House Wife Blues and Chihuahua Stories

Kindness....

noreply@blogger.com (Jackie Burris) — Wed, 30 May 2012 05:00:00 +0000

KINDNESS

There is a group of book bloggers who regularly participate in sharing books with each other, this fun event is called RAK (Random Acts of Kindness) which is hosted by Book Soulmates Bloggers Isalys and Vanessa which is different but similar to the RIPI (Read It Pass It) that lovely bloggers Stephanie from Paper Cut Reviews and Chas from Love/Live/Life Reviews blogs created to pass on gently read books to others. There are offshoots of the RAK and the RIPI that are named many things but have the same outcome. Book lovers sharing brand new, almost new and ARC copies with others who enjoy the same kind of reading.

While the concept is great from a book lovers point of view, how about from another viewpoint? Taking this a step further how about we not only share acts of kindness with other book lovers but we do the same in the grocery store line, traveling on the highway or waiting in line to use the public restroom stall?

Kindness is something that is a very easy courtesy to bestow without spending a dime, all you have to do is share a smile with a stranger and watch their face light up and the fatigue that only moments ago was so apparent somewhat ease as they enjoy the endorphins released by a simple change of facial expression.

Most times Kindness is something we reserve for those we consider to be in need of help, an elderly person who struggles with their grocery bags, a small child who is lost in the store crying for their Mother, a family member who is ill and needs care. All these acts of Kindness are natural and appreciated but what about those acts that you do on the spur of the moment?

What random acts of Kindness have you done lately? How did they make you feel?

The Fallen series Winnah!

noreply@blogger.com (Jackie Burris) — Tue, 29 May 2012 05:00:00 +0000

2 Books total to 1 lucky winner, His Dark Bond and Savage Bond
AND THE WINNER IS...
[results powered by Random.org]
Entry #111Stephanie Verhaegen

Author Emily Guido guest post/promo for "The Light-Bearer Series" #1

noreply@blogger.com (Jackie Burris) — Fri, 25 May 2012 05:00:00 +0000

This will be the first of several promo posts to introduce you to paranormal romance author

Emily Guido, and also to introduce readers to her Light-Bearer Series.Please welcome Emily to the blog!

photo from author

Writer’s Thought’s about “Charmeine”

“Charmeine” is the first book in “The Light-Bearer Series”. Tabbruis, Charmeine’s love, is a vampire. However, I never say Tabbruis is a vampire in the book. I said he was a blood-hunter throughout the series. Why? Mainly, there is a vampire lore that you have to be faithful to. I didn’t want my novel to have those constraints. I also wanted to set up “The Light-Bearer Series” with action that was being played mostly in today’s time period but also in past time periods. Tabbruis shares, along with his other blood-hunter buddies, all their rich eyewitness encounters with the most significant events of human history.

Now, for the sexy part… Tabbruis and Charmeine are opposites and they attract just like magnets. Charmeine is Angelic and supposed to kill blood-hunters, and Tabbruis is Hellish and supposed to kill Light-Bearers. Though when they meet, the last thing they have on their mind is killing each other, quite the opposite!

To survive their forbidden love, they battle the Evil Elder Council that has put a price on their heads. In “The Light-Bearer Series” we find out that Charmeine has been given the task of being the Queen of the Light-Bearers and as such, she is given a Holy Edict from God to rid the Earth of Evil in ALL forms along with her King of Darkness, Tabbruis, the King of all the Blood-Hunters. This keeps Charmeine and Tabbruis busy battling Evil.

For the part that I love, Tabbruis and Charmeine are just like any couple. They are always on a rollercoaster of emotions and road-blocks which upset the balance of their relationship. Not every couple is perfect because we are imperfect. So that is the way with Charmeine and Tabbruis, they are flawed but with super powers which mean quite a showdown when they are angry!

The second novel in “The Light-Bearer Series” is “Ransom” and it will be out hopefully in late May or Early June 2012. I have finished it, and now, I’m editing it which is like pulling teeth for me. Writing is easy, editing is hard! “Ransom” is not like the name projects and not like the reader may think. It’s really a totally different take on the word. Charmeine and Tabbruis are put through more turbulence to get back on their feet; however, more twists and turns come into play. When I was writing it, I literally was off my seat just dying to get the words on the computer screen. I think the reader will be centrifugal force will keep them wanting more.

“The Light-Bearer Series” will be four novels. I wanted to make each novel an epic but I have learned the novels have to build with each one laying a foundation for the next. In the first novel “Charmeine,” there is a lot of backstory. I had to have it because without the backstory, the novel would crumble. This novel is long and a person said to cut it in half and make two novels out of it, and I couldn’t do that. I had to finish the story to some modicum of satisfaction. I hate reading a series and then it is left in a life and death cliff-hanger!

Do I have other books planned? Hum, yes! I do have a smart idea I’m brewing in my head and it is going to be pretty interesting!

author provided photo

Get to know Emily in her own words: Admittedly, I’m the author of “Charmeine” so if I didn’t like my own book, I would be a pretty bad Author! But there are points in the book that evoke a feeling in me.
1. Who am I a fan of? Well, my favorite books are from English and American Lit! Of course my first books were like anyone elses, The Box Car Children, Little Women, The Hobbit, you know. But when I would go to Public Library after school, I would sneak over and to the section where the big books are and pull down Dracula by Bram Stoker and read it covertly. Shh, my Mom still doesn’t know!
2. My favorite dream? Where would we all be without dreams? I think my favorite dreams are about my characters Charmeine and Tabbruis! I dream of them walking down the coast of Long Island and going places and doing things that a jet set couple would do. However, Charmeine would protest because she hates being spoiled! She’s married to the hunkiest man on Earth, Tabbruis, take it Charmeine, and take it!
3. What do I fantasize about? About being on a white sandy beach looking out a crystal blue ocean with the waves coming in and out! Of course reading my Kindle and sunbathing! Can you tell I love the beach? Of course, I fantasize looking at Tabbruis while I do it…

photo from author

About the Author:

Emily Guido is a new Paranormal Romance Author. She was inspired to start writing "Charmeine" because one day she got an idea of two characters that needed to have their story told. Not ever dreaming a week later she would have over a 100,000 words written. When Emily writes, it is similar to you or I watching a movie. She pictures the characters in her head going through vivid descriptions of each scene. There are so many nuances going through her mind that she cannot type fast enough.

Emily is currently editing the second novel, in "The Light-Bearer Series," Ransom, soon to be published in May 2012. She is currently working at a College full time, and pursuing her Master of Business Administration.
Where to find/follow Emily:

WEBSITE TWITTER FACEBOOK GOODREADS

“Charmeine”
The First Novel in
“The Light-Bearer Series”
Title: Charmeine
Author: Emily Guido
Series: The Light-Bearer Series
Genre(s): Paranormal Romance>Angels and Vampires
Published: 2012
Format: Ebook
Book Synopsis: Can romance develop between a Heavenly Light-Bearer and a Hellish vampire Blood-Hunter?
Tabbruis is a Blood-Hunter, he drinks blood to survive. Over millennia Tabbruis has wondered the Earth alone aimlessly living through many historical events.
Charmeine just came to the Earth in 1997. Little did she know her destiny was to be Queen of all the Light-Bearers?
When Tabbruis meets Charmeine the attraction is immediate and passionate. They are polar opposites and clash together in a strongly romantic and dramatic way. When she meets Tabbruis, Charmeine’s powers as a Light-Bearer, one who throws lightning, is triggered and grows exponentially.
Charmeine and Tabbruis soon find out they were made by God for each other; however, on the day God cast Lucifer out of Heaven, they were split up. Charmeine sacrificed herself to save her Tabbruis but they were sent to Earth as total opposites and in different times.
Tabbruis never remembered Heaven, Charmeine or their child. Until he met Charmeine, he did not know he was the King of Darkness and destined to be her Husband on Earth as he was in Heaven.
Once Tabbruis and Charmeine proclaim their love for one another, they have to battle their way to freedom from the Evil forces on Earth.

BOOK BUY LINKS

AMAZON BUY LINK FOR KINDLE

BARNES AND NOBLE BUY LINK FOR NOOK

Rent-A-Stud (Cooper's Companions #1) {My Thoughts}

noreply@blogger.com (Jackie Burris) — Thu, 24 May 2012 05:00:00 +0000

Rent-A-Stud by Lynn LaFleur
Read February 1-2nd 2012Kindle Edition Published first August 31st 2005Cooper's Companions #1Source: Personal copy4 of 5 stars on GR'sAMAZON BUY LINK KINDLE AND PBBARNES AND NOBLE BUY LINK PB AND NOOK

Book Synopsis

It isn't Jade Talmage's idea to accept her daughter's offer to hire an escort for the hospital gala. But the absence of her brother Paul - her usual companion - leaves her with no choice.

Enter Zachary Cooper, one-third owner of Coopers' Companions, a professional escort company. Despite his good looks and sex appeal that make her hormones scream, Jade has no intention of being the next in a long line of the rent-a-stud's conquests.

A weekend of mind-blowing sex has Jade's heart crumbling. Zach is exactly the type of man she wants in her life. Yet she's sure a relationship with a man ten years her junior would lead to nothing but heartache.

Zach doesn't care that Jade is older than he. He wants a lifetime with the woman he's fallen for so desperately. All he has to do is convince Jade that he's much more than a rent-a-stud - he's the man who loves her.

My Thoughts

Okay picked this one up free from Amazon to read because of a couple of things. Number one it was free, number two it was short and number three it sounded like it was more than just erotica and actually had a fairly decent story along with really hot sex scenes.

I was right and am so happy that I had a chance to meet Jade and Zach. Also happy to have discovered his brother Brent, his sister Michelle and Jade's daughter Breanna because these 2ndry characters helped really flesh out the story.

It was a joy to watch the story unfold, every page brought something new to light and the relationship between Jade and Zach could not have been more smolderingly sexy but at the same time so easy and natural as time passed. This was not a wham bam thank you maam erotic romance, it had both characters sharing their vulnerabilities as well as their insatiable appetite for each other. A true May/December romance or in today's world a Cub and a Cougar that you will enjoy from beginning to end while desperately hoping that it all works out for the couple.

I will not spoil the book by telling you more, you need to read this one yourself because as a start to the series you know once Zach's story is over that his brother Brent and sister Michelle are going to have their own tales to tell as well.

Series on goodreads link to all 3 books
Rent-A-Stud

Michelle's Men

Almost Perfection

I will say that this should be read by those over 18, there is anal intercouse, anal play and very graphic sex between Zach and Jade that should be read by those of legal adult age. The book is very hot but it is also more than just a book with sex in it, the characters are very believable and their relationship comes across as one that many women would kill to have as would many men as well!

PLACES TO FIND THE AUTHOR:

LYNN'S AMAZON AUTHOR'S PAGE

LYNN'S GOODREADS AUTHOR PAGE

LYNN ON TWITTER LYNN'S WEB SITE

It's those "little" things.....

noreply@blogger.com (Jackie Burris) — Wed, 23 May 2012 05:00:00 +0000

Okay once again my wheels were turning and the random thoughts coalesced into a stream of what made me smile, cry, sigh in exasperation, laugh out loud or mutter curse words under my breath if not shout them loudly at the top of my lungs...

I will put it all together with pictures to share what emotion went with each happening that caused it when I publish these posts.If you have anything to add please feel free to share your own emotional responses to certain events or happenings in your own life in words or even a link to something you had a reaction to...

January 21st and our front yard needed mowing with the brand new zero turn radius riding mower.

This made me smile as my husband put his dust mask on because it normally gets forgotten and he ends up getting bronchitis from the debris the mower would kick in his face.

What really made me smile though is the sight of him enjoying his brand new 48" riding mower, we had to get it because a 20" push mower just was not keeping up with almost an acre of land to cover.

So what "little things" stir your emotions? What makes you happy, sad, glad or indifferent?

Vaempires:Revolution-The Evolutionary War, Book 1 {My Thoughts}

noreply@blogger.com (Jackie Burris) — Tue, 22 May 2012 05:00:00 +0000

Vaempires: Revolution by Thomas Winship
Paperback Edition 216 pagesPublished October 31st 2011 by CreatespaceSource:Copy won from author in giveaway from blog Embrace The Shadows
Amazon Buy Links Kindle and PBBarnes and Noble Buy Link My rating: 4 of 5 stars

Book Synopsis
It is the morning of Princess Cassandra’s sixteenth birthday. Everyone’s attention is focused on the heir to the vampire throne. World leaders, the rich and famous, and VIPs from every corner of the globe have gathered in the nation’s capital to celebrate the momentous event.

Cassandra’s boyfriend, Daniel, is late for the party. He’s still outside the city when all hell breaks loose. What he believes is an act of terrorism proves to be a full-fledged revolution. Væmpires—former vampires who mutated into warm-blooded creatures with an insatiable hunger for cold blood—have launched coordinated attacks across the globe, with three goals: the eradication of humanity, the enslavement of vampires, and the ascension of væmpires as the dominant species on the planet.

The vampire and human leaders are killed. Cassandra is missing. Daniel is the acting king. Desperate to find the princess, Daniel and his friends fight their way across the besieged city. With the hopes of the free world resting on the shoulders of four vampire teenagers, væmpires unleash their secret weapons—væmpires with special powers.

What can four teens do against an enemy that can shape-shift, fly, or walk through walls?

My Thoughts

Ready for chills and thrills and lots of gory action packed scenes? Stop right now and find a copy of this intense and fast paced read!

I went into reading this one knowing full well it was going to be dark, bloody and at times even a bit gruesome. Knowing and reading are two very different things, this book grabbed me, took me deep into the world built oh so carefully by the author and did not let me out until the last page was turned. I rooted for Cassie and Daniel, booed the evil creatures that they battled, was totally disgusted by the actions of the villain who orchestrated the attacks and was utterly horrified at the way the book ended!
There is nothing quite like reading something so action packed, it is better than seeing it on the big screen because your imagination is allowed to absorb the scenarios in vivid detail as they happen without the distraction of having to actually watch the brain matter and blood splatter that special effects would use in a movie!

Fans of darker Urban Fantasy will love this start to the authors series, fans of teens with brains and more courage than common sense will enjoy the main characters as well! It pains me now to wait for the second book to release but have a feeling it will be worth it to find out what happens after the mind blowing cliff hanger that ended this book.

[This book was won from author in a blog giveaway but that in no way affected the books review.]Places to connect with the author:Goodreads Twitter Website Facebook

Forget Me Not-Mystic Wolves Book 2 {My Thoughts}

noreply@blogger.com (Jackie Burris) — Fri, 18 May 2012 05:00:00 +0000

Forget Me Not by Belinda Boring
Kindle Edition
Published May 6th 2012 by Moonstruck Media (first published 2012)Source: Ecopy provided by author in exchange for honest reviewAMAZON BUY LINKBARNES AND NOBLE BUY LINKSMASHWORDS BUY LINK

My rating: 5 of 5 stars

Book Synopsis

Only a fool would think they could steal from a werewolf …

Anticipating a quiet night alone with the man she loves, Darcy’s world is sent into a spin with the arrival of someone from the past—Mason’s. She is further shocked by the intruder’s claim she may not even be the true mate of the Mystic Wolves Alpha. Accusations start to fly, leading to her new enemy being granted asylum, and this is just the beginning of trouble.

Relying on the reassurances of Mason and the support of her friends and Pack, Darcy soon falls under attack. Suspicions are raised, and with no other choice, she must flee with Devlin to safety where hopefully they can untangle the lies hidden behind the use of magic. Time is quickly ticking away, leading to a showdown where everything is on the line.

They need to uncover the truth before it’s too late, or once again, Darcy will need to fight to hold onto her dreams.

My Thoughts

Forget Me Not picks up with the cliff hanger that ended book 1, The Mystic Wolves.

The arrival of the mysterious Amber, the self proclaimed "Real future mate" for Mason puts Darcy's world into a tailspin. Lies, deceptions and cruelly harmful intentions are soon revealed when it becomes apparent to Darcy, Mason and Daniel that there is nothing Amber will not do to claim what she feels is hers by right!

The passion that Darcy and Mason feel for each other, the love they share, the very future of they and their pack is once again threatened by outside forces. It is a testament to the authors skill in portraying each character in this series that once again the reader is drawn in deep and fast to the story, not putting the book down until all is revealed, the treacherous villain is dealt with, the final showdown is at hand and the last page is turned!

If ever there were two characters who were truly "fated" to be together it is Mason and Darcy. Once again though we are left with an ending that leaves the future of these two lovers hanging in the balance. Will they ever catch a break and have their HEA? Waiting to find out what happens next in book 3, "Testing Fate", is going to be so excruciating but I have the feeling it will be worth it!

For anyone who loves sweet romance mixed with wicked heat, anyone who enjoys dramatic beginnings and endings to a story, anyone who enjoys reading about a vampire who is trying to find his own identity by dressing up in the most outlandish ways he can find and brings a bit of lightness with humorous snark than you will enjoy this second foray into the world of The Mystic Wolves and their friends.

[An ecopy was provided by author in exchange for an honest review. ]
Places you can find Belinda:

GOODREADS BLOG TWITTER FB

The Mystic Wolves {My Thoughts}

noreply@blogger.com (Jackie Burris) — Thu, 17 May 2012 05:00:00 +0000

The Mystic Wolves by Belinda Boring
KINDLE EDITION 300 PAGESASIN: B006ZR04LCread January 21st 2012Source: Ecopy sent by author to read and honestly review My rating: 5 of 5 stars
AMAZON BUY LINK KINDLE AND PB EDITIONS
BUY LINK PB AT BARNES AND NOBLE

Book Synopsis

What would you do if a simple errand takes a deadly twist, turning you from cautious prey to dangerous predator?
Someone is trying to send a deadly message to Mason, arranging the deaths of those he loves and it puts the entire pack and Alpha on high alert.
Darcy understands the primal instincts driving her beloved Mason's commands. With the help of those he sets as protectors, she learns about herself and the things she'll need to help support her Alpha and pack. When events turn dire however, one truth offers her strength - once given, oaths are unbreakable ... even if it means risking it all.

My Thoughts

After first reading the three short novellas that this series started as it was nice to go back and reread from start to finish and learn exactly why Mason and Darcy have quickly become my favorite couple in a werewolf series. Author Belinda Boring did a great job when the novellas came out of making each story seamlessly blend into the next but now that the three are combined into one full length book it reads even better.

Mason is an all male all alpha who also has the heart and soul of a poet, he makes the reader totally believe that there could be no other mate for him than Darcy! He also makes the reader wish we could take him out of the pages of the book and make him come to life as a real man instead of just a character in a book, the guy is freaking hot and also so very very good at knowing just what to say and do for his woman.

Darcy is a female character who you quickly grow to like, she is funny, she is snarky, she is strong minded and does not allow Mason to dictate to her without questioning him if she thinks it is necessary.

Devlin is a vampire who enforces the laws of his kind and he is also Darcy's best friend. Another hottie with a lot more than just good looks going for him Devlin will very quickly win his way into your heart with his loyalty and charisma.

This is an adult series and it does contain some violence, sex play and other themes not suited for those under 18. However it will appeal to readers across a broad range of ages because it is contains a captivating cast of characters that mesh well together, it contains a romance that takes you to a high level of heat but never crosses the line into soft porn like others seem to nowadays, it has intrigue/drama and lots of tension to keep you turning pages to see what is going to happen next.

This is a story that will take you through it's highs and lows and make you want more and since it also has a very shocking cliffhanger it is a good thing that the next book is due out soon!
(since reading book 1 book 2 released and received for review and read on 5/13/12, it will post tomorrow on Friday 5/18/12)

{Ecopy of the book was provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.}

Places to ~~stalk~~, find the author:BELINDA ON GOODREADS BELINDA'S BLOGMYSTIC WOLVES BLOG SITE

3RD BLOGOVERSARY CELEBRATION 15 WINNAHS!

noreply@blogger.com (Jackie Burris) — Wed, 16 May 2012 05:00:00 +0000

YA BOOKS WINNERS X3 TOTAL

Celebration #1

US WINNERS

Entry # 15 Throuthehaze

Entry #46 Maria S.

INTERNATIONAL WINNER

Entry #21 Mary P.

FIRST BOOK IN SERIES WINNERS X3 TOTAL

Celebration #2

US WINNERS

Entry #41 Denise Z.

Entry #28 Carrie L.

INTERNATIONAL WINNER

Entry #23 Leev W.

ADULT READS GROUP OF BOOKS WINNERS X 3 TOTAL

Celebration #3

US WINNERS

Entry #25 Donna S.

Entry #16 Barbara B.

INTERNATIONAL WINNER

Entry # 42 Elaing8

MISC BOOKS IN DIFFERENT SERIES GROUP WINNERS X3 TOTAL

Celebration #4

US WINNERS

Entry #4 Elizabeth K.

Entry # 30 Krista

INTERNATIONAL WINNER

Entry #11 Evie

GRAND PRIZE-ENTIRE IRON FEY SERIES WINNER X1 US ONLY

Celebration #5

Entry #4 Lauren
SIGNED BY AUTHOR BOX OF BOOKS WINNER X1 US ONLYCelebration #6Entry #8 June M.
A BOX OF BOOKS WINNER X1 US ONLYCelebration #7Entry #23 Alyssa H.
All winners have been mailed their prizes or bought their books if International.

LOW COUNTRY PUNCH [MY THOUGHTS]

noreply@blogger.com (Jackie Burris) — Tue, 15 May 2012 05:00:00 +0000

Lowcountry Punch by Boo Walker

Kindle Edition
206 PAGES (ESTIMATED)
Published (first published October 28th 2011)
ASINB0060ZNSOE
edition languageEnglish
Source: Ecopy provided in exchange for an honest review
AMAZON KINDLE BUY LINK

My rating: 4 of 5 stars
(BOOK SYNOPSIS )
After the worst Christmas Eve of his life, DEA Agent T.A. Reddick leaves Miami for the magical city of Charleston, South Carolina, hoping a return to his roots will heal a broken heart and the guilt of killing a friend. The sleepy and sultry town of Charleston is filled with echoes of the Old South: genteel playboys, society debutantes, and quiet cobblestone streets. But as Reddick will soon discover, there's danger lurking under her charming veneer. When a movie star's death shines a national spotlight on Charleston's underground cocaine trade, he must go undercover to find the main supplier and shut him down. As a hurricane bears down on the port city and the DEA gets ready to spring its trap, Reddick must contend with more than he ever could have imagined.

Brash and bold, TA Reddick is a hero you won’t soon forget. Lowcountry Punch is an action-packed novel that will have you on your knees begging for more.
(MY THOUGHTS)

The authors laid back style of writing flows effortlessly across each page. While it is true that the main character of TA Reddick dominates the story the rest of the cast has just as much to offer to the reader in terms of interest and believability. This is a tale that is meant to be savored slowly like a glass of fine sipping whiskey, rush through it and you lose a lot of the impact along the way.

I have always been fascinated by the thought of going undercover, it looks so cool when you watch an agent do so in a movie or in a television drama. In Low Country Punch, Undercover DEA agent T.A. Reddick dispells some of charm of going undercover. His role in this book makes the reader very aware of just how serious such a job really is, there is no second chance if you are found out. Putting your life on the line every day while doing said job becomes very real when seen through T.A.'s eyes!

This story combines raw action with some of the most gentle tender scenes that tear your heart out while it is still beating that I have ever had the pleasure of experiencing in a book from a new to me author. Not only are you right there feeling everything with the characters but you can taste their emotions on the back of your tongue like they were your own.

There are strongly visual atmospheric scenes of both the countryside and the people encountered during the course of the investigation process, the characteristics that differentiate the good guys from the bad guys are at times blurred but the reader is never left in doubt who is really who, all in all this is a very easy read for those of us who enjoy action and intrigue softened by a bit of romance along the way.

The character of T.A. Reddick is not perfect, infallible or even one that is totally with some quirks that make him less than admirable. T.A. is however a man you want in your corner when it comes down to the wire, a man who has charisma, a strong sense of right and wrong and no give when he feels that justice needs to be served.

Not only has this author managed to create a main character in T.A. Reddick who will be enjoyed by both male and female readers alike but he has taken the time to mesh several story lines together seamlessly, stories whose heart and soul beat in your imagination long after you finish the last page and put the book down no matter what format you read it in!

{In the interests of full disclosure I must say that an ecopy of this book was submitted to me in exchange for an honest review. I also state that this in no way influenced my thoughts on the book.}

About the author:

Boo Walker
spent his College of Charleston years and a few after in Nashville as a banjoist and songwriter for the avant-garde punchgrass band, The Biscuit Boys. Some hand problems knocked him out of the game, and he stumbled into a position with Automated Trading Desk, a short term equity trading firm based out of Mt. Pleasant, SC. To feed his ravenous muse, he began writing his first novel, Lowcountry Punch. Around that time, what started as a passion in wine became a neurosis.

After six years of the Wall Street thing, Boo decided it was time to end his sedentary, computer-driven lifestyle. He grew out a handlebar mustache and moved clear across the country into a double-wide trailer situated on 5 acres of Malbec vines just down the road from Hedges Family Estate on Red Mountain in Washington State. The Hedges family took him in and taught him the art of farming and the old world philosophies of wine. He now travels North America peddling the family's juice, and chances are you can find him in an airport somewhere working on his next novel.

Places to find the author:

WEBSITE GOODREADS TWITTER

FACEBOOK

Happy Mother's Day to all you lovely Mothers out there!

noreply@blogger.com (Jackie Burris) — Sun, 13 May 2012 05:00:00 +0000

My Mom is and always has been my best friend, my loyal supporter, my bedrock on which I lean time and again year after year! Mom is the one person that has never told me there is something I cannot do, instead she has always cheered me on no matter what I try. She even cheered me on when I failed letting me know that it was okay because I gave it my all, my Mother is a wonderful lady and I love her more than words could ever express. I could go on and on about my Mom, she is a very special lady who never ceases to amaze me. She carried me for nine months and has had my back for 49 years, Thanks Mom you ROCK!"Grandma" and her best buddy my Chihuahua Nikki!May all Mothers have a very wonderful day and to all you kids out there hug yours today and cherish her while you have her with you, we only have our Moms for a while and they are special ladies!

google.com photo

Dance Me To The Stars {My Thoughts}

noreply@blogger.com (Jackie Burris) — Thu, 10 May 2012 05:00:00 +0000

Dance Me to the Stars by Marie Astor
Kindle edition 254 pagesPublished February 12th 2012ASIN: B0078IPNCWSource: ecopy from author in exchange for an honest review.
My rating: 4 of 5 stars
AMAZON KINDLE BUY LINK

Book Synopsis

Twenty-eight-year-old Claire Chatfield has everything a girl could possibly wish for: looks, a promising career at New York’s top architectural firm, and an engagement ring from one of New York’s most eligible heir-bachelors! Life should be a dream, but when Alec Brunell, a sexy tango dancer, moves into the apartment one floor above from Claire’s, he unwittingly awakens Claire’s old insecurities, making her question her life choices. Will Claire brave her fears and allow herself to take a chance on Alec, or will she continue to play it safe?

In order to secure his place as his father’s successor, thirty-three-year-old David Lawson must settle down with a wife befitting the future head of Lawson Enterprises - and who could fit the prerequisite better than the stunningly beautiful and incredibly bright Claire Chatfield? There is just one glitch – David Lawson is in love with another woman – a Hollywood Legend Claudia Block.

A successful tango instructor, Alec Brunell has never lacked for women’s attention, but he finds himself at a loss when faced with his downstairs neighbor, Claire Chatfield. Upon hearing of his occupation, most women swoon with desire, but Claire runs for the door. Still, her iciness only adds fuel to his fire, as Alec is determined to change Claire’s view of him.

Claudia Block has been basking in the limelight of Hollywood for more years than she cares to admit. While she still has her looks, she would much rather not mention her age, which makes her unconventional affair with young and handsome David Lawson that much more difficult for her to give up.

Dance Me to the Stars is a love story about finding one’s perfect match - sometimes following one’s heart is as convoluted as learning the steps of tango.

My Thoughts

The story is about learning that playing it safe does not always pan out the way we plan, sometimes following our heart and not our head is the safest bet and ultimately the wisest choice!

Claire is involved with David Lawson but there is never a time when her heart "sings" when she and David are together. Claire learns over time to overcome her painful past and in doing so opens her mind as well as her heart to the endless possibilities that life has to offer, both personally and professionally!

David Lawson is a 33-year-old man who is still trying hard to fit into the mold created for him at birth by his domineering father, a mold that is stifling him a day at a time but is one that would give him everything money could buy if he could only carry through with his father's wishes! David finally learns that to truly be happy he must live life on his own terms, by doing so he gets more than he ever thought he could.

Alec Brunell is a heartthrob, the sexy neighbor upstairs who Claire tries so hard to suppress her attraction to. He is also a man who knows what he wants and he wants Claire and is determined enough to hang in there for the long haul.

Claudia Block, one of Hollywood's aging legends and the woman who has truly captured David Lawson's heart but whom he can never have an open relationship with or he will lose the future that he so desperately wishes to have. Claudia finds out almost too late that the love she and David share for each other is more important than age or wealth, in the end that love is all that matters to them both.

4 people whose intertwined stories will take you on a whirlwind trip that is full of passion, excitement, despair, lies, painful choices and in the end glorious new beginnings that will make you smile as each couple finally realizes that what their heart knew all along is that love always triumphs if you allow it to!

[Ecopy of book was sent to me by author in exchange for an honest review. ]

Places to follow the author:GOODREADS WEBSITE MAY BLOG TOUR

It's those "little" things.....

noreply@blogger.com (Jackie Burris) — Wed, 09 May 2012 05:00:00 +0000

This is a little thing that grosses me out every time I have to clean it, why is it in the books we read they never mention anyone cleaning the hairballs and soapscum out of the shower drain?

So what "little things" stir your emotions? What makes you happy, sad, glad or indifferent?

Blood Bound-Unbound #1 {My Thoughts}

noreply@blogger.com (Jackie Burris) — Tue, 08 May 2012 05:00:00 +0000

Blood Bound by Rachel Vincent
MMPB 463 pages
Published August 23rd by MiraISBN 0778312550 (ISBN 13: 9780778312550Source:Personal CopyRead August 31st 20115 OF 5 STARSAMAZON BUY LINKS KINDLE AND PBBARNES AND NOBLE BUY LINK PB AND DIGITAL

Book Synopsis

By blood, by word, by magic…

Most can't touch the power. But Liv Warren is special— a paranormal tracker who follows the scent of blood.
Liv makes her own rules, and the most important one is trust no one.

But when her friend's daughter goes missing, Liv has no choice but to find the girl. Thanks to a childhood oath, Liv can't rest until the child is home safe. But that means trusting Cam Caballero, the former lover forbidden to her.

Bound by oath and lost in desire for a man she cannot have, Liv is racing to save the child from a dark criminal underworld where secrets, lies, trauma and danger lurk around every corner…every touch…every kiss.
And more blood will be spilled before it's over…

My Thoughts
You know there are books that you anticipate and when you get them in your hand and start to read you know that it was well worth the wait. Once again to my personal delight author Rachel Vincent has delivered an excellent reading experience. The first book in her new Unbound adult series Blood Bound is fascinating journey to follow along with it's two main characters Olivia Warren and Cam Caballero. The story moves fast, has lots of details that allow us glimpses into past relationships and how they come together in the current timeline of what is happening with the characters. It is also gritty and realistically graphic at times. I found the premise of the book to be exceptionally well thought out, the world that the author has put together grips the reader's imagination and keeps you reading rapidly to see what comes next with each turn of the page. Most importantly you have a connection to not only Olivia and Cam but Anne, Kori and little Hadley. The villains of the piece are are evil and corrupt, truly despicable, and yet at the same time there is a spark of humanity that retains honor left in them that the author showcases in several scenes.

This is a book that cannot truly be explained well, it is a story that has to be read and one that you will not regret investing the time in once you start it. For a long time fan of the author getting to sit down and once again dive into something she crafted was a true treat, for a new reader the same applies.

Now if you want to get me something for my birthday in June, how about the second book Shadow Bound!
PLACES TO FIND THE AUTHOR: RACHEL ON GOODREADS RACHEL ON LIVE JOURNALRACHEL'S AUTHOR WEB SITE RACHEL ON TWITTERRACHEL'S BLOG ON WP

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Changing Gears

noreply@blogger.com (Jackie Burris) — Fri, 04 May 2012 05:00:00 +0000

PHOTO FROM GOOGLE.COM

CHANGING GEARS
As my brain has finally come out of it's "black hole" caused by the hard knocks of life the last several years it dawned on me that my blog was not being utilized by me for my own purposes anymore. I knew it but let it go for the past year because it was easier to allow others to submit blog material than setting up my own, except for "fresh-off-the-press" posts now and again.
In the process of realizing what I had done decided to Change Gears and start writing short posts focusing on any subject that came to my mind. Some of them will be personal about what is going on with myself and my family, some of them will be about my favorite hobbies, some of them will showcase my husband's love of gardening and his triumphs and failures, some of the posts will be random photos of things I thought might be fun to share (some photos I have taken others found from different sources), some of the posts will be familiar subjects such as blogging woes and things to do with books and some posts will probably seem quite similar to each other as they may follow a theme or be written close together as the ideas came to me at the same time (in other words not exactly the same posts but they will share a common idea or theme.)

3 years of blogging have come and gone, I hope there will be many more. I am hoping that at some point our Internet improves so can spend more time on the computer like I did prior to moving to our current home back in September of 2011. However, until that happens there will still be only 4 blog posts a week and very little blog commenting on my part as most days am lucky to be able to even sign in and access my email.

What changes have you made lately? Were they forced by life circumstances or just so you could inject new ideas into your daily routine?

Light Bulb moment gear change found on Google.com

The Fallen series Promo/Giveaway with Author Anne Marsh.

noreply@blogger.com (Jackie Burris) — Thu, 03 May 2012 05:00:00 +0000

I am proud to be able to participate today and thanks to author Anne Marsh and her publisher Kensington Brava Publishing one lucky winner will have a chance to take home print or digital copies of both book 2 and 3 in The Fallen series as part of the authors blog tour. The giveaway will be open Internationally, the only mandatory rule for entry is you must answer the author's question at end of post in your blog comment and let me know if you are US or INT entrant there also as this will be your actual entry. The winner will receive their prize directly from the author. On the rafflecopter form if you wish there are extra entries to give you a better chance of winning. (All will be explained on the form at the end of the post.)

AMAZON BUY LINK

Dark and Sexy – Meet the Fallen…
His Dark Bond (The Fallen, #2)
(my thoughts on book 2)

HE HUNGERS FOR HER BODY . . .
Zer is no angel—well, not anymore. He’s explored every flavor of sin imaginable, drinking in the pleasures of humanity. But now he must find the woman who carries his salvation in her very blood…a woman like Nessa St. James. AND HER SOUL
Nessa has considered the bargain the Fallen offer. Anything she wants in exchange for accepting Zer’s bond? No way. Not her. Not when she finds out about the mind-blowing ritual involved, and the marks of surrender that will ink her skin. But with a serial killer to stop and centuries of experience on his side, this is one job Zer’s going to nail.

AMAZON BOOK BUY LINK

Savage Bond (The Fallen, #3)
(my thoughts on book 3 to come soon)
As a former Dominion warrior and Fallen angel, Vkhin knows how to fight. How to track his prey. And when to deal out death with brutal efficiency. Redemption isn’t part of his plans—until he finds himself chasing Ria Morgan through a wasteland.
Now, he’s hunting for the woman who could restore both his lost wings—and his soul.

Ria Morgan was just doing her job, shooting recon photos of a secret Fallen prison. When her chopper goes down, however, she figures her days are numbered. Until the dark angel hunting her offers her a temptingly seductive deal: bond with him and he’ll keep her safe. Safety’s tempting—but Vkhin is even more so. Now, Ria must choose between long-held loyalties and the wickedly sensual pleasure of Vkhin’s touch.

Congratulations on the release of "Savage Bond" Anne and thanks for letting me help get the word out to others about this series!

Thanks so much to Jackie for having me here today! I’d like to give away a set of Fallen books—the full-length His Dark Bond and the novella Savage Bond. Digital or print—winner’s choice! International is more than welcome! What appeals to you about a fallen angel hero?

Places to find out more about Anne and her books:

GOODREADS WEBSITE FACEBOOK TWITTER

All details about entry rules on the form below, only comment is mandatory as you must answer author's question to enter. Extra entries available for a total of 12 points with extra points every day you tweet the giveaway.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Home Grown...

noreply@blogger.com (Jackie Burris) — Wed, 02 May 2012 05:00:00 +0000

onions, green tomatoes, bell peppers, broccoli and squash all cleaned up and pretty from our garden stash

Time consuming to prepare but oh so tasty to munch down on, home grown veggies are on my mind these days as the garden has been producing fairly well these past few weeks.

I am learning however that being a canned goods devotee for my entire life has spoiled me. Pulling up fresh onions means cleaning the roots, the soil and the stalks before preparing to cook with or to eat raw as a side item with meals. Not hard work but it takes time, especially if you gather quite a few at a time. However the smell of grilling onions more than makes up for the mess of cleaning them fresh from the garden!

So far we have had good luck with our red and golden potatoes, they are nice and tender when boiled or baked as a side dish. grilled bell peppers, onions and sweet pepper that just melted in the mouth once completely cooked!The bell peppers are finally growing and they are a nice addition to grill with the onions. Squash and broccoli are also starting to make more and taste oh so sweet together when steamed!

It has been fun to learn how to harvest, clean and prepare fresh vegetables again that we grew to eat for ourselves. Especially since we have a bumper crop of tomatoes right now and some of the larger ones that were about to break the limb off the plant from the weight have already been sacrificed and eaten as fried green tomatoes, they smell like and almost taste like okra when cooked.fried green tomatoes turned out better on the second batch, the oil finally got hot enough to cook them crispy!
What is your favorite fresh from the garden item to cook and eat?

Back to Basics-A New Kid-ER Blog on The Block!

noreply@blogger.com (Jackie Burris) — Tue, 01 May 2012 11:00:00 +0000

Author and fellow blogger, who is living what some would consider the American Dream, Maria Zannini whose lifestyle includes much hard work both at her writing table and back breaking labor growing her own food has started a new blog. The idea is simple, share what she loves with others who are of like mind and if you are wanting a place to go to learn how to "get back to basics" so to speak and allow your dollars to stretch to their utmost savings then head over today for the launch of Maria's new endeavor, her

Back To Basics Blog is an offshoot of her "Prudent Penny" posts that she has shared on her author blog in the past. The blog is linked to her The Frugal Way, Back To Basics Facebook Page so if you join up for the blog be sure to follow via Networked Blogs on Facebook so as to not miss anything. You can also sign up via GFC, RSS and email as well. But whatever you decide do not miss out on the debut post revealing more today on Maria's Back To Basics Blog, join me there it will be interesting and informative I guarantee it!

Maria's personal photo off her blog, her cute little Frugal way photo is not available to me to share so used this one with her sidekick from years ago instead.

See you over at the blog!

Blogoversary Reminder/Update.

noreply@blogger.com (Jackie Burris) — Wed, 25 Apr 2012 05:00:00 +0000

The celebration continues but is almost over. 7 giveaways are ongoing, 4 International and 3 US entry only. All giveaways on the blog will end on April 30th at 12 noon CST.I hope everyone has enjoyed finding out what books are up for grabs and thank you to the new followers, I appreciate you guys taking the time to stop by and appreciate the original blog followers for sticking around for past 3 years as well.
All giveaway links are located at the top of the blog posts and will be up until 12 noon on the 30th when all the giveaways close down to comment and form entry.
Good luck to everyone, here is to many more years to share with you my love of reading!

3RD BLOGOVERSARY CELEBRATION #7-A Box of Books.

noreply@blogger.com (Jackie Burris) — Tue, 24 Apr 2012 05:00:00 +0000

Last giveaway of the celebration. This one is for 1 winner only and will run from 4/24-4/30/12 and end at 12 noon CST on Monday the 30th. US Entry only due to cost of postage to mail books and have spent more than budgeted for this celebration.

Included in the box are 6 books total. All different series and they are as follows:

STARFIRE-DEMON SLAYERS #3

DARK PERIL-CARPATHIANS #21

BLOODSTONE-DEADTOWN #3

EVENTIDE-DARK INK CHRONICLES #3

VOWED IN SHADOWS-MARKED SOULS #3

BEYOND THE NIGHT-ENVY CHRONICLES #1

All of these are extra copies of books on my shelves.

Please follow instructions on the rafflecopter form, this is a US entry only giveaway with 1 winner, you do not have to follow the blog to enter but it is appreciated if you choose to do so with any of the links on the sidebars to GFC/Twitter/FBNW/Email/RSS feed, Google+ or Pinterest to name a few.

*The only thing that is mandatory is you must comment on this giveaway as a double check in case the rafflecopter form fails it will provide me verification for your entry.*There are also extra entries available.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

3RD BLOGOVERSARY CELEBRATION #6-Signed By Author Box of Books.

noreply@blogger.com (Jackie Burris) — Sat, 21 Apr 2012 05:00:00 +0000

* This is a US entry only giveaway with 1 winner, (4 books are signed but there are 5 books total) you do not have to follow the blog to enter but it is appreciated if you choose to do so with any of the links on the sidebars to GFC/Twitter/FBNW/Email/RSS feed or Pinterest to name a few.*
*The only thing that is mandatory is you must comment on this giveaway and leave a valid contact email for your entry on the rafflecopter form, comment is 2ndry way to confirm your entry.*
The giveaway ends on the last day of April like all the others, so it runs from today until 4/30/2012 at 12 noon CST. Winner will be posted no later than middle of May with rest of giveaway winners.
These are all books that are part of series that I have been reading that got after Labor Day 2011 fire burned up the rest of the books so since no longer have complete series am passing the books on, or extra copies that I have gotten one way or another of books that already own to read.

KNIGHT OF PASSION-ALL THE KING'S MEN #3
KNIGHT OF DESIRE-ALL THE KING'S MEN #1
UNBOUND ANTHOLOGY-VICKI PETTERSSON STORY SIGNED BY AUTHOR

FLIRTING WITH FORTY
RED-HEADED STEPCHILD-SABINA KANE #1

a Rafflecopter giveaway

3RD BLOGOVERSARY CELEBRATION #5-Grand Prize-Entire Iron Fey series!

noreply@blogger.com (Jackie Burris) — Tue, 17 Apr 2012 05:00:00 +0000

This giveaway is open to US entry only, it will be the grand prize of the celebration as have all 4 brand new read once by me Iron Fey Trade Paperback books for 1 lucky winner!

Please follow instructions on the rafflecopter form, this is a US entry only giveaway with 1 winner, you do not have to follow the blog to enter but it is appreciated if you choose to do so with any of the links on the sidebars to GFC/Twitter/FBNW/Email/RSS feed or Pinterest to name a few.

The only thing that is mandatory is you must comment on this giveaway as a double check in case the rafflecopter form fails it will provide me verification for your entry.

There are extra entries available also.

THE IRON KING-IRON FEY #1
THE IRON DAUGHTER-IRON FEY #2
THE IRON QUEEN-IRON FEY #3
THE IRON KNIGHT-IRON FEY #4

a Rafflecopter giveaway

3RD BLOGOVERSARY CELEBRATION #4-Misc. Books in Different series group.

noreply@blogger.com (Jackie Burris) — Sat, 14 Apr 2012 05:00:00 +0000

For this giveaway there is a total of 10 books in misc series to choose from. Once again 1st place US winner will get choice of 2 books from photo, 2nd place US winner will get choice of 1 book and International winner will get a book bought and shipped from The Book Depository worth up to $8 US.

Please follow instructions on both of the rafflecopter forms,[US&INTERNATIONAL GIVEAWAY ENTRY FORMS]you do not have to follow the blog to enter but it is appreciated if you choose to do so with any of the links on the sidebars to GFC/Twitter/FBNW/Email/RSS feed or Pinterest to name a few.

The only thing that is mandatory is you must comment on this giveaway as a double check in case the rafflecopter form fails it will provide me verification for your entry.

There are extra entries available also.

These are all books that are part of series that I have been reading that got after Labor Day 2011 fire burned up the rest of the books so since no longer have complete series am passing the books on.

SIREN SONG-BLOOD SINGER #2

FATES EDGE-THE EDGE #3

WILD CAT-SHIFTERS UNBOUND #3

DARK ENCHANTMENT-DARK MAGICK #3

THE HOUR OF DUST AND ASHES-CHARLIE MADIGAN #3

SKIN GAME-SKIN #1

VICIOUS GRACE-THE BLACK SUN'S DAUGHTER #3

BLOODSTONE-DEADTOWN #3

ETERNAL RIDER-LORDS OF DELIVERANCE #1

BEYOND THE NIGHT-ENVY CHRONICLES #1

US ENTRY ONLY GIVEAWAY FORM

a Rafflecopter giveaway

INTERNATIONAL ENTRY ONLY GIVEAWAY FORM

a Rafflecopter giveaway

I miss you Daddy! Happy Birthday, you would have been 86 today.

noreply@blogger.com (Jackie Burris) — Fri, 13 Apr 2012 05:00:00 +0000

There is not a day goes by that I wish could share something with you Dad! I miss you and today you would have been 86 years young, Happy Birthday even though you have been gone since Father's Day 2009 you still live in our hearts and memories!

google.com photo

sleeping instead of reading, poor Dad. (2009 photo)

It's those "little" things..Happy 75th Mom!

noreply@blogger.com (Jackie Burris) — Wed, 11 Apr 2012 05:00:00 +0000

photos courtesy of google.com

growing up this was a sight to behold that made me smile, glad my neighbor owned the birds as they are noisy and messy!

Wishing my wonderful Mom a very Happy Birthday today, 75 years young and still going strong!

So what "little things" stir your emotions? What makes you happy, sad, glad or indifferent?