Romance Book Junkies

Interview & Giveaway: Afterlife Series by T.P. Boje

2012-01-28T00:00:00.000-05:00

I know you get asked this question over and over but can you tell us a little about yourself? Maybe something juicy. ;)

I am from Denmark where I lived until 2½ years ago. My husband and I were tired of the cold and dark winters so we sold everything that we had and moved to Florida with our kids and four overloaded suitcases. The sun and the heat makes me happy. It is so much easier to live when it is hot – especially with kids. There is just less clothes to put on when you need to go out. And you can actually be outside all year around. I love it.

Juicy? Are you sure your readers are up to that? Well okay. My husband and I once had sex in the ocean in Italy under the fullmoon. Was that too much? You really shouldn’t ask me questions like that.

When did you first start writing? Are you a full time author or do you do it on the side?

I have always been writing. Ever since I was a small child I have always told stories to whoever would listen. In school I remember sitting in class during recess and telling stories to my friends making them forget that they were about to go out and play. Even my teacher would often listen in as well. Later I would write stories for my teacher and he loved to read them. I kept writing short-stories in highschool and then I became a journalist. For many years I worked at a Danish TV-station, and it was then I came up with the idea for my first novel. A Danish truck-driver had been found dead in Poland and I was sent there to cover the investigation for the TV-station. Two years later that story became my first mystery novel. Since then I wrote two other mystery-novels that has been published in Denmark, Norway and Germany. I write full-time and that is the only thing I ever want to do.

When I moved to Florida I started writing in English and published another mystery-novel called “One, Two … He is coming for you” but then I wanted to try something new. I wanted to write for a younger audience and that was when I wrote the fantasy-novel “The Eye of the Crystal Ball” that came out this June. But something was missing, I thought. I needed some romance. So I started reading some paranormal romance and loved it. I knew right away that I wanted to write that too. Now I have written three novels in the series called Afterlife. I am planning on writing three more, so I will be busy for awhile.

Do you have a author that has really inspired you?

I have plenty. I try to read everything I can get my hands on. It is so inspiring to read other people’s work. If I have to put a name out, I would say that Anne Rice is one of my favourite author’s. But my all-time favourite book is The Neverending Story by Michael Ende. I read it as a young teenager and fell in love.

How long does it normally take you to write an average book or your last book?

It takes about two months. Then my editor has it for about three weeks.

What do you think makes a story great?

When I read a book I expect to learn new things about life and often also about myself. Books can either be a mirror where you see yourself and learn something about yourself, or they can be a window where you look into a completely different world and see something you have never seen before. The good books are both, I think.

Can you describe your book "Beyond" in one sentence?

Death & Life meet with a twist

Tell us a little about your new series Afterlife.

Haven’t we all at some point wondered where we will go when we die? I used to do it a lot as a kid. Is heaven for real and what is it going to be like once I get there? What kind of a body will I have? What will I look like? Will all of my family come with me? Will I meet my grandmother there? As I grew up I never thought much about life after death and if there really was one or not. I was busy living my life and thinking about my life here on earth. But then one day not many months ago a thought just popped into my head. What if we have to go to school when we die? As it so often happens, the thought wouldn’t go away again once it had come into my head, and I started playing with the idea. If it is true that we leave our bodies here on earth, then we must have some new body on the other side, right? And it would probably take some time to get used to that new body. And how about going through walls and doors and stuff? I mean if we become spirits then we would have to learn how to do all those things, right? And what about flying? That is not something that comes to us easily. We would have to practice first, right? And someone would have to teach us. So eventually I started imagining this school that we all had to graduate from in order to be let into heaven, and soon Meghan popped into my head and started walking around on that school - that just had to be run by angels. She soon made some friends and fell in love (as it often happens when you are sixteen). And that was when the problems began. Because the boy was still human, living on earth, so how could they ever be together? That was when I realized that a book-series was born - and it was about how dying is only the beginning of the next great adventure

Have you done lots of research for your books or do the stories just come to you?

They just come to me. When I used to write mystery it involved a lot of research because everything has to be so realistic down to the smallest detail or the reader will not believe in the story. But with fantasy and paranormal romance it is completely different. I can use my imagination and create the world exactly as I want it to be. That is a lot of fun.
What are you currently working on?

I am about to begin the fourth book in the series. I am really looking forward to it, because a lot has happened to my characters and this book is where a lot of the knots are tied together.

Can you tell us about some of your prior achievements?

I used to be an anchor at a Danish TV-station. That was a lot of fun, but not as much fun as writing.

Is there anything that I didn't cover that you would like to talk about or say to your potential readers?

Just that I love to write. It is what I am all about. I love spellbinding the audience like I did as a child, and I hope they will enjoy reading my books as much as I love writing them.

What would you like to ask?

I would like to invite readers to go to my blog www.tpboje.blogspot.com and check out my books. Let me know which one they most likely would want to read.

Just for fun:

Hardback or Paperback? Paperback. It is so much easier to carry around in your bag. I prefer digital to be completely honest. It is a lot easier to carry with you when you travel.
Dog ears or Bookmarks? I am horrible. I make dog ears all the time.
YA novels or Adult novels? I love YA novels.
Library or Bookstore? Bookstore. I always want to own my books. I want to be able to go back and read in them again.
Reading glasses or No glasses? No glasses.
Snack while reading or No snacks? I will have a cup of tea.

Beach or Mountain? Beach, beach, beach. Living in Florida means every day is a potential beach-day.

Vampire or Werewolf? I like my men hairy and warm, so werewolf.

Hot or Flirty? Flirty
Movie 1st or Book 1st? Always book first.
Contemporary or Historical? Contemporary
Page-Turner or Tear Jerker? I want both!

T. P. Boje is a mother of two, a stepmother of another two and a hardcore cartoon lover, Tim Burton enthusiast, and enjoys any movie the Coen Brothers have made (with the big Lebowski being her favorite strongly followed by Burn after Reading). She is also a writer of Y/A Paranormal Romance, fantasy and mystery. She is originally from Denmark but currently living in Florida, USA. Her books are translated into several languages.
To learn more follow her on Twitter, visit her fansite on Facebook or check out her web-page: http://www.tpboje.blogspot.com/

Here is a little about the books in her series Afterlife:

Have you ever wondered where you go when you die?

Meghan is 16 when it happens to her. She wakes up on a flying steamboat on her way to a school run by Angels in a white marble castle. She meets Mick who helps her through a difficult time in a different world filled with heavenly magic. One day she finds a mirror in the cellar of the school and goes through it. She ends up back on earth where she meets Jason. But Jason is in danger and Meghan knows something important.
Soon she will have to choose between the two worlds.
The one she belongs to now, and the one she left.

Beyond is a Y/A paranormal romance and the first book in T. P. Boje’s Afterlife-series.

It is Meghan’s second year at The Academy. While trying to help and care for Jason on earth she is struggling to keep up in school, where they this year will learn both to ride Pegasus’ and fly through severe storms. Meanwhile Mick is becoming more than a friend to her and soon she finds herself facing the unavoidable choice.

But something evil is threatening the students at the Academy and Meghan is no longer safe within the walls of the castle. Something causes several of the students to be caught in the middle of a nightmare, that they can’t wake up from.

Soon they suspect that there might be a traitor in their midst.

Serenity is a Y/A paranormal romance. It is the second book in the Afterlife-series

Meghan’s training at the Academy is coming to an end. Everything is going great as she comes closer to graduation. She is engaged to be married and the wedding is near when she hears some disturbing news that makes her rethink her future.

In class the students are learning to catch dreams and fly with the speed of light. Meghan soon discovers her special talents and that she is much stronger than she thought. But unfortunately that doesn’t help her as she faces the truth about her own death, which will be revealed to her at the end of the year.

Endurance is the third book in T. P. Boje’s Afterlife series about a young girl’s life after death.

Thanks to the author I will be giving away one print copy of "Beyond" and one ebook copy.

To enter:

1. Leave a meaning full comment about something you read in this post.

2. Include your email in that comment so I can contact you if you win.

3. The Giveaway is going to be International.

4. The first winner I pick using random.org gets to pick either the print copy or ebook copy and the second winner gets whats left.

6. The giveaway ends on Feb. 11th at midnight.

Review: The Vampire Relationship Guide vol.2 by Evelyn Lafont

2012-01-26T19:15:00.000-05:00

"TheVampire Relationship Guide: Secrets & Trust vol. 2"
Author: Evelyn Lafont
Genre: Paranormal Romance
Pages: ebook novella
ISBN: 9781452459165
Source: Author in exchange for a honest review.
Published: August 31, 2011 by Helios Media, Inc.

Goodreads Blurb:

Josie’s come a long way from being an average human chick who just wants to sex-up a vampire. She’s dated, mated, and killed one of the world’s richest vamps and is currently seeing a mysterious, blood-slurping hottie named Walker.

Now, Josie must adjust to the realities of a steady relationship with a vampire, which isn’t all exciting parties, hot sex and moonlit walks. And with a vamp who’s anxious to push their relationship to the next phase as mortality bears down on his human’s fragile body, the pressure for Josie to commit is on.

Can their night-day romance survive leaving Josie’s character and individuality intact, or will the secrets of the supernatural community crush her spirit and her chance at a permanent vampire mate?

WARNING: This is not your regular paranormal romance. This series explores the realities (such as they might be) of humans having relationships with vampires and uses a chick lit style to get there. Oh yeah–and the characters within are fallible and not entirely heroic.

You’ve been warned…

My Review:
This is book two in Evelyn's Vampire Relationship Guide series and I think that you just can't read this book without reading the first book first.
Josie is a human dating a vampire who decides to travel to Texas with her boyfriend and boy is she surprised. This trip might not be as fun and romantic as she thought it was going to be. Texas is nothing like Florida. Walker is a layed back vampire and nothing bothers him, even Texas. He wants nothing more than for Josie to like Texas and possibly start a future there. A lot of the romantic development was covered in book one but their relationship in this book is sweet and hot in the bedroom. I found this book to be a quick, fun, light and entertaining read. Its a perfect sequel to the first book but I have to mention that there wasn't as much action going on in this book. If your a fan of paranormal romance and vampires you have to read these short but hot novellas if you don't you'll really be missing out. I would recommend this book to paranormal fans but only if you read the first book. If you don't have time for the first book I wouldn't bother reading this one.

Overall Rating:

Sex Rating:

Book Promo, Interview & Giveaway featuring Rhys Astason

2012-01-25T00:00:00.000-05:00

I'd like to give a big welcome to author Rhys Astason. She is here today to promote her book "Water of Life". She is also participating in a interview and she is going to be giving away a ebook copy of her book. Here is a little about her book.

Goodreads Blurb:
Gracen Ellison had settled into a very comfortable, and on the surface, 'by-the-book' routine as a doctor with the American Federation's Elite Medical Corps. They were unaware, though, that routine consisted of illicitly lusting after one the Navy’s top Special Forces operative.

Master Chief Jackson Monroe lost more than just his leg in an assignment gone to hell; he lost the privilege to lead his team. After a year of grueling rehab, he's proven that even with his prosthetic, he’s still able to lead his men on the field. Unfortunately, the Navy doesn’t see it that way. Instead of settling for sitting behind a desk, Jackson plans to opt out of the Navy. On the night of his retirement, however, he’s pulled back in for one last mission: protecting Gracen as they head into a warzone.

Soon they find themselves with their helicopter on the ground and facing an existence that leaves Gracen and Jackson more than human as they’re thrown against an enemy they had little idea even existed.

Word count: 50,000.

1. I know you get asked this question over and over but can you tell us a little about yourself? Maybe something juicy. ;)

I'm the wife of a wonderful man who is a candidate for sainthood because he not only puts up with, but is also incredibly supportive of a neurotic author. I'm a mother of two adorable ~~demonspawn~~, errr, wonderful and impeccably behaved boys, the youngest of which has aspirations of becoming the master overlord of the known universe.

Something juicy? When I was in high school, I snuck out in the middle of the night - out the window and everything - to be with my boyfriend. Alas, it turned out to be really boring. No Hollywoodesque escapade, so from then on I never bothered to sneak out again.

2. When did you first start writing? Are you a full time author or do you do it on the side?

Oooo, trip down memory lane. This will totally date me, but I distinctly remember writing, in cursive mind you, a long review of Return of the Jedi which described things that I wanted changed. Hey! That was my very first fanfiction! I also had Ewok posters on my wall because I thought they were the best thing evah! Ummm, this is off the record, right?

I'm a full time author in my head. Does that count? I think about writing all the time, but real life dictates that I actually write on the side or in between, "Mom! Where's my…" and "Mom, I'm hungry!"

3. Do you have an author that has really inspired you?

J.A. Konrath because he's one of the pioneers of self-publishing. Anytime David goes against Goliath (and lives to tell about it) is a source of inspiration.

4. How long does it normally take you to write an average book?

I wrote Water of Life in three weeks. Yay! Then spent the next six months editing and rewriting and editing and rewriting and pulling my hair out, so I'd say six months.

5. What do you think makes a story great?

Characters that I want to spend time with and a world that is so immersive that I forget to eat the Halloween chocolate I "borrowed' from my kids.

6. Can you describe your book "Water of Life" in one sentence?

A forbidden romance gets help from the unlikeliest of places in a world that is about to be changed forever.

7. Have you done lots of research for your books or do the stories just come to you?

The stories come to me, then I spend hours researching and putting my Googlefu muscles to work. I try to not spend too much time researching until the first draft is done, otherwise it would be too easy to be lost in cyberspace.

8. What are you currently working on?

I'm currently working on a very smutty retelling of Red Riding Hood and editing a full length novel about Lilith (Adam's first wife), her daughters and their turbulent relationships with archangels.

9. Can you tell us about some of your prior achievements?

Interesting question and my answer probably won't fit, but I'm proudest of the people around me. I'm lucky enough to be surrounded by amazing, gifted individuals who are always there in a pinch. They are the people that Tracy Lawrence sings about in Find Out Who You're Friends Are. So if there is an achievement in that, it is that I've been fortunate enough to know good people when I meet them… and then cling to them like a leech in a plump bottom. :)

10. Is there anything that I didn't cover that you would like to talk about or say to your potential readers?

I would love to hear from readers, so feel free to contact me or check out my blog.

11. What would you like to ask our readers?

In a perfect world, who would you cast to play your favorite hero in a movie?

Just for fun:

Hardback or Paperback? Digital. I'm a disciple now.
Dog ears or Bookmarks? Dog ears to the horror of my mother.
YA novels or Adult novels? Adult.
Library or Bookstore? Used bookstore. Ahhhh, good, good memories there.
Reading glasses or No glasses? I wish! I'm blind as a bat so its glasses all the time.
Snack while reading or No snacks? Chocolate is a food group, right? So it can't count as a snack?
Beach or Mountain? Beach.
Vampire or Werewolf? Ummm, tough one. Well, not really. I have a penchant for fur. Werewolves!
Hot or Flirty? Hot.
Movie 1st or Book 1st? Book, always book.
Contemporary or Historical? Historical.
Page-Turner or Tear Jerker? Page Turner.

All you have to do to enter is leave a comment answering her question "In a perfect world who would you cast to play your favorite hero in a movie?" and your email address so I can contact you if you win.

Guest Post & Giveaway: Donna Cummings

2012-01-24T00:00:00.000-05:00

I'd like to welcome author Donna Cummings to my blog. She is the author of "Lord Midnight" and written a guest post today about highwaymen and how they influenced her book. She will also be giving away a copy of her book so don't forget to enter.

There's something so romantic about highwaymen. Well, the fantasy ones at least.

In reality, highwaymen were robbers. Think of them as "carriage carjackers". The difference is they became the stuff of legends. They were supposedly charming and chivalrous, as well as witty and debonair. Highwaymen were actually self-serving thieves, but with the remarkable ability to capture the public's imagination, so much so that they had poems and songs written about them and their larcenous exploits.

It's easy to take that one step further and turn a highwayman into the hero of a love story.

While I was researching some things about the Regency era, I read several newspapers from that time, and I came across a few random articles that intrigued my writer brain. One item was about a country house being broken into, "by footpads", and while no one was harmed, it was clear from the report that this was not a usual occurrence. I stashed that info in my packrat brain, wondering, like everyone else probably did then, "Why on earth would footpads invade somebody's house?" Footpads are typically outdoor criminals. Why would they risk capture by coming inside?

Well, my brain chewed on that and then came up with this for an answer: what if it wasn't a footpad, but a highwayman? (I know. It's a weird leap, but stay with me a little longer.) And what if it was a highwayman who used to live in that house, before it was stolen from him by a murderous uncle? And what if he wanted to see the bedchamber that belonged to him as a child, as well as a bold young woman staying there, the very one he had just encountered when he robbed her carriage?

So that's how my Regency highwayman, Lord Midnight, got his start, when I had to add a little twist of fantasy to the reality of a situation. I hope you'll enjoy this scene where he, and Marisa, the woman who ends up stealing his heart, meet for the second time:

Something had moved in the bed.

The room should have been empty, but he realized too late it was not. Remnants of a fire glowed in the fireplace against the far wall, and he could see now there were no telltale signs of neglect in the bedchamber.

Gabriel crept forward to see who occupied the bed he still considered his. The embers of the dying fire highlighted a young woman in deep sleep, a froth of blonde hair enveloping her. He reached his hand toward the golden silkiness, so reminiscent of the intrepid beauty earlier that night.

His hand stilled.

It was Lord Westbrook's betrothed.

Gabriel lowered his hand over the sleeping beauty's mouth, simultaneously waking her and stifling her scream. She clawed at his hand, her eyes wide with terror. She struggled to move further away from him.

Gabriel slanted forward to restrain her, pinning her down with his arms. He felt a moment's remorse at causing her such anguish, particularly when she battled him even more fiercely. Yet he had too much at stake should she sound an alarm.

"Ssh, angel. You'll come to no harm at my hand if you cooperate."

He leaned closer, intent on reassuring her further, but the softness of her warm body nearly distracted him. She tugged at his hand once more, trying to get free of his grip.

"I do not mean to harm you."

She raised her eyebrows, and he could swear her expression was an exasperated one. Instead of being frightened by his presence, she was signaling she found his tactics rather clumsy.

He felt the release of tension under his hand, and saw some of the annoyance leave her eyes.

"No coercion is needed, then?"

She shook her head to demonstrate her compliance.

"Why are you here," he whispered, "in this bedchamber?"

He lifted his hand, his eyes warning her of the consequences should she attempt to scream.

"I would ask you the same," she countered.

"I shall tell you my purpose once I learn the reason for your presence," he bargained, though not altogether truthfully.

"I meant to avail myself of some sleep," she muttered. "As you recall, I was beset by highwaymen this evening."

This time he could not halt a chuckle. "Well?" he prompted.

"I am to stay at my betrothed's home until the wedding."

The unexpected reply stopped Gabriel's heart for one beat. He had known she was to wed Lord Westbrook, but he had not realized she would be staying at his home, or rather, Gabriel's rightful home.

He grinned. Would Lord Westbrook find it amusing that Gabriel was comfortably entwined with the man's future bride?

The notion made his heart pound. After so many years wishing he could bring about Edmund's downfall, Gabriel had not expected such an opportunity to present itself. Yet, much as he wanted to, he could not implement his plot just then. He did not want to risk capture before he could commence the delicious scheme, and with the Westbrook rubies still on his person, he risked a great deal more than was wise.

He reached for her flaxen hair. She scarce seemed to breathe, yet he was unable to resist one touch while she remained in his arms. Her hair was as soft as down, and he smoothed the length of it several times. With each caress, he pulled her sweet body closer to his. Too late he realized it was well nigh impossible to rein in his desire for the brave miss.

He released his arms with the greatest of reluctance. "Mistress Angel."

She sighed, the soft hiss filling the now-silent bedchamber.

It was followed by another sound, this time from the hallway.

Footsteps.

Gabriel scrambled upright, his pulse racing. There was too much at stake should he be discovered here.

The footsteps resonated through the otherwise hushed hallway, tapping out Gabriel's doom. He turned his head toward the door he had entered earlier, gauging his chances of escape. It was too far away, and much too risky.

His eyes darted to the French door across the room. It was impossible to make it there in time.

The footfalls grew louder, more urgent, pounding in the same rhythm as Gabriel's heart. Whoever it was, they were close now, almost to the door. He could try to brazen his way past the visitor, or engage them in some sort of fisticuffs. It would permit him to escape, but it would also alert Edmund to his existence, spoiling Gabriel's newfound plan for revenge.

Seeing no other choice, he rejoined his angelic companion in her bed.

She gasped, although the sound was muffled by his hand once more covering her mouth.

Gabriel pulled her to his side. At that tense moment, he was unable to savor the sensations of her body pressed so intimately to his.

"Angel, do nothing that might give me away," he whispered.

Before she could respond, he dove beneath the silk counterpane.

Blurb: Lord Midnight, a dashing highwayman, lives for revenge against the uncle who stole his title and tried to kill him when he was a child. His plan for vengeance--seducing his uncle's bride-to-be--collides with his passion for this spirited young woman desperate to escape her wedding. Soon he must choose: the woman who stole his heart, or revenge against the man who stole his life. Available at Amazon, Barnes & Noble, and Smashwords.

Bio: I have worked as an attorney, winery tasting room manager, and retail business owner, but nothing beats the thrill of writing humorous contemporary and historical romances. Currently I reside in Massachusetts, although I fantasize about spending the rest of my days in a tropical locale, consuming mojitos for breakfast and wearing flip flops year-round. I can usually be found at the local Starbucks, fine-tuning my caffeine levels while working on my latest manuscript, or on Twitter (@BookEmDonna), talking about writing, and coffee. You can also visit me at www.AllAboutTheWriting.com.

I have one ebook copy of Lord Midnight to give to one lucky commenter! Just tell me what you love about highwaymen, or what blend of reality/fantasy you like in your romance stories.

To Enter:

Just leave a comment answering Donna's question and leave your email address so that I can contact you if you win.

Review: "Damian's Oracle" by Lizzy Ford

2012-01-23T15:41:00.000-05:00

"Damian's Oracle"
Author: Lizzy Ford
Genre: Paranormal Romance
Pages: 272
ISBN: 9781466413009
Author's Website:

http://guerrillawordfare.com/

Source: Author in exchange for a honest review.
Published: January 1, 2011

Goodreads Blurb:

Inspired by Slavic mythology, Damien’s Oracle is the entree into the ongoing battle between good and evil over the fate of humanity. The White God, Damian, and his Guardians protect the world from the Black God and his monsters while rescuing Naturals – humans with extraordinary paranormal gifts - from the Black God, who would kill or convert them.

Caught in the middle is cool-headed Sofia, a Natural whose gift will tip the scales in the war. Sofia begins her transformation from human into oracle, the first in thousands of years. Damian rescues her from the Black God in time to complete a ceremony that will bind her to him for eternity. Sofia struggles with her new world and her role as an oracle and Damian’s mate while haunted by a mysterious man from Damian’s past who’s supposed to be dead. Unbeknownst to her, her link to the dead man may be all that saves Damian, his Guardians, and the fate of humanity.

While he wants nothing more than for the petite beauty to take her place at his side like the oracles of legend did his White God forefathers, Damian can’t quite rationalize having to win her over instead of command her. Further complicating his life is the sobering realization that there are spies in his organization who are helping the Black God take out his Guardians. Damian must help Sofia reach her potential fast, especially when a threat from his past returns.

My Review:
This was a fast paced story with lots of action. I think I read the whole book in two sittings. Sofia, poor thing, gets her whole life turned into a nightmare overnight and is thrust into this whole new world but she has a gift like no other. She can see people's past and future. She needs the blood of Damian the god of all things good in order to survey and its almost impossible to deny the intense attraction between them. Damian must make her his mate but is worried about what that means. He literally carries the world on his shoulders keeping it from evil. Damian is super hot and the attraction between the two is also super hot throughout the book but there is no graphic sex scenes in this book so its also YA friendly. The world building flowed with the story line and was covered very well. There wasn't a big cliffhanger at the end of this book but it will for sure make you want to read the next book in the series which I plan to do in the very near future. I would recommend this book to paranormal romance, urban fantasy and YA fans.

Overall Rating:

Sex Rating:

Winner of 1,000 Follower Giveaway

2012-01-23T13:07:00.000-05:00

YaaaaaaY!!! I finally reached 1,000 followers. Actually 1,017 as of right now. What does this all mean? It means that its time to pick a winner of my 1,000 Followers Mystery Giveaway. And the winner is:

Angela

I will be contacting Angela by email and if I don't hear back from her within 48 hour I'll have to pick another winner.

Review: Heart of Darkness by Felicity Heaton

2012-01-22T21:26:00.001-05:00

"Heart of Darkness"
Author: Felicity Heaton
Genre: Paranormal Romance
Pages: 433
ISBN: 9781466173286
Author's Website:

http://www.felicityheaton.co.uk

Source: Author in exchange for a honest review.
Published: October 22, 2011

Goodreads Blurb:

A vampire prince on a four hundred year old mission to avenge his murdered sister...

Aleksandr Nemov won't stop until the last of the vampire hunter’s progeny is wiped from the Earth. Each kill has stolen a piece of his humanity, pushing him towards the black abyss all vampires hold within their hearts. Now he is teetering on the edge, close to devolving into a beast, and time is running out as he tracks the last hunter to Prague. There he finds a beautiful woman who could be his one chance for salvation, but is it already too late for him?

A vampire guard who will do whatever it takes to protect those she loves...

Elise is dedicated to her duty. It's the only thing she has left. All that changes when she meets Aleksandr in Prague and her master grants him permission to stay at her bloodline's mansion. She knows all about Aleksandr but none of it prepares her for how she feels when the legendary prince's hunt becomes one for her heart. Elise battles him with all of her strength but can she stop herself from falling for the handsome hunter? When he reveals the depth of the corruption in his soul, will she have the strength to face the pain in her past and do whatever it takes to save him?

My Review:
Felicity is fast becoming one of my favorite authors. This was another fantastic book that kept me up at night and I had no problem finishing this one. I couldn't put it down. I love when a book has the perfect mix of action and romance and that's what this book provides.
Elisa is a guard for her people which she is very devoted too. When she first meets Aleksandr she is terrified of him she can see the darkness in his eyes fighting to claim him. Aleksandr has been killing vampire hunters for 400 years after his sister was murdered by one of them. But every life he takes brings him closer to the darkness. Their relationship starts off a little slow because she's a guard and he's a prince. She can't see what he wants to do with her when he can have any girl in the house. Don't get me wrong because the pace of the story was perfect. What I really love is the connection you make with the characters and how you fall in love as they do. This book was beautifully written and includes a incredible love story. Felicity really out does herself this time.
I would recommend this book to all paranormal romance fans and vampire fans. This definitely will not be that last book I read by Felicity Heaton.

Overall Rating:

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Shameless Giveaway Hop!!

2012-01-20T00:00:00.000-05:00

I'm really excited about this giveaway hop hosted by Jen at Red Hot Books, Brie at Romance Around the Corner & Michelle at Michelle's Book Blog. Thank you ladies for hosting such a great hop for all of us shameless readers. :) So lets get to the good stuff, the giveaways. In honor of my top 2 favorite romance genres I am going to offer 2 prizes one paranormal romance prize and one historical romance prize. So there will be 2 winners. Yaaaay! Unfortunately both giveaways are going to be US only due to shipping costs. All that is required is that you be a follower.

Prize #1:

The first prize is a lightly used ARC copy of "A Demon Does It Better" by Linda Wisdom. This is a great book you must read if you are a paranormal romance fan. I loved it and gave it 5 hearts. You can read my review here.

Prize #2:

No you don't need your eyes checked I am giving away a box of 14 used historical novels. The following is a list of all the books included:

1. ARC of The Highlander's Heart by Amanda Forester
2. Plain Truth by Jodi Picoult
3. ARC of Miss Darcy Falls in Love by Sharon Lathan
4. The Wild Swans by Kate Holmes
5. Wild Roses by Hannah Howell
6. Promise me Forever by Lorraine Heath
7. Highland Honor by Hannah Howell
8. One Night is Never Enough by Anne Mallory
9. The Chaperon Bride by Nicola Cornick
10. Claiming the Highlander by Kinley MacGregor
11. The de Burgh Bride by Deborah Simmons
12. Mastered by Love by Stephanie Laurens
13. ARC of The Virtuoso by Grace Burrowes
14. ARC of Lady Sophie's Christmas Wish by Grace Burrowes

a Rafflecopter giveaway
Don't forget to check out all the other blogs in the hop to see what fabulous prizes they are giving away.

ARC Review: "Supernaturally Kissed" by Stacey Kennedy

2012-01-17T12:23:00.001-05:00

"Supernaturally Kissed"
Author: Stacey Kennedy
Series: Frostbite #1
Genre: Paranormal Romance
Pages: ebook novella
ISBN: 9781419936111
Author's Website: http://www.staceykennedy.com
Source: Author in exchange for a honest review.
Published: January 5th 2012 by Ellora's Cave

Goodreads Blurb:

Ghosts harass and annoy Tess to save their souls. Sometimes she helps them. Other times she ignores them. But one ghost will give her no choice. Kipp, a former cop with the Memphis Police Department, will stop at nothing to gain her help, including using his ghostly charms to seduce her.

Tess must help solve the five-year-old cold case of Hannah Reid’s disappearance, because solving the case will save Kipp. But a bigger problem presents itself. Tess is falling in love with a ghost. Now she must decide. Keep Kipp forever, or find the killer.

My Review:
This is the first book I've read by Stacey Kennedy and I was not disappointed. I really enjoyed this short but sweet story about a ghost and his quest to catch a killer and finding love on the way. This was a great page turner and I finished within a couple of sittings. Kipp was so hot and he had a very dirty mouth which is nice. lol Tess was killed during a car accident and is brought back to life and ever since she can see and talk to ghosts. None had ever caught her attention like Kipp but how do you date a ghost?
The only thing about this story that kept it from getting a 5 heart rating is that the couple can't touch each other so the sex scenes were a bit frustrating. Great story that I would recommend to fans of paranormal romance. I will definitely be reading some other books by Stacey in the future.

Overall Rating:

Sex Rating:

January - Monthly Book Giveaway

2012-01-17T11:21:00.000-05:00

<center><a href="http://romancebookjunkies.blogspot.com/p/giveaways.html?zx=6452b465b4e29ed0" target="_blank"><img border="0" alt="Monthly Giveaways at Romance Book Junkies" src="http://i913.photobucket.com/albums/ac339/Loriimagination/romancebookjunkies/romancebutton-2.jpg"/></a></center>

All the votes are in and it looks like the book for January's monthly book giveaway is going to be

"Immortal Hope" by Claire Ashgrove.

Goodreads Blurb:

Centuries ago, Templar knights defied the archangels and unearthed the copper scroll that revealed the locations of the gates to hell. Cursed for their forbidden act, they now 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, releasing him from the clutches of their enemy. When he stumbles upon history professor Anne MacPherson, he discovers that 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 Merrick 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 that he alone can soothe. Yet loving Merrick comes with a price. If she admits she is destined for him, her gift of foresight predicts his death.

Giveaway Details:
1. The only requirement I have for my monthly book giveaways is that you be a follower of my blog.
2. The giveaway is International if you live in a country that the Book Depository ships too please check to make sure they ship to your area before entering.
3. Giveaway ends on January 31, 2012. Winner will be chosen randomly using Rafflecopter.
3. Extra Enties:
                        +5 Adding my monthly giveaway button to your sidebar.
                        +1 Tweeting about the giveaway
                        +1 Following me on Google+
                        +1 Following me on Facebook
                        +1 Following me on Twitter
4. Please enter using the Rafflecopter below.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Book Promo and Giveaway: "His Treasure" by Kiru Taye

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

Hello readers. The good people at Romance Book Junkies have invited me over for the day as part of my book blog tour. I hope you’ll stay, read my post and share your comments at the end. I’ll be giving away one e-copy of my book to a random commenter.

About me: My name is Kiru Taye. I was born and grew up Nigeria but now live in the UK. I’m married to my very own alpha hero. We have two your children – my daughter is 6 years old and my son is 4 years old.

I write romance stories—contemporary, historical and paranormal—set in Africa. My stories feature dark tortured heroes and strong sassy heroines.

When I’m not writing, you can find me reading – romance, thriller, fantasy fiction novels. I also love travelling and fashion. Most of all I enjoy spending my time with close family and friends.

About my book, His Treasure:

When I started writing His Treasure, a historical romance novella, I wanted to write a different story but still incorporate all the elements of romance that I love—conflict, emotional tension, rounded characters and of course the happy ever after. I also wanted to write about a culture I was familiar with that I hadn’t read about in other romance stories I’ve read.

His Treasure is not the first historical romance story I’ve written (I wrote a historical paranormal novel first), but it’s the story that brought my love of historical romance to the fore. Set in medieval West Africa, it focuses on a man’s unbending love for his wife and a woman’s need to make her own choices.

Blurb:

In a time when men ruled their households with firm hands, can a quiet man tame his rebellious wife with persevering love?

Angry at being forced to marry a man not of her choosing, Adaku stubbornly shuns her new husband on their wedding night. However, she soon discovers there are worse things than giving in to a man whose touch awakens her deep desires. In a land where fruitfulness is celebrated, she could soon be labeled a barren woman.

Obinna knows there are several ways to tame a rebellious woman. Patience and perseverance are two of them. Adaku is his treasure and he will never let her go. When her fears push her into his arms, will he be able to convince her to stay with him forever by unleashing the passion within her?

Excerpt:

“My husband, you know the new yam festival fast approaches,” Adaku spoke as Obinna ate his dinner. They were in the main chamber of the house, the sleeping rooms led off directly from it. Seated opposite him at the table, she felt a little apprehensive about the topic she wanted to discuss with him and shifted nervously in her chair.

Obinna looked up at her, his eyes fringed by long dark lashes, a black expressionless pool that always unnerved her. As she couldn’t read his mood, gauging how to tell him what she wanted to say was difficult.

“Yes, say what’s on your mind Adaku,” he said in his usual deep voice as he licked his long fingers.

Something stirred low within her belly. Her eyes hungrily followed his action and she got distracted. For a brief moment she wished it was her fingers he was licking.

“That could be arranged.”

Adaku looked up sharply and Obinna’s brow was lifted with amusement. She realized she must have spoken her thought out loud. Embarrassment and heat washed over her skin as he took hold of her hand in his large one.

Somewhere within her mind something shifted. An awareness of Obinna at a primal level registered in her rapidly hazing brain.

The air suddenly felt warmer and her skin prickled. He took each finger into his warm mouth in turn, twirling his moist tongue around each. Sensation flooded her body and she forgot everything else she wanted to say. All she could feel was the stroke of his tongue on her fingers as he sucked and lapped each one.

His touch scorched her straight to her soul.

She gasped and his eyes came up, locking onto her and pinning her to the spot. His eyes were filled with a desire she couldn’t explain. His tongue moved down her skin searing a path to the spot at the center of her palm before licking it. Then he released her hand and she realized she was trembling.

It left her with a need pulsating in her core. It left her confused too. All he’d done was lick her fingers. Yet it seemed to turn her into a trembling mass, yearning for more of his touch. Prince Emeka’s touch had never elicited such a response from her and she’d thought he was her life mate.

“What was it you wanted to ask me or have I already fulfilled it?”

Obinna was still watching her intensely. His voice had a husky tinge that rumbled through her. She took a while to catch her breath before she could speak. Willing her heart rate to return to normal, she stared at her hand still tingling from his touch.

***

For your chance to WIN a copy of His Treasure please leave a comment telling me why you want to read this book. One lucky commenter will be randomly selected and the winner announced next week.

I’d like to say a big thank you to Romance Book Junkies for hosting me today.

His Treasure published by Breathless Press is out in eBook now.

It’s available to buy via

Breathless Press: http://www.breathlesspress.com/his-treasure

Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/His-Treasure-Men-Valor-ebook/dp/B006H0Q0GK

All Romance ebooks: http://www.allromanceebooks.com/product-histreasure-651650-157.html

And other online book retailers.

Kiru Taye can be contacted via her blog: http://kirutayewrites.blogspot.com

Goodreads: http://www.goodreads.com/user/show/5444744-kiru-taye

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/AuthorKiruTaye

Twitter: http://twitter.com/#!/KiruTaye

In My Mailbox

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

Weekly meme from The Story Siren. The idea is to post the books you got this week,whether you bought them, got them as a gift, from the library, or received them to review.

Books I received for review:

Book I received from Lori @ Romancing the Darkside for RAK which was very sweet. Thanks Lori!

Audiobook I checked out of the library:

Audiobook I bought:

What did you get in your mailbox this week?

ARC Review: "A Demon Does It Better" by Linda Wisdom

2012-01-11T17:09:00.000-05:00

"A Demon Does It Better"
Author: Linda Wisdom
Series: Demons #2
Genre: Paranormal Romance
Pages: 384
ISBN: 9781402236723
Author's Website: http://www.lindawisdom.com/index.html
Source: Publisher in exchange for a honest review.
Published: January 2012 by Sourcebooks Casablanca

Goodreads Blurb:

Bestselling author Linda Wisdom, with 13 million category romances sold, is working to build her single title audience with the hottest new area of the romance category– sexy demon heroes.
Lovely witch Lili Carter takes a job at a paranormal hospital where patients have been disappearing. There she encounters Jared, a dangerously sexy demon on a mission that gets Lili into a world of trouble. Lili can't avoid Jared for long and soon they find themselves creating a whole new kind of magick...

My Review:
"A Demon Does It Better" is book two in the Demons series but can be read as a stand alone. That's actually what I did and I found the book to be a amazing, intriguing story. Lili is a doctor and an extremely talented witch. She's a cool, friendly person who finds herself in a very hard place. She has taken a new job working at a paranormal hospital in the mental ward in hopes of finding out what happened to her best friend who has gone missing. Jared is a demon that happens to be a patient at the mental institution. He has a troubled, tortured soul and might I add super hot. The romantic development was intense from the very first chapter. This book has a lot going on but Linda does a great job of getting everything resolved in the end. The ending was superb and I closed the book with a big smile on my face. With all the action that's going on in the story there is still a great love story that's going to make you feel like your falling in love right along with them. This book was splendidly written and I would highly recommend it to all paranormal romance fans. This story has everything a paranormal romance fan dreams of from shifters to demons to witches.

Overall Rating:

Sex Rating:

Authors After Dark 2012 Reading Challenge

2012-01-05T11:11:00.000-05:00

I was so excited when I read about this challenge because I had already planned on reading some books by the authors that are going to be attending the convention in August so that I could get some books signed and talk to them about what I think about their stories and that's what this challenge is all about. So this is the perfect challenge for me. Here are the details and if you want to sign up go here.

Guidelines:
•Although AAD 2012 takes place in August, this challenge will run from January 1, 2012 to December 31, 2012.
•Books must be read and reviewed in 2012.
•You can join at anytime during the year.
•Anyone can join (not just book bloggers).

To Join:
•Write a post about this challenge on your blog with a link back to this post.
•Include a list of the AAD 2012 books you hope to read in 2012. You can check out the authors on the AAD 2012 website HERE. (Then click on the authors link.) Please note that your list is not written in stone! You can change it at anytime.
•Grab the button and add it to your post or sidebar.
•Sign up on Mr. Linky below. Please enter the link to the AAD 2012 Challenge post on your blog, not your main blog page. (If you link to your main blog page, unfortunately it will be deleted.) If you do not have a blog, you can just sign up.

As you may know if you follow my blog a lot I'm kind of a slow reader, I savor my books. So here is my small list of books I want to read for the challenge:

1. When Darkness Comes by Alexandra Ivy
2. Desire Untamed by Pamela Palmer
3. Possess Me by R.G. Alexander
4. The Vampire Queen's Servant
5. First Drop of Crimson by Jeaniene Frost

I will add more later if I have time to read them. Don't forget to look for my reviews.

This month's WINNERS!

2012-01-03T11:39:00.000-05:00

I have drawn the winners of the three giveaways I had ending at the end of December. I want to thank everyone who participated in the giveaways and Laura Kaye for hosting her giveaway. Now to the winners.

Signed 11 x 17 North of Need Poster:

Michelle @ Reading Lark

December Monthly Book Giveaway:

Jessica C.

Historical Romance Reading Challenge for December:

Katrina @ Kindred Dreamheart

Congratulations ladies! I have contacted all of you already. You have 48 hours to get back to me or I will have to draw a new winner.

January Monhly Book Giveaway

2012-01-01T17:11:00.000-05:00

<center><a href="http://romancebookjunkies.blogspot.com/p/giveaways.html?zx=6452b465b4e29ed0" target="_blank"><img border="0" alt="Monthly Giveaways at Romance Book Junkies" src="http://i913.photobucket.com/albums/ac339/Loriimagination/romancebookjunkies/romancebutton-2.jpg"/></a></center>

I'm doing this a little different this year and have decided to let you vote for the book you want to be the January Monthly Book Giveaway. You can find the poll on my left had side bar so go vote for the book you want to win and then around the middle of the month I'll announce the winner of the vote and post the rafflecopter for the actual giveaway. I thought this sounded like fun do I hope you enjoy it and don't forget to go vote now.

January - Historical Romance Challenge

2012-01-01T16:07:00.002-05:00

Welcome to the 2012 Historical Romance Reading Challenge! I see a lot of familiar names on the sign up list from last years challenge and I welcome you back as well. Hopefully this year will be even better than last. We have a small group of participants this year so everyone should have a chance to win some great prizes and we can really take the time to check out everyone's reviews and have a good time. Something new from last year is that I'm keeping the sign up open all year so others can jump in and join us at any point during the year.
This is January's post were you will be getting information about this month's giveaway and this is also were your going to link up your reviews using the Linky Tool at the bottom of the post. If you have any questions or concerns please feel free to email me @ romancebookjunkiesdanielle@yahoo.com. Now on to the good stuff:

There will be two winners this month the first winner will get this beautiful bookmark from Miss Bohemia and this giveaway is International:

The second giveaway is for US residents only because I just happen to have this book on my shelf to giveaway. (I will have international book giveaways as well throughout the year):

Goodreads Blurb:

Three heroes, three rescues, three weddings.

The pleasure of your company is requested
at the wedding of Miss Eliza Cynster

...but not until she's rescued from a daring abduction by the most unexpected of heros!

Brazenly kidnapped from her sister Heather's engagement ball, Eliza Cynster is spirited north to Edinburgh. Desperate and determined to escape, she seizes upon the first possible champion who happens along - gentleman scholar Jeremy Carling.

Villains and rescues are a far cry from Jeremy's expertise, yet he cannot abandon a damsel in distress. But danger lurks and hurdles abound in their race to escape the mysterious laird, until a final confrontation on a windswept cliff reveals what their future life could hold - if both are bold enough to seize and own the unexpected love they now share.

Here is the Linky Tool you will be using this month to link up your reviews for Jan. The review has to be posted on your blog in 2012 in order to qualify for this challenge:

December RAK Wrap up

2012-01-01T15:26:00.000-05:00

RAK is hosted by Book Soulmates and is a very special way of sharing the love with other bloggers and making new friends. Its that time of month to let everyone know what I got in December.

Thanks to Megan @ Amethyst Daydreams Blog for sending me First Drop of Crimson. I can't wait to read this one.

Thanks to Michelle @ Michelle's Book Blog for sending me not only Everdark but a whole box of books off her shelf to make my day. I'm looking forward to Everdark I read the first book and fell in love.

Thats what I got this month for RAK. What did you get?

In My Mailbox

2011-12-25T18:43:00.002-05:00

Book I received from Michelle @ Michelle's Book Blog for RAK which was very sweet. Thanks Michelle!

What did you get in your mailbox this week?

Merry Christmas!

2011-12-25T12:52:00.000-05:00

Merry Christmas!

To all of you that celebrate Christmas I hope yours is blessed and to those who don't I hope your having a great holiday. I haven't been posting much this past week because of all the commotion from the holidays but I hope to get back on track this coming week so look forward to some good stuff coming up including all the winners of this month's giveaways. If you haven't enter them all yet you have till the end of this week to get all your entries in.

In My Mailbox

2011-12-18T00:00:00.000-05:00

Weekly meme from The Story Siren. The idea is to post the books you got this week,whether you bought them, got them as a gift, from the library, or received them to review.

Books I won:
I won three books in Felicity Heaton's Prophecy Series this week from Ronda at Queentutt's World of Escapism.

What did you get in your mailbox this week?

Update to 2012 Historical Romance Challenge

2011-12-16T17:16:00.002-05:00

I have some updates to my details for the challenge.

1. I will be giving away some historical romance novels monthly if I happen to have one available at that time.

2. I will be leaving the sign ups open all year long just remember the goal of 12 books in a year. You can post more than one review a month to catch up on your goal of 12 books a year but you only get one entry into the giveaway per month.

3. Please try to spread the word about the challenge I currently only have 9 participants signed up for the challenge. Hopefully the above updates help encourage more to sign up.

4. Here is the sign up linky tool post: http://romancebookjunkies.blogspot.com/2011/11/2012-historical-romance-challenge-sign.html

Thanks for all your help and thank you for those who have already signed up.

Guest Post and Giveaway with Laura Kaye

2011-12-14T00:00:00.000-05:00

To Santa, from an Author

By Laura Kaye

A few days ago, I helped my daughters, who are seven and five, write letters to Santa. In them, they detailed all their hopes and dreams for the holidays, the gifts they most wished for, and the things that, for them, would make this Christmas the best. And, I got to thinking, why can’t grown-ups do that? Why can’t we put our hopes and wishes to paper and believe that maybe, just maybe, something will make them come true. So, in the spirit of the magic and belief that is a part of my recently released contemporary fantasy romance, North of Need, I’m picking up a long-lost correspondence with an old friend:

December 14, 2011

Dear Santa ~

I’m thinking you remember me, because you’ve got your lists and all. I’m sorry I haven’t written in a while, but I was thinking of you after my girls wrote you letters, so I thought I’d drop you a line.

I know you probably don’t get letters like this very often from people my age, but I figured it’s the season of belief, right? So what could it hurt?

If it wouldn’t be too much trouble, these are the things I’d like this Christmas:

~ I’d love a new laptop. Mine sometimes makes a weird noise inside like a helicopter rotor, and that can’t be good, can it? Plus, sometimes it’s really slow. My laptop is pretty much my entire office – have laptop, will travel! So I think I better not push it until the one I have conks out and just dies.

~ A visit from my mom. I know this one is asking a lot, since my mom is gone and all. But I figure the North Pole is probably closer to where she is than I am, so if you see her and she’s not too busy, please ask her to pop in sometime. I miss her, and I’d love for her to see my girls.

~ The ability to write full-time. Okay, maybe this is one only I can really give myself, by continuing to write more and better books, but if there’s anything you can do to bring this dream to life, I’d really appreciate it.

Well, maybe I should stop there. That already seems like a lot to want all at once. Though, if the elves find any spare time and want to take on my laundry room, I’d be ever so grateful. It turns out that trying to write books and keep up with doing laundry doesn’t really work, at least not in my house, and I’m a bit worried that I might ultimately lose my dog or five-year-old if one of them wanders in there. So, okay, that’s it then.

Thanks so much for considering my list, Santa, and I hope this message finds you well!

Sincerely,

Laura Kaye

Now, you’ve read mine—what would be on your letter to Santa? Comment with your email address and be entered to win a signed 11x17” North of Need poster! Open to U.S. and Canada. Giveaway ends 12/31.

Thanks for reading!

Laura Kaye

Buy Laura's Books

Website | Blog | Facebook | Twitter | Newsletter SignUp

About North of Need:

Her tears called a powerful snow god to life, but only her love can grant the humanity he craves...

Desperate to escape agonizing memories of Christmas past, twenty-nine-year-old widow Megan Snow builds a snow family outside the mountain cabin she once shared with her husband, realizing too late that she's recreated the very thing she'll never have.

Called to life by Megan's tears, snow god Owen Winters appears unconscious on her doorstep in the midst of a raging blizzard. As she nurses him to health, Owen finds unexpected solace in her company and unimagined pleasure in the warmth of her body, and vows to win her heart for a chance at humanity.

Megan is drawn to Owen's mismatched eyes, otherworldly masculinity, and enthusiasm for the littlest things. But this Christmas miracle comes with an expiration--before the snow melts and the temperature rises, Megan must let go of her widow's grief and learn to trust love again, or she'll lose Owen forever.

Excerpt:

Owen’s POV:

Chair Lift 3 took them where they needed to the top of the mountain, and Owen loved how Megan snuggled into the side of his body, their thighs pressed tight together. He gazed down at her. “Beautiful up here,” he murmured as the unnoticed resort glided by beneath them.

“Yeah.” She turned away from his chest and took in the view, then glanced up to see him staring at her. A blush bloomed over her cheeks, discernible even under her ski goggles and beanie. She leaned back against him. He squeezed her in with his arm around her shoulders. At the end of the lift ride, they jumped off together and she guided them to the trail she wanted to try.

“Okay, promise me you won’t cheat.”

“Cheat? What do you mean?”

“None of that snow god voodoo,” she said.

Owen’s whole body shook with amusement.

“I mean it,” Megan said, humor coloring her voice.

He steadied himself using his poles. “No voodoo. Got it.”

“Good. Okay, then. Wait here a second, I want to show you something.”

He nodded. “All right.”

Megan slowly skied away from him. “Stay right there, now,” she called over her shoulder. Just as he started to frown at how far she’d gone, she threw him a mischievous look, dug her poles in, and shoved off. “Catch me if you can!”

Owen gaped. “That little…And she told me not to cheat.” He didn’t think on it long, though, because he was after her in a flash. He knew why she made him promise not to use his powers. She was good. Surefooted and centered. Handled the turns with ease and zigzagged on the straightaways to pick up speed. Gods, her competence on the snow had him hardening in his pants.

He whooped out a cheer of pure exhilaration. The cold air whipped at his hair—he wore neither hat nor goggles, not needing them. He filled his lungs with the wind, fed off it. Tightening his stance, he gained on her, but never caught up. Man, was he going to make her pay.

At the bottom, they twisted to a stop, their downhill skis carving into the snow and sending up sprays of powder. Owen glided toward her.

“Sorry, sorry,” she giggled out with a hand over her mouth.

Owen grabbed it and pulled it away, wrapped it around his back.

“I told you, never hide your smiles from me.” He kissed her cold lips. “Naughty, naughty girl.”

She nodded. “Yep. Ready to go again?”

He smacked her bottom, though her insulated snow pants kept his bare hand from having the effect he really wanted. “You better believe it.”

About Laura Kaye:

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 is the author of the bestselling contemporary romance and award-nominated HEARTS IN DARKNESS and the bestselling and award-winning paranormal romance FOREVER FREED (NJRW Golden Leaf Award for Best Paranormal of 2011), as well as an erotic romance novella, JUST GOTTA SAY. Her fourth book, contemporary fantasy romance NORTH OF NEED, is the first in the 4-book Hearts of the Anemoi series. Laura lives in Maryland with her husband, two daughters, and cute-but-bad dog, and appreciates her view of the Chesapeake Bay every day.

In My Mailbox

2011-12-11T20:13:00.001-05:00

Weekly meme from The Story Siren. The idea is to post the books you got this week,whether you bought them, got them as a gift, from the library, or received them to review.

This week I got a huge box of books in the mail from Michelle @ Michelle's Blog she sent them to me out of the kindness of her heart and she totally made my week. Here's what I got:

The Pleasure Palace by Kate Emerson
Between Two Queens by Kate Emerson
By Royal Decree by Kate Emerson
Come to me by Lisa Cach
Ancient Whispers by Marie Bourque
The Grail King by Joy Nash
Untouchable by Linda Winstead Jones
Prince of Swords by Linda Winstead Jones
Sugar and Spice by Leda Swann
Under your Spell by Lisa Greiman
Sex, Lies and Midnight by Tawny Weber
Bride of the Wolf by Jennifer St. Giles
In Pursuit of Eliza Cynster by Stephanie Laurens
The Vampire Queen's Servant by Joey Hill
The Mark of the Vampire Queen by Joey Hill
Beloved Vampire by Joey Hill

Sorry no pictures this week there were just too many.

What did you get in your mailbox this week?

1,000 Followers Mystery Giveaway

2011-12-10T12:42:00.001-05:00

I'm so excited! I currently have 967 followers and I'm so close to reaching 1,000 so I'm going to be hosting a mystery giveaway for all my fabulous followers, without you my blog wouldn't be what it is today. I will be drawing the winner when I reach 1,000 followers so help spread the word. The giveaway will be international.

This is the way the mystery giveaway works. Fill out the rafflecopter and leave a comment with a list of at least three books on your wish list and your email address. If you win I will pick one of your books to send to you without telling you which one until you receive it in the mail. Sounds like fun doesn't it? Enter now and help spread the word so I can reach 1,000 followers and draw a winner.