Urban Girl Reader

Interview and Giveaway with M.L. Buchman, author of The Night is Mine

2012-02-17T07:46:00.001-05:00

I’m so excited to welcome author ML Buchman to Urban Girl Reader. I fell in love with the cover of The Night is Mine the moment I saw it. There is a certain edginess to it and I just had to get hold of this book to read it!! Romantic suspense is a relatively new genre for me but I find I am being drawn to these types of books more and more. What about you guys?

When I saw that ML Buchman was going to be on a virtual tour for The Night is Mine, I just had to interview him for the site. So thanks to ML for taking the time to come and visit with us today and to Sourcebooks Casablanca, for giving UGR the opportunity to give two lucky readers the chance to win a copy of The NIght is MIne. So without further ado……

Hi ML!

Thank you for taking the time to visit us at Urban Girl Reading. We’re looking forward to chitchatting a bit about novel, The Night is Mine, the first book in your Nighstalker series. Please tell us a bit about it and the series.

ML: Thanks for having me. The Night is Mine is a simple premise that took me an immense amount of research and writing to realize. It is simply the first woman to step into the purely male world of U.S. Army Special Forces helicopter flight. Captain Emily Beale earned the privilege by simply being the best, not the best woman, but the best, period. She can out fly, out gun any man. Well, all except one. Her legendary commander Major Mark “The Viper” Henderson has a few tricks of his own. But neither counted on the rocket flare heat they each feel from the first moment they meet. The problem as a storyteller was to be as authentic as possible. Yes, it’s an over-the-top romantic suspense, that’s what makes it fun. It’s about flying secret military helicopters which is a cool setting. But learning about and attempting to capture warrior mentality, that took some serious work.

The series is based on another simple premise. The nastiest helicopter weapons platform every launched into the night sky is the MH-60M DAP Black Hawk. The Direct Action Penetrator carries more technology, more weaponry, and the most highly trained pilots in the history of rotorcraft. It has four seats and hence four books to launch the series as the first women join the Night Stalkers. And each has a difference approach. Captain Emily Beale, the pilot, is simply the best. Pure military. Kee Smith is gunner/sniper/street kid in I Own the Dawn and to her everything is a battle, a fight to the finish, including the battle against her own heart falling for copilot Archie Stevenson III. Books 3 and 4 are still in development!

UGR: The Nightstalkers series is based on the real-life 160th Special Operations Aviation Regiment (SOAR), what inspired you to write about this group in a romance novel.

ML: When I first stumbled on this U.S. Army’s 160^th SOAR, I was out looking for a military helicopter to stage a rescue in my thriller Swap Out! At first I was amused about this whole arm of the military that apparently no one had heard of, least of all myself. Then I was intrigued. Then in flat-out awe. These are not tour-long military, these are career fliers. They actually have to volunteer five separate times and have a minimum of five years experience to see if they even qualify for the two additional years of training required once you get into SOAR. These are the rock star / movie screen celebrities of a very small, very quiet, and very dangerous world. They truly are the best helicopter pilots, gunners and mechanics on the planet. Grenada, Panama, bin Laden, those are only the very few that are known to the public. Even in the disaster of Mogadishu portrayed in “Black Hawk Down,” when you read the real-life accounts, these guys operate at a whole different level. Then I thought, hmmmm…… love in a secret, high-risk military society… and I was gone.

UGR: If you had to give Emily and Mark “theme” songs, what would they be and why?

ML: Ha! Captain Emily Beale is tricky. She flies smooth and clean and quiet in the air and in life. Copland’s “Appalachian Spring” comes to mind. But there’s an intensity underneath like “Cool” from “West Side Story.” She flies like Escala’s “Palladio” but inside, beneath all that military drive, there’s the energy of KT Tunstall’s “Black Horse and the Cherry Tree.”

Emily pulled her pistol and let fly at the laptop. The first shot shattered the screen and flipped it off the empty ammo case. The second spun it in midair, and the third punched the computer into the sand.
A dozen guys inspected the smoldering laptop in the ear-ringing silence and then Emily’s face as she reholstered the sidearm. A little more mayhem than she’d intended, but she was a pilot first, dammit.

Mark’s is easy. He’s the gut-thumping power of Queen’s “We will rock you.” He’s the “1812 Overture.” He’s Holst’s “Mars, God of War.” He is the powerhouse from how he looks to how he flies to how he acts and leads. Honor, integrity, commitment.

     A booted foot smashed down and delivered the coup de grâce to the wounded laptop.
     Major Mark “The Viper” Henderson stood two paces inside the rolled-back flap of the tent, one foot still buried in the machine. Six feet of clichéd soldier. Broad-shoulders, raw muscle, and the most dangerous-looking man Emily had ever met. Eyes hidden by mirrored Ray-Bans. Rumor had it they were implanted and the Major no longer needed eyes.
     In the tent, he swiveled his head once, the sunglasses surveying the crowd. Every man jack of them knew the Major had memorized exactly who was there, what they’d said, what they were about to say—and probably knew what they’d been thinking the moment they exited their mothers’ wombs. If they weren’t careful, he’d start telling them what they would be thinking about during their last moment on Earth, and none of them, not even Crazy Tim, wanted to run head-on into that level of mind-blower.

UGR: What is your writing process? Do you outline, fly by the seat of your pants or a combination of both?

ML: I’ve tried both, and several other methods. I’ve tried stacks of index cards, graphs, brainstorming on white boards, building the five key scenes and trying to bridge between them. After a dozen books I’d have to say, “yes.” Yes, each book is different. Yes, I use whatever tool seems appropriate to the moment. When I start I usually know the key character, the general setting, and the final scene. The Night is Mine I started with the scene that still opens the book, Emily Beale and secret helicopters and the final scene in—but that would be telling. I sort of sat in the first scene, aimed for the last scene, and just pulled the trigger. Then I sat back to watch what happened. I started book #2 I Own the Dawn with only Kee Smith, a rifle case, and Archibald Stevenson III. And nothing else. There were so many surprise turns that this book still startles me sometimes.

UGR: What genres do you read? Do you have any favorite authors? And what books would we find on your nightstand/bookshelves?

ML: For a decade I read nothing but SF/F, then the next decade was mostly classics, (okay, I’m a little compulsive sometimes, I can feel my wife nodding in agreement even though I didn’t ask). Then, in 1996, I was dragged to my first ever writing conference, Romance Writers of America National Conference. There I read my first romance, okay, my first 3 or 5, I didn’t sleep much. For probably another decade I read mostly romance. I’ve added thrillers for the fun of it. Oddly, mystery is the one major genre I hardly ever read.

My favorite authors? How about who has driven me to read every book they’ve ever written? Arthur C. Clarke, Heinlein (post pulp), Ayn Rand, Herman Hesse. I’ve read a great deal of Nora Roberts, Susan Wiggs, Laura Kinsale, Stephen King, a bunch of Kathryn Rusch/Kristine Grayson, and Lee Child has his hooks in pretty deep at the moment.

UGR: What upcoming projects are you working on and when can your fans expect to look for them?

ML: The rest of the Nighstalkers series from Sourcebooks is my front-line project. August will bring Kee and Archie in I Own the Dawn. February 2013 mechanic Connie Davis confuses the daylights out Big John Wallace in Give Me the Dusk. With Lola and Tim following not far behind in Book 4. This is a world I could happily stay in for a long time. I have published several SF/F, a thriller, and just launched the first in a four-book contemporary romance series “Angelo’s Hearth” Where Dreams are Born, one calendar, twelve lighthouses, two hearts. Links to all at my website, also Amazon, B&N, iBooks and all the usual suspects.

UGR: OK, I need to ask. Why write romance? There are very few male authors that write in the genre. So what drew you to it?

ML: As I mentioned, RWA National was my first ever writer’s conference, and it was a real eye opener. 1,800+ women who were very, very serious about the business of writing. Once the genre had a hold of my throat, or rather my heart, how could I look somewhere else? I’ve always written very strong women. I married a single mom, and if that isn’t the definition of strong, then I have no understanding of the word. And I’ve always written them a love story, because I love a happy ending. I love hope. I love possibility. When I discovered romance it became a natural. Bring the love story I cared so much about to the fore and let the story take a parallel seat rather than having to “be the one who drives.” What I don’t understand, in the fiction world or the real one, why aren’t there more men who think relationships are the most important thing in their lives? Nothing has brought me more learning, more basis for hope, or more joy than loving my wife and the greatest step-twerp on the planet. Of course I want to revel in that.

UGR: What is the most adventurous thing you've ever done?

ML: Depends on who you ask. To my family and college-era friends, all of whom were east of the Hudson River, it was putting my life in my car the day after graduation and driving to Seattle, a town I’d barely heard of and knew nothing about. Most people who know the various things I’ve done would say it was picking myself up after my business and career imploded and I lost my house and car; I climbed on a bicycle and spend 18 months riding solo for 11,000 miles through 15 countries making a grand circle of the globe. But being the one sitting inside my own skin I can tell you that it was the day I asked this one particular lady to marry me and to share her life and her daughter’s with me. It is the scariest and best thing I have ever done and ever can do.

Quickfire Questions

UGR: Hardcover or paperback books?

ML: not attached to the form, just the substance. I typically buy paper, easier to always have with me, or now for my Kindle.

UGR: Bookmark or dog ear page turner?

ML: bookmark, absolutely. As much as I don’t care about the form, a book is a precious thing. I may beat the crap out of it hauling it around in my pack, but I like that smooth clean page where it is just the author and me..

UGR: Early bird or night owl

ML: Night owl who married an early bird and then had a series of jobs that has made us both wake up even earlier. I can roll out of bed and start writing, but I’d rather write until 2a.m. any day, er, night.

UGR: Coffee or tea

ML: Coffee? Ewww!!!! Nasty stuff. Makes me sneeze, literally. When I go into a Starbucks to buy my Hot Chocolate I have to hold my breath. (Wouldn’t think I’d lived in Seattle for over 20 years, would you?)

UGR: Chocolate or vanilla

ML: I’m chocolate, wife’s vanilla. We’re both fanatics for Ben & Jerry’s Cherry Garcia

UGR: Plotter or pantser

ML: Given the choice of only the two, pantser. My writing is like my life, I make it up as I go along.

UGR: Thank you for joining us today ML, I look forward to the next novel.

ML: Thanks so much for having me!!! To follow and find me, hit http://www.mlbuchman.com

The Night is Mine

by ML Buchman
Sourcebooks Casablanca

February 2012

Paperback, 384 pages

ISBN: 9781402258107

Series: Nightstalkers #1

Genre: Contemporary Romance, Military , Romantic Suspense, Romance

FTC Disclaimer: Provided by Publisher for honest review

Book Summary:

NAME: Emily Beale

RANK: Captain

MISSION: Fly undercover to prevent the assassination of the First Lady, posing as her executive pilot.

NAME: Mark Henderson, code name Viper

RANK: Major

MISSION: Undercover role of wealthy, ex-mercenary boyfriend to Emily

Their jobs are high risk, high reward:

Protect the lives of the powerful and the elite at all cost. Neither expected that one kiss could distract them from their mission. But as the passion mounts between them, their lives and their hearts will both be risked...and the reward this time may well be worth it.

A Little Bit About ML

M. L. Buchman has worked in fast food, theater, computers, publishing, and light manufacturing. It's amazing what you can do with a degree in geophysics. At one point he sold everything and spent 18-months riding a bicycle around the world. In 11,000 miles, he touched 15 countries and hundreds of amazing people. Since then, he has acquired a loving lady, the coolest kid on the planet, and lives in Portland, Oregon. For more information, please visit http://www.matthewlieberbuchman.com/.

~ The Giveaway ~

Thanks to ML and Sourcebooks Casablanca, I’m able to give two lucky readers a copy of The Night is Mine. Enter the giveaway via the widget below. Everyone gets one entry an the other entries are optional and just increase your odds of winning!!

Giveaway is open to US and Canadian residents only

Giveaway Ends March 1, 2011 @ 12:01 am EST. Winner will be notified by e-mail and have 72 hours to respond.

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Review: A Devil Named Desire by Terri Garey

2012-02-15T23:43:00.001-05:00

A Devil Named Desire by Terri Garey
Avon Books. January 31, 2012
Paperback, 368 pages
E-book, 593 KB
ISBN: 9780061986406
Series: The Devil's Bargain #2
Genre: Urban Fantasy, Paranormal Romance, Paranormal Mystery
Rating: 3 1/2 flowers
Sensuality rating: 2 1/2 flames
FTC Disclaimer: Provided by Publisher for honest review

Book Summary:

Forbidden fruit is always the sweetest...

...and no one knows that better than Sammy Divine, High Prince of Darkness. Once an angel, now cast down, Sammy's out to prove he's not the only angel who can be led into temptation...

Hope Henderson's sister has disappeared without a trace, and Hope will do anything to find her--even make a deal with the Devil. An ancient text holds the key to unspeakable power, and it's the Archangel Gabriel's job to make sure it stays hidden, even if he has to become human to do it. Lives, love and the fate of the world hang in the balance, as Hope and Gabriel learn that when passion's involved, it may be impossible to withstand a devil named desire.

Purchase from: Powell’s | Amazon | Indiebound | B & N | Amazon UK | The Book Depository

Lynn’s Thoughts:

Hope Henderson is seen in a bath tub and she’s feeling guilty. Her savior is someone named Sammy Divine. She doesn’t quite believe who Sammy says he is. Hope is a web designer and Sammy wants her expertise to build him a web site.

Sammy has a brother named Gabriel. He also lets Hope know exactly who he is. She doesn’t quite know what to make of everything. All she knows is that she has no choice in creating that web site for Sammy.

When Hope first meets Gabriel, he’s following her. I love how sassy Hope is when she first interacts with him. It’s not something you expect. You get the impression that this book is going to be about good vs evil. We will just have to read to see if that is true or not.

Terri surprises us by having the devil show affection to his son Cain. Terri seems to have written a book about faith – it’s not something you see but what you feel. We see a character, Nicki Styx (she has her own series), who has some special abilities. She does things that most people cannot do.

I feel that Terri has put an underlying theme throughout the book. This seems to be a story about Love. There are all different types of love. One is our faith and love in God. Some people no longer have faith in Him for one reason or another. But he has love for us no matter what.

We also see the love, and pride, of a father for his son and the love of a friend. There’s also the love between siblings. But don’t forget that there’s also love for humanity. All this love is shown in different ways. And with all this love, Terri throws a mystery into the mix.

Hope is trying to find her sister Charity. Charity is very important to her after a family tragedy that occurred years ago. Hope went through a lot in order to be reunited. Gabriel is there to help Hope in her quest.

I was a little surprised by how Terri wrote the first sex scene between Gabriel and Hope. For having been celibate, Gabriel seems to have quite a bit of experience. The sex scenes were ok but I don’t think that they added anything to the story. I would have liked the story even if Terri left the sex out.

After reading Gabriel and Hope’s story, I may want to go back and read the first book of the series. You don’t need to read book one to understand what’s going on but if you like this book you just may want to catch up on the series. If you want to know more about Nicki, you may want to go back and read her series as well. If you are a fan of the paranormal, you will want to read this book. (Reviewed by Lynn from Romance Reader Enthusiast)

Waiting on Wednesday (#30)

2012-02-15T00:30:00.000-05:00

"Waiting On" Wednesday" is a weekly event, hosted by Jill at Breaking the Spine, that spotlights upcoming releases that we're eagerly anticipating. As is my typical fashion, I am highlighting a book that is available in the next couple of weeks.

This week my pre-publication "can't-wait-to-read" selection is Rescue Me by Rachel Gibson. This contemporary romance looks fun and flirty and should be a perfect summer read. So what are you waiting for on this Wednesday?

Rescue Me by Rachel Gibson

HarperCollins Publishers

Paperback 384 pages

May 29, 2012

ISBN: 9780062069122

Categories: Contemporary Romance, Military Men

Book Summary:

She’s 33, unmarried, and stuffed into a Bubble Yum pink bridesmaid dress. And the whole town wants to fix her up with anyone with a dental plan… Who’s going to rescue Sadie Hollowell now? Everyone in Lovett, Texas knows Sadie has always been a ‘notional’ kind of gal. She got a notion to leave town asap , and never visit her daddy (bless his heart). Now, she’s back and got the notion to invite a good-looking, hard-muscled, total stranger to her cousin’s wedding. Better a stranger than some of the losers she’s dated. Vince Haven got his muscles the hard way—as a Navy SEAL in Afghanistan. He’s staying in Lovett to visit his crazy aunt—the proprietor of the local Gas N Go. Before he can get the heck back out of the small town, his aunt makes him an offer he can’t refuse. Maybe he’ll stick around Lovett for a while. Maybe he’ll make a ‘go’ of the Gas N Go. Maybe he’ll rescue Sadie out of that pink dress!

Preorder from: Amazon | Indiebound | Powell’s | B & N | Amazon UK | The Book Depository

Feature and Giveaway: Sweet Stuff by Donna Kauffman

2012-02-13T22:47:00.001-05:00

In honor of Valentine’s Day, Urban Girl Reader is celebrating romance and what better way than by giving away a romance book!   I’m currently reading Sweet Stuff and is a really cute romance that is a 4 flower read! What I like best about is the little bit of humor that is thrown in and that I can totally relate to the klutziness of the heroine. Brutus the world’s friendliest Great Dane almost steals the show not to mention the fabulous cupcake recipes at the end of the book. I’ll be posting my full review later this week, so be sure to check it out.

Sweet Stuff by Donna Kauffman

Paperback, 322 pages

Brava, January 31, 2012

ISBN: 9780758266361

Series: Cupcake Club #2

Genre: Contemporary Romance

Source: Publisher

Rating: 4 Flowers

Heat: 2½ Flames

FTC Disclaimer: Provided by Publisher for honest review

Book Summary:

Double Fudge…Toasted Coconut…Key Lime…Strawberry Cream…
Every bite is a mouthful of heaven.
And the women of the Cupcake Club are bringing their appetites …

Riley Brown never imagined she would find her bliss on Georgia’s quiet Sugarberry Island after years of Chicago’s city life. With a new career and fantastic new friends, she’s got it all—except for eligible men. But a gig staging a renovated beach house delivers a delicious treat—six feet of blue-eyed, gorgeous writer as delectable and Southern as pecan pie. Quinn Brannigan has come to Sugarberry to finish his latest novel in peace, and suddenly Riley has a taste for the bad boy author that no amount of mocha latte buttercream or lemon mousse will satisfy …

Riley’s friends are rooting for her to give in to her cravings and spice up her life, but it’s Quinn who needs to learn that life’s menu just might include love, in all its decadent, irresistible flavors…

Available from: Amazon | Indiebound | B & N | Powell’s | Amazon UK | The Book Depository

~ The Giveaway ~

Enter the giveaway to win an advanced reader copy of Sweet Stuff by Donna Kauffman via the widget below. Everyone gets one entry an the other entries are optional and just increase your odds of winning!!

Giveaway is open to US residents only this time around.

Giveaway Ends February 18, 2012 @ 12:01 am EST. Winner will be notified by e-mail and have 72 hours to respond.
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Review: The Capture of the Earl of Glencrae by Stephanie Laurens

2012-02-10T06:30:00.000-05:00

The Capture of the Earl of Glencrae

Stephanie Laurens

Mass Market Paperback, Avon

January 31, 2012, 496 pages

ISBN: 9780062068620

Series: The Cynster Sisters Trilogy #3, Cynster #18

Genre: Historical Romance, Regency Romance, Romance

Rating: 4 Flowers

Sensuality Rating: 3 Flames

FTC Disclaimer: Provided by Publisher for honest review

Book Summary:

Three heros, three rescues, three weddings.

We joyfully request your attendance at the wedding of Miss Angelica Cynster

...but not until she and her hero confront a devious enemy and lay to rest an ancient grudge in the Scottish Highlands!

Headstrong Angelica Cynster is certain she'll recognize her fated husband at first sight. And when her eyes meet those of a mysterious nobleman across a candlelit ballroom, she knows beyond doubt that he's the one. But her heart is soon pounding for an entirely different reason--when he hero abducts her!

The eighth Earl of Glencrae has no choice but to kidnap Angelica, the one Cynster sister with whom he hadn't wanted to tangle. But to save his castle and his clan, he must persuade her to assist him--and he's prepared to offer marriage to seal the deal.

Buy from: Indiebound | Powell’s | B & N | Amazon | Amazon UK | The Book Depository

Lynn’s Thoughts:

Our story opens on June 01, 1829. Angelica Rosalind Cynster catches sight of a gentleman staring at her from across the room. After one glance, she knows that he’s the one. Not knowing his name is not important to her. She finds out that he is the Viscount Debenham.

Angelica gets a friend to introduce him to her and then she’s able to talk him by into going on a stroll around the terrace. All of a sudden he does something totally unexpected. His name is Dominic Lachlan Guisachan the eighth Earl of Glencrae and he needs Angelica’s help.

In return for her help, Angelica will become his countess. Dominic is finding out how smart she is and it’s not what he’s expecting. He’s also finding that she’s a dangerous distraction. Somehow his mother is involved in their meeting - what a mystery.

While in Dominic’s library, Angelica finds a book about Scotland. What better way to learn about someone than reading a book about their homeland and by talking to his servants. Then somehow Angelica has talked him into taking her where few women ever go. Then he gives her a promise of a next time that will be more private.

On their way to Scotland, we see them kiss for the first time – one word, hot! This seems the best place for that to occur. If Stephanie put it in earlier, it may have felt forced or awkward. She needed to build the heat first. Her descriptions of the kisses are very sensual. When they finally take that next step, Stephanie keeps weaving a sensual haze around the couple.

Their first time is very passionate. It’s a scene that takes its time – nothing is rushed. In some books the sex scenes are short and seem like they’re over before they even begin. Stephanie shows the reader what the main characters are feeling. And they can’t seem to stop acting on those feelings.

Stephanie does a great job of not letting the Cynster clan take over Dominic and Angelica’s story. It’s good to see that the Cynster family care about their sibling but it’s not the main part of the story. Dominic’s mother, Mirabelle has plans for Angelica that also involves her son. Our interest is piqued by how they manipulate his mother in order to get what they want.

Besides us reading a historical romance, Stephanie also adds some mystery and suspense into the story. Without a doubt Stephanie knows how to hold her reader’s attention. It makes for a real page turner. Our author gives us some sex scenes but some are only hinted at. Too many sex scenes would have ruined the story. This is a sensual read, not an erotic read.

You want to make sure to read this book to the end. The reader gets to read an excerpt from an upcoming anthology. If you like Stephanie’s “Cynster” series, you will without fail want to add this book to your collection. I have not read any of the “Cynster” books in quite a while and I was very glad to have read this one. It makes me want to go back and read all the books that I have missed. If you’re not sure if you’ve read all her series books, check out her web site at http://www.stephanielaurens.com/index.html . (Reviewed by Lynn from Romance Reader Enthusiast)

Vampires for Valentines Giveaway Hop: 2/10–2/16

2012-02-09T23:56:00.002-05:00

February is the month of love and what do we love more than hot, sexy, dangerous and seductive vampires? Vampires For Valentines Giveaway Hop is all about spreading our love for these supernatural creatures.

Vampires For Valentines Giveaway Hop runs from 12:01am February 10th through to 11:59pm February 16th 2012, and is hosted by Felicity Heaton (Paranormal Romance Author) and Bitten by Paranormal Romance.

I’m happy to be participating in this Giveaway Hop hosted by Felicity Heaton & Bitten by Paranormal Romance. Kudos to these ladies for putting together such an awesome giveaway hop! More than 60 blogs and authors are taking part and you can find a different prize at every site.

Vampires for Valentines Giveaway Hop will be running from 2/10-2/16, so you will have plenty of time to visit all of the participating blogs. Good luck to you all and enjoy!

What do I win!
I will be giving away up to $10 worth of books, from either the Book Depository or Amazon.

Book selected must be an adult type book (no YA, mysteries, horror, sci-fi, children’s, biography, nonfiction, etc.) and have a hot vampire either as the main character or on the cover. Just so we stick with the theme.

Book must also be published and available at the bookseller.

Enter anytime before Thursday, February 16, 2012 at 11:59 P.M. EST to be eligible to win.

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Other Participating Sites

Review: Drink Deep by Chloe Neill

2012-02-08T01:30:00.000-05:00

Drink Deep by Chloe Neill

NAL Trade, November 2011

Paperback, 321 pages

ISBN: 9780451234865

Series: Chicagoland Vampires #5

Genre: Urban Fantasy

Rating: 4 Flowers

Sensuality Rating: 2½

Personal Copy

Book Summary:

Clouds are brewing over Cadogan House, and recently turned vampire Merit can't tell if this is the darkness before the dawn or the calm before the storm. With the city itself in turmoil over paranormals and the state threatening to pass a paranormal registration act, times haven't been this precarious for vampires since they came out of the closet. If only they could lay low for a bit, and let the mortals calm down.

That's when the waters of Lake Michigan suddenly turn pitch black-and things really start getting ugly.

Chicago's mayor insists it's nothing to worry about, but Merit knows only the darkest magic could have woven a spell powerful enough to change the very fabric of nature. She'll have to turn to friends old and new to find out who's behind this, and stop them before it's too late for vampires and humans alike.

Buy from: Indiebound | Amazon | B & N | Powell’s | Amazon UK | The Book Depository

Sherri’s Thoughts:

After Hard Bitten’s cliffhanger I was reluctant to begin Drink Deep. I was curious which direction Ms Neill would take with it, but at the same time apprehensive that what I had loved about the Chicagoland Vampires Series; the cast of characters and action packed storylines, would be ruined by that ending. But I was wrong and I am so happy that I was.

First of all, let me say that writing a review for Drink Deep is really hard. There are so many twists and turns that keep the reader engaged, that putting them in a review would spoil the reading experience; and I really hate that. I can say that I continue to enjoy Merit as the main character. She is one of my favorite female characters. Not to say she is without faults, but her loyalty and devotion to her friends is refreshing to see. Her character development as a vampire has been a roller coaster but in Drink Deep I feel that she enters her stride. In the previous books she has relied on her friends and her master to affect her decisions; whereas, in Drink Deep, she begins to take the lead and is confident enough to stand up for her beliefs.

The cast of secondary characters continues to add to the story and the introduction of Jonah just enriched the cast. If Merit is my favorite female character, Jonah may be my favorite male one. I love his personality and it is a perfect foil for Merit’s.

The pacing was a bit slow in the beginning as Merit struggles to deal with the fallout from Hard Bitten. There isn’t much action in the first part of the book, but once the apocalyptic events begin the story flew. I think the problems I had in the book’s beginning were more related to Frank Cabot. I really didn’t like him and wanted anyone to kill him, but he does serve the purpose of moving the story in an interesting direction and sets up the storyline for Biting Cold, the next in the series. Drink Deep does exhibit some of those storyline transitions that often happen when one plot is wrapped up and the next phase needs to be introduced, but overall it is a great read and handled with a deft hand.

Review: Deliver Me From Darkness by Tes Hilaire

2012-02-07T00:10:00.000-05:00

Deliver Me From Darkness

by Tes Hilaire
Sourcebooks Casablanca

February 2012

Paperback, 368 pages

ISBN: 9781402264344

Genre: Paranormal Romance

Series: Paladin Warriors #1

Rating: 4 flowers
Sensuality Rating: 4 flames

FTC Disclaimer: Provided by Publisher for honest review

Buy from: Amazon | B & N | Indiebound | Powell’s | Amazon UK | The Book Depository

Book Summary:

A stranger in the night…
He had once been a warrior of the Light, once of the revered Paladin. A protector. But now he live sin darkness, and the shadows are his sanctuary. Every day is a struggle to overcome the bloodlust. Especially the day Karissa shows up on his doorstep.

Comes knocking on the door…
She is light and bright everything beautiful—despite her scratches and torn clothes. Every creature of the night is after her. So is every male Paladin. Because Karissa is the last female of their kind. But she is his. He may not have a soul, but he can’t deny his heart.

Sue’s Thoughts:

In our darkest hours, warriors descended from Angels watch over and protect humanity from the creatures of the night. The Paladin have dwindled in number until no more females of their own kind exist. When Roland, a fallen Paladin-turned-vampire, meets Karissa, he knows she is the one soul made for him as his mate. However, convincing her to take him as her mate and convincing the rest of the lonely Corps to accept it will be ultimate test.

From dream to reality to flashback, with changing points of view, the switches are sometimes jarring, jumping from scene to scene. However, the flow of the story is solid and progresses like an urban fantasy novel, with most of the first half of this book spent building the various characters and plotlines. From setting the scene on multiple fronts, laying down the rules of the universe, introducing the characters, to sowing the seeds of forbidden passion and love... everything races toward an unexpectedly epic ending.

The chemistry between Roland and Karissa is instant and intense, even when they are both trying to fight it. I was immediately pulled into Roland's inner turmoil and his struggle against accepting Karissa as his mate; how could the last remaining female paladin, one lucky man's chance to replenish the powerful bloodline, be fated to be with one of the fallen... a vampire? I think his fall from grace and the apparently-miraculous fact that he has a soul put me even more staunchly on his side.

The premise for this novel was unique and engaging, and in a genre flooded with vampire stories so similar to each other, that's an impressive accomplishment. I liked the lore of the Paladin and their unique abilities and I enjoyed the setup of the various demon and vampire races as separate hierarchies that are unexpectedly working together. Characters you initially dislike become some of your favorites, and hidden connections between the players are slowly revealed to sweeten the tension and mystery. The explosive conclusion ties off all the major plotlines so there are no cliffhangers, but still leaves enough open to give you something to look forward to in the next chapter of this saga. Deliver Me From Darkness is a recommended read! (Reviewed by Sue from GraveTells)

Character Interview and Giveaway: Deliver Me From Darkness by Tes Hilaire

2012-02-05T23:39:00.001-05:00

I’m excited to welcome author Tes Hilaire and her hero Roland to Urban Girl Reader.

Deliver Me From Darkness is Tes Hilaire’s debut novel with sexy vampires and demons, a tortured hero and a kickass heroine. What more do you need.

Today, we are honored to have Roland, former Paladin Warrior and now renegade vampire here at Urban Girl Reader to answer a couple of questions about Deliver Me From Darkness. He’s was a little reticent, but I think we got him to open a bit. . . .

UGR: Welcome Roland!

Thank you for taking some time off from saving the world to stop by Urban Girl Reader and talk with all my readers. So Roland, tell us a bit about the change from being a Paladin to a Vampire.

Roland: It is not something I like to talk about. To be stripped of all that you are and turned into a monster. The cravings overriding every instinct, obliterating all honor and reason… (Roland clears his throat.) I am what I am. And have learned to accept, if not make peace with it.

UGR: You’re pretty tough on yourself Roland. Even Logan is convinced of your goodness and he was assigned to kill you. Speaking of Logan, he was your best friend, can you tell us a bit about him?

Roland: Logan is an ass. (Roland’s lips twitch in repressed amusement as he says this, then firm back into a thin line.) He’s also loyal to a fault, as you can see by my continued presence in this realm. Not many, or rather none, of my other brothers would have thought twice before striking me with their blade, but he? (Roland shrugs.) He shall make some lucky woman very happy one day. That is if he can get over being such a hard-assed, duty-bound bastard.

UGR: Since you are a vampire Roland, you do know that vampires are a pretty hot item these days. Have you seen any extra action being a vampire? You know that women just love them, especially the women that stop by Urban Girl Reader. Oh wait, I guess I shouldn’t ask that since you are with Karissa now aren’t you? She is your mate, right?

Roland: More human foolishness. There are not many like me. Not many who would think twice before sating their pleasures in these willing human bodies, drinking from them their very lives. To risk attention, to get so close to one such as I? No, it is not advisable. At least … (he tilts his head, features relaxing as if a pleasant thought crossed through his mind) …not without some greater connection—such as the mate-bond that Karissa and I share.

UGR: You were a little put out when Karissa was dumped onto your bed. Have you ever considered that you may be a “tad” OCD?

Roland: I would call myself careful. When one is what I am… scents, sounds, changes of routines—the presence of others… well, it is not wise to upset the balance between control and cravings, now is it?

UGR: Well. . . . .Speaking of Karissa, she is an exceptional woman; strong, independent, and fierce. She sure has your ticket Roland.

Roland: She is my world. Without her…(Roland turns his head away, visibly drawing in a deep breath before turning back and pinning Urban Girl with a bored gaze.)

UGR: So Roland, can you share any top secret information on what the Paladin’s plans are and when can we expect to see them?

Roland: I believe part of the point is that you won’t see them. In order to be effective, Paladin must work beyond the knowledge of humans. Though… (Roland shakes his head, his eyes glowing like recently stirred coals in a hearth as he fists his hands.) Foolish idiots. The council still believes themselves above His plans. Best thing for the Paladin order will be when Logan takes on the mantel of leadership and shows those old fools that times have changed; that it is His will to seek out other aid. I fear though, I shall not see such acceptance in my life time... (Roland quirks his lip wryly) …immortal or not.

UGR: Thank you for joining us today Roland, it’s been a pleasure talking with you. Thanks for being such a sport!

Roland: (Roland shifts, the skin around his nose pinching slightly at being called a good sport, but then he relaxes, taking Urban Girl’s hand and bowing his head over it.) It has been no hardship to pass time with one as engaging as you. (A moment passes before he drops Urban Girl’s hand, standing abruptly, his total focus on the door.) Now, if you will excuse me. I have a meeting with my Karissa to search for new living quarters… seeing how our last was recently trashed. (Then, without a further glance, he spins, striding through the exit to be swallowed by the dark shadows beyond.)

Deliver Me From Darkness

by Tes Hilaire
Sourcebooks Casablanca

February 2012

Paperback, 368 pages

ISBN: 9781402264344

Genre: Paranormal Romance

Series: Paladin Warriors #1

FTC Disclaimer: Provided by Publisher for honest review

Book Summary:

A stranger in the night…
He had once been a warrior of the Light, once of the revered Paladin. A protector. But now he live sin darkness, and the shadows are his sanctuary. Every day is a struggle to overcome the bloodlust. Especially the day Karissa shows up on his doorstep.

Comes knocking on the door…
She is light and bright everything beautiful—despite her scratches and torn clothes. Every creature of the night is after her. So is every male Paladin. Because Karissa is the last female of their kind. But she is his. He may not have a soul, but he can’t deny his heart.

Buy from: Amazon | B & N | Indiebound | Powell’s | Amazon UK | The Book Depository

A Little Bit About Tes

Daphne Award-winning author and former Tennessee native Tes Hilaire doesn’t remember how old she was when she wrote her first story, but she’s pretty sure it had something to do with a boy and a girl and a happily ever after. Displaced at an early age to “the north country,” her stories turned darker as she started creating whole new worlds to escape the harsh, upstate NY winters. Now back in the South, her stories remain edgy, exciting, and bring a hint of dark fantasy to paranormal romance. Best of all, no one ever has to shovel snow. For more, visit her website at www.teshilaire.com.

~ The Giveaway ~

Thanks to Tes and Sourcebooks Casablanca, I’m able to give two lucky readers a copy of Deliver Me From Darkness. Enter the giveaway via the widget below. Everyone gets one entry an the other entries are optional and just increase your odds of winning!!

Giveaway is open to US and Canadian residents only

Giveaway Ends February 18, 2012 @ 12:01 am EST. Winner will be notified by e-mail and have 72 hours to respond.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Review: His Dark Bond by Anne Marsh

2012-02-02T01:00:00.000-05:00

His Dark Bond by Anne Marsh
Brava, January 31, 2012
Paperback, 368 pages
ISBN: 9780758266798 (paperback)
ISBN: 0758266790 (e-book)
Series: Fallen #2
Genre: Paranormal Romance, Urban Fantasy, Angels
Rating: 4½ flowers
Sensuality Rating: 4 flames
Publisher Provided for Review
FTC Disclaimer: Provided by Publisher for honest review

Buy from: B & N | Indiebound | Amazon | Powell’s | Amazon UK | The Book Depository

Book Summary:

Zer is no angel - well, not anymore. He's explored every flavour of sin imaginable, drinking in the pleasures of humanity. But now he must find the woman who carries his salvation in her very blood...a woman like Nessa St. James. Nessa has considered the bargain the Fallen offer. Anything she wants in exchange for accepting Zer's bond? No way. Not her. Not when she finds out about the mind-blowing ritual involved and the marks of surrender that will ink her skin. But with a serial killer to stop and centuries of experience on his side, Zer will do whatever it takes to change her

Lynn’s Thoughts:

Our story starts in the year 2090. It’s a story of those that have fallen from Heaven and must find the one person who can redeem their dark soul and teach them about love.

Zer is seen coming into a club called “G2”. He seems to be the leader of a group of the Fallen. His group fights the Rogues who are the Fallen but find that they like to drink human emotions. Zer’s group appears to get their “high” through sex – now that’s what you call a natural high.

Nessa St. James is an assistant professor at a local college. She specializes in genetics and biblical studies. As you read, you can tell that Zer is a highly sexual being and his first look at Nessa is highly charged. Nessa is a woman that is very stubborn and doesn’t obey on command. They seem like they would be perfect for each other.

Cuthah is head of the Rogues. Cuthah and Zer both want Nessa but for totally different reasons. One difference between the two is that Cuthah likes to inflict pain. He also likes to recruit the Fallen that have gone Rogue.

Nessa meets a bonded couple, Mischka Baran and Brends Duranov (you can find their story in Book 1 titled “Bond With Me”). But like Mischka, Nessa has to bond with someone. Zer is non-too happy about her choice of mates. The bonding is a very sensual act but Nessa must request a favor for the bonding to be complete.

Nessa decides that she wants to go back to the University but Zer ends up having to step in and save the day – he can come rescue me any time. Zer tells Nessa something that I never saw coming – it caught me totally by surprise. Amidst the battle, Anne gives us one hot scene in Nessa’s office – I’m so jealous.

At the end, I’m left with some questions. Who else out there are soul mates for the Fallen? Will the enemy continue to show themselves? How long do I have to wait until the next book in the series comes out?

Anne will have a novella telling Vkhin’s story. “Savage Bond” will be coming out on May 1 of this year. But in the meantime, as you wait for the next installment of the Fallen make sure to read both books one and two. I don’t feel that you need to read them in order. I had no problems of reading book two even though I have not read book one yet. I do, however, intend to go back and read book one just because I feel that I will like this series. (Reviewed by Lynn from Romance Reader Enthusiast)

Review: Wildest Dreams by Rosanne Bittner

2012-02-02T00:10:00.000-05:00

Wildest Dreams by Rosanne Bittner

Reprint from July 1994

Publisher: Sourcebooks Casablanca

Date: February 07, 2012

Pages: 560 pages

ISBN: 9781402267680 (paperback)

ISBN: 1402267681 (e-book)

Genre: Native American Romance; Historical Romance; Western

Publisher Provided for Review

Rating: 4 flowers. Sensuality rating of 3

Buy from: Indiebound | B & N | Powell’s | Amazon | Book Depository | Amazon UK

Book Summary:

Lettie MacBride knew that joining a wagon train heading West was her chance to begin anew, far from the devastating memories of the night that had changed her forever. She didn't believe she could escape the pain of innocence lost or feel desire for any man...until she meets Luke Fontaine.

Haunted by his own secrets, Luke could never blame Lettie for what had happened in the past. One glance at the pretty red-haired lass was enough to fill the handsome, hard-driving pioneer with a savage hunger.

Against relentless snows, murderous desperadoes, and raiding Sioux, Luke and Lettie will face a heartrending choice: abandon a lawless land before it destroys them, or fight for their...Wildest Dreams.

Lynn’s Thoughts. . . .

This book is written in four parts. It’s a history lesson of sorts with romance written into it. It shows the struggles of a couple building a life for themselves and their family.

Part I: April 1863

There is a war going on between the North and South. Luke Fontaine is seen heading West to the part of the country called Montana. He has something to prove to both his father and his brother. Even before the wagons head out there’s some excitement.

One person he meets in all the excitement is a two year old named Nathan. His mother’s name is Eletta MacBride Dougan. We see the immediate attraction between Luke and Lettie. As they continue to head West, Rosanne gives us a hint that their attraction is growing.

Luke ends up marrying Lettie and they head off to Montana. They settle into their new home and make new friends, Will Doolan and his wife Henny. Rosanne shows us the type of life that the new settlers had to go through to carve a life out for themselves. It also makes you think how easy we have things now. Would we have been able to survive back then?

Rosanne is not very explicit with some of her love scenes. She leaves a lot to your imagination. She concentrates more on their life experiences than on the sex. Sex is not the main theme of this story.

Part II: August 1872

Nine years has past and Lettie has a reunion with her family. She also has several children now. Her family catches her up on everything that’s happened since they parted ways. The land has also changed in that time. In part two, Rosanne also includes the story of the prodigal son.

Luke is well on his way to having all his dreams come true. But the land has also changed Luke. We think that now things are going to be fine for the Fountaine’s but then Rosanne puts in a twist. She also shows what the pioneer women were made of. In my mind I could almost picture this as a John Wayne movie (I’m dating myself). I could see John Wayne as Luke and Maureen O’Hara as Lettie.

Part III: January 1876

Almost four years have passed and Rosanne shows that Montana is still a harsh place to live. It can change a person’s personality. It’s a story that will have you smiling in some spots and want to cry in others.

In that part of the country, the law was just getting started so that landowners were taking matters into their own hands. We see a family that has endured so much but love is the strongest thing that holds them together. This story also shows how families formed their towns.

The Fontaine family always seems to have things that disrupt their family circle. Nothing ever seems to go easy for them. It takes a long time to see all the dreams that Luke has come true - maybe a little too long. It depends on your point of view.

Part IV: July 1881

Another five years has passed. In that time we see that the Fontaine family has grown even more. Ways of thinking have also changed. Some things that have not changed is that it’s still the Fontaine’s vs the land. We see how the children have changed and grown into adults.

We are shown how the Indians were treated after they were forced to live on the Reservations. We are also shown the prejudices that occurred during that point in our country’s history. Montana is also on its way to becoming a state.

This is a story that is longer than some romance novels. If you are expecting a straight forward romance, you will not find it here. If you like historical books, you will love learning some of the history of Montana. Do you like westerns that have a hero that is a little rough around the edges? Having so many pages, I don’t think I could have gotten through it if it weren’t for the fact that Rosanne separated it out into parts. (Reviewed by Lynn from Romance Reader Enthusiast)

Shameless Giveaway Winner

2012-02-01T22:10:00.001-05:00

Congrats to Victoria (aka feathery.kitten) the winner of the Shameless Giveaway Hop.

Victoria selected:

I think this definitely qualifies as a Shameless selection, because that is one nice cover! Congrats and thanks to everyone that entered. The Shameless Giveaway Hop was a huge success and here’s looking forward to more in the future.

Red Dress Review Link Up

2012-02-01T22:05:00.000-05:00

To sign up for this reading event, CLICK HERE.

Here is the place to link up all your reviews for the February 2012 Red Dress Read & Review-A-Thon for the month. Please fill out the linky using the DIRECT LINK to your review. Links to home pages will be deleted.

In the Name field, write the name of the book you reviewed and the name of your Blog. Example: Black Heart Loa (Urban Girl Reader).

February 2012: Red Dress Read & Review-A-Thon Reading Event

2012-01-31T23:02:00.001-05:00

February is a special month for me. It is a month for women to participate in local and national events that recognize and promote heart awareness for women. If you haven’t participated in any of them before, they are numerous worthwhile programs and demonstrations.

So why does this event touch me so? Well, at the age of 37, I was diagnosed with a blockage in my heart and had to undergo emergency quadruple bypass surgery to correct the issue. I don’t talk much about it, but February and this Go Red event seems to be the appropriate time to share a little throughout them month.

I’ve often thought about how to promote this issue, but Urban Girl Reader is a blog about books, so it never seemed the time or the place to do so. After talking with some friends, we came up with this idea. In honor of “Go Red” month and my love off reading, I’ve decided to host the:

Red Dress Read & Review-A-Thon

hosted by Urban Girl Reader

What exactly is the Red Dress Read & Review-A-Thon? It is an event in which you guys read and review books related to the “Go Red” theme and earn prizes for doing so. The special twist on the event is that the more you guys read and review, the more Urban Girl Reader will donate to Go Red for Women.

urban Girl Reader (aka Sherri) has set up a donation page for the Go Red for Women event and made an initial contribution of $50. No matter what happens, $50 will be donated to the program. Now for your part - for every 50 reviews that are completed by you guys, an additional $10 will be contributed to Go Red for Women fundraising effort.

Also, if anyone wishes to make a donation, the minimum is $5.00, just click the banner at the top of the blog and you will be linked directly to the Urban Girl Reader page where you can donate directly. Donations go to Go Red for Women and UGR receives nothing from your donation (except a warm, fuzzy feeling that you contributed).

At the end of the month, each valid link will be entered into a drawing to win a $25 gift card to either the Book Depository or Amazon. Also, if there are any authors out there that would like to contribute a book to the giveaway that would be greatly appreciated and accepted.

A separate post where you can put your links will be posted in the next couple of days and a link placed in the Current Giveaway Box at the top of the blog. Any questions, just leave a comment and I will answer it.

Details:

Runs February 1, 2012 – February 29, 2012. You can join at anytime. Sign up on Urban Girl Reader's blog.

Books can be any format (bound, eBook, audio).

To keep with the Go Red and Heart Awareness theme, books must have red covers, a red dress, a heart, either on the cover or in the title or be heart related in some manner.

Reviews can be posted on your blog, Goodreads, Paperbackswap.com, Amazon, Shelfari, or LibraryThing, etc.

Re-reads and crossovers from other reading challenges are allowed.

Giveaway:

Post your review links in the post for Review Link Up to receive an entry. Winner will be chosen using Random.org for this contest.

For each book that meets the Go Red or Heart theme you will receive one entry to win the $25 gift card.

Winner will be notified by e-mail and have 72 hours to respond.

Interview and Giveaway with Claire Ashgrove (and Farran) author of Immortal Hope

2012-01-30T22:39:00.001-05:00

I’m so excited to welcome author Claire Ashgrove to Urban Girl Reader, along with Farran de Clare one of the Templar Knights from her exciting new novel Immortal Hope.

Thanks to Farran for stopping by and Sourcebooks Casablanca, UGR is able to give one lucky reader the chance to win a copy of Hold Me If You Can.

Meet the Knights -- Farran de Clare
by Claire Ashgrove

I’m here today with Farran from Claire Ashgrove’s new paranormal romance, IMMORTAL HOPE. Here’s the lowdown on this hot and hunky knight:

Name: Farran De Clare
Occupation: Knight Templar
Age: Over eight hundred years old
Height: 6’ 2”
Hair: Shoulder-length blond hair
Eyes: Ale Brown

Claire: Thanks for meeting with me Farran. I know you’re extremely busy with everything that’s going on. You seem like a very private man, and I appreciate your willingness to talk to us. Tell me, could you give us a little insight as to where the Order stands currently?

Farran: The Order is in upheaval, but Anne, the Lady du Loire, has given many hope. The trials ahead will not be easy, but with the appearance of the seraphs, we are not guaranteed to fail. At present, we seek to protect Anne, while we await the next seraph’s coming.

Claire: Are you looking forward to her arrival then?

Farran: So long as she is not paired with me, I am most anxious for her discovery. The Order needs her. The prophecy of the seraphs must be fulfilled if any are to survive this accursed fate.

Claire: So long as she’s not paired with you? (At this I can’t help but chuckle.) Do I sense a little hesitation about having your wife chosen for you?

Farran: (His ever-present frown deepens.) Milady, wives are a trial and a hindrance. I have no wish to be chained with such a burden or be forced to bed with a viper.

Claire: Ouch. I have to admit that stings a little. Not all women are vipers.

Farran: If you wish to exchange pleasantries, best you seek out Declan. Whilst he still possesses the means to laugh. I assure you, you shall not find them with me.

Claire: That’s right… you’re the grouchy one. So, now I’m curious. Does this have something to do with Merrick’s revelation that your wife and your son were taken by your enemy?

(At this point, his expression becomes so dark and furious I feel it’s better for my safety to change the subject.)

Claire: Ah, scratch that. I guess it’s really none of my business. You said while Declan still possesses the means to laugh – did he take the pairing of Anne with Merrick that poorly?

Farran: He took it as many did, and with the Almighty’s grace, he shall maintain. But he has drawn within himself, and keeps to himself much of late. I suspect his dismay is greater than he wishes us to know.

Claire: What about Anne’s sister, has there been any word of her location?

Farran: Nay. Merrick has asked me to join him in searching for her. We shall do so once Lady Anne recovers from a bout with the flu.

Claire: Oh, she’s not feeling well – give her our regards.

(Farran nods.)

Claire: What about Tane? Can you give us any insight as to what happened with him during the battle?

Farran: By Merrick’s order, we are not allowed to speak of Tane.

Claire: I see. Well, I think we’re running out of time here. One last question, and then I’ll let you get back to … whatever it is you do during the day. Can you give us any insight as to what relic Azazel must find next?

Farran: Discussing the relics openly gives Azazel power and insight. I shall not run the risk of granting him advantage.

Claire: But surely he already knows what he needs. I’m not asking for locations, or details – just what he would like to get his hands on.

Farran: (After a moment of intense scrutiny where I’m sure Farran’s stared so hard he can read my thoughts, he finally speaks.) Aye, you are correct. To progress with his unholy plan, he must decode the cipher of the archangels. The knowledge he requires is written in an ancient cloth.

Claire: Will you have anything to do with protecting that cloth?

Farran: I am not manipulated so easily, damsel. Were I to share that information, Azazel would know whom to watch. Or whom not. If you are wise, you shall cease your digging now, afore he decides to come after you.

Claire: Ah, yeah, that might be a wise idea. Thank you again, Farran for meeting with me today. Best of luck, and… what is it Anne says? God be with you if you must fight.

(At that, Farran shows a glimpse of chivalry long buried, rises to his feet and bows over my hand. Warm lips brush over my knuckles.)

Farran: “Mayhap you are one of few whose bite lacks a woman’s venom. Good day, damsel.”

Claire: Well, with that departure, let’s see if Merrick, from IMMORTAL HOPE, can live up to Farran’s example!

EXCERPT:
He took a deep fortifying breath at Anne’s door. A small portion of his soul demanded he let himself inside and take the liberties he would have enjoyed had she wandered into his life nine hundred years ago. Whilst he shared the residence with many others, the simple fact remained, she resided in his house. Once he had dreamed of such a circumstance. Now the fantasy only created a bitter taste in his mouth.

Resigning himself to reality, he knocked twice upon her door.

She answered as he lifted his hand for the third, concurrent rap. Briefly, she stared, bewildered. Then, her gaze fell to his armload of supplies, and her porcelain features lit with such delight a fist clamped around Merrick’s heart.

“My things,” she murmured as he moved past her. “Oh, Merrick, you brought my radio.”

The whimsical quality of her voice, the gratitude that turned her words into music, swelled his chest. Damnation. She had turned him as soft as butter. This trial of loyalty would surely be the death of him.

He set the bags down, unwilling to look at her for fear she would see how deeply she affected him. “I brought what I thought you might desire. Should you find something missing, we shall discuss it in the morn.”

“Oh. You’re leaving again?”

His back to her, he closed his eyes. The touch of disappointment that fringed her question disturbed the accursed hollowness in his gut. “Aye.”
Before he could fully shrug off the thick straps digging into his shoulder, her hand settled against the small of his back. “I’d hoped you might stay with me for a while,” she murmured.

Her fingertips slid up his back, warming his skin. As he righted himself, she ducked under his elbow and looped her arms around his neck. Stepping in close, Anne pressed her body to his.

Everything inside Merrick coiled tight. Her warmth, the feel of her breath upon his neck, the perfume in her hair, she overwhelmed him in a heartbeat. He battled with the urge to slide his arms around her waist and draw her even closer. The longing to capture her mouth and drink from her honeyed lips assailed his senses with the force of a battering ram. Like a strangled man desperate for one gulp of fresh air, he disentangled himself from her embrace and took a step away.

He knew only one way to combat the fierce desire she awakened. “I must fight tonight.”

Immortal Hope by Claire Ashgrove

Publisher: TOR Books

Date: January 03, 2012

Pages: 368 pages
ISBN: 9780765367587 (paperback)
ISBN: 9780765367587 (e-book)
Genre: Chick Lit; Urban Fantasy Romance; Paranormal Romance
Rating: 4 1/2 flowers. Sensuality rating of 4

Source: Provided by Author

FTC Disclaimer: Provided by Author for honest review

Buy from: from: Powell’s | Amazon | Indiebound | Barnes & Noble | Books-A-Million |Tor Romance | Amazon UK | The Book Depository

Book Summary:

CENTURIES AGO,

Templar knights defied the archangels and unearthed the copper scroll, revealing the gates to hell. Cursed for their forbidden act, they forever roam the earth protecting mankind from evil. But darkness stalks them, and battles they fight bring them ever-closer to eternal damnation. One promise remains to give them salvation – the return of the seraphs.

Embittered by his purpose, Merrick du Loire must honor an ancient pact and bring peace to his cousin’s soul. When he stumbles upon history professor Anne MacPherson, he discovers she possesses a sacred artifact that marks her as a seraph. Duty demands he set aside his personal quest and locate the knight she’s fated to heal. As he struggles with conflicting oaths, Anne arouses buried hope and sparks forbidden desire that challenges everything he’s sworn to uphold.

Anne has six weeks to complete her thesis on the Knights Templar. When Merrick takes her to the Templar stronghold, he presents her with all she needs—and awakens a soul-deep ache, he alone can soothe. Yet loving Merrick comes with a price. If she admits she's destined for him, her gift of foresight predicts his death.

Check out Urban Girl Reader’s Review – Click Here!!

A Little Bit About Claire

Claire Ashgrove has been writing since her early teens and maintained the hobby for twenty years before deciding to leap into the professional world. Her first contemporary novel, Seduction's Stakes, sold to The Wild Rose Press in 2008, where she continues to write steamy, sexy stories for the Champagne and Black Rose lines. Adding to these critically acclaimed contemporaries, Claire’s paranormal romance series, The Curse of the Templars, debuts with Tor in January 2012. For those who prefer the more erotic side of romance, she also writes for Berkley Heat under the pen name Tori St. Claire.

Claire lives on a small farm in Missouri with her two toddler sons, fifteen horses, four cats, and five dogs. In her “free” time, she enjoys cooking, winning at rummy, studying ancient civilizations, and spending quiet moments with her family, including the critters. She credits her success to her family's constant support and endless patience.

How Best to Follow Claire?
Claire Ashgrove Website | Tori St. Claire Website | Twitter |

~ The Giveaway ~

Claire will be giving away a $25 Amazon.com gift certificate to one randomly drawn commenter during the tour, and a second $25.00 Amazon.com gift certificate to a second randomly drawn commenter at the end of the tour. Be sure to follow the tour and comment; the more you comment, the better your chances of winning! Click the Blog Tour badge for a complete list of blog stops.

Urban Girl’s Winners Club (1/29/12)

2012-01-28T23:00:00.001-05:00

Since I was out of town yesterday, the Winner’s Club is a bit late this week. Only one event ended this week and that was the Shameless Giveaway Blog. The lucky winner gets their choice of up to $10 of books from either Amazon or The Book Depository. Congrats!! Come back in February for the Vampires for Valentines Giveaway Hop from February 10th to 16th.

A reminder that the January Committed Commenter Contest ends tomorrow. Who will be this month’s lucky winner of these awesome books!

February’s monthly contest will be posted on Wednesday, so be on the lookout for that also.

Congratulations to all the winners and Happy Reading!!

Shameless Giveaway Blog Grand Prize Winner (1/27)

Feathery.kitty (aka Victoria)* – Confirmed Winner

Each winner has been e-mailed and has 72 hours to provide me with their mailing address. If not, I will select another winner.

Review: Immortal Hope by Claire Ashgrove

2012-01-25T23:24:00.001-05:00

Immortal Hope by Claire Ashgrove

Publisher: TOR Books

Date: January 03, 2012

Pages: 368 pages
ISBN: 9780765367587 (paperback)
ISBN: 9780765367587 (e-book)
Genre: Chick Lit; Urban Fantasy Romance; Paranormal Romance
Rating: 4 1/2 flowers. Sensuality rating of 4

Source: Provided by Author

FTC Disclaimer: Provided by Publisher for honest review

Buy from: from: Powell’s | Amazon | Indiebound | Barnes & Noble | Books-A-Million |Tor Romance | Amazon UK | The Book Depository

Book Summary:

CENTURIES AGO,
Templar knights defied the archangels and unearthed the copper scroll, revealing the gates to hell. Cursed for their forbidden act, they forever roam the earth protecting mankind from evil. But darkness stalks them, and battles they fight bring them ever-closer to eternal damnation. One promise remains to give them salvation – the return of the seraphs.

Embittered by his purpose, Merrick du Loire must honor an ancient pact and bring peace to his cousin’s soul. When he stumbles upon history professor Anne MacPherson, he discovers she possesses a sacred artifact that marks her as a seraph. Duty demands he set aside his personal quest and locate the knight she’s fated to heal. As he struggles with conflicting oaths, Anne arouses buried hope and sparks forbidden desire that challenges everything he’s sworn to uphold.

Anne has six weeks to complete her thesis on the Knights Templar. When Merrick takes her to the Templar stronghold, he presents her with all she needs—and awakens a soul-deep ache, he alone can soothe. Yet loving Merrick comes with a price. If she admits she's destined for him, her gift of foresight predicts his death.

Lynn’s Thoughts:

The Knights Templar is a group that is bound by marriage or blood. They were expected to spend eternity fighting demons. But because of a curse a part of the demon’s darkness would enter the knight’s soul. Eventually instead of working for good, they would end up becoming evil. There is a ray of hope for their soul if they can find a seraph.

Abigail Montfort is seen trying to fight ghouls on All Hallows Eve. She’s also guarding something that the demons want. Abigail also offers a safe haven for the Templars. Then the head of the unholy comes to take something that Abigail has in safe keeping.

Anne MacPherson is seen reading her future in a deck of cards. Her boss, Gabe Anderson is seen giving her an interesting artifact. Besides working for Gabe, she’s a college student who’s working on her thesis. Is this all a coincidence? How does Gabe fit in to everything that is going on?

Merrick du Loire is seen fighting and killing one of the demons. The scene reminds me of the “Highlander” series. I can almost picture Adrian Paul or Christopher Lambert playing the part of Merrick.

Merrick comes for healing at Abigail’s house but finds Anne instead. Merrick scares Anne and ends up taking her on a ride that will change her life forever. But he must also help in finding her chosen one.

Almost from the start, Anne becomes concerned whenever Merrick goes off to do his job of protecting us humans from the demons. Claire does a great job of showing us all the heat that Merrick and Anne create when they’re together. But just as things start getting real good their first time together something happens and then you’ll say “What?” But then we’re given a second chance to see them explode together.

Besides the romance of our couple, Claire adds some suspense to her story. Who will win the war between good and evil? Will we have the answer by the end of this story or will it continue into book two?

One of the Templars takes Anne away from the compound. By doing that, Anne gets to see first-hand what Merrick has to go through every time he leaves her. But just like times of old, the knight rushes in to save the damsel in distress.

It’s great to see that when Claire created the Templar Knights that they have retained a lot of what they were centuries ago. She gave them a lot of modern conveniences but they still honor the old ways. How does Anne fit into this world? You will just have to read the story to find out.

Claire gives us a teaser at the end. Are you ready for book two? Watch for “Immortal Surrender” to come out sometime this year. I think you’ll find out that if you liked “Immortal Hope” you’ll want to continue to see what happens next for the Knights Templar. (Reviewed by Lynn from Romance Reader Enthusiast)

Please join Urban Girl Reader on Tuesday, January 31st when Farran de Claire, grouchy Knight Templar extraordinaire, joins UGR to dish about seraphs, women, and mysterious relics on the Chivalry Never Dies Blog Tour.

Review:If You See Her by Shiloh Walker

2012-01-23T23:31:00.003-05:00

If You See Her
by Shiloh Walker
Ballantine Books
January 31, 2012
Paperback, 368 pages
ISBN: 9780345517548
Series: The Ash Trilogy #2
Genre: Romantic Suspense
Source: Provided by Author

A FACE IN THE MIRROR

Hope Carson may not look like a survivor, but she has escaped an abusive ex-husband and recovered from a vicious assault. Now she endures the painful memories and suspicious rumors surrounding her involvement in the attack. Her ex is a cop, so the last people she trusts are law enforcement officials—and she certainly doesn’t trust how the local DA makes her feel inside.

Remy Jennings should know better. He has no business falling for a woman who he suspects may have a deeply troubled mind. And even if he did make a move, she’d bolt like a frightened rabbit. But how can he deny a burning desire that threatens to consume him? As Hope’s past catches up with her in the worst way, Remy is determined to break through her defenses, earn her trust, and keep her safe in his arms—before it’s too late.

Buy from: Amazon | B & N |Powell’s | Indiebound | The Book Depository | Booksamillion

Sherri’s Thoughts:
I haven’t read a lot of romantic suspense novels, but if they are all like the Ash Trilogy, then I am probably going to become a junkie.

After finishing If You Hear Her, I could not wait to read If You See Her and it did not disappoint. Hope Carson and Remy Jennings were introduced in If You Hear Her and the promise of their story was just to much to wait for. I just knew it was going to be an emotional, roller coaster of a relationship and I was going to love every dip and curve.

Hope is a woman who has been through the hell of an abusive relationship. She has come to Ash, Kentucky to visit her childhood friend Law Reilly and rebuild her life. She meets Remy Jennings and there is an awareness, an attraction between the two of them, but due to Hope’s past she is resistant to become involved with anyone, and tries to push Remy away.

Remy is just one of those guys who just seems to good to be true but he lives up to that hype. He is strong but sensitive, and his tenderness towards Hope is very sweet to read. I was cheering Remy all the way in his trying to earn Hope’s trust. Their relationship progressed slowly through the novel and at times it was a bit slow, but with Hope’s background it was truly realistic.

Interwoven with Hope and Remy’s love story is the pursuit of the serial killer that is stalking the women of Ash. This mystery will have you tied up in knots trying to figure out who the killer is and even then I’m not sure you will really know who it is. Ms. Walker has done a masterful job of weaving this mystery, there are subtle clues in the story but even these facts don’t provide a clear indication of who the killer is. I have a guess, but I’m not taking any bets that I am right.

I would strongly suggest that you read the series in order because each book does build upon the previous one. The final book in the trilogy is If You Know Her and will be published on February 28, 2012.

I give If You See Her 4 flowers and a sensuality rating of 3 flames.

Guest Post & Giveaway with Linda Wisdom, author of A Demon Does It Better

2012-01-22T23:15:00.001-05:00

Please join Urban Girl Reader in welcoming author Linda Wisdom to the site. We are lucky to have her as the guest blogger for the day and to dish about her newest release A Demon Does It Better.

Also, be sure to leave a comment for Linda. By leaving a comment you will be entered to a copy of A Demon Does It Better. Two lucky commenters will be chosen.

Welcome Linda!!

How Does A Demon Do It Better?

by Linda Wisdom

Thank you so much for having me here in talking what a demon does better.

The list can be so long and give a woman a lot of ideas!

I’m sure many of you have read books where the demons are downright ugly and totally gross.

Then there are the demons who are sex on the hoof.

Jared in A Demon Does It Better is one of those.

What does a demon do better? He can take an innocuous moment and make it so sexy that you would melt. Such as he did with his first meeting with Lili when she’s in a scent shop in the magickal plane of Inderman.

Can you imagine holding a bottle of perfume and have a man show you just how sensual it is? This is how Jared did it and proof a demon does it better.

He picked up the bottle and carefully tipped it against his fingertip. Turning toward her he gently traced a path down her throat then repeated the touch on each wrist. The oil turned to liquid heat, causing a lot of thoughts of wearing the perfume and nothing else.
     Lili couldn’t keep her eyes off his hands. Strong, capable, yet gentle. She was positive they would feel the same everywhere else on her.
     Get your mind back where it belongs!
     Easier said than done.
     He lifted her hand, palm up, and leaned over to sniff her wrist. His breath drifted over the surface. When he lifted his head, his eyes blazed a vivid blue.
     “She’s right,” he murmured. “This is meant for you."

from A Demon Does It Better by Linda Wisdom 2012

Demons are sensual creatures. Ones who relish the feel of flesh against flesh. Here’s evidence that Jared likes to take it one step further.

Before Lili could ask him what he was doing, he pulled her out of her chair and into his arms. He captured her mouth, kissing her so deeply the action was as intimate as sex. It blistered her down to her toes and she could only hang on for the ride as his tongue invaded her mouth without her even thinking of protesting. Lili gripped his arms, feeling the hard muscles ripple under her touch. She kept her eyes closed, losing herself in the sensual clouds that moved around her. She felt wrapped in something that seeped into her bones. A heat that was untamed and had her wondering if the images that flared behind her closed eyelids were his or hers. Sheets flowed around them while their naked bodies writhed in ecstasy, a magick that was wild setting the room afire as they sought something on a far sensual plane that few could attain. A pairing that was so perfect that her senses cried at the beauty that flooded her mind. Now she knew he shared the same images.

from A Demon Does It Better by Linda Wisdom 2012

But demons have a sense of humor too. It’s necessary when a sexy demon is encountering a drunken kitty.

Jared turned away to hide the grin that was stretching his mouth to the limit.
     “And here I thought I’d seen it all,” he muttered, struggling not to laugh and quickly losing the battle.
     “Don’t even think about it,” she warned him. “You’ll only encourage her.”
     “I’m only a puss in a gilded cage,” Cleo warbled, rolling from one side to the other.
     Jared shook his head and walked into the kitchen. He dropped onto one of the chairs and buried his face in his hands, his shoulders shaking with the laughter he could no longer hold back. The sound sounded foreign and rusty to his ears. When was the last time he’d truly laughed in true amusement?
     “It’s not funny!” Lili stormed in, her magick flying around her in erratic flutters. “Cleo can be out of control when she’s sober, but you have no idea how bad she is when she’s drunk on catnip wine. One time she even snuck into a zoo and tried to seduce a lion!”

     He shook his head, unable to form any coherent words. His mouth worked. “My stomach hurts,” he finally gasped.

from A Demon Does It Better by Linda Wisdom 2012

It’s not thought that demons have a sense of right and wrong. Or worrying about others. Jared might have literally been branded a psychopath, but he reveals there’s much more to him than a dangerous streak.

Jared smiled and shrugged. “I don’t know. I had this strong feeling that you needed me and the shadows took over from there. It was like that first time I showed up at your house.” He touched her face with his fingertips, pulling them away, and staring at the dampness on his skin. “Don’t cry for us, love. We’ve all been demented for so long we don’t know anything else. Heal the ones above and leave us to our punishment.”

from A Demon Does It Better by Linda Wisdom 2012

And last but not least, this demon is a team player. No matter what he does, he does it better.

Jared smiled and stole her breath with his kiss. "I guess a witch and demon as a team do it even better.”

from A Demon Does It Better by Linda Wisdom 2012

Any ideas what you feel a demon does better?

Linda

A Demon Does It Better

by Linda Wisdom

Sourcebooks Casablanca

January 1, 2012

Paperback, 384 pages

ISBN: 9781402236723

Series: Demons #2

Genre: Paranormal Romance

Publisher Provided for Review

FTC Disclaimer: Provided by Publisher for honest review

Book Summary:

A madhouse is not place for a curious witch…
After more than a century, Doctor Lili Carter, witch healer extraordinaire, has returned to San Francisco and taken a job at Crying Souls Hospital and Asylum, where something peculiar and wicked is happening. Patients are disappearing, and Lili wants to know why.

And double dangerous for a demon…
Lili finds herself undeniably attracted to perhaps the most mysterious patient of all—a demented but seriously sexy demon named Jared. What’s behind the gorgeous chameleon demon’s late-night escapades?

Before long, Lili and Jared are investigating each other—and creating a whole new kind of magic.

Buy from: Powell’s | Indiebound | Amazon | B & N | Amazon UK | The Book Depository

A Little Bit About Linda

Linda Wisdom has published more than 70 novels with 13 million copies sold worldwide including traditional, paranormal, humor, action/adventure romance, and romantic suspense. Her bestselling books have been nominated for RT Book Reviews awards and the Romance Writers of America Rita Award. She lives with her husband in Murrieta, California. For more information, please visit www.LindaWisdom.com.

~ The Giveaway ~

Thanks to Linda and Sourcebooks Casablanca), UGR has two copies of A Demon Does It Better to giveaway! Per the publisher’s request, the giveaway is open to US and Canadian residents. No P.O. Boxes, please. The winner will be subject to the one per household rule. The books will be shipped to the winner directly from the publisher.

Here’s how to enter:

Enter the giveaway via the widget below. Everyone gets one entry an the other entries are optional and just increase your odds of winning!!
Per the publisher’s request, the giveaway is open to US and Canadian residents. No P.O. Boxes, please.
The winner will be subject to the one win per household rule. The books will be shipped to the winner directly from the publisher.
Giveaway Ends February 4, 2012 @ 12:01 am EST. Winner will be notified by e-mail and have 72 hours to respond.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Urban Girl’s Winners Club (1/22/12)

2012-01-22T22:18:00.000-05:00

It’s another Sunday, so time to announce the past week’s winners! Two giveaways closed this week but the Shameless Giveaway Hop is still going on through Friday and there are a couple of new giveaways happening this week, as well as the monthly commenter contest.

Congratulations to all the winners and Happy Reading!!

The Lure of Song and Magic by Patricia Rice (1/21)

Linda Henderson* – Confirmed Winner
Na* – Confirmed Winner
Winners sent to Publisher 1/28

PS ~ I Love You Blog Tour (1/21)

orchid7* – Confirmed Winner
Jade* – Confirmed Winner
Winners sent to Publisher 1/28

Each winner has been e-mailed and has 72 hours to provide me with their mailing address. If not, I will select another winner.

Shameless Giveaway Hop: 1/20–1/27

2012-01-20T17:46:00.001-05:00

I’m happy to be participating in this Giveaway Hop hosted by Jen at Red Hot Books, Brie at Romance Around the Corner and Michelle at Michelle's Book Blog. Kudos to these ladies for putting together such an awesome giveaway hop! More than 80 blogs and authors are taking part and you can find a different prize at every site.

The Shameless Giveaway Hop will be running from 1/20-1/27, so you will have plenty of time to visit all of the participating blogs. Good luck to you all and enjoy!

What do I win!

I will be giving away up to $10 worth of books, from either the Book Depository or Amazon.
Book selected must be an adult type book (no YA, mysteries, horror, sci-fi, children’s, biography, nonfiction, etc.) and have a hot guy on the cover. Just so we stick with the theme and to show your shamelessness.
Book must also be published and available at the bookseller.
Enter anytime before Friday, January 27, 2012 at 11:59 P.M. EST to be eligible to win.



a Rafflecopter giveaway

Other Participating Sites

Well, Drat!

2012-01-19T16:48:00.001-05:00
Here's hoping that this post will work. I managed to run out of the house early this morning without my laptop on the way to this conference. I'll I've got is my iPad, and although I do love it for web browsing, email and book reading - I do curse it for document preparation.

I had intended to post an interview with Amanda author of Scrumptious tomorrow and then my post for the Shameless Giveaway Blog Hop, but I'm not sure of my ability to cut and paste it all together. Sigh, I hate when I am stupid. Check back tomorrow to see how this saga ends!!

ETA: I'm able to do straight typing, but inserting pictures and scripts are totally defeating me! So if you are stopping by for the interview or blog hop, sorry, but both will be posted bait late - probably late Friday night! Thanks for bearing with me.

Review: Hold Me If You Can by Stephanie Rowe

2012-01-17T22:48:00.000-05:00

Hold Me If You Can
by Stephanie Rowe
Sourcebooks Casablanca
January 01, 2012, 416 pages
ISBN: 9781402241970 (paperback)
Genre: Contemporary Romance, Romantic Comedy, Paranormal Romance
Series: Soulfire #3
Publisher Provided for Review
FTC Disclaimer: Provided by Publisher for honest review

Buy from: Amazon | Indiebound | Powell?s | B & N | Amazon UK | The Book Depository

Book Summary:
Without her passions, she has no magic?
It's unfortunate for Natalie that Nigel Aquarian is so compelling. With his inner demons, his unbridled heat, and his "I will conquer you" looks, he calls to her in exactly the way that nearly killed her.

But losing control means losing her life?
That he's an immortal warrior and that her powers rise from intense passions would seem to make them a match made in heaven, but unless they embrace their greatest fears, they'll play out their final match in hell.

Sherri’s Thoughts:

Natalie Fleming is a Sweet, a supernatural whose blood is irresistible to the Deedub race. In Touch if You Dare, Natalie was killed by a Deedub, but escaped that fate when her sister put her soul in another body. She was pretty lucky, or was she?

Nigel Aquarian is a warrior with an artistic bend. He was a warrior held captive in the Den of Womanly Pursuits, which was a hellhole where he and his warrior friends were tortured for 150 years. Some of the torture devices are just plain crazy and I’m truly amazed at Ms. Rowe’s creativity (or insanity) in thinking them up. Each warrior does something to help curb is warrior instincts. Nigel’s is drawing the emotions of his subjects and from the moment he saw Natalie he has been attracted to her.

Natalie is a chocolatier in pursuit of the distinguished Michelin-O award while trying to avoid another killer Deedub. Nigel has sworn to protect her and the antics begin. Add a psycho dream genie, another Sweet and a hedonistic researcher with a mysterious past and you have an enjoyable hot mess of a story.

Natalie and Nigel were both likeable characters for me, not lovable though. Natalie was a bit whiny and indecisive for me. Here she was given this great second chance to change and make something of her life and she falls into the same patterns that she did the first time around (while complaining about everything). Nigel was more open to change and I liked him better than Natalie. However, both of them were just stuck in their past and the book’s pacing staled in the middle while getting the hero and heroine together.

Hold Me If You Can is the third book in the Soulfire series. For those that have read the other books, well, you know what you are going to read. For those that have not read any them, well, hold on, because its going to be a non-stop ride.

The otherworld created in the Soulfire series is like nothing you have read before. The craziness of virility balls and dominatrix mistresses' reforming warriors with flower arranging and knitting is not for everyone. At times, it’s a bit cheesy and had me shaking my head. But if you are looking for a read that is not a dark, heavy paranormal then Hold Me If You Can may be a read you would enjoy. Similar type series include Aisling Grey: Guardian Series and Silver Dragons by Katie MacAlister and MaryJanice Davidson’s Undead and Alaskan Royal Family series.

My rating for Hold Me If You Can is 3 flowers with a sensuality rating of 2 1/2 flames (Reviewed by Sherri).

Review: Scrumptious by Amanda Usen

2012-01-16T00:15:00.000-05:00

Scrumptious by Amanda Usen
Sourcebooks Casablanca
January 01, 2012, 320 pages
ISBN: 9781402259821 (paperback)
ISBN: 1402259824 (e-book)
Genre: Contemporary Romance, Romantic Comedy, Chick Lit
Publisher Provided for Review
FTC Disclaimer: Provided by Publisher for honest review

Buy from: Amazon | B & N | Powell’s | Amazon UK | The Book Depository | Indiebound | Books A Million

Book Summary:

Sparks between love 'em and leave 'em pastry chef and poker sharp Marlene Bennet and traveling chef-for-hire Joe Rafferty when the two culinary perfectionists are forced to share a kitchen. But several suspicious accidents at the restaurant convince Marlene and Joe to work together to uncover the saboteur. Maybe a little intrigue and high-stakes poker will be the perfect ingredients for these commitment-phobic foodies to whip up a happily ever after.

Lynn’s Thoughts:

Marlene Bennet’s current job is working in the bakeshop of her friend Olivia’s restaurant, Chameleon. She also has a crush on a friend of Olivia’s, Joe Rafferty. Marly lets us know that his sex appeal is lethal. She also doesn’t get along with Olivia’s husband Keith – he’s a real jerk.

Joe is Olivia’s salvation. He’s come along at the right time when Keith is no longer working at Chameleon’s. But Olivia doesn’t realize that Marly is what kept the restaurant going - even though they supposedly know each other very well.

We get to see the chemistry that Joe and Marlene have both in the kitchen and out of it. But because of family history, on both sides, they fight that chemistry tooth and nail. They also have commitment issues. But we know what they say about opposites.

I love how Amanda doesn’t make her characters perfect. They all seem to have their flaws. It’s what gives them personality and we can sympathize with their foibles. Even family members are a little quirky and have their own set of flaws. She also gives us just the right amount of romance and sex. None of the scenes are forced or feel out of place.

This story started off a little slow but picks up once Joe starts working at the Chameleon. I think the story would have been fine without so much character building of Olivia’s husband Keith. I don’t think that he really added that much to the storyline. I think if there were subtle hints here and there it would have been fine. Amanda also adds in a little comedy and mystery into the mix. This also helps to move the story along.

I love how Amanda gives her readers an insight into the inner workings of the restaurant business. It makes you think twice of what a chef goes through from day to day. Make sure to read the book through the Acknowledgements and about the author. It will give you some understanding as to where Amanda gets all her knowledge about food and the restaurant business. I think that the only thing that could have made this book any better was if there were some recipes included at the end.

You may want something decadent handy as you read because this book will certainly make you hungry. If you go to her website, http://amandausen.wordpress.com, she has a link to some recipes. If you like to cook, you may want to give some of them a try. Whether or not you’re a “foodie”, you will want to read this book. If you’re looking for a new author, add “Scrumptious” to your TBR list.

Rating: 3 1/2 flowers. Sensuality rating of a 3 1/2 (Reviewed by Lynn from Romance Reader Enthusiast)

Urban Girl’s Winners Club (1/15/12)

2012-01-15T21:18:00.001-05:00

It’s another Sunday, so time to announce the past week’s winners! Only the giveaway for Hold Me If You Can ended but there are still a couple of giveaways going on, as well as the monthly commenter contest. The Shameless Blog Hop will also start on Friday, so get your fingers ready enter a lot of giveaways!

Congratulations to all the winners and Happy Reading!!

Hold Me If You Can by Stephanie Rowe (1/14)

Linda Henderson*

Each winner has been e-mailed and has 72 hours to provide me with their mailing address. If not, I will select another winner.