pampering. Yes, he still protects her but he does it with a certain amount of respect to her abilities and doesn't throw himself in front of her when he knows she could handle something on her own. This makes him one of my favorite heroes ever. And he has a wicked little secret that makes him sooooooo more appealing. *dreamy sigh*

The plot around Nathaniel's disappearance kept me glued to the pages. Reading Wilder's Mate is like watching a adventurous western only better suitable for the girly side in me. I loved how all the plot-lines unfolded and I was surprised by more than one revelation. Another plus is how perfectly the romance fit into the story- the mix between action, romance and plot was masterly done. The only thing I regretted was that the story itself was so short. I could have kept reading and reading...

Wilder's Mate is a unique addition to the rather new steampunk genre. With the additional paranormal twist and the wonderfully realized love story it sets the standard high for other novels in this genre. Wilder's Mate is definitely another winner by Moira Rogers and I can't wait for the next book set in this fascinating world.

To learn more about Moira Rogers and their books please visit the website here.

Read pattepoilue's review @Book Lovers Inc or other reviews @goodreads.
You can buy the book @BooksOnBoard

Want to win a brand new Wi-Fi Kindle 3? All you have to do is leave a comment on this post, and you can have your chance! For more chances to win, visit the main contest page. Every participating blog you visit gives you another chance to win!

This post is part of Moira Rogers’ Wild Web Adventure Promo. For full rules and disclaimers, or to hold your own kindle contest, visit the contest post. Winners will be chosen during the first week of April.http://www.moirarogers.com/blog/archives/3473

Review: Crash Into Me by Jill Sorenson

noreply@blogger.com (SusiSunshine) — Mon, 07 Mar 2011 20:27:00 +0000

Description:
In this heart-stopping novel, Jill Sorenson delivers a romantic thriller featuring one too-tough female agent, one too-hot male suspect, and a head-on erotic collision.…
Though he’d gone into virtual seclusion, Ben Fortune was still the world’s most famous surfer, known as much for his good looks as for his skill. He’s also a suspect in a series of brutal murders that may have begun with his late wife. Now FBI Special Agent Sonora “Sonny” Vasquez has been sent undercover to the elite beach community of La Jolla to make friends with Fortune. With her fierce beauty and take-no-prisoners attitude, she’s more than equipped for the job, and soon she and Ben have collided in an affair that is both intense and irresistible. But for the first—and worst—time in Sonny’s career, her emotions are threatening to get the better of her. Could this sensual, wounded man, who is genuinely anguished over his troubled daughter, really be a killer? And could falling in love blind Sonny to the greatest danger of all?

Review:
When Carolyn Crane told me how much she adored Jill Sorenson novels and even compared her to Megan Hart, I couldn't hold myself back and bought 2 of her backlist titles. I started Crash Into Me and I read this 400+ pages novel in under 24 hours. It just took me so long because of the evil job and OMG I'm in love.

Crash Into Me is such an emotional and suspenseful novel that I fond myself at a loss for words. Some books are just that good that you have to tell everyone about them and I think this is one of those for me. I didn't plan to review it but I can't seem to concentrate on anything else so I just have to get it out of my system. What made this book so special to me?

1. The whole structure of this suspense novel is rather unique and highly intriguing. It's not the usual one romance per novel- we actually have 2 love-stories in this one. I loved how the focus varied but never highlighted one plot line too much. The balance between all the stories and subplots was perfect. Never did I have the urge to skip some pages to get to the "good" part. Everything just fit together.

2. The characterization in this book was also perfect. I love when an author gives us such an insight into their characters but doesn't make it too subtle. I hate when we are thrown from one internal discussion into the next. It has to fit the story and shouldn't feel forced. Sorenson did just that and so much more. I can't remember many books where I felt such a deep connection to the characters. They were shown in so much detail they actually jumped off the pages for me.

3. The story itself was really sad but all the rather "heavier" topics were handled with so much love and care that you just couldn't look away. This book forces you to keep reading even when you think that you would prefer not to read about this. My heart still hurts when I think about parts of this story. But on the other hand we have those moments full of love which balance out the sad parts.

4. In addition to #1 I have to admit something. I know I'm one of those big YA deniers who just out of protest don't read this genre and here I caught myself adoring a YA plot. It just totally blew me away but I'm also sure I wouldn't have liked it if it would have only been YA. I think the mix totally does it for me.

5. I'm not a huge suspense fan but Crash Into Me kept me on the edge of my seat and I may have mentioned this before, I couldn't put it down. The plot was never too prominent or pushed the romance into the background but it was always there, reminding you that something horrible happened and you could already feel the doom approaching. And yep I didn't see the end coming.

As you can see I loved this book- it had everything I love about books and so much more. I had high expectations and this book didn't disappoint at all- it exceeded everything I could have imagined before I started it. LOVED it! If you haven't read this author I urge you to give her a try-I was blown away and I hope you will be too. And yes, I already started my next Jill Sorenson novel. *g*

To learn more about Jill and her books please visit her website here.

Read other reviews @Goodreads. Buy the book @The Book Depository

My February Reads

noreply@blogger.com (SusiSunshine) — Sun, 06 Mar 2011 16:44:00 +0000

February was great even though I still had my internship most of the time but I read and read and read. So I'm happy with myself and so it looks good with reaching my goal of 150 books in 2011.So here's what I read:

1. City of Ghosts (Downside Ghosts, #3) by Stacia Kane
I can't believe I waited so long with reading this one. Perhaps I was just too scared of the long wait for book 4. I already can't wait to get my hands on that one. I loved how much we saw of the emotional development even though it sometimes was a bit too much of Chess' worrying for my taste. A great book and I highly recommend this series. Did I mention that this is one of the rare books BF gave 5 stars? Yep he did. *g*

2. Moonlight Temptation (Lucani Lovers #4) by Stephanie Julian (my review)
I really like how Steph writes. Her characters are always so likable and fleshed out. I was so happy to finally read Evie's story and Ryan totally rocked. Very hot and entertaining.

3. Angel of Vengeance by Trevor Munson (my review)
The book that inspired Moonlight but didn't feel like it at all. I was rather disappointed. It didn' fell like the series which for me always had a urban fantasy/PNR feel. It was more of a noir book. But that put aside the writing just didn't grab me. It's completely written our of first person present and the writing itself was too detached for my taste. It gave a bit of background info about Mike but without that I wouldn't have kept reading.

4. Metatropolis: Cascadia by Jay Lake (my review)
I finally finished the audiobook and yes I liked it. The narration was mostly awesome and the stories were thought-provoking and entertaining. I'm sure I will get more audiobooks in the future.

5. The Zero Dog War (Zero Dog Missions, #1) by Keith Melton (my review)
OMG this book is made of awesome and gelatin. It's such a fabulous hilarious UF setting- loved how everything fit together even though it was that crazy. I loved it to pieces and I highly recommend it to everyone who likes a funny book which also has some depth.

6. Dark and Stormy Knights by P.N. Elrod
Yes I did it again and didn't read all the stories in this one but I really like the ones I devoured. I loved Ilona's story and OMG after reading Vicki Pettersson's story I can't wait to get Neon Graveyard. And I so felt for Skamar I have to admit I perhaps cried a bit. Great one!

7. The Perfect Play (Play by Play, #1) by Jaci Burton
Look at this cover and let me tell you the book was just as good as its cover. WOW, I loved the characters and how the story unfolded and it was mighty hot. I know I can't wait for the next one.

8. Hot Finish (Fast Track, #3) by Erin McCarthy
Again why did I wait so long? I have no idea. Finally Rider and Suzanne's story and I actually liked it. It was a bit slow at parts and more than once was I looking like this O_o but I didn't expect anything else with those two. Yep still loving the series and waiting for the next one.

9. Pushing Her Boundaries by Julia Rachel Barrett (my review)

This one was a last minute addition to my reading list but after Julia told me about what it was I just couldn't resist. Crazy canoe trips and a very nice hero. Loved it!

10. Dreams of a Dark Warrior (Immortals After Dark, #11) by Kresley Cole
Finally Regin books- god how I love this series. It's always surpring that the suspense is still so high even though some books take place at a time we already experienced in another book. I love her characters and how fun and daring they are. I have to say I expected Aiden to be different but all in all this story made me happy.

11. Seven Souls A Leaping by K.F. Zuzulo, Lisa Pietsch, Heather Long (my review)

Very different setting of a pagan paranormal world and I was surprised that all 3 stories were that much connected. I liked some parts of it, some weren't my taste but the last story was awesome. Something different in the all so monotone urban fantasy world.

12. This Side of the Grave (Night Huntress, #5) by Jeaniene Frost
*huge grin* I love Cat & Bones and I really liked this one. How I missed to them happy together. *happy sigh* And I love Vlad- I so want his book. BUT I have to say I kind of expected more of chapter 21 after all this buzz.

13. Wilder's Mate (Bloodhounds, #1) by Moira Rogers
This book was perfect. I loved the characters and the setting and just everything about it. The hero was swoon worthy and I was sad that the book was over that fast. Can't wait to get the next one. Review to come!

14. River Marked (Mercedes Thompson, #6) by Patricia Briggs
It seems this month was all about getting the next book in series I love. I was so excited for River Marked but perhaps a bit too much. It was really good but still I was disappointed. It was very slow in the middle and it wasn't as addicting as the previous books in this series. That doesn't mean I didn't like it- I did but just not as much as I wanted.

That was my February, how was yours? Any recs I should check out?

I'm worth my weight in a Gator Battle- Are you?

noreply@blogger.com (SusiSunshine) — Mon, 28 Feb 2011 20:36:00 +0000

So I just got notified today that I'm actually worth my weight in Gator Battle. Yes, yes I know you aren't surprised. LOL But I'm so proud that Stella @ Ex Libris thought of me. She definitely is too.

But now that I faced this unbelievable honor I realized something: does this mean I would actually have to kill a Gator? Because I could never actually hurt some nice creature like Gigantagator or Alliflash? Seriously what kind of person could. So I thought I would give you some of my ideas about how I would fight them.

1. Put on some Barry White and get a nice Ally McBeal bathroom dance started. No one can be angry while listening to Barry.

2. I could start a narration of Moby Dick, surely every living being would surrender after 2 pages. This is an undeniable truth!

3. Chocolate! I could bribe them with Lindt Lindor- the small choclate balls of evil created to lure every living being into the total delirium of endorphine-overload!

4. I would put on my Tick Tock suit and give my best show of crazy. I know I don't really have to change my habbits for that but let's pretend I would. They would see I'm one of them and then we could grab some chips and start a movie night....I would vote for Peter Pan!

5.And if all of those won't work I actually have to resort to the heavy measures. It really breaks my heart but I would get out my bottle of hairspary extra shine. I know that Kitty swears on extra strong but I'm all for the shine and glamour. It's just my last resort but I actually don't expect them to resist Barry & Co.

Now it's time to actually spread the love and here are the 5 girls I think are worth their weight in a Gator Battle:

Caroline the Almighty @One Book Away From Heaven - cuz she is bad ass and if nothing else she will make the gators laugh themselves to death

Blodeuedd the Eloquent @Book Girl of Mur-y-Castell - she knows so many languages she will probably also speak Gatorish and solve all the missunderstandings that way

Sullivan McPig the Questioner @Pearls Cast Before a McPig - Sulli has Gator friends! 'nuff said!

Queen B the Fierce @That's QUEEN Bitch To You - she is one of the most heartfelt persons I know but believe me you don't want to be on her shitlist!

Bea the Little-Monster-tamer @Bea's Book Nook - anyone who surives a bunch of kiddies every day can battle anything

So that's my take! How would you battle the gators?

Review: Pushing Her Boundaries by Julia Rachel Barrett

noreply@blogger.com (SusiSunshine) — Mon, 21 Feb 2011 12:15:00 +0000

Description:
Maggie is done with men. Flying to Minneapolis, she’s seated beside the type of man she always falls for. A sexy, arrogant alpha jerk.

Mace Williams irritates the woman next to him. She's so damn sexy, he doesn't care. When their seatmate suffers a cardiac arrest, Maggie and Mace team up to save his life, but it's too late.

In Minneapolis, Maggie heads to a restaurant with her sister, only to find Mace waiting. Worse, she learns he'll soon be her brother-in-law.

Stuck in her sister’s apartment with Mace, Maggie offers him one night of sex, anything goes. No obligations, no recriminations. Mace agrees...he wants more than Maggie's body, he wants her heart.

Thrown into a disastrous canoe trip, they must work together to survive. Maggie must face her demons and trust Mace with her life. Mace is determined to save her, regardless of what the future brings.

Review:
When Julia told me she wrote a book inspired by her canoe trip from hell I said hell yes I want to read that one. I always admire how much real life Julia can convey through her writing and a real life story with a romantic story build around it? What's not to like about that.

Maggie is a strong woman. She's not easily scared and has a specific inner calmness I admire. She was burned in the past and to say it with her own words: It's more like who didn't burn her. Her life wasn't easy but she made the best out of it and tries not to wallow in self-pity. She knows what she wants and mostly she got it right. She has a temper and a bit of a potty mouth but I always love this in a character. I admired her openess (even though she isn't as open as she thinks, at least emotionally) and way of thinking everything through.

Mace seems to be an asshole at first- though I liked him from the start. I knew that one was made for Maggie. I loved his directness and his dirty talking made him seem like on of those good bad guys. *winks* He's intelligent, smart, protective but not overbearing and not some hot shot über-macho who wouldn't survive the wraith of the female population in real life. I loved that he can admit that Maggie knows something better. It really shows his strength that he can see when someone else is right and has no problem in admitting that out loud.

These two really set the pages on fire- their chemistry is scorching and the way the normally so strong Maggie was able to "submit" to Mace was wonderfully pictured.The story itself was as awesome as I thought it would be- funny, witty and with a good touch of freakish craziness like you see so often in real life *wink* I love how touching and down to earth Julia writes- you can actually see yourself talking to her characters, the only thing I missed was a proper ending- I felt a bit cheated on the HEA.

Pushing Her Boundaries was an entertaining and fun read with a real touch to it. I loved the characters enjoyed the setting and I will always be grateful that I won't ever go canoeing again (different story but same conclusion). A great read you don't want to miss.

To learn more about Julia and her books please visit her website here. She has a great blog there too. You don't want to miss that (e.g. crazy canoe trip reports).

Other reviews @goodreads, but the book @BookStrand

Attention: I got this book for free from the author and I like to call Julia my friend so make out of that what you want!

Review: Moonlight Temptation by Stephanie Julian

noreply@blogger.com (SusiSunshine) — Sat, 19 Feb 2011 22:20:00 +0000

Description:
Evie Simmons has magical powers she can’t control, she’s living in a house that isn’t hers, and her best friend is a seventeen-year-old werewolf. It’d be hilarious if it weren’t just so damn depressing. Add in the sexy shifter she can’t keep out of her mind and his hot-as-hell friend and it’s a recipe for disaster.

Dr. Dane Dimitriou knows Evie has had a hard time adjusting to her new life as part of the Etruscan magical community—almost as difficult as his denial of his feelings for her have been. And he’s got the perfect cure—his best friend, Ryan Maguire. Easygoing Ryan is the complete opposite of stick-up-his-ass Dane. He can act as a buffer. Dane can get close, but not too close. Yeah, good luck with that.

Together, these sexy men may be just what the doctor ordered for Evie. And the doctor himself may discover the cure for what ails him has been waiting all along.

Review:
I'm totally hooked on the Lucani Lovers series and I was very intrigued how Evie's book would be like. When we met her in the previous books she was always the vulnerable girl- the one with the bad past that everyone tried to handle with care- it was interesting to see how she experienced all this.

Evie is stronger than everyone believes and she hates that they all underestimate her. She wants to get the acceptance she deserves and she works hard to earn it even though sometimes it seems to be impossible. In the previous books I imagined Evie younger than she felt in Moonlight Temptation. She grew up and I really liked how she matured and started to take responsibility for her actions.

Ryan is a new character and oh my goodness is he hawt. I loved how easy going he is- he's one of those positive thinkers. He's not reckless but he tries to enjoy life at its fullest. At some points his "shrink" skills amazed me- he sees bullshits and calls you out on it. I love this kind of honesty. He was a great contrast to Dane who always seems to worry about what the world or better said his family thinks about him. He's so scared to disappoint them that he keeps himself from what he really wants. I loved the duality we got from those two men.

These three together put the pages on fire- their mutual attraction is breathtaking and as always I'm surprised how some authors can make me believe in this whole threesome thing- even when it's only for the duration of a book. *wink*

I enjoyed how much Julian includes her sidecast. All her characters are shown in such great detail that you just can't ignore them. Cat really intrigued me and I can't wait to see how her HEA will work out. The story itself was captivating and I couldn't put this one down. The plot itself takes a new turn in this book and I'm already breathlessly awaiting the next book.

Moonlight Temptation is a wonderful extra hot addition to the Lucani Lovers Series. It seems I love everything Julian keeps dashing at us. I'm sure I won't miss the next one.

To learn more about Stephanie and her books please visit her website here.

The Lucani Lovers Series:
1. Kiss of Moonlight: reviews @goodreads, buy @Ellora's Cave
2. Moonlight Ménage: reviews @goodreads, buy @Ellora's Cave
3. Edge of Moonlight: reviews @goodreads, buy @Ellora's Cave
4. Moonlight Temptation: reviews @goodreads, buy @Ellora's Cave

My January Reads

noreply@blogger.com (SusiSunshine) — Fri, 04 Feb 2011 08:20:00 +0000

January was my pleasure reads month. I made myself free from nearly all review obligations and did that what I like the most- just read. I really needed this to just do the reading for myself. No pressure to come up with a review about how I felt while doing this. It was nice but now I'm back and will pester you with my thoughts on the books I read again. =P Here's what I read in January:

1. Bayou Moon (The Edge, #2) by Ilona Andrews
No idea why I waited so long to start this one. I loved it too pieces. William is made of awesome and conquered my heart right at the start. He felt a bit different from book 1 but that's what you have to expect when you change POV. Great writing, couldn't put it down!

2 Alien Tango (Katherine "Kitty" Katt, #2) by Gini Koch
Wow, wow, wow. I think this series is getting better and better. I loved this story so much! Martini made my heart melt. The pace is awesoem and you won't have time to relax for a sec. It's an exiting, witty and funny rollercoaster ride. Gini Koch is now one of my must read authors. Highly recommended!

3. Magic at the Gate (Allie Beckstrom, #5) by Devon Monk
I was a bit scared to start this book because of the ending of book 4. I was afraid we wouldn't get as much Zay as in the previous books and sadly I was right but still I liked it. It's probably not my favorite cuz the over all mood was rather dark and I missed a bit of the fun and wit of the earlier novels but we needed this book to happen. Can't wait to see how it goes on.

4. Alpha (Shifters, #6) by Rachel Vincent
I knew before I started this book that I wouldn't like the end. Not because I thought that she would choose wrong, more cuz of I thought I would like neither of the 2 possibilities. I'm too compassionate for this. Still the book was good but I think the resolution at the end was too easy. You know 6 books of struggle and then it goes down that smoothly. But well still a good series.

5. Ecstasy in Darkness (Alien Huntress, #5) by Gena Showalter
It seems I forgot how much I love this series. Gena's humor is made of awesomesauce and this book is no expception. Her characters jump of the pages and the banter between Ava and McKell was priceless. Made me snort out loud more than once. This is absolute my favorite of her series. Can't wait for the next one.

6. The Challenge by Megan Hart
*big smile* You all know how much I love Megan's books and yes I loved this one too. It's short and still brings us a complex story that makes you think. And yes it's hot too though. I always love when she goes the unusual route with a lovestory. I can actually hear Caroline groaning when she reads this but I don't care- I still love it.

7. Layover by Megan Hart
This one was hot and even though it has one aspect I usually don't enjoy that much in erotica it worked for me. Ms Hart has the ability to drag me out of my comfort zone without me caring that she did. A nice story about being who you are and finally stop worrying about what the rest of the world thinks about you and what you like.

8. Happy Ever After (Bride Quartet #4) by Nora Roberts
One thing I noticed while reading this series is that my expectations seemed to rise with every book and unfortunately the books didn't catch up. I really like Parker, she's probably more like me than I want to admit and I liked how she finally let go a bit. But I thought that Mal had it kind of too easy. Not only with Parker but also with the rest of the group and yes when you ask me it's weird that all 4 find their big love in a year and want to get married. Puuuhleaaaase! Yes I know it's a NR but still.

9. SEALed and Delivered (Harlequin Blaze, #505) by Jill Monroe
I haven't read one of Jill's books in ages and when I found this one on bargain at amazon.de I just couldn't resist. Her humor is great (and yes I see the pattern in this post too- anyone guessed I like funny book?). She always made me laugh and she knows how to write sexy. This is a nice contemporary story and I enjoyed every minute of reading it. Even though the heroine was a bit agitating at times.

10. Death's Sweet Embrace (A Dark Brethren Novel, #2) by Tracey O'Hara
This book was not what I expected but that doesn't have to be bad. I thought this book would be about Christian and Antoinette again but it wasn't. We meet some new characters and follow them on their journey. I really loved the hero Raven but the heroine Kitt wasn't for me. Still a wonderful worldbuilding and I'm so curious what will come next.

11. Archangel's Consort (Guild Hunter, #3) by Nalini Singh
When I think of Archangel's Consort I'm immediately happy. This is one of those books that makes you swim in HEA and love. I adore Raphael with all my heart and I could start swooning just thinking about him. It's hard to explain why these books are that good. They are full of emotion- really centered around them and you just can't close yourself down from that. They make you feel so much and still have so much happening in them- intriguing plot, awesome characters and a lovestory to die for. I can't recommend these books enough. There's a reason I let everything else fall down as soon as I get one of these books. But yes I admit I'm sad that the next book won't be about Raphael and Elena again. But Dmitri promisses to be interesting too. *g*

So yes it was a great month! Awesome books!

How was your reading January?

Review: Death's Sweet Embrace by Tracey O'Hara @BookLoversInc

noreply@blogger.com (SusiSunshine) — Sun, 30 Jan 2011 16:34:00 +0000

Yes I finally did it again! I reviewed a book. Wanna read what I thought about this book? Here is a little teaser! You can read the rest @Book Lovers Inc here.

The first thing I have to admit is that I was really disappointed to realize this book wasn't about Antoinette and Christian again. I loved these two and at the end of Night's Cold Kiss I was sure their story would develop more in the next book. The end left my HEA loving heart yearning for more and I always assured myself: you will get your fix in book two. So you can see when I realized I wouldn't get this, Death's Sweet Embrace and I had a rocky start.

This story is all about Kitt, the snow leopard shifter we already met in book one. She still suffers from the aftershocks of her brother's death but there are some important things in her life that need her immediate attention right now. She accepts a position for teaching at the NYAPS (the parahuman university) and she has to face her past there. She meets her daughters- twin she had to give away after birth and as you can imagine this situation troubles her not only with anticipation. To make the whole situation even more complex she also discovers that her first big love and father to the girls, Raven, is currently at NYAPS too- so she finds herself in an emotional roller-coaster ride from the start.

Hope you're all having a great weekend!

Books, books, books and Blogoversary

noreply@blogger.com (SusiSunshine) — Sat, 22 Jan 2011 10:46:00 +0000

Long time no see. I know. It seems I have again lost a bit of my blogging mojo. And also my reviewing mojo so I actually don't have anything to post about but my blog looks so empty so I though I will tell you about the books I got for Christmas and my bday. *g* We all love to look at books so that could be fun. I'm in book heaven at the moment and even better all these aren't for review and I can just enjoy them and perhaps, if I feel like it write a review. It'S so nice to not have pressure on you. And I love that! See I'm getting review rebellious. LOL

So here's what I got for Xmas:

Than we have the books I bought with my Xmas money(all pre-oroders so I won't forget to get them *g*):

I'm so giddy about these. Look at how pretty they am. I so can't wait for them to arrive already.

For my bday I actually only got 3 books but a bunch of book money so I bought the rest myself.

So the next were impulsive. I just wanted Taken by Lilith Saintcrow and discovered they all were on bargain on amazon.de so I bought some more. I'm especially excited about the ones by Michelle Rowen and Jill Monroe. *g*

And I got 2 ebooks:

O_O Now that I see it like this I admit I might have gone a bit crazy. Okay hides her credit card in a special place. Okay now I just have to find the time to read them all. Okay perhaps I already read 7 of them. So you see I'm trying. *g*

On other news Book Lovers Inc (you can find a list of all post in the sidebar with a link to the posts that are already up) turned one and we have a huge celebration going. We gave the reins to the author's and they are allowed to do their worst. And there are a tons of giveaways going on. Here's a short sneak peak at who we will have over:

Suzanne McLeod

Carolyn Crane

Moira Rogers

Dakota Cassidy
Susanna Yves

Devyn Quinn

Linda Robertson

Inez Kelley

Chloe Neill

Delilah Marvelle

Megan Hart

Joely Sue Burkhart

Gini Koch

Kate Pearce

Kelly Meding

Monica Burns

Teresa D'Amario

Cynthia Eden

Nancy Holzner

Sara Brookes

Stacia Kane

Julia Barrett

Kieran Kramer

JF Lewis

Lila DiPasqua

Lauren Hammond

There's also a huge giveaway with a enormous amount of prizes. If you want to celebrate come over and check it out. You won't regret it. And I swear no burning hoops you have to jump through. ;)

So all those books and the big party kept me busy but I swear I will be back soon. *g*

How are you? What did I miss? Any books I should get (and no, not interested in Shadowfever)?

Review: Trust Me by Sydney Somers

noreply@blogger.com (SusiSunshine) — Wed, 12 Jan 2011 19:42:00 +0000

Description:
After three months on the run, Detective Maxine Walker figures no one will find her behind a counter in a small Canadian town. It might even be safe to grab a beer with the sexy stranger who’s just come through the shop door. Then the bullets start flying.

When he saves her—then takes her prisoner—she assumes an arms dealer who set her up for murder has put a price on her head.

Lucas McAllister has doubts as to whether Max killed his partner, but it’s his job to bring her in. Plus, she could be his only lead to a missing biological weapon. That means he’s not letting her out of his sight, not for a second. Which shouldn’t be tough given the possessiveness that rushes through him with every touch. When the resourceful detective uses their attraction to attempt distraction, his hands-off policy is blown all to hell.

As the real hit men close in, trust is in short supply. But if they can’t trust each other, their lives—and their hearts—may get caught in the crossfire.

Review:
After hearing so many good things about Ms Somers writing I couldn't resist the temptation to read this one. I'm not much of suspense reader in general but I really enjoyed this one. It is a wonderful contemporary novel with an intoxicating fast paced plot that didn't let me go.

We meet Detective Maxine Walker who's currently on the run not only from the NYC police force but also from the dealer Blackwater who got her into this situation to begin with. She's a strong woman, full of determination and a strong sense of honor. No matter what she won't back down from what's right even though her life is ruined by this decission. She knows how to be her own woman, she's tricky and strong and even a strong man like Lucas won't be able to tell her what to do. I really liked her, she was fun even though she regrets which turns her life took. She feels responsible for teh death that brought her into this situation and she desperately needs something to cheer her up and a bit of help with bringing Blackwater down won't hurt either.

Lucas works for the Lassiter Group and the afore mentioned murder which killed his partner. He can't give up searching for the culprit. At first his company thought Max had done it but he's sure she isn't. When he finally finds her he needs her help because she is the only one who can lead him to the murderer. Lucas is strong and a protector at heart. I liked him even though it was strange to see him so "helpless" against a woman like Max. A professional, like he is, should be able to stand his own more against an ordinary cop. But yeah I could ignore that fact in lieu of him being sexy as hell.

I loved the romance between those two. The attraction was strong from the start and I loved their little and sometimes even big fights. The balance between plot and romance was great and I was enthralled and never lost interest. As I said I'm not much of a suspense lover but this story really did it for me. I already know I can't wait to get more of this author- her writing is right up my alley. An absolute recommended read.

To learn more about Sydney and her books please vist her website.

Read other reviews @goodreads, Buy the book @BooksOnBoard

My December Reads

noreply@blogger.com (SusiSunshine) — Wed, 05 Jan 2011 21:39:00 +0000

I know I'm a bit late but I couldn't find the energy to make this list and because I have a bit of free time this week I thought total relaxation would be a great plan. In other news my birthday is next week and I already can't wait. *g* My sis told me she bought books so yay!!!

But here it finally is, my last reads of 2010:

1. Naughty and Nice by Jaci Burton, Shannon Stacey, Megan Hart, Lauren Dane (my review)

An anthology that finally brought me the missing christmas mood. I was so happy that Ms Stacey had a story in this one. I love her story and her writing was wonderful. Can't wait to find more. A very entertaining collection- I love Carina Press more and more with every read.

2. Hardware by Sara Brookes (my review)
Story about a geeky girl with a coffee addcition. Yes I was in heaven! Even more when the hunky barista guy showed up and started the kink times. I could have done without all the talk though. *gasp* that out of a woman's mouth- I'm shocked too.

3. The Iron Duke by Meljean Brook
Wow and WOW. WTH did I wait so long? This is such a wonderful and entertaining book. I loved it to pices. Adevnture, mystery, action, suspense and a wonderful romance. I'm really fascinated by this whole steampunk thing- it's liek ebing geeky with steam and yes I discussed if those gadgets could work with BF. So much love for this book! Can't wait for the next one.

4. Head over Heels by Annemarie Hartnett (my review)
I'm so happy I had the chance to read this one. It's fun and wit in superlative. Ms Hartnett's humor is right up my alley and her characters feel like actual real persons. I love how she always has some toy in the mix *wink* An author I will keep both eyes open for.

5. A Peyton Family Christmas (Southern Arcana #2.5)by Moira Rogers
I read this after Deadlock and I lurved this one. It's set between Crosscroads and Dealock and shows us all the charcters we started to love so much. I loved to see more about her. It's a free story at their website so if you would liek to read it go here.

6. Trust Me (Lassiter Group, #1) by Sydney Somers
After reading so many good things about this author I just couldn't resist the chance to read this one. And even though I'mnot a romantic suspense lover I adored this one. Captivating and a real pageturner. Review to come this week.

7. Play of Passion (Psy-Changeling, #9) by Nalini Singh
To wolves are our couple of interest in this one and yes I really liked it. All the growling can be fun. The romance was so cute, even though I wanted to slap Indigo more than once. The overall plot thickens more and more and OMG I can't wait for Hawke's book. That one will be a total win and I'm actually counting the days to get, even though it will be hardcover. *grumbles*

8. Immortal Champion (Immortal Brotherhood, #3) by Lisa Hendrix (my review)
Something out of comfort zone but I fell in love with Ms Hendrix' Viking heroes. You can feel how much time was spent on research and I loved how much detail and love shown through the story. I had some ruffles with some parts but I think that's jsut me. I know many reviewers who loved this one even more than me.

9. Sensual Stranger by Tina Donahue DNF
I actually really looked forward to reading this one but gasp it was to much for me. I couldn't connect to the characters and didn't really get were all the sexual attraction came from. For me the way teh story started was too easy and I was shaking my head most of teh time. Perhaps I was just not in the mood for a sexy read. Will give it another try in the future, when I feel more in a smexy mood.

How was your reading December?

Books read in 2011

noreply@blogger.com (SusiSunshine) — Sat, 01 Jan 2011 10:34:00 +0000

Same as last 2 years. My ongoing list of books read this year. (2010,2009)

January
1.Bayou Moon (The Edge, #2) by Ilona Andrews
2 Alien Tango (Katherine "Kitty" Katt, #2) by Gini Koch
3. Magic at the Gate (Allie Beckstrom, #5) by Devon Monk
4. Alpha (Shifters, #6) by Rachel Vincent
5. Ecstasy in Darkness (Alien Huntress, #5) by Gena Showalter
6. The Challenge by Megan Hart
7 Layover by Megan Hart
8. Happy Ever After (Bride Quartet #4) by Nora Roberts
9. SEALed and Delivered (Harlequin Blaze, #505) by Jill Monroe
10. Death's Sweet Embrace (A Dark Brethren Novel, #2) by Tracey O'Hara (my review)
11. Archangel's Consort (Guild Hunter, #3) by Nalini Singh

February
12. City of Ghosts (Downside Ghosts, #3) by Stacia Kane
13. Moonlight Temptation (Lucani Lovers #4) by Stephanie Julian (my review)
14. Angel of Vengeance by Trevor Munson (my review)
15. Metatropolis: Cascadia by Jay Lake (my review)
16. The Zero Dog War (Zero Dog Missions, #1) by Keith Melton (my review)
17. Dark and Stormy Knights by P.N. Elrod
18. The Perfect Play (Play by Play, #1) by Jaci Burton
19. Hot Finish (Fast Track, #3) by Erin McCarthy
20. Pushing Her Boundaries by Julia Rachel Barrett (my review)
21. Dreams of a Dark Warrior (Immortals After Dark, #11) by Kresley Cole
22. Seven Souls A Leaping by K.F. Zuzulo, Lisa Pietsch, Heather Long (my review)
23. This Side of the Grave (Night Huntress, #5) by Jeaniene Frost
24. Wilder's Mate (Bloodhounds, #1) by Moira Rogers (my review)
25. River Marked (Mercedes Thompson, #6) by Patricia Briggs

March

26. Dirty by Megan Hart
27. Friendly Fire by Megan Hart (my review)
28. Taken by Lilith Saintcrow
29. Enemy Within by Marcella Burnard
30. Crash Into Me by Jill Sorenson (my review)
31. Set the Dark on Fire by Jill Sorenson
32. Alien in the Family (Katherine "Kitty" Katt, #3) by Gini Koch (my review)
33. Grave Witch (Alex Craft, #1) by Kalayna Price
34. Desire Unchained (Demonica, #2) by Larissa Ione
35. Lady Doctor Wyre: Jane Austen Space Opera, Book 1 by Joely Sue Burkhart (my review)
36. Newly Fallen by Megan Hart
37. Tithed by Megan Hart
38. Gabriel's Ghost (Dock Five Universe, #1) by Linnea Sinclair
39. Out of the Blue by Annemarie Hartnett (my review)

2010 - A Book Year in Review

noreply@blogger.com (SusiSunshine) — Fri, 31 Dec 2010 08:23:00 +0000

I didn't read as much as planned but I had many other things to do so I'm after all proud I didn't give up on reading or blogging. I think I perhaps overdid it a bit too. I need to learn to keep it reasonable and not spend all my free time on the blogs. There is a real life after all and I should try to spend more time with the real world. But it's fun so we will see how I can manage that. Yes I'm a blogging addict.

Here are the stats for 2010:

122 books - woot

18 Megan Hart books - yes it's scary...I swear I'm not stalking ;)

41 Contemporary Romance - yep it's getting more and more

10 Science Fiction =( - me a bad geek

7 Historicals =) - steady incline

6 DNFs - I'm stronger than I thought

81 reviews - yes I'm shocked myself

Yeah I was shocked about how many Megan Hart books I read and that i just read 10 sci-fis. I have to redeem the latter in 2011. And only around 30 books I didn't review. That is wow but I think I should do less. I'm starting to feel pressured about reviewing so perhaps I should read more just for me. We will see how that works out.

On another note I signed up to 2 reading challenges and yeah I forgot them sometimes in January. I think I read at least 10 eroticas but no Outlander book so I think these challenges aren't for me cuz I'm too prone for forgetting them. *hides in shame*

But I read some really good ones this year. You can take a look at my full list here but I will tell you my personal Top 10 reads of 2010 (in no particular order) naw and give you the shortest explanation why *g*

- Magic Bleeds by Ilona Andrews - Curran and Kate getting smexy ;)
- Silver Borne by Patricia Briggs - Finally a bit more Adam!
- Naked by Megan Hart - Alex deserved this book even more than we did!
- The Road to Shanhasson by Joely Sue Burkhart - Gregar *le sigh*
- Three Over Par by Cathryn Brunet - Wow, intense!

- Amidst a Crowd of Stars by Megan Hart - So sad!
- Succubus Shadows by Richelle Mead - Made my heart bleed!
- Anytime Darlin' by Julia Rachel Barrett - Heartbreakingly real.
- Double Cross by Carolyn Crane - Carolyn is made of evil!
- Precious and Fragile Things by Megan Hart - Showed my I still can love non Romance books!

I'm also happy to have met so many great people this year. Blogging really connects and I can't imagine my life without some of them.

Special thanks go to

- Caroline aka pattepoilue - for making me giggle even when I thought I couldn't take anymore.
- The rest of the Book Lovers Inc gals - for being fun to work with!
- Julia Rachel Barret - for listening to my ranting and being a great person to talk to. I love to discuss things with her- she's just awesome.
- Megan Hart - for the best reading hours this year.
- BF - for understanding all this blogging and reading stuff

I blogged like the madwoman I am- 131 posts on The Geeky Bookworm and 149 posts on Book Lovers Inc. It seems I really am crazy and should slow a bit down. Not sure how to achieve that but will work something out.

So New Year resolutions for me:

- read more
- read more science fiction
- blog less
- don't review so much and start enjoying the reading more
- be yourself
- stay away from reading challenges

Sounds good to me. How was your reading year 2010? Any reading resolutions you will try to achieve?

Guten Rutsch into the new year!

Review: Head over Heels by Annemarie Hartnett

noreply@blogger.com (SusiSunshine) — Wed, 29 Dec 2010 16:01:00 +0000

Description:
That whole “no nookie” rule seemed like a good idea until Chrissie got under the covers with Sam.

When Chrissie declared a moratorium on hooking up for this group road trip, she didn’t think a miscommunication with a hotel desk clerk would put her in the same bed with Sam.

A total dork wrapped in a nice package, Sam has been the object of her vacation lust since day one. Once she’s huddled together under the covers with him the rules go out the window.

Can Sam and Chrissie turn their carefree holiday fling into something more?

Reader Advisory: This book contains some toy play.

Review:
I think I'm totally in love with this cover. So yes I just couldn't wait to start reading this book when I finally got my greedy hands on it. I adored Company of Fools and yes my expectations where high before I started reading. I expected a scorching hot and funny read to keep me warm in this brutal winter and that's exactly what I got.

In Head over Heels we meet a group of friends on an adventure trip through nature. Most of their group already escaped back to civilization and only 4 friends are left. Chrissie, our heroine is really attracted to the rather geeky Sam. But she has her own no nookie rule holding her back. Chrissie is a nice person most of the time but sometimes she starts to talk before she thinks- a think I can really relate too. She's also stubborn as hell and won't part with her own prejudices and "rules" no matter how stupid they are.

Sam is a sexy geeky guy and you know I love those. He's full of surprises and not at all what you would think of when you imagine a geek (but those mostly never are what the name suggests). He's funny and so sweet at times- heart-meltingly cute. These two together can keep you warm- I loved those sex scenes. Very inventive but never too much. Just two young people having fun. The romance is light but I enjoyed the slow build up.

I always love how easy Ms Hartnett's stories flow. It's like talking to friends- easy and just natural. Her humor is exactly the kind I love and she made me giggle more than once. The storyline itself was a bit predictable at the end but I didn't really mind because she kept me smiling the whole time.

Head over Heels is a really hot and cute story- perfect to keep you entertained on a cold winter night. I know I will keep my eyes open for more of Ms. Hartnetts stories.

To learn more about Annemarie and her books please visit her website here.
Read other reviews @goodreads. Buy the book at @Total-E-Bound

ARC Review: Deadlock by Moira Rogers

noreply@blogger.com (SusiSunshine) — Tue, 28 Dec 2010 19:45:00 +0000

Description:
Carmen Mendoza's shapeshifter father abandoned her. Raised by her psychic mother, Carmen ignored her paternal family's political machinations--until the day they decided to use her in their bid for power. Trapped between two worlds and snared by a vicious spell meant to wake her inner wolf, Carmen's only hope is to trust the one man strong enough to soothe her darkest instincts.

Born a pureblood wolf, Alec Jacobson lives as a rebel, the black sheep alpha who protects the supernatural residents of New Orleans from wolf politics. Too bad he can't protect himself from his need for Carmen. Staking a claim on his enemy's niece will turn his city into a battleground, unless he can find a way to stop breaking the rules--and start making them.

Review:
After what felt like a never ending wait we finally get the chance to dive into the wonderful world of the Southern Arcana series again. I loved the first books and Deadlock didn't disappoint at all. I just say Alec. *insert swoony voice*

Carmen Mendoza is an empath working as a doctor in the local independent hospital. She knows how the shapeshifter politics work first hand because her ambitious father left her and her family to secure his political station. She put her back on everything connected to this prejudiced and discriminating system and tries her best to stay out of it. But her family just won't let it go. Her uncle and father are working together to right the "wrong" he did by marrying her mother. They want her to accept an "appropriate" husband who had the right position in the werewolf society. But Carmen won't budge. She's a strong woman and won't give in. I love her- Carmen is compassionate, strong and won't back down even from the strongest alpha. Being an empath makes her better at her job and improves the way she understands and helps people. I really liked her. She's a good person but her character didn't stand out enough.

But then we have Alec. *swoons* That guy makes my knees weak. He's the big bad alpha- possesive and protective of what he sees as his. Stubborn but also very sexy. He's a caretaker and sets everyone else's needs over his own. His past is branded with heartbreak and betrayal and he keeps his heart behind tons of shields to avoid being hurt again. I loved him to pieces. He's my kind of alpha hero. Strong, passionate, dirty but not overbearing or too stubborn. He always said the right things to make my toes curl and I really start to swoon again every time I think about him. He's in my top 5 heroes of 2010- and all mine. ;)

As always the worldbuilding and pace of this book was masterly done. I was drawn into the story from the start. This world is one of this rare gems that makes you think- it combines a paranormal world with a political system based on prejudices and intolerance that make you think about the world we live in. I love when a book makes me think. But the best thing about the Southern Arcana series for me is the way Moira Rogers includes the sidecast. Each story doesn't focus 100% on our couple but we also see the characters we loved in the previous books. And I so can't wait to read about Kat and Andrew- and I swear to god these two deserve a HEA. I so can't wait.

Deadlock is a great addition to this series. It's an action packed paranormal romance with a swoon worthy hero and a lovable heroine. Moira Rogers writes in a way that draws you in and won't let you go till you read the last word. For me her books are going on top of my tbr pile as soon as I get them. If you haven't started this series yet: what are you waiting for? Get your hands on Crux and believe me you won't regret it for one second. Great book in an awesome series.

To learn more about Donna and Bree (the author duo behind Moira Rogers) and their books please visit the Moira Rogers website here.

The Southern Arcana Series:
1. Crux: my review, reviews @goodreads
2. Crossroads: my review, reviews @goodreads
3. Deadlock: reviews @goodreads release date: January 4th
4. Cipher (Andrews book *g*) September 2011 ebook release / print release in 2012

Winner!!!

noreply@blogger.com (SusiSunshine) — Mon, 20 Dec 2010 08:53:00 +0000

It's still freakish cold and snowy in Germany and it took me 50 minutes instead of 15 to get to work today. So not much time for this....have to catch up on work.

The winner of a book of her choice by Tina Donahue is....

~*~*~drumroll~*~*~

Ronda

Congrats! Please email me at thegeekybookworm AT gmail DOT com

You have 48 hours to reply or I will draw a new winner.
Happy Monday everyone!

Guestpost by Tina Donahue + Giveaway

noreply@blogger.com (SusiSunshine) — Mon, 13 Dec 2010 06:18:00 +0000

I'm very happy to welcome Tina Donahue here at The Geeky Bookworm again. Her new novel, Sensual Stranger will be released the Wednesday and she's here to celebrate her new release. Please give Tina a warm welcome.

When Things Start to Heat Up…

Don’t you love that point in a romance where the barriers between the hero and heroine begin to crumple? For me, the verbal foreplay and the prolonged, heated gazes always bring on a smile and the hunger for more.

In Sensual Stranger, my newest erotic romance, circumstances haven’t allowed Toni and Zach to be obvious about their attraction. Oh, it’s there, but they keep fighting it during their first hours together.

When they’re finally alone, free of outside distractions, vulnerable to each other’s allure, they have no protection. For Toni, it’s the beginning of a journey she couldn’t have imagined.

Here’s the blurb and an excerpt to show you what I mean:

BLURB:

Into his life she came—wanting…willing…wanton

It’s no ordinary morning when Toni Starr arrives at Zach’s garage. Flat broke, with a past she won’t share, Toni’s instantly taken by such a potently virile man. Direct and unashamed, she tells him she’s a motorcycle performance artist who needs work and knows motors.

Zach knows women, and Toni’s unlike any he’s met. Lushly sensuous, exceedingly assured, she’d easily be his match in business and bed. A provocative challenge that stirs him as nothing has since losing his wife. A chance he’s reluctant to take, offering no more than a month’s employment, then she’ll have to be on her way.

The hours tick by. Each word and glance intensifies their denied yet escalating desire, forcing them to surrender to passion and Toni’s need for Zach’s dominance. Driven by carnal hunger, conquered by yearning, they face the unforeseen truth of Toni’s past and a future neither of them expected.
___________________

EXCERPT:

At last the garage was empty except for her and Zach. Toni’s heart beat out of control. Taking a full breath became increasingly difficult. She felt awkward suddenly, not knowing what to say or to do.
Toni knew what she wanted—Zach to touch her, to fuck her hard and long—suspecting he wanted it too. Even so, she needed to be certain not to cross an invisible line between employee and boss, risking her job, which meant letting him make the first move.
He joined her by the cabinet, leaning against it, stretching out his left leg.
Their arms were only a few inches apart. She smelled a hint of coffee on his breath and imagined the heat of his skin. Pleasant sensations rolled through her.
In a softened voice, he asked, “How’d it go today?”
Wanting to tease, unable to stop herself, she said, “Better than you expected?”
He laughed. “You do good work.”
She grinned so hard it hurt her cheeks. His praise meant everything, more than he would ever know. It moved her like a baby’s first smile for its mother. It filled her as no food or drink could. She recalled her father’s approval, still missing it after so many years. Reluctant to allow those sweet memories to bring back all the others, ones she’d buried for too long, she teased, “Yeah, I know.”
Zach’s smile brightened briefly at her sass, then fled with his questioning look. “So what now?” He regarded her grease-and-oil-stained overalls.
Uncertain as to what he meant, not wanting to ruin anything in case she’d read him wrong, she joked, “You pay me for a day’s work? And while you head out, I clean up here and see you in the morning?”
“Where are you planning on staying tonight, Toni?” He looked at her, his expression serious. “Were you thinking of crashing in my office?”
A wave of heat surged to her throat and face at him guessing her thoughts. He had a reasonably comfortable sofa in there that looked as if he’d spent more than a few nights on it. “I won’t take anything,” she promised, her voice laced with embarrassment. “I’m not a thief.”
“No one said you were.” He pushed away from the cabinet and went to the wall switch, flipping the controls for the bay doors. He spoke loud enough so she could hear him over the rattling metal. “Finish up, then come into my office.”
As he moved toward it, Toni’s heart beat painfully in hope and worry. Hope that he’d let her stay in there. Worry that he’d changed his mind about her employment, intending to terminate her because she was still essentially a stranger. “Why?”
He stopped and looked over. The doors reached the floor, thwacking it. “So I can take you home.”
Stupidly, she stared at him. “What?”
He turned to face her. “You don’t have any money to spend on a motel room and you’ve already said you won’t be going back to the shelter. So I’m offering you a place to stay.”
Not understanding, Toni shook her head. “With who?”
His gaze roamed her. “Me.”
Her heart stumbled on several beats at his answer and the renewed intensity in his eyes.
As their silence lengthened, his demeanor shifted back to the forced restraint she’d seen earlier. “Don’t worry,” he said, his voice neutral, subdued. “I know how to handle myself.” He headed for his office again.
Without thinking, she called out, “I know that.” She could see and hear it.
Once more, he stopped and looked over.
“And I’m not worried,” she added.
Without warning, something dark and dangerous flared in his eyes, telling her she should be. He wasn’t a man to be toyed with. If a woman desired him, he’d enjoy her anyway he chose, and once he started nothing would stop him. He’d take what he wanted while providing equal pleasure.
Desire weakened Toni’s legs. She leaned against the cabinet, needing it for support.
“Don’t make me wait,” he said, domination and a hint of pleasure in his voice. Not giving her a chance to respond, he went into his office.
Moments later, she heard him tossing clipboards from his desk to the file cabinet next to it.
Gaze turned inward, she tried to picture his place, an apartment surely, just large enough for two. Would he offer her his bedroom or would he tell her to sleep on the sofa? During the night, would he come to her, unable to stay away, his big body trapping hers against the cushions, one hand holding her wrists above her head while his other roamed?
Her lids slid down on a lusty sigh.
She swallowed at the thought of his rigid cock pressed against her mound, showing her his need as he pulled her top away, baring her breast, lowering his mouth to it, pulling the stiffened nipple inside.
Her cunt clenched in arousal, delivering a rush of moisture at the image of his hot, soft lips surrounding her areola while his bristly cheeks scraped the delicate swell of her breast. Of him wanting no woman except her.
Had he ever loved anyone?
Even if he had, Toni sensed he didn’t now. He wouldn’t be bringing her to his home if he had a girlfriend he cared about. He wouldn’t be offering her a place to sleep. He wouldn’t be crossing a fragile line separating employer from employee, man from woman, stranger from lover.
He wouldn’t be telling her not to make him wait with a hint of danger in his eyes.
______________

Sensual Stranger will be available December 15th.

Buy Link, Email, Website/blog, Twitter, Facebook

~*~*~Giveaway~*~*~

To celebrate the upcoming release of Sensual Stranger, Tina is offering a contest today.

One lucky commenter will have her choice of one of her following books:

1.Lush Velvet Nights – ebook

2.Adored – ebook

3.Deep, Dark, Delicious – ebook

4.Close to Perfect – mass market paperback

5.Bad Boys with Red Roses – trade paperback

6.Take My Breath Away – trade paperback

Winner chosen at random. Winner in continental US has her choice of one of the six.

Just tell us what you love most about romance.

Winner outside continental US has her choice of one of the ebooks.

Please leave me a way to contact you (email in blogger profile or twitter name is okay).

Giveaway ends on Sunday December 19th and I will announce the winner in the following week.

Good Luck!

It's Party time.....Happy Birthday Caroline!!!!!

noreply@blogger.com (SusiSunshine) — Fri, 10 Dec 2010 07:00:00 +0000

So today is a very special day. The wonderful Caroline is celebrating the day we all were gifted with her presence for the first time. Yes, take a sec to cherish this. ;) I'm a nice friend so I won't tell you how long ago that was but she's still grasshopper that makes me feel old. LOL

So today we're throwing a big party for Caro, to show her how much we love her. She's an essential part of Book Lovers Inc and one of my closest friends. I really don't know what I would do without her. She's my personal sunshine and always makes me happy, in a totally un-dirty way. Okay, I will stop being all emotional right now and we will get the party started.

First we have to move to warmer climate cuz I know that Caro isn't very fond of the evil snow. So lets pretend for a sec that we are here, on St. Lucia under these wonderful palm-trees enjoying the warmth and sunshine.

So to get the party started we can all grab a drink. I know Caro loves these wonderful kiwi drinks so here you go ladies. And what did I forget? We need music, something with a good rhythm to shake our booties? Ohhhhhh I know there is that one band who always makes her feel better.

So here we go with first act of the party....Peter Fox with Alles Neu (Everything New):

So what now? Ohhhhh I now: Pressssssies!!!!! So what does Caro want for her bday? I can think of a few things: First thing is the always wanted nakes male maid. *g* Wait have to look for one......

Ahhhh..here he comes. I'm happy to introduce Christian. And look he brought something to drink for us. Such a sweety and Caro can keep him.

Okay so we need something rocky to release all this highstrung energy...so lets do some dancing....

*shakes her booty*

Happy Birthday and please be gently to Christian or he will never let me forget this. ;)

I hope you will have a wonderful day, full of love and fun.

((((huge bday tackle hug)))

and the party goes on:

Amanda @Story Wings

Stella @ExLibris

Larissa @Larissa's Life
Lea @closetreader
Bea @Bea's Book Nook
JoJo @JoJosBookCorner
Jackie @My Ever Expanding Library