Wicked Readings by Tawania

BLOG TOUR: REVIEW & GIVEAWAY - True Surrender - BY: Tracey Cramer- Kelly

2011-12-08T04:00:00.002-05:00

Reviewer: Tawania

Title: True Surrender

Author: Tracey Cramer-Kelly

BLURB:

When Major Aaron Bricewick is rescued from Afghanistan terrorists, he thinks the worst is over. But his personal journey is just beginning...

The first surprise is the amputation of one of his legs.

The second is the woman he left behind, now a widow with a 4-year-old son - and his new prosthetist (artificial limb maker).

He vows that losing his leg won't derail his career. But maintaining his outward appearance as a got-it-together officer becomes increasingly difficult as he faces one personal demon after another - and sees his career aspirations slipping away. And though he has no intention of expanding his life to include a woman, his heart has other ideas - and he finds himself questioning the very foundation of his personal beliefs.

When violence - and unexpected redemption - touch his life again, Aaron must make a stand. Which will he choose: duty or love?

REVIEW:

This story was very emotional, and had true depth. I greatly enjoyed reading it, and I look forward to reading more from this author.

Aaron Bricewick is a major in the US army. He was captured and injured by terrorist, then rescued and sent home to America to recover. Besides trying to cope with totorturous nightmares of his imprisonment, and adjusting to being home, Aaron is also trying to deal with his feelings of seeing Holly again. The one he let get away.

Holly Rossiter loved Aaron at one time, but because of their choices in life they were unable to stay together. Now widowed with a young son, seeing Aaron again in his condition was shocking and unexpected. On top of that Holly has life changing news to break to him concerning his health and future.

Holly has chosen to be there for Aaron during his time of need, and even though he hesitates to accept her support at first he realizes he needs someone. Can this be a new beginning for Aaron and Holly?

This novel was very well written. The plot, and characters draw you in and, and don't let go until the end of the story. I literally didn't want to put this book down. This story will cause you to examine your own faith, and believe in the blessings you receive everyday. Before I read this story, I wouldn't have thought I could be as strong as these two characters were. I wouldn't have believed that anyone could endure like that. They are true examples of the will of the human spirit.

If you want to read an inspirational novel, that will leave you breathless, and uplifted. I highly recommend True Surrender.

*****5 STARS

Publisher: Tracey Cramer-Kelly

Genre: Contemporary, Inspirational

Length: Full Length (272 pages)

Heat Level: Sensual

Rating: 4.5 Books

Giveaway Details:

Tracey will be giving away a Fallen Soldier T-Shirt (red, size TBD) to one randomly drawn commenter during the tour, and all proceeds benefit http://www.ourfallensoldier.com.

Please leave a comment, or question for Tracey, along with your email address!

Contest is open the duration of the tour.

Winner will be randomly selected and notified.

Remember -- the more tour stops you comment on, the greater your chances of winning!

Tour Stops:

November 25: REVIEW: Bea's Book Nook

November 29: REVIEW: Long and Short Reviews

November 30: REVIEW: It's Raining Books
December 1: INTERVIEW: Authors by Authors
December 2: REVIEW: Jersey Girl Book Reviews
December 5: INTERVIEW: Among the Muses
December 6: BLOG: Wake Up Your Wild Side
December 7: INTERVIEW: A Writer's Life
December 8: REVIEW: Wicked Readings By Tawania
December 9: REVIEW: A Writer's World
December 12: REVIEW: A Bookish Affair
December 13: REVIEW: Words of Wisdom from The Scarf Princess
December 14: REVIEW: Reviews by Molly
December 15: BLOG: AsianCocoa's Secret Garden
December 15 (2nd stop): INTERVIEW: Lisa Haselton's Reviews and Interviews
December 16: REVIEW: Cocktails and Books

AUTHOR BIO

Author Bio:

Tracey’s work fuses writing, music and visual imagery whenever possible, and includes novels, short stories, essays and music videos. True Surrender is her second novel. Her first, Last Chance Rescue, is an Indie Award finalist. Her first full-length music video, The Rose (Surrender Version), includes scenes from True Surrender. Her writing draws from her experience as an Army Reserve paramedic and helicopter pilot. When not managing the family business, Leader Motorcycle Accessories, she enjoys motorcycling and outdoor activities with her husband and two young children.

Web site/blog: http://www.traceycramerkelly.com/
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/TraceyCramerKelly
Twitter: http://twitter.com/TraceyCramerKel
Book Trailer: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kgtDW91q4DM&feature=player_profilepage

DEBUT AUTHOR BOOK SPOTLIGHT & A CONTEST

2011-11-28T18:30:00.000-05:00

Support Four Debut Authors and Snag $125!

Four books

Two Days

Great Prizes

With this contest, there is something for everyone and it’s SO simple to be in on the winning!

On November 28 and/or 29, purchase 1 or all 4 of the debut author’s books listed here. Then forward proof of purchase (the receipt Amazon sends you will do just fine) to : motionsrider@yahoo.ca and get up to 4 entries into a draw for a $100 Amazon gift card!

It’s that easy, no reviews, no hoops to jump through. Just a great .99 book or two. Or three or four. AND, if the person who wins the $100 Amazon Gift Card has purchased all 4 books, an additional $25 Amazon Gift Card will be awarded to the winner!

On top of that, 2 random commenter’s picked from 2 of our participating blogs will receive $5 gift Amazon gift cards . So, be sure to leave a comment and let us know what you think of the promo, the books, or the authors.

Winners will be chosen randomly, one entry per person, per book.

All winners will be announced on December 7th on Wringing Out Words (http://shannonmayer.blogspot.com)

“Between” by Cyndi Tefft

It just figures that the love of Lindsey Water's life isn't alive at all, but the grim reaper, complete with a dimpled smile, and Scottish accent.

After transporting souls to heaven for the last 300 years, Aiden MacRae has all but given up on finding the one whose love will redeem him and allow him entry through the pearly gates.

Torn between her growing attraction to Aiden and heaven's siren song, Lindsey must learn the hard way whether love really can transcend all boundaries.

Buy Link: AMAZON

“Until Dawn: Last Light” by Jennifer Simas

When darkness falls, whose side will you be on?

For the past six years, Zoë has been anything but “normal.” Struggling to accept her immortality and thrown into a war that’s been waging in the shadows for over a thousand years, Zoë must now become who she was meant to be, joining the other Chosen to save what’s left of humanity. When the endless night falls over the Earth, will she be able to save the one man who reminds her of what it is to be human, or will it be too late?

Until Dawn: Last Light is a story of death and despair, love and longing, hope and hopelessness, and the ability to survive and keep going even when it seems impossible – when you want nothing more than to give up.

Buy Link- AMAZON

“The Kayson Cycle” by Jonathan D. Allen

A stranger enters a dying town and makes a desperate plea…

The Kayson Cycle introduces the Kayson Brothers, a pair of faith healers who once wowed crowds in a traveling show but went their separate ways after a night in which a healing took a dark turn. Jeffrey Kayson disappeared into the wilderness and William Kayson, wracked by guilt, moved to the failing mining town of Calico Hills to build a nice, quiet life – one that has lasted for over ten years.

His quiet, predictable life crumbles when a mysterious stranger walks into his tavern bearing a proposal to find his long-lost brother and do the one thing that William has sworn to never do again - have his brother heal a woman. William soon learns that he can’t escape his family – or his destiny.

Includes an exclusive sample chapter of The Corridors of the Dead. Please note that this is a Kindle Single, and around 6,000 words in length.

Buy Link: AMAZON

“Sundered” by Shannon Mayer

A miracle drug, Nevermore, spreads like wildfire throughout the world allowing people to eat what they want, and still lose weight. It is everything the human population has ever dreamed of and Mara is no different. Only a simple twist of fate stops her from taking Nevermore.

As the weeks roll by, it becomes apparent that Nevermore is not the miracle it claimed. A true to life nightmare, the drug steals the very essence that makes up humanity and unleashes a new and deadly species on the world that is bent on filling its belly. Locked down within their small farm home, Mara and her husband Sebastian struggle against increasingly bad odds, fighting off marauders and monsters alike.

But Sebastian carries a dark secret, one that more than threatens to tear them apart, it threatens to destroy them both and the love they have for each other.

Now Mara must make the ultimate choice. Will she live for love, or will she live to survive?

Buy Link: AMAZON

HAPPY THANKSGIVING! A Thanksgiving Poem & Recipe For You

2011-11-24T13:49:00.000-05:00

THANKSGIVING

We walk on starry fields of white

And do not see the daisies;

For blessings common in our sight

We rarely offer praises.

We sigh for some supreme delight

To crown our lives with splendor,

And quite ignore our daily store

Of pleasures sweet and tender.

Our cares are bold and push their way

Upon our thought and feeling.

They hang about us all the day,

Our time from pleasure stealing.

So unobtrusive many a joy

We pass by and forget it,

But worry strives to own our lives

And conquers if we let it.

There's not a day in all the year

But holds some hidden pleasure,

And looking back, joys oft appear

To brim the pasts wide measure.

But blessings are like friends, I hold,

Who love and labor near us.

We ought to raise our notes of praise

While living hearts can hear us.

Full many a blessing wears the guise

Of worry or of trouble.

Farseeing is the soul and wise

Who knows the mask is double.

But he who has the faith and strength

To thank his God for sorrow

Has found a joy without alloy

To gladden every morrow.

We ought to make the moments notes

Of happy, glad Thanksgiving;

The hours and days a silent phrase

Of music we are living.

And so the theme should swell and grow

As weeks and months pass o'er us,

And rise sublime at this good time,

A grand Thanksgiving chorus.

~Ella Wheeler Wilcox~

PUMPKIN ROLL CAKE

Ingredients

CAKE:
3/4 cup cake flour
1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
1 1/4 teaspoons ground ginger
3/4 teaspoon ground allspice
6 large eggs, separated
1/3 cup granulated sugar
1/3 cup golden brown sugar, packed
2/3 cup canned pumpkin, packed
1/8 teaspoon salt
Powdered sugar

FILLING
1 teaspoon unflavored gelatin

2 tablespoons dark rum
1 cup whipping cream, chilled
3 tablespoons powdered sugar
6 tablespoons plus 1/2 cup English toffee pieces for garnish
Additional powdered sugar, for garnish
1 1/2 cups purchased caramel sauce, warmed, for garnish

DIRECTIONS

For the cake: Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F.

Line a 15 by 10 by 1-inch baking sheet with parchment paper. Spray the parchment with nonstick cooking spray.

1. Sift the flour, cinnamon, ginger, and allspice into a small bowl. In a separate bowl, beat the egg yolks, granulated sugar, and brown sugar until very thick. Add the pumpkin to the egg mixture and combine at a low speed until incorporated. Add the dry ingredients and beat at a low speed until mixed. In a separate bowl, beat the egg whites and salt until stiff but not dry. Fold into the cake batter, stirring with a spatula, until most of the white streaks are gone.

2. Spread the batter onto a baking sheet and smooth out. Transfer baking sheet to the oven and bake until a tester comes out clean, about 15 to 18 minutes. While the cake is hot, dust generously with powdered sugar. Loosen the edges and turn the cake out onto a kitchen towel. Fold the towel over the edge of the cake and roll up. Cool completely, edge down, for 1 hour in the refrigerator.

3. For the filling: Soften the gelatin in the rum. Stir over low heat until the gelatin dissolves. Cool. Beat the chilled whipping cream and powdered sugar in a large bowl until peaks form. Fold in the gelatin and 6 tablespoons English toffee pieces.

4. To assemble, unroll the cake and sprinkle with 4 tablespoons of English toffee pieces. Spread the filling over the toffee. Start at 1 long side of the cake roll and, using the towel as an aid, roll up the cake to encase the filling. Place the cake, seam side down, on a platter.

5. Trim the ends of the cake at a slight diagonal. Dust the cake with powdered sugar. Spoon some warm caramel sauce and the remaining toffee chips over the top of the cake. To serve, use a serrated knife to cut the cake crosswise into 1-inch thick slices. Drizzle more sauce on each slice and serve.

ENJOY!!

Blog Tour & Giveaway - Gabriel's Inferno By. Sylvain Reynard

2011-09-25T09:00:00.002-04:00

Reviewer: Tawania
Title: Gabriel's Inferno
Author: Sylvain Reynard

GABRIEL'S INFERNO

BLURB:

Professor Gabriel Emerson, a specialist in Dante and the art of seduction, believes he has already earned his exile to the lower circles of hell. Since redemption is impossible, there is no reason to refrain from indulging in a life of pleasurable sin, using his notorious good looks and sophisticated charm as a means to gratify his every whim. But when he meets Julia Mitchell, a brilliant, lovely, and innocent grad student with the achingly familiar eyes of an angel, all of his cynical convictions are challenged.

Her mysterious allure and the havoc she wreaks on his self-satisfied existence cause him to lash out at her, while her quiet beauty and innate goodness consistently undermine his control, tempting him beyond measure. Despite surviving a traumatic childhood, nothing has shaken Julia's faith that redemption is possible for everyone-everyone but her. Her unworthiness torments her, since the only man she will ever love has managed to forget her very existence, failing to even recognize her when they reconnect.

Too naive to see that Gabriel's hostility is a mask for his increasing obsession with her, Julia forces him to come to grips with his past while she continues to unwittingly torment his senses. His fascination grows into a dangerous preoccupation, for Julia is forbidden fruit . . . Will Gabriel survive the inferno, or will he succumb to the flames?

REVIEW:

I have to admit I think this book is brilliant, and I really enjoyed it.

Julia is a grad student who finds herself reunited with her first love, who do to certain circumstances doesn't remember who she is. Julia has built Gabriel up so far in her mind, that she is unprepared for the reality of who he really is. Julia is confused by his abrasive behavior when they first meet, and struggling to understand why he can't remember the night they shared. To make things worse no matter how bad he treats her, she can't let go of him. Julia sees his moments of kindness, his weakness towards her, and the love he really shares for his family.

Gabriel is a broken man in the truest sense of the word. He has demons from his past that he has tried to overcome. He meets Julia and recognizes that it is something about her that stirs him, and he's uncomfortable with his reaction to her. To hide his uneasiness from her, he lashes out at Julia, and treats her gruffly. Gabriel is unsure of himself in her presence, and it brings out the worst, and the best in him.

Julia and Gabriel both have to get over the demons of there past, if there is ever going to be a future for them.

This romance was dark and sweet at the same time. I liked Julia's personality, that she would always try to see the good in people, and not lower herself to be unkind to people even though they were to her. I also like how she would never give up hope on Gabriel even when her heart was in despair. I thought she was a strong heroine, especially given the events from her past. There were plenty of times I felt sorry for her, and was near tears while reading. There were also plenty of times in the book where I found her dialog witty, and amusing. I thought the author did a good job with that.

Gabriel was the perfect tortured soul looking for redemption. I think his pairing with Julia was brilliant. She was the perfect light to his darkness. I felt like Gabriel found himself through Julia. I was really impressed with how much he had grown throughout this story. I was also impressed with the author's use of poetry. I found myself several times while reading googling the passages, phrases, and poetic works portrayed in this book. The story flowed together wonderfully, and I found I was satisfied with the ending. I constantly find myself replaying scenes from the book in my mind, long after I have finished reading it. This was a book filled with heartbreak, and redemption. I am very impressed with this novel, and I will definitely be looking for future books from this author.

*****5 STARS

Product Details

Paperback: 513 pages

Publisher: Omnific Publishing; 1ST edition (2011)

Language: English

ISBN-10: 1936305623

ISBN-13: 978-1936305629

GIVEAWAY DETAILS

The publishers & KLB has graciously agreed to giveaway 2 copies of Gabriel's Inferno.

All you have to do to win a copy is leave a comment on this post.

The giveaway will end on Friday, September 30, 2011

The winners will be notified by email, and posted here on Saturday, October 1, 2011.

VOID WHERE PROHIBITED

GOOD LUCK!

BOOK TOUR & REVIEW: DECADENT DREAMS - BY. TY. LANGSTON

2011-08-30T14:15:00.000-04:00

Reviewer: Tawania
Title: Decadent Dreams
Author: Ty Langston
Publisher: LazyDay Publishing

BLURB:

Beth Mason seemingly has it all. A successful bakery/café called Decadent Dreams, good friends, and a nice home in Stamford, New York.

After her previous boyfriend dumped her six months before for not spending enough time with him, Beth decided that she had been through enough and wanted more in a relationship. Throwing herself back into the dating scene, Beth decided to go onto an online dating website called, ‘A Foreign Affair.’

Enjoying the different types of men from all over the world that ‘A Foreign Affair’ catered to, Beth became struck by a handsome man from Belarus named Yuri who was the former manager of the famed Rhapsody night club. After realizing that they had a lot in common, the two struck up a close, intense relationship.

Yuri, who’s been depressed since his nightclub burned to the ground and watching his best friend’s parents both die from a terminal illness, decided to take Beth up on an invite and join her for a fun-filled weekend in New York City.

With both of them full of emotions, will the weekend be just what they needed or more than they bargained for?

REVIEW:

I really enjoyed this story, and I'm looking forward to reading more from this author.

Beth is a bakery / cafe owner who's looking for more out of her relationships. Her ex boyfriend broke up with her six months ago, claiming she didn't spend enough time with him. After hearing from a customer that he was engaged, Beth decides to take a new approach to dating.

Beth tries a new dating website called "A Foreign Affair", she meets Yuri and they immediately hit it off. After corresponding by email, web cam, and phone calls for over six months, Beth takes a chance and ask Yuri to visit her in New York.

Yuri is hesitant to accept Beth's offer at first, but it doesn't take him long to agree, and they plan to meet up. The attraction is instant, and sizzling. They both realize that they are in love, and clueless about what each of them should do.

Yuri has obligations at home, that he can't just walk away from. His best friend and roommate Nicky is going through the heartbreaking tragedy of losing his mother to cancer, and Yuri's parents are home waiting for him as well. He doesn't have a job at the moment because the night club he was managing burnt down.

How can Beth and Yuri get past all the obstacles of their lives and be together?

This book had my attention from the moment I started reading it. The characters were well developed, and perfectly believable. I always love a strong heroine, and Beth is exactly that. She goes after what she wants no matter the cost, and that's respectable. Yuri is so hot, and exactly the right type for her personality. They didn't dodge around their feelings they came right out and expressed them.

The sex scenes in this novella were so hot I thought they would melt my kindle buttons off. They were very revealing without taking away from the story. The author did a very good job of creating a sizzling love story, that left you satisfied when you finished reading it. I would definitely like to read more about Beth, and Yuri. I am also intrigued with the secondary characters, I would love to find out how Nicky copes with all he's dealing with, and if he finds someone of his own.

I will definitely be keeping a eye out for Ms. Langston's future novels.

****4STARS

Format: Kindle Edition

File Size: 207 KB
Simultaneous Device Usage: Unlimited
Publisher: LazyDay Publishing (July 26, 2011)
Sold by: Amazon Digital Services
Language: English
ASIN: B005ESF0B2

Book Tour: Celestial Seduction -By: Jessica E. Subject

2011-08-03T12:37:00.000-04:00

Celestial Seduction

BLURB

At the end of his obligated commitment to the Space Service, Frey Berger decides to stay on Earth to further experience human emotions rather than return to Ginnun where his intended has already mated with another. Looking for real love and someone to accept him for what he is, Frey enlists in Madame Evangeline’s popular dating service. Although he does not understand the concept of a one-night stand, he hopes to find his perfect mate.

Carrie Cooper’s husband divorced her for someone who could provide him with children, leaving her with little self-confidence and no desire to let a man hurt her again. Her best friend convinces her to join a dating service, claiming Carrie needs to get laid, while not winding up with a broken heart since her date requires no commitment after the night is over.

Although several misunderstandings nearly derail them before the date has even begun, Carrie and Frey end up becoming closer than they ever believed possible. Still, Frey will need to convince Carrie that her perfect mate isn’t human at all, and that one night can lead to a forever love.

REVIEW

I thought this book was sweet, even though it was a quick read. I really liked Frey and Carries characters.

Carrie is recovering from a bad divorce, and with her job as a nurse she has no time to meet a man using conventional methods. Carrie's best friend Tamara convinces her to use a dating service to go out and have a little fun. Carrie is sceptical but decides to give it a try. When she sees Frey's profile picture Carrie is instantly attracted, and agrees to a date.

Frey has finished his tour with the space service, and refuses to leave earth for his home planet. Where Frey is from emotion is shunned, and he refuses to go back to that existence. It also doesn't help that his intended mate has mated with his best friend, so he really sees no reason to return there. Frey decides to use a dating service to find a mate that he can express his feelings for, and that will except his true alien nature. He chooses Carrie, and sets out to make her his.

Frey is nothing Carrie ever experienced before, but she feels a connection with him, and is able to except his alien nature. The story moves on pretty quickly after that, and the couple fall in love, and share some serious alien love.

I like sci fi romances, and this one did not disappoint. I really got a feel for the characters, and thought the story was well written. The author got her point across, and I was satisfied with the ending. As far as the story goes, it was ok for me. I would pick up another book by this author if I had the opportunity.

***3 STARS

Product Details

Format: Kindle Edition
File Size: 171 KB
Publisher: Decadent Publishing Company (June 29, 2011)
Sold by: Amazon Digital Services
Language: English
ASIN: B0058V67G2

REVIEW: The Guardians, Book 1 - By. Mandy M. Roth

2011-06-09T16:40:00.000-04:00

Reviewer: Tawania
Title: The Guardians, Book 1
Author: Mandy M. Roth

BLURB:

Ass-kicking Guardian, Madelyn Mason, is the only female in a sea of supernatural males. College student by day, she spends her nights fighting for mankind--the innocents, the ones who have no clue that the things of nightmares walk among the living.

Larger than life Hollywood hunk, Brady Devens, has won the hearts of millions of adoring fans. But, the only heart he wants to win is that of his mate, Madelyn. She hasn't shown an interest in him as anything more than a friend, and he’s beginning to think the Powers That Be goofed.

In this world of magik, mishap, demons, gods, and pleasure nymphs, anything is possible. Can they find a love that transcends time and space or will the Powers That Be decide maybe they weren’t destined for one another after all?

REVIEW:

I really enjoyed this book! It was a very exciting read, and kept me entertained throughout.

Madelyn is a guardian, she protects humans from all sorts of evil things that go bump in the night. Mady is the first female guardian ever born, and is protected above all else. She's carrying hidden scars from an incident that happened three years ago. Mandy just got out of a relationship that ended bad, and is not interested in picking up another one at the moment.

Brady is a full blood Lycan, and Mandy is his mate even though she's unaware of it. Brady has been watching over her, as a trusted friend. He doesn't know how to tell Mandy she's his mate without scaring her off. Brady has been waiting for Mandy for over three hundred years, and he knows now is the time to take his chance.

As I stated before this book was a exciting read. There is so much going on that you stay completely engaged throughout the book. I literally couldn't put this book down. The back story is captivating, and leave you wanting more. There were so many twist, and unexpected revelations, that I had to reread a few paragraphs just to make sure that I read it right.

The secondary characters were all very interesting, and left you wanting to know what's going to happen with them in future installments of this series. There was also a lot of humor, and heart touching moments in this book. The story was action packed, and had me on the edge of my seat a few times.

Brady is the perfect alpha male, with a heart of gold, and a tiny jealous streak where Mandy is concerned. Once you read this story you will understand why. I really liked his character, and was very pleased about how things developed for him in this book.

Madelyn is beautiful, sassy, tough, and down to earth. She is a heroine that I definitely enjoyed reading. I liked everything about her, and couldn't find any faults with her. I loved her interaction with the secondary characters.

I have to say Ms. Roth has a winner on her hands with this book. All her characters are developed enough that you have all the information that you need, and you're not left lacking or wanting. The world building was great, and I can't wait to read more. When I finished reading The Guardians at 3:00 this morning, I immediately went to search for book 2, but unfortunately it's not out yet. I did however pick up a few of her other books, and I can't wait to dive in.

I have definitely added Mandy Roth to my auto- buy list. I really, truly, hope I gave this book the justice it deserves in this review. It was that good, and I want to read it over again NOW.

*****5 Stars

Product Details

Format: Kindle Edition
File Size: 408 KB
Simultaneous Device Usage: Unlimited
Publisher: The Raven Books; 2 edition (July 30, 2010)
Sold by: Amazon Digital Services
Language: English
ASIN: B003XYE9AM

BOOK TOUR & GIVEAWAY- DEAD, UNDEAD, OR SOMEWHERE IN BETWEEN - BY. J.A. SAARE

2011-05-27T10:07:00.000-04:00

DEAD, UNDEAD, OR SOMEWHERE IN BETWEEN (RHIANNON'S LAW #1)

BLURB

One bad corpse can ruin your whole day.

No one knows that better than Rhiannon Murphy.
She left behind the flash and sass of Miami for the no-nonsense groove of New York City, eager for a clean slate and a fresh start. A bartender by trade, a loud mouth by choice, and a necromancer by chance; she managed to keep her nifty talent hidden from those around her—until now.

The deliciously good-looking vampire, Disco, knows her secret. When he strolls into her bar to solicit help investigating the mysterious disappearances of his kind from the city, Rhiannon discovers he’s not the kind of person that appreciates the significance of the word no.

But in a world where vampires peddle their blood as the latest and greatest drug of choice, it’s only a matter of time before the next big thing hits the market. Someone or something is killing vampires to steal their hearts, and unlike Rhiannon, this isn’t their first stroll around the undead block.

EXCERPT

I released an exaggerated sigh and lowered my head,dropping my guard just long enough for Disco to make his move. His cold hand grasped my arm and my chin jolted up.

“We need to talk.”

“Let go of me, Disco,” I warned heatedly. I would have attempted to yank free but I’d only embarrass myself. Vampires are strong, unbelievably strong, and his grip would be as unbreakable as steel.

“Only if you promise we can talk.” His blue eyes flashed, striking against his pale skin and golden blond hair. His face was long and smooth; a strong squared jaw bringing it all together. With high cheekbones, a perfectly straight and lean nose, and full lips, he would forever be a twenty something looker frozen permanently in time.

“Not here,” I grated between clenched teeth. I glanced around. No one had noticed our little chat yet, and I couldn’t afford to lose my job. Personal relations during office hours were a big no-no. But this one wouldn’t take no for an answer.

“Where?” His grip loosened and he studied me cautiously.

“After close, meet me outside, around the back.”

I didn’t bother snatching my arm free until he let go and I turned away, walking quickly to the bar. I returned to my spot, apologizing and pouring a free one for the unlucky schmuck with a purple thumb. Tonight was not going to be a good night, and it wasn’t even over yet.

I glared at the clock - 12:58am. Wonderful.

I was on for another hour, and instead of making the gym for some quality muscle burn, I had a meeting with a creature who scared the piss out of me.

BOOK TRAILER

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

J.A. Saare's Biography

J.A. Saare is a multi-published author in varying genres and has written stories featured in horror magazines, zombie romance anthologies, and flash fiction contests. Her work has a notable dark undertone, which she credits to her love of old eighties horror films, tastes in music, and choices in reading, and have been described as “full of sensual promise,” “gritty and sexy,” and “a breath of fresh air.”

Currently she is penning numerous projects within the urban fantasy, erotic and contemporary, and of course, paranormal romance categories.

Those interested in her "naughtier" side can visit her alias, Aline Hunter, at http://www.alinehunter.com/

VISIT THE AUTHOR'S WEBSITE

Product Details

Format: Kindle Edition
File Size: 544 KB
Page Numbers Source ISBN: 1770650229
Publisher: Mundania Press LLC (May 2, 2011)
Sold by: Amazon Digital Services
Language: English
ASIN: B004ZH8FQU
Lending: Enabled

GIVEAWAY DETAILS

One lucky commenter will receive a PDF copy of Dead, Undead, Or Somewhere In Between

1. Leave a comment about anything on this post.

2. Leave your email address with your comment, so I can contact you if you win.

3. Giveaway Ends Tuesday, May 31, 2011

Void Where Prohibited

New Release Spotlight: Forever Freed - By. Laura Kaye

2011-05-19T10:00:00.014-04:00

BLURB

My heart may not beat, but that doesn’t mean it’s not broken.

After an isolated century mourning the murder of my long-ago family, I crave the irresistible scents of joy and love that radiate from my new neighbors, a single mother and her young daughter. I’m starved for their blood, and for the healing respite from my ancient grief that will accompany drinking down their life-giving emotions. Now to lure them in.

But they surprise me. Little Olivia accepts me without fear or reservation—talking, smiling, offering innocent affection that tugs at my long-lost humanity. Her mother, Samantha, seeks me out when she should stay away, offering sweet friendship, and calling to the forgotten man in me. They lure me in.

Aw, Dio, Lucien, run and spare them while you can…

EXCERPT

I stepped out of the shower and dried off, then flushed the toilet for the show of it. When soft knocks landed on the bathroom door, I secured the towel around my waist and opened it.

Samantha leaned on the jamb, her eyes widening as they locked on my bare torso. She reached up and caught a droplet of water running from my hair down my shoulder. Then she placed her hands on my chest, and the fingers on her right hand caught another stray droplet. When she brushed my Blood Mark, I sucked in a breath. Her lips fell open as she watched a third droplet slide around the base of my neck to my chest.

She leaned forward and kissed my skin over the stray droplet and let her tongue just meet my flesh as she drank the water into her mouth. I closed my eyes at the sensation. Her drinking off me was too fucking close to the fantasy of her drinking from me, and all at once the blood turned molten in my veins.

Oblivious to the seismic activity building under my skin, she continued to kiss across my chest. I wrapped an arm around her waist, the heat of her lust searing me. I burned from the inside and the out.

Ah, Cristo. I wanted her so damn bad.

Between kisses, she taunted, “So, I was just wondering if I could get you to growl again.”

I gripped her more firmly against me, wanted her to feel exactly what she was doing to me. I ground the thick column between my legs into the soft flesh of her belly. She moaned appreciatively. Her heart thundered between our chests. And then she was successful in her quest. She bit me.

She flicked her tongue out against my nipple and sucked it into her mouth. Then her teeth closed around the taut peak in a series of playful nips. And I growled. She couldn’t know the significance of her actions—for vampires, biting was very much a part of sex. And she also couldn’t know how wild her bites made me feel.

Instinctively, I grabbed her roughly with both arms and spun her around so her back pressed against the wall next to the bathroom door. She gasped, but I distracted her with my mouth on her lips, jaw, ear, neck. I pinned her hands next to her on the wall. Her chest heaved against me. The scent of her arousal was thick and sweet in the air, making me want her worse than I already did.

She rubbed her thighs together as I ran wet open-mouthed kisses down into the V-neck of her shirt. I rolled my hips into her. She moaned. My teeth tingled, and I had just enough awareness to keep my fangs retracted. But I wanted to sink myself into her—my fangs and my sex—more than I’d wanted almost anything ever before.

“Lucien.”

My name on her lips was an incredible invitation, so filled with need and longing. “God, I want to touch you.”

“Please.”

Book Trailer

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

A multi-published author of paranormal, contemporary and erotic romance, Laura Kaye’s hot, heartfelt stories are all about the universal desire for a place to belong. Laura grew up amidst family lore involving angels, ghosts, and evil-eye curses, cementing her life-long fascination with the supernatural. Though an avid fiction writer as a teenager, a career as a historian took her in other directions until recently. Now that Laura’s inner muse has awakened, she’s constantly creating new story ideas! Laura lives in Maryland with her husband, two daughters, and bad dog, and appreciates her view of the Chesapeake Bay every day.

WHERE YOU CAN FIND LAURA

Find Laura on the interwebz:

Website: http://www.laurakayeauthor.com/
Blog: http://laurakayeauthor.blogspot.com/
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/home.php#!/laurakayeauthor
Twitter: @laurakayeauthor
Publisher Website: http://thewildrosepress.com/index.php?main_page=index&manufacturers_id=800
Goodreads: http://www.goodreads.com/user/show/3703867

Product Details

Format: Kindle Edition

File Size: 329 KB

Simultaneous Device Usage: Unlimited

Publisher: The Wild Rose Press; Black Rose edition (May 16, 2011)

Sold by: Amazon Digital Services

Language: English

ASIN: B0051BJ0CM

REVIEW: Surrendering To The Right Man (Soul Food Diner) - By. A.C. Mason

2011-05-18T14:37:00.003-04:00

Reviewer: Tawania
Title: Surrendering To The Right Man (Soul Food Diner)
Author: A.C. Mason

BLURB:

Indy Kent's motorcycle accident last New Year's Eve forced her to fight for things she took for granted. This holiday she makes a special request of her best friend, Liam Boyd, the “I want you to deflower me.” Desperate to get Liam out of her system, a holiday sexcapade seems like just the cure from her long harbored, unreciprocated feelings.

But there is a complication, and his name is Tim, Liam's older brother. Tim's touch last New Year's Eve ignited an unexpected flame between them. The time they spent together during her recovery only furthered her attachment to him.

Emotions whirl; her secret looms. The hotter the burn between the sheets with Liam, the more Indy's yearning drifts toward Tim.

The incident that caused her accident and changed her life might save her heart.

Can she ultimately surrender her heart to the right man?

REVIEW:

Indy was in a accident a year ago, and she will not discuss it with her best friend Liam. What Liam doesn't know is the cause behind her desperate flight to get away from his house, and her reckless actions that lead to her accident. All Liam knows is that he's in love with Indy, and has been for a while. He plans to show her this holiday season how much she means to him.

There is a complication in Liam's plan, his brother Tim. Tim stuck around to help Indy through her surgeries, and rehabilitation after her accident. Liam feels like there is something going on between Indy, and Tim, but he has no proof.

Indy thinks she will finally be able to get Liam out of her system, and be able to move on if she just has sex with him. She has a secret involving her accident, and Tim. Indy plans to tell Liam the reason behind her accident after he has given her what she wants from him, a holiday sexcapade.

The problem with Indy's plan is Tim. Every time, Indy is around Tim, she gets hot and bothered. Indy realizes that she is harboring some kind of feelings for Tim, and she doesn't know what to do or how to handle the situation. She's knows that the secret her, and Tim carry can potentially cause Liam to be finished with the both of them. What is a girl to do?

I really liked the premise of this story. I am a sucker for a friends to lovers story, and I couldn't wait to dive in to this one. I really love Ms. Mason's story telling. The heroine was sassy and believable, both the brothers were gorgeous, caring, manly studs.

The storytelling was very believable, and the sex scenes were scorching. I have to admit however that the story did not turn out how I was expecting, and I did have some closure issues with one of the leading male characters. Overall the story was a good read, and I was satisfied with the ending.

I recommend this book for anyone who likes to read about someone overcoming great adversity, and realizing who there true love was right in front of them the whole time. This story will have you wondering about Surrendering To The Right Man.

3 1/2 STARS

Product Details

Format: Kindle Edition
File Size: 263 KB
Publisher: Decadent Publishing Company (April 20, 2011)
Sold by: Amazon Digital Services
Language: English
ASIN: B004XJ676A
Lending: Enabled

Recipe Saturday - "Mama Mia" Ravioli Bites

2011-05-14T14:29:00.000-04:00

Hi All,
Here is a quick and easy appetizer recipe that packs a punch. I made these for a client and received lots of praise for them. I hope you will give them a try, and let me know what you think.

"Mama Mia" Ravioli Bites

Prep Time: 30 Minutes

Total Time: 1 Hr 15 Minutes

Makes: 48 Appetizers

INGREDIENTS:

2 Cans (8Oz Each) Pillsbury® Crescent Recipe Creations® refrigerated seamless dough sheet

1 Container (15oz) Whole Milk Ricotta

1 Cup Shredded Mozzarella Cheese (4oz)

1/4 Cup Grated Parmesan Cheese

2 Tablespoons Finely Chopped Fresh Basil Leaves

1/2 Teaspoon Black Pepper

1/4 Teaspoon Of Salt

1 Egg

2 1/2 Oz Thinly Sliced Salami Finely Chopped (1/2 CUP)

1 1/2 Oz Sun-dried Tomatoes in Oil, Drained, Finely Chopped (1/4 CUP)

DIRECTIONS

1. Heat oven to 375°F. Spray 24 mini muffin cups with Crisco® Original No-Stick Cooking Spray.

2. On work surface, unroll 1 dough sheet; cut into 24 (2-inch) squares. Place 1 dough square in bottom and up side of each of 24 muffin cups, letting points of dough extend over edge of cup.

3. In medium bowl, mix remaining ingredients. Spoon about 1 tablespoon cheese mixture into each cup.

4. Bake 10 to 15 minutes or until golden brown. Cool in pans 3 minutes; remove from pan to cooling rack. Repeat with remaining dough and filling, cooling pans between batches. Serve warm.

ENJOY!!

Tuesady Is Poem Day! The Mystery - By. Sara Teasdale

2011-05-10T19:15:00.000-04:00

The Mystery

The Mystery
Your eyes drink of me,

Love makes them shine,

Your eyes that lean

So close to mine.

We have long been lovers,

We know the range

Of each other's moods

And how they change;

But when we look

At each other so

Then we feel

How little we know;

The spirit eludes us,

Timid and free --

Can I ever know you

Or you know me?

~ Sara Teasdale ~

New Release Spotlight

2011-05-03T10:58:00.005-04:00

Hello My Lovelies,

Here are two releases this week by two of my favorite authors. I hope you will check them out, and give them a try. Happy Reading :)

Unwrap Me
By: Savannah Chase
Published By: Dare Empire eMedia Productions
Published: Apr 30, 2011
ISBN # 9780987130914
Word Count: 11,750

Buy Link All Romance

*BLURB*
Makayla has the perfect boyfriend and a fulfilling job. A hot, sinful threesome would make things perfect for this prim and proper librarian. An upcoming anniversary provides the ideal opportunity, if only she can gather the nerves to ask. Confessing could bring her ultimate pleasure, or end her relationship forever.

Is the risk of losing one man really worth a forbidden fantasy?

*EXCERPT*
Makayla awoke to a hot, searing kiss. It came fast and full of hunger, setting every part of her being on fire. Her pulse raced frantically. Her heart beat out of control. She reciprocated the kiss and delved her tongue into his warm, inviting mouth as he sensually explored hers. The man’s lips abandoned her suddenly. It left her unsatisfied and wanting more. She sat up in disapproval. Why had he left? You didn’t get a woman all worked up and then vanish.
Looking around, she saw that she was sitting in a four-poster bed that was not her own. Each post was carved with statues of nude women. So exquisite, and intriguing. Her surroundings were ones she’d never seen before.
The walls were painted a dark, burgundy color. The furniture appeared classic and antique. Erotic paintings of nude women hung on the walls. The room was dim, but lit by beautiful candlelight.
“Josh, where did you go?” she called out.
Silence filled the room.
In the blink of an eye, she found herself standing next to the bed dressed in a silk, sheer white, floor-length nightgown.
Suddenly, the black-haired stranger reappeared in the room once again. He wore nothing but a black mask concealing his identity. It wasn't Josh. But who was this mysterious stranger?
He moved like a tiger- so graceful- as he walked toward her. Each footstep quiet as it hit the floor. Every contour of his body beautifully sculpted. The color of his skin reminded her of sweet caramel.
She had an urge to run her tongue down his body. Their eyes met as arousal began to slowly take over her. His brown eyes locked on her. She couldn’t deny the fact that everything about him was inviting in every possible way. How could she lust after another man when Josh was her everything? This was just a dream. Something her mind concocted because of the events of last evening. She'd never betray Josh, no matter what.
She reached out and touched his chest the moment he stopped in front of her. His flesh was warm, so soft. His eyes seemed to gaze through hers, as if they were looking right into her soul.

Authors Website

Take Me Away

By: Tina Donahue

Published By: Ellora's Cave Publishing

Publishing Date: May 6, 2011
ISBN: 9781419934407

Buy Link Ellora's Cave

*Blurb*

She's everything he escaped…and all that he desires

Three years ago, Kyle turned his back on a pro-football career and being the target of tabloids or gold-digging groupies. Craving privacy, he gets it at his roadhouse in Northern California until Lexi Sands invades his life. Indulged and surely phony, she's exactly what Kyle fled.

An actress since childhood, Lexi's fresh out of an anger management program, court-ordered when she lashed out at a badgering paparazzo. Weary of the press's harsh scrutiny, she sees Kyle's secluded cabin as the ideal place to hide out and him as a damn-near perfect alpha male. Deliciously virile. Protective. Principled. She offers him serious cash to let her stay for two weeks, assuring there will be no complications or touching.

Yeah, right. Passion flares, along with tenderness. Kyle recognizes how lonely Lexi really is, while she's falling hard. Through intimate days and impassioned nights, they explore their most shameless needs, until a cruel betrayal exposes their growing love, forcing a choice neither anticipated.

*EXCERPT*

“Let me get this straight,” Kyle Griffin said. His attention remained on the flat screen TV suspended above the bar, the Braves-Phillies game. “You're asking me to shack up with Vampira.”

Pete Wolnecki made a strangled noise.

Kyle had no idea if Pete was stifling laughter or choking on his five-alarm chili. Its spicy aroma mingled with an abundance of fragrances--the sweet scent of corn, tomatoes and cheese from the other Mexican fare, the tang of foreign and domestic beer, smoke that clung to the patron's clothing, faint perfume from the ladies and a hint of pine from the Douglas firs surrounding this place.

Clearing his throat, Pete spoke in a raspy voice just loud enough for Kyle to hear. “Her name's Lexi.”

Several men groaned before Kyle could.

The guy closest to him whined, “Did you see that? The receptionist in my office plays better ball.”

“With any guy she can find,” his buddy said.

They both laughed.

The game broke for a commercial. Good thing. The Braves were having a shitty night, no different than the kind Kyle had experienced during the worst days of his pro-football career. With his back to the TV, he planted his elbows on the lip of the polished oak bar and regarded two young women who stood yards away at the pool table.

Dressed in stretchy halter-tops, denim short-shorts and black flip-flops, the ladies giggled in unison, like a well-practiced duet. The guys with them winced when the shorter of the girls overshot the ball, the tip of her cue just missing the table's green felt.

With a look that was all innocence, she asked her date, “It's still my turn until I hit it, right?”

Kyle couldn't watch. He swung his gaze to the left of them, the small stage for local bands that played on the weekends. Beyond it, snuggled against the wall, were a series of booths that offered subdued lighting and privacy. In the last one, away from everyone else, sat Vampira.

Her name's Lexi.

Whatever. For the second time tonight, Kyle regarded her black shoulder length hair and bangs, black clothing, black lipstick and nail polish. The Goth/vampire look with a touch of Frederick's of Hollywood thrown in given her denim mini skirt and short-sleeved top. His eyes flicked lower. The ends of her top tied beneath her ample breasts to bare her midriff, a smooth expanse of taut, creamy flesh.

He cleared his throat at its sudden tightness and inched his gaze higher. Anywhere else, her get-up would have gotten her noticed. Here in Marin County, California, staring was politically incorrect. The weirder one appeared the less attention one got. There were simply too many locals who looked as she did…slightly strange.

Of course, they weren't also oddly seductive.

Against his better judgment, Kyle dragged his gaze over her again, taking his time since she didn't seem to notice him or anyone else. Her full attention remained on the TV commercial, as though she was really into the product. Pepsi by the sound of the jingle.

Its music grew thunderous, frenzied with fake joy. Around him, beer bottles clinked against each other or on top of the tables and bar. The guys at the pool table laughed.

Warmth radiated from Kyle's chest to his neck. Her irises sparkled, reflecting the light from garish neon signs for Coors, Bud, Miller, Corona. From this distance, her eyes appeared to be light blue, framed by sooty lashes. She was young, no more than mid-twenties, her features not beautiful but decidedly pretty, her figure definitely worth a third or fourth stare.

The game resumed. Men readjusted their bulk on their chairs or stools.

Without pause, she lowered her gaze to the drink between her hands, its dark amber color making it soda or ice tea.

Kyle glanced at her glass, sweaty with moisture, then edged his scrutiny back to her breasts. The lush globes wiggled slightly with each of her deep sighs. She did that a lot. He wasn't about to consider why. Riveted by her clingy top, he imagined her sweet little nipples hard and puckered, prepared for a man's mouth. So, what color were her nipples anyway? A dusky rose to match her black hair or were they pink to complement her milky skin? Unless she'd painted the areolas and tips black too.

Rather than surprising Kyle, the thought intrigued. Would they taste of licorice or chocolate or something even better, the succulent flavor of soft female flesh?

She shifted slightly and brought her hand to her top, pulling the deep V of the neck closer together, covering herself, keeping the view from him.

Busted, Kyle wasn't about to look her in the eye or encourage her in the least. Ignoring the dull, needy ache in his groin, he gave a parting glance to her fringed cowgirl boots, and turned to see the girl who'd nearly desecrated the pool table. Or rather, his pool table. For three years now, everything in Kickoff's Roadhouse belonged to him, Pete and the bank.

Bent at the waist, the girl wiggled her ass while preparing to take her next shot. The backs of her legs were seamless. Her black thong peeked from the top of her short-shorts, which bared the bottom of her ass nicely.

At any other time, Kyle might have enjoyed the view. Knowing the damage she might inflict on his table, he clenched his teeth and waited for the worst.

“Sands,” Pete said, dropping his spoon into the bowl.

It clattered loudly. The girl's cue clacked against the side of the table, no doubt denting the wood with her missed shot.

“Oh shit,” she moaned.

Blindly, Kyle reached behind himself for his Heineken.

Pete leaned so close Kyle could smell chili pepper and a hint of Coors on the man's breath.

“Lexi Sands,” Pete said, his voice at a pitch those around them couldn't possibly overhear. “And I'm not suggesting you shack up with her. Like I said, she needs a place to stay for a couple of days, away from the publicity, the crowds, you know? No more than a week. You have an extra room in your cabin. She's willing to pay. Three grand. I did mention that, right?” He eased away and plowed ahead, not waiting for an answer. “We could use the dough for this joint.”

Authors Website

It's Thursday... What are you reading?

2011-04-21T16:32:00.000-04:00

Hey Everyone,

It's Thursday again, and I want to know what everyone is reading. I'm finally getting back in the swing of things with my blog, and it feels so good. So, this is what I'm reading this week.

Deep Within My Heart - by. Rie McGaha

Blurb:

When Mary-Michael Murray is orphaned, she travels with her nurse from Ireland to live with her aunt in America. Settling in New Orleans, Aunt Margaret decides it's high time Mary finds a husband but she doesn't count on Mary falling in love with a pirate. Caleb Jordan doesn't believe in marriage, after all a pirate's life is not accommodating to the family life. So why can't he get Mary out of his mind and why does he keep going back to New Orleans to see her?

Rhie McGaha is a new to me author. I am really enjoying this book though. I haven't read a historical romance in a while, but this book reminds me why they are so good. I will be back with a review for this story.

I am also reading...

Stolen Hearts - By. Karen Erickson

Blurb:

Stolen Hearts is a stand-alone sequel to Virgin Jewels.Celeste Anderson doesn't believe in love at first sight. She intends to marry someone with the same interests and financial aspirations and have a neat, orderly life. But there's something to be said for the thrill of the unknown — and when Alex enters her family jewelry store, her body decides it's more than ready for a few thrills.Desperate for his father's approval, ex-jewel thief Alex Moretti reluctantly agrees to steal an antique diamond bracelet from a tiny, ill-secured shop. No problem for a pro like Alex — until he meets Celeste. Now the only thing he's interested in stealing is her heart.

I am very familiar with Karen's books, and I love them. I picked this book up because it was a free read, and I'm glad I did. I love Karen's writing style, and her characters leap off the page. I will definitely let you guys know my thoughts on this book.

Well that's my rundown

What Are You Reading?

REVIEW: Bid For Love BY: Savannah Chase

2011-04-20T15:51:00.001-04:00

Reviewer: Tawania

Title: Bid For Love

Author: Savannah Chase

Blurb:

Her fantasy man is up for auction. Will Nico dare to bid?

Nico's history of romantic disasters has taught her when she gambles on men, she's fated to lose. That doesn't stop her from secretly lusting after Jeff, the handsome construction worker she sees every day on her way to work.

When the New York's Sexiest Bachelor auction begins and Jeff comes up on the block, she's seriously tempted to place a bid. The wager can't be taken lightly -- It might be for a good cause, but she's making a bid for love...

Review:

This book was soo good!

I really enjoyed Nico's & Jeff's characters, I also had a lot of respect for the relationship Nico had with her friends. It really made me wish I had friends like them.

Nico makes all the wrong decisions regarding her love life, She is seriously crushing on the gorgeous construction worker she sees everyday. She really wants to get his attention, but she isn't sure how to approach him.

Jeff has definitely been noticing Nico, but the poor guy is just to shy to do anything about it. They are both suffering from the same doubt, and unsureness. When Nico sees that Jeff is up for auction, she realizes that this might be the chance she has been waiting for. Will Nico seize the moment? Will Jeff finally see his dream of being with Nico realized? Well... You will have to read their story to find out.

This book was so cute! There were so many lost opportunities between Nico, and Jeff that it had me wondering if they were ever going to get together. There near misses had me so frustrated I wanted to cry out with the injustice of it all, and hunt down the author and demand that they get it together. That is what made the story so good. It was like it was fate. When they finally did get together the chemistry was explosive, and sizzled off the pages.

Mrs. Chase weaves this story together so well, that I didn't feel like I missed out on anything. I am also totally jealous of the friendship between the women in this story, they represent what true friendship is really about. There was also a good dose of humor in this book, and it kept me back in forth between laughter, and tears. I honestly had a big grin on my face when I finished this story.

I recommend this book to anyone who wants to read a truly amazing love story, and feel enlightened & uplifted in the end.

*****5Stars!

Product Details

Format: Kindle Edition

File Size: 111 KB

Publisher: Lyrical Press, inc. (August 18, 2008)

Sold by: Amazon Digital Services

Language: English

Book Tour: Eternal Rider By: Larissa Ione & Giveaway

2011-04-19T08:00:00.002-04:00

~ Eternal Rider ~

Lords of Deliverance

Book One
Grand Central Publishing
March 29, 2011
ISBN: 978-0446574495

LarissaIone.com

buy from: Indiebound Amazon B & N Borders Powell’s

They are here. They ride. The Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse

His name is Ares, and the fate of mankind rests on his powerful shoulders. If he falls to the forces of evil, the world falls too. As one of the Four Horsemen of the Apocalypse, he is far stronger than any mortal, but even he cannot fight his destiny forever. Not when his own brother plots against him.

Yet there is one last hope. Gifted in a way other humans can't-or won't-understand, Cara Thornhart is the key to both this Horseman's safety and his doom. But involving Cara will prove treacherous, even beyond the maddening, dangerous desire that seizes them the moment they meet. For staving off eternal darkness could have a staggering cost: Cara's life.

*Excerpt* (Taken from Authors website)

Ares spun the woman around so her back was to the sea, her bare feet close to the cliff edge. “Who are you?” He gripped her shoulders firmly, his fingers digging into the blue flannel pajama top dotted with penguins. She wore penguin pajamas.

“P-please…” The wind whipped her sandy-blonde hair into her face, and some weird impulse made him want to brush it away.

He resisted. “Who are you?”

“I’m not…not a demon.” Her breath sawed in and out of her so violently that he half-expected her to pass out.

“What is your name?”

She blinked as if she didn’t understand the question, and when he repeated it, she finally murmured, “Cara. It’s Cara. I’m not a demon. I swear, I’m not a demon.”

“You keep saying that.” He inhaled, once again catching the bitter scent of her terror, but also, the faint, smoky tint of hellhound. She’d been in direct contact with one. “Why were you handling a hellhound? Were you attacked?”

A tiny squeak came from her, as if fear had closed up her throat. Hellhounds could do that to a person. But he didn’t have time to coddle a delicate female through her trauma. He needed intel, and he needed it now.

He snapped his fingers in front of her face, startling her out of her freaked-out trance. “Did The Aegis save you?”

“The men? They…they tried to kill the pup.”

Ares couldn’t decide if she was a little…slow…or just scared out of her gourd. Maybe both. Even so, she should be a little more agitated in his presence, and he wondered what was up with that. He took a deep breath and spoke slowly, even though he didn’t have the time or patience for this shit. “Yes, I’m sure they tried to kill it. It’s their job.”

“To kill dogs?”

“Demon dogs. You know, hellhounds?”

“This isn’t real,” she whispered. “I want to go home…” She shook her head, backpeddling wildly. “No, not home! Those men are there. This isn’t real…”

Shit. He was losing her. Before she could go into a complete meltdown, he gripped her by the shoulders and bent to peer directly into her eyes. Which were the exact color of the sea below when the sun hit it just right. Crystal blue with flecks of green and gold. Stunning.

“Listen to me. I need to know if you saw another man in that room. Long blond hair. Angelic.”

She nodded, her wide-eyed gaze locked onto his as if she were afraid to look away. As if he was a lifeline and if she let go, she’d plunge into an abyss of insanity. “Where is Hal?”

“Hal?”

“The dog.”

She’d named the hellhound? The things were mean as fuck, ravenous, horny…suddenly a sinking suspicion made his gut plummet. Had the hound given her a Hell’s Kiss? Nah. They never, ever did that to humans.

And yet…he leaned in, and as he got closer, the odor of fear and beast gave way to a more feminine scent. She smelled clean, like a spring meadow, with soft floral undertones. His cock jerked, the stupid bastard. The woman was terrified, human, and possibly shackled to one of the most vile creatures to have ever been spawned in Sheoul.

“W-what are you doing?”

He didn’t reply. He touched his lips to hers. A shocked gasp escaped her, and damn, she tasted sweet. There was a faint mint tang of toothpaste on her breath, and as he stroked his tongue across her satin lips, he got the telltale numbing tingle of the hellhound’s kiss. Which explained why she wasn’t combative with him — by bonding with Cara, the hound had brought her over into the supernatural world. She was still human, but with…enhancements.

He should have retreated, right then and there, but her mouth was soft, her body ripe with curves, and he hadn’t kissed a woman — a real human woman — in thousands of years. Head swimming, he tugged her against him. This was unexpected, amazing—

Sudden, stabbing pain lanced his groin. He grunted out a curse, doubled over and clutched his balls, which she’d cracked with her knee.

Eternal Rider Book Trailer

~ A Few Words ~

Eternal Rider is a perfect representation of the kind of books we expect from Larissa Ione. This book is the first in a new series, and I can't wait for book 2 to release in December. I loved Ares's (War) character. He was strong, dark, and delicious. I thought Cara was smart, sweet,and brave. Oh yeah, did I mention she was bonded to a HellHound named Hal? How cool is that? This book did start off a little slow, with the world building and information Ione was putting out, but it's always like that with a new series and I wasn't bored or put off by it. There were things going on, and if you are not familiar with the Demonica series then there were things you needed to know. I also liked how we got cameos from a few of the Demonica characters *squee* Did I mention I adore the Demonica series? Well.. I do, but that's off topic, back to Eternal Rider..

This series consist of The Four Horsemen Ares (War), Reseph (Pestilence), Thanatos (Death), and the lone female in the group, Limos (Famine). Each of the Horsemen have a Seal and each Seal comes with two prophecies. The goal of the horsemen are to keep theses seals from breaking, and causing the end of the world.

Cara, has a secret ability to heal animals. A injured dog is brought to her, the dog is really a hellhound. The hellhound bonds himself to an oblivious Cara, and now she is involved in a world she had no idea existed. In a strange twist of fate, Ares's seal is passed to Cara. Normally a human isn't strong enough to carry a seal, but being bound to the hellhound allows Cara to carry it for now.

Ares has to keep Cara alive at all cost, if she falls and his seal is broken.... It's the beginning of the end for everyone.

I recommend this book to any Larissa Ione fans, and those who aren't. As I stated earlier I really liked the characters, the book premise, and the romance in this story.The story gabbed me from the beginning, and the second half of the book was awesome. There was a lot of action, and the story really took off. I am definitely looking forward to the the next installment in the series.

4 1/2 STARS!

~ Giveaway Details ~

I'm giving away one copy of Eternal Rider to a LUCKY commenter!

Rules:

1. Leave a comment about anything on this post.

2. Leave your email address, so I can contact you if you win.

3. Contest is open internationally, and ends on Friday 4/22/2011 @ 11:59 Est.

Void where prohibited

Recipe Saturday - Ham 'n Cheese Omelet Bake

2011-04-16T14:29:00.000-04:00

Hello My lovelies,

Easter is one of my favorite holidays, especially as a caterer. I love all the beautiful spring colors, and all the different kinds of fruits, and fresh vegetables available. One of my favorite things to do, is make Easter Brunch for my family. Here is a easy recipe that is perfect for brunch. I hope you will give it a try.

Ham 'n Cheese Omelet Bake

Ingredients:

- 1 (10-oz.) box Green Giant® Frozen Broccoli & Cheese Flavored Sauce

- 1 (10.2-oz.) can (5 biscuits) Pillsbury® Grands!® Flaky Layers Refrigerated Biscuits

- 10 eggs

- 1 1/2 cups milk

- 1 teaspoon dry ground mustard

- Salt and pepper to taste, if desired

- 2 cups diced cooked ham

- 1/3 cup chopped onion sautee'd

- 4 oz. (1 cup) shredded Cheddar cheese

- 4 oz. (1 cup) shredded Swiss cheese

- 1 (4.5-oz.) jar Green Giant® Sliced Mushrooms, drained

* You can use any fresh vegetables that you desire, this is only a method*

Directions:

1. Heat oven to 350°F. Cut small slit in center of broccoli and cheese sauce pouch. Microwave on High for 3 to 4 minutes, rotating pouch 1/4 turn once halfway through microwaving. Set aside to cool slightly.

2. Meanwhile, spray bottom only of 13x9-inch (3-quart) glass baking dish with cooking spray. Separate dough into 5 biscuits. Cut each biscuit into 8 pieces; arrange evenly in sprayed dish.

3. In large bowl, beat eggs, milk, mustard, salt and pepper with wire whisk until well blended. Stir in ham, onion, both cheeses, mushrooms and cooked broccoli and cheese sauce. Pour mixture over biscuit pieces in dish. Press down with back of spoon, making sure all biscuit pieces are covered with egg mixture.

4. Bake at 350°F. for 40 to 50 minutes or until edges are deep golden brown and center is set. Let stand 10 minutes before serving. Cut into squares.

ENJOY!!

GUEST REVIEW: FULL HOUSE by. JESS DEE

2011-04-15T13:22:00.000-04:00

Reviewer: Ivelisse Roberts
Title: Full House
Author: Jess Dee

Blurb:

A full house beats a pair any day.

Three of a Kind, Book 3

It’s been a long, lonely business trip for diamond dealer Max Ashberg. He’s missed his lover like crazy, and he’s come to the realization that he’s ready to take the next step: nominate himself to be Trev’s new housemate. Except when he gets to Trev’s place, there’s someone living in “his” room. A woman—with the face of an angel.

Six weeks shouldn’t make a huge difference in a man’s life, but in that time lawyer Trev Greenfield has realized two things: He wants much more than a standing Friday night “date” with Max. And he’s falling heart-over-head for his new housemate, potter Grace Miles.

Grace never meant to fall for Trev, but when a power failure turns their chemistry into live electricity, there’s no denying the spark. There’s also no denying the shock when Grace discovers a naked man in her new home.

With Grace poised to run and Max teetering between confusion and growing lust for the delicious possibilities, Trev has his hands full trying to hold the two loves of his life together…before they slip through his fingers. Leaving them all with shattered hearts.

Warning: There’s a lot of sex in this book. I mean a lot! Hot sex. Sweaty sex. Gay sex. Straight sex. Ménage sex (M/M/F and M/F/M). Oh, and romantic sex. Lots of romantic sex. Hot romantic sex. Sweaty romantic sex. Gay romantic sex… You getting the picture?

REVIEW:

I really really enjoyed this book, it starts off a little different than your normal romance since some of the characters have a their relationships established already but its the way Jess Dee brings all of them together that entrances you into the story and trust you will not be able to put down. I liked how she wrote the conflict of their relationship and how being unconventional can work even if no one else approves of it. This book was very close to my own philosophy of if it makes you happy who cares what anyone else thinks.

Oh and have I mentioned how HOT and STEAMY it is? Jess surely does not disappoint in that department either. The chemistry between Gracie, Trev and Max is phenomenal, shows us just what we would do for our loves. The love just pours out of this book, it was more than just excellent wonderful sex. Once again Jess Dee has a written a winner!

4 1/2 STARS

Buy from Samhain Publishing HERE

Product Details

Format: Kindle Edition
File Size: 262 KB
Publisher: Samhain Publishing, Ltd. (April 12, 2011)
Sold by: Amazon Digital Services
Language: English
ASIN: B004MMED7S

Happy Easter! Blog Hoppin Giveaway!

2011-04-15T11:44:00.000-04:00

Happy Easter! Welcome to the Easter Blog Hop!

I have some awesome prizes for three lucky winners!

1st Prize: $20 Amazon Gift Card & Bag Of Swag

2nd Prize: $10 Amazon Gift Card & Bag Of Swag

3rd Prize: $10 Amazon Gift Card & Bag Of Swag

What's in the surprise bags of swag, you ask? Umm.. lets see.. Books, book marks, signed book plates, and more surprises!

RULES:

1. Giveaway Ends April 17, 2011

2. There will be 3 winners

- International winner

- Canadian winner

- US winner

3. You must leave your Email Address & Nationality in the comments so I can contact you if you win.

4. You don't have to be a follower to enter, BUT I would love it if you were :)

Check Out All The Other Blogs Participating in the Blog Hop!

Easter Hoppin Blog Hop Giveaway!

2011-03-26T14:45:00.018-04:00

Easter Hoppin Blog Hop

April 15th - 17th

Hosted by Danielle of Lush Book Reviews

And

JoJo of JoJo's Book Corner

What - Easter Hoppin Blog Hop Giveaways
When - 12:01 AM April 15th until 11:59 PM April 17th
Where - All around the blogging world!

These dates were choosen because we did not want to take time away from your family and other things going on easter weekend

How this will work:

~Each blog participating is hosting a giveaway of their own. The spending maximum should be around $20, and your giveaway can be anything you would like. Books, bookmarks , swag, coffees, teas, hand made crafts, anything you would like.

~All blogs participating in the Easter Hoppin Blog Hop Giveaways will be linked up through the linky below.Then you can just copy the code from the below linky and add it to your giveaway post. All blogs will be linked together from this automatically on each blog for the Easter Hoppin Blog Hop Giveaways.

~Please keep the steps to enter your giveaway as simple as possible. The long lists of many different things followers can do to earn extra entries tends to scare people off.

~Please help spread the word. Feel free to copy this post, or write a post of your own. The more blogs participating the better! It will mean more visitors and new followers for your blog. We have created a Easter Hoppin button and have added it below for you to paste it everywhere!

~Giveaways can be open to ship anywhere you would like

~If you have any Questions please email Danielle: dhester23 AT yahoo DOT com

~Please create your Easter Hoppin Blog Hop Giveaway post before the giveaway starts. Set it to post at 12:01 AM on Friday April 15th.
Easter Hoppin Blog Hop Sign Up

To sign up please add your name and where you are willing to ship to the linky below

The Last Day to sign up is Tuesday April 12th .

Don't forget to grab the Easter Hoppin Blog Hop Giveaway button

In the Link Below Please include

~ Your Blog Name

~ Your Blog Link

~ Where you will ship to

( exp: US only, or World Wide )

It's Thursday... What are you reading?

2011-03-17T14:08:00.001-04:00

Hello My Fellow Book Lovers,

It's that time of the week again, when I want to know what everyone is reading. There were some hot new releases this week from Samhain, and other publishers. I actually stayed in my book budget this week, because I won a few contest around the blogging world. I love to win books, and I love to give books away. I feel a giveaway coming up soon on Wicked Readings, and I will release the details in a few days. So.. Without further ado.. This is what I'm reading this week.

The Turning Kiss By. Eden Bradley

BLURB

They have nothing to lose…except the one gift they never expected to find.

Midnight Playground, Book 3

Ilana escaped a life of sex slavery, using her extraordinary beauty to survive among the few remaining wealthy humans in London. But she has higher aspirations. For two years she has haunted the BDSM dungeons of the Midnight Playground, hungering for The Turning Kiss—that deep drink that will make her one of them. An immortal vampire.

Turned out onto the streets of Edinburgh as a child, Calam’s tortured path led him to a job at the club, where he also engages in exotic and dangerous sex play with its clientele. Craving, like Ilana, the eternal escape of the Turning Kiss.

Ilana is undeniably drawn to the beautiful Scotsman, but she has no time to waste; the club takes no one over thirty. When a sinfully compelling vampire pair brings them together for an unusual foursome, she and Calam are shocked to discover it isn’t the vampires they crave, it’s the tenderness and emotion they feel for each other.

After years of seeking to feel something, anything, other than the pain of the past, the ultimate gift is within Ilana’s reach. Yet the cost—leaving her heart behind with a mortal—could be more than she can bear.

Warning: Three hot bisexual vampires and two mere mortals getting down and dirty at the vampire sex club. Beware of spankings, bondage, several kinds of whips, everything anal and an orgy or two…or is it three…?

What can I say about this book, except I'M LOVING IT! If you haven't read any of Eden's books, What are you waiting for? I really loved the first two books in this series The Seeking Kiss, and Blood Song. I know I will love this one as well. I really enjoy Eden's style of writing, and the sex scenes OMG.. They are so on point. Isn't that cover HOTT?

I am also Reading...

Body Master By. C.J. Barry

BLURB

Her world under siege...

Seneca Thomas is an agent with XCEL, a secret government taskforce charged with capturing the dangerous shapeshifters that have infiltrated New York City, passing for humans. Her Native American heritage gives her a special gift—the ability to see the shapeshifters for what they are. Unfortunately, this doesn’t make killing them any easier...

...his life on the line.

Max Dempsey was on a refugee transport that crashed to Earth, setting thousands of shapeshifters free to do what they do best—replicate the local population in order to survive. Among them is the shifter who murdered Max’s wife. Now Max’s only desire is to find him and destroy him—until he gets partnered with Seneca, a sexy, fearless agent who would kill every one of his kind—including Max—if given the chance.

A dangerous liaison

As a criminal army of shifters assembles under the city determined to wreak havoc and destroy humanity, Seneca and Max will have to embrace their explosive chemistry, for only by trusting in each other and their power can they hope to stop the growing evil.

This is the first book of Ms. Barry's that I have read, I'm only about a 1/4 in, but I am really enjoying it so far. I checked out her website, and a few reviews of her other novels, and I can tell that she is a author whose books I will definitely be looking out for.

So, That's My Rundown...

What Are You Reading?

Recipe Saturday on Sunday - Mini Skillet Meatloaves

2011-03-13T14:57:00.000-04:00

Hello My Lovelies,

It's been a while since I posted a recipe on Saturday, so I decided to post one today. This recipe showed up in my inbox a few weeks ago, and I made them Thursday night. These little meatloaves are flavorful, and were a big hit with the family. I hope you enjoy them as much as we did.

Mini Skillet Meatloaves

Prep Time: 20 Mins, Cook Time: 20 Mins, Serves 4

Ingredients:

1/3 cup breadcrumbs

1/3 cup milk
1/3 cup chopped fresh parsley
1 large egg
3 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
1 small onion, finely minced
1 teaspoon chili powder
2 cloves garlic, grated or finely minced
1 1/2 pounds meatloaf mix (ground beef, pork and/or veal)
Kosher salt and freshly ground pepper
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
1/2 cup ketchup
1 to 2 tablespoons packed light brown sugar
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar

Directions:

Mix the breadcrumbs, milk, parsley, egg, Worcestershire sauce, onion, chili powder and garlic in a large bowl. Add the meat, season with salt and pepper and mix with your hands until combined. Shape into six 3-to-4-inch oval loaves.

Heat the vegetable oil in a large nonstick skillet over high heat. Add the loaves and brown about 3 minutes per side.

Whisk the ketchup, sugar and vinegar in a bowl and brush a few tablespoonfuls over the meat. Add 1/2 cup water to the skillet, cover and simmer over low heat until cooked through, about 15 minutes.

Transfer the loaves to a plate. Add the remaining ketchup mixture to the skillet and cook over high heat, stirring, until thick, 3 to 5 minutes. Serve 4 meatloaves with the hot glaze.

ENJOY!!

Who Wants To Win A Kindle From Moira Rogers?

2011-03-11T09:17:00.000-05:00

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

About Wilder's Mate

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.

Tuesday Is Poem Day! Think Gently of the Erring by. Julia Carney

2011-03-08T19:10:00.000-05:00

Think Gently of the Erring

Think gently of the erring:

Ye know not of the power

With which the dark temptation came

In some unguarded hour.

Ye may not know how earnestly

They struggled, or how well,

Until the hour of weakness came

And sadly thus they fell.

Think gently of the erring:

Oh! do not thou forget,

However darkly stained by sin

He is thy brother yet;

Heir of the selfsame heritage,

Child of the selfsame God,

He has but stumbled in the path

Thou hast in weakness trod.

Speak gently to the erring:

For is it not enough

That innocence and peace have gone,

Without thy censure rough?

It sure must be a weary lot,

That sin-stained heart to bear,

And those who share a happier fate

Their chidings well may spare.

Speak gently to the erring:

Thou yet may'st lead them back

With holy words and tones of love,

From misery's thorny track:

Forget not thou hast often sinned,

And sinful yet must be;

Deal gently with the erring, then,

As God has dealt with thee.

~ Julia Carney ~

AND THE WINNER IS....

2011-03-08T18:39:00.000-05:00

I want to thank everyone who came out to celebrate the release of, Anitra Lynn Mcleods Wicked Empress with us.

The winner of the giveaway is... (insert drum roll)

Jennifer! Who said..

"Going to start reading your books. My mom can't say enough good about them"

Jennifer has already been notified by email.

Happy Reading!