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Romance Reviews
Crimson Romance
For the best in romance, from sweet to naughty!
Thursday, December 31, 2009
Thursday, December 24, 2009
Twas The Night Before X-Mas, Oh my!!
Twas the night before xmas
and I felt like a louse.
No cookies or presents to be found in the house.
I should have started shopping
I know, please don't scream,
but procrastination's an art form, if you know what I mean.
So out of the house I flew like a flash,
tore open the car door, and drove in a mad dash.
The mall was closing with only minutes to spare,
as a raced from store to store in great despair.
Where was all the merchandise
even those with great price,
where was all the movies, toys, books on my list?
As I sat in a dither, it decided to mist,
Oh great, now it was going to snow
Wouldn't just you know?
If only I'd been a good girl and oh so nice
instead I was mouthy and full of hot spice.
Santa wouldn't be saving my butt this year
nor would his eight tiny reindeer.
No sirree bob!
I'd have to save myself, a helluva job!
So off to the all night mini mart I drove,
a grand miniature, treasure trove.
Who wouldn't want beef jerky
to go with all of that turkey?
Candy galore with calories and more.
So glad I happened to find this store.
As I filled my cart with cheap foreign crap,
it was useless, until I felt on my shoulder, an odd tap-tap.
As I was turning to see and looking away
I got the best surprise of my day!
A drunken Santa who'd had too many an egg nog
and he appeared to lost in an alcoholic fog.
I know you, he declared.
Your on my list,
c'mere and give Santa a kiss.
Grabbing a Polaroid,
I gladly complied.
Then I threatened Mr. Claus,
and offered a bribe.
If he fulfill every wish on my list,
Mrs. Claus need never know, if he got my gist.
As Santa came to his senses,
he easily saw the consequences.
Separation, divorce, oh my,
all for a kiss, he could just die.
He gladly agreed, snatching the pic,
he hurriedly called the reindeer, quick, quick.
I heard him exclaim as he drove out of sight,
Christmas isn't what it used to be, and Good Night!!
Back to the house I drove at a leisurely pace,
all of my worries were gone, without a trace.
And under the tree, many beautiful gifts had arrived.
Along with the sweet note from Santa, just in time.
"Dear Dottie, my love
For your kisses I thrive,
same time, next year, so take care.
Signed Your one and only Santa-Bear."
So, next year no worries
Santa won't mind,
I'll easily trade kisses
for Christmas wishes.
Happy Holidays to one and all,
Hugs, Kisses, and many beautiful Christmas Wishes!!
The best of all to you and your families!!
Wednesday, December 23, 2009
Coming New From Robin Burcell!!
The Bone Chamber by Robin Burcell
Publisher: Harper Collins
Pages: 384
Robin Burcell has a new novel coming out and I can't wait to take a peek!
From the Cover: Mysteriously summoned to Quantico to help re-create the face of a murdered, mutilated young woman, FBI forensic artist Special Agent Sydney Fitzpatrick knows immediately this is no ordinary crime. The hit-and-run death of the forensic anthropologist assisting her—a close friend—and Sydney's abrupt dismissal from the case by covert government investigators only strengthen her need for answers. Now her hunt for a killer is carrying her from Washington to Rome to the hidden chamber of a legendary tomb—on the trail of a fabled treasure of the Knights Templar . . . and a curse.
For buried deep in the mysteries of the Freemasons and the Vatican's Holy See is a secret that could rock the world. Suddenly an ancient map is pointing Sydney toward something the Templars wished to hide away forever—something that could unleash an unstoppable tide of blood and devastation.
Sounds interesting, doesn't it.....for all fans of thrillers, this is going to be an excellent read!
Publisher: Harper Collins
Pages: 384
Robin Burcell has a new novel coming out and I can't wait to take a peek!
(Release Date: 12/29/09)
From the Cover: Mysteriously summoned to Quantico to help re-create the face of a murdered, mutilated young woman, FBI forensic artist Special Agent Sydney Fitzpatrick knows immediately this is no ordinary crime. The hit-and-run death of the forensic anthropologist assisting her—a close friend—and Sydney's abrupt dismissal from the case by covert government investigators only strengthen her need for answers. Now her hunt for a killer is carrying her from Washington to Rome to the hidden chamber of a legendary tomb—on the trail of a fabled treasure of the Knights Templar . . . and a curse.For buried deep in the mysteries of the Freemasons and the Vatican's Holy See is a secret that could rock the world. Suddenly an ancient map is pointing Sydney toward something the Templars wished to hide away forever—something that could unleash an unstoppable tide of blood and devastation.
Sounds interesting, doesn't it.....for all fans of thrillers, this is going to be an excellent read!
Tuesday, December 22, 2009
Coming New From Vickie Taylor!!
Legacy of Stone by Vickie Taylor (the third book in the Les Gargouillen Series)
Publisher: Berkley / Penguin Putnam Books
Page: 304
From the Cover: Immersed in a dark and violent world, gargoyle Levi Tremaine is being hunted. Can he distinguish friend from foe in time to save his soul-and the woman he loves?
My sweet friend Anna, from Anna's Book Blog, sent me the first two in the series, Carved in Stone and Flesh and Stone. Can't wait to pick up the third in the series.
Publisher: Berkley / Penguin Putnam Books
Page: 304
(Release Date: December 2009)
From the Cover: Immersed in a dark and violent world, gargoyle Levi Tremaine is being hunted. Can he distinguish friend from foe in time to save his soul-and the woman he loves?My sweet friend Anna, from Anna's Book Blog, sent me the first two in the series, Carved in Stone and Flesh and Stone. Can't wait to pick up the third in the series.
Monday, December 21, 2009
Reviewette: Unearthed Anthology: Illusion by Edmond Cheng
Publisher: Midnight Showcase
Pages: 92-171
From the cover: A haunting, a vision, a nasty headache, and a murder…
What’s next? Illusion will distort and re-shape your view.
Author’s Bio
Edmond Cheng, nationality: Chinese currently living in Hong Kong, he
is interested in writing mystery. Illusion is his first story.
Apart from writing, he teaches English as a full time job.
Thomas and Karen are happily married or so he thinks. But could it all be an illusion? When Aunt Wai Ha comes to visit, he becomes disturbed by her allegations. Jonathon and Helen, his best friends, are also concerned, but then again, is it all just an illusion?
As the story continues, it becomes more and more convoluted and confused, reality and illusion mixing until one is hard to tell from the other.
Accusations fly, is Helen having an affair and plotting Jonathon's murder? Is Karen who she appears to be? Is Thomas being haunted by ghosts, spirits, apparitions? As the story unravels, confusion ensues, life and death struggles begin and end. Who will remain?
Illusion by Edmond Cheng is just what the title states, it's all an illusion, the fevered imaginations of the protagonist in the story, Thomas. As Thomas' life ebbs and flows, the reader begins to see that all is not right. His story, his reality contradicts itself as a way of preserving his sanity. Because, instead of seeing what it before his eyes to believe, he chooses to look through rose colored glasses to perceive what he would like reality to be.
Illusion is a fun little read that was confusing at times. The use of American English is not perfect, nor are the speech patterns. It entwines Chinese mysticism and Western ideas, bringing us a story that is unique in it's rendition. I once read a Chinese fable about an attacking army, and while reading this story, I was reminded of the fable in the manner in which it was told. There is strong cultural influences used in the story that increase the enjoyment of the reading, but at the same time, cause to reader to stop and re-reading passage to gain the full impact of it's meaning. It was almost like reading a fast pace action movie filmed in Hong Kong, which just happens to produce some awesome movies that includes some of my favorites. It's a twisting, turning, gut-retching read. This is Mr. Cheng's first attempt at writing and since English is not his first language, it is my opinion that he did an excellent job. I truly enjoyed reading this novella, the story is exciting and a real psychological thriller. The use of imagery was good though sometimes simplistic, and at other times, bold and engaging. I loved the influences of his Chinese culture throughout the story. It was pleasure to read something, though Americanized, retained it's cultural influences. If you looking for an uncomplicated read, try something else. If you don't mind an involving read, give it a try, you might enjoy it, but be prepared for the fast pace and tone.
I received this book in ebook format from the author. All opinions expressed are my own.
Pages: 92-171
From the cover: A haunting, a vision, a nasty headache, and a murder…What’s next? Illusion will distort and re-shape your view.
Author’s Bio
Edmond Cheng, nationality: Chinese currently living in Hong Kong, he
is interested in writing mystery. Illusion is his first story.
Apart from writing, he teaches English as a full time job.
Thomas and Karen are happily married or so he thinks. But could it all be an illusion? When Aunt Wai Ha comes to visit, he becomes disturbed by her allegations. Jonathon and Helen, his best friends, are also concerned, but then again, is it all just an illusion?
As the story continues, it becomes more and more convoluted and confused, reality and illusion mixing until one is hard to tell from the other.
Accusations fly, is Helen having an affair and plotting Jonathon's murder? Is Karen who she appears to be? Is Thomas being haunted by ghosts, spirits, apparitions? As the story unravels, confusion ensues, life and death struggles begin and end. Who will remain?
Illusion by Edmond Cheng is just what the title states, it's all an illusion, the fevered imaginations of the protagonist in the story, Thomas. As Thomas' life ebbs and flows, the reader begins to see that all is not right. His story, his reality contradicts itself as a way of preserving his sanity. Because, instead of seeing what it before his eyes to believe, he chooses to look through rose colored glasses to perceive what he would like reality to be.
Illusion is a fun little read that was confusing at times. The use of American English is not perfect, nor are the speech patterns. It entwines Chinese mysticism and Western ideas, bringing us a story that is unique in it's rendition. I once read a Chinese fable about an attacking army, and while reading this story, I was reminded of the fable in the manner in which it was told. There is strong cultural influences used in the story that increase the enjoyment of the reading, but at the same time, cause to reader to stop and re-reading passage to gain the full impact of it's meaning. It was almost like reading a fast pace action movie filmed in Hong Kong, which just happens to produce some awesome movies that includes some of my favorites. It's a twisting, turning, gut-retching read. This is Mr. Cheng's first attempt at writing and since English is not his first language, it is my opinion that he did an excellent job. I truly enjoyed reading this novella, the story is exciting and a real psychological thriller. The use of imagery was good though sometimes simplistic, and at other times, bold and engaging. I loved the influences of his Chinese culture throughout the story. It was pleasure to read something, though Americanized, retained it's cultural influences. If you looking for an uncomplicated read, try something else. If you don't mind an involving read, give it a try, you might enjoy it, but be prepared for the fast pace and tone.
I received this book in ebook format from the author. All opinions expressed are my own.
Wednesday, December 16, 2009
Welcome To A New Blogger
Some of you may remember a sweet little dark Urban Fantasy that I reviewed a few months ago called Dark Time, Mortal Path Book One by Dakota Banks. Well, Ms. Banks has decided to join our little community of authors and book reviewers. She's just starting her blog out, so please everyone, give her a big welcome!
I love the name of her blog, Mortal Blog. Stop by and welcome her to the blogosphere!
I love the name of her blog, Mortal Blog. Stop by and welcome her to the blogosphere!
Tuesday, December 15, 2009
Fired Up by Jayne Ann Krentz
Publisher: Putnam Publishers, Imprint of the Penguin Group
Pages: 354(Release Date: December 29, 2009)
From the Cover: The New York Times-bestselling author presents her latest Arcane Society novel and introduces the first book in the Dreamlight Trilogy-the story of a curse that spans generations, and the love that can heal it. . . .
More than three centuries ago, Nicholas Winters irrevocably altered his genetic makeup in an obsession fueled competition with alchemist and Arcane Society founder Sylvester Jones. Driven to control their psychic abilities, each man's decision has reverberated throughout the family line, rewarding some with powers beyond their wildest dreams, and cursing others to a life filled with madness and hallucinations.
Jack Winters, descendant of Nicholas, has been experiencing nightmares and blackouts-just the beginning, he believes-of the manifestation of the Winters family curse. The legend says that he must find the Burning Lamp or risk turning into a monster. But he can't do it alone; he needs the help of a woman with the gift to read the lamp's dreamlight.
Jack is convinced that private investigator Chloe Harper is that woman. Her talents for finding objects and accessing dream energy are what will save him, but their sudden and powerful sexual pull threatens to overwhelm them both. Danger surrounds them, and it doesn't take long for Chloe to pick up the trail of the missing lamp. And as they draw closer to the lamp, the raw power that dwells within it threatens to sweep them into a hurricane of psychic force.
Chloe Harper has read all the legends about the Winters family and their rivals, the Joneses. Old Nicholas Winters had been bent on finding an artificial way to enhance psi abilities through a device that came to be known as the Burning Lamp and Sylvester Jones, a chemical way through Alchemy, and became bitter enemies. Each driven by their needs, allowing for the madness that ensues. Had each succeeded? Who knows, but the legends remain and many believed they had.
Into her life walks Jack Winters, believing he has been beset by the Winters family curse, delusional nightmares have become his reality and he believes that only Chloe Harper with her unique ability to read dreamlight to be his only solution. He fears he will become the multi-talented being known as the Cerberus that all the old legends have threaten. Only she can control the Burning Lamp, if they can find it in time, before he loses tenuous grip on reality.
Chloe Harper has her own problems, her family has made it a life goal to stay off the radar of J&J, the Jones family Society and the Arcane, their governing body. By helping Jack Winters, she'll be putting herself out there in a way that's sure to garner notice. J&J would like nothing better than register and control all those with enhanced talents and Chloe doesn't want to live by anyone else's rules. She had enough of her own.
But she's drawn to Jack Winters in a way that has been previously unknown to her. Can she work the lamp to save him? Legend says that only a highly talent woman in dreamlight could turn the psychic key to the unleash the power of the lamp. Was she that key? As Jack and Chloe delve deeper into the world into the mysteries surrounding the lamp, another factor comes into play. Fallon Jones of J&J as discovered a clandestine organization called Nightshade that will do just about anything to possess the lamp and a strong dreamlight talent, and murder and mayhem are distinct possibility. An unease alliance forms in a triangle of Winters, Jones, and Harper, what has Chloe gotten herself into?
Fired Up by Jane Ann Krentz is a sweet ride through the world of the Arcane Society where psychic talent is the norm. By all appearances, Chloe Harper is a private investigator with a nonsense attitude and the ability to take care of herself. She also as a talent for exposing fraudulent pieces of art, everyone in the Harper family can spot a fake or reproduce one (not all aspects that the family is involved with a wholly legitimate). But it's that very expertise which brings her to Jack, that and the fact that when he hacked J&J, her name popped up as a strong dreamlight talent. He has to find the lamp that was taken from his family years ago, and he'll need help. Chloe's one weakness is a need to help, bring order to the chaotic mind, and Jack's is a mess. If she can bring the dreamlight and strat-talent of his psi abilities together, he'll be a force to be reckoned with.
Fired Up is romantic urban fantasy that zings when Jack and Chloe come together, heated up by the influence of the lamp and their own long denied desires. Chloe long ago decided the serial monogamy was she best choice (a love them and leave them type of arrangement) and when that doesn't work, she decides celibacy is the life choice for her. She can never sleep in the same bed with another person, their dream energy is too disturbing. Jack is too focused to have time for a relationship, his marriage soon ends in divorce, neither finding what they were looking for. Chloe may be his answer in more ways than one. I recommend this book for all lovers of romance, urban fantasy, or who just want a good fast read. It was excellent. For more information about Jane Ann Krentz or her books, please visit her website.
I received this book for review from Lydia at Penguin Books. All opinions expressed are my own.
Sunday, December 13, 2009
I May Have Fallen In Love.....Again
I sat watching SNL last night and they announced the musical guest was going to be Bon Jovi. The host was Taylor Lautner (Jacob Black) and he did a great job. Honestly, as 80's bands go, I thought Bon Jovi started out rocking.....fading......but they're back and I love this song.....This is a fan made video, but I thought it was one of the best, taking Bon Jovi back and then forward through time to.....
Back When We Were Beautiful....
The world is cracked
The sky is torn
I'm hanging in
You're holding on
I can't pretend
That nothings changed
Living in the shadows
Of the love we made
Back... When we were beautiful
Before the world got small
Before we knew it all
Back... When we were innocent
I wonder where it went
Let's go back and find it
Sha la la Sha la la hey Sha la la
Sha la la Sha la la hey Sha la la
Some dreams live
Some will die
But the you and me
Is still alive
Now am I blessed?
Or am I cursed?
Cause the way we are
Aint the way we were
Back... When we were beautiful
Before the world got small
Before we knew it all
Back... When we were innocent
I wonder where it went
Let's go back and find it
(Solo)
The world is cracked
The sky is torn
So much less
Meant so much more
Back... When we were beautiful
Before the world got small
Before we knew it all
Back... When we were innocent
I wonder where it went
Let's go back and find it
Back... When we were beautiful
Back... When we were beautiful
Back... When we were beautiful
Back... When we were beautiful
Sha la la Sha la la hey Sha la la
Sha la la Sha la la hey Sha la la
Thursday, December 10, 2009
Reviewette: Released by Kimber Chin
Publisher: Champaign Books
Pages: 33
From the Cover: Fifteen years ago, Alvar went to prison for a murder he didn't commit. Finally released, he comes face to face with the real murderer - the only woman he has ever loved.
Edenia wanted fifteen long years for the murderer of her husband to be released from prison. If only she could release him as he had her those many years ago.
Alvar didn't need to look upon the murderer he had spent the last fifteen years trying to forget, lying eyes and lying lips that he had willingly served time for.
Only, could they both be wrong, what if another had pulled the trigger, ending the bastard's life and his sick cruelty along with him. The answer may not be what either one expects.
Released by Kimber Chin was an intense drama belying the few pages it was written upon. In the short space of pages, the reader learns what the hero and heroine have given up, each for the other, without ever recognizing the truth. Quickly, the story unfolds, revealing a love story that has been unrequited. Alvar for his youth and inexperience, and Edenia for her fear of reprisal. Only her best friend, Stigr, has allowed her to keep her sanity through Alvar's imprisonment. Each thinking the other guilty, it's only through confrontation that they realize a third party is involved. But the threatening messages to leave the past alone only serve to wet Alvar curiosity and anger. Who did he go to prison for if not Edenia?
Released was a quick read, sweet love story, and mystery all wrapped up in a nice little package. If you'd like a quick little crime drama to read, I recommend Released. It's available in ebook format from Amazon as well as other ebook distributors.
I received the short story from the author. All opinions expressed are my own.
Pages: 33
From the Cover: Fifteen years ago, Alvar went to prison for a murder he didn't commit. Finally released, he comes face to face with the real murderer - the only woman he has ever loved.Edenia wanted fifteen long years for the murderer of her husband to be released from prison. If only she could release him as he had her those many years ago.
Alvar didn't need to look upon the murderer he had spent the last fifteen years trying to forget, lying eyes and lying lips that he had willingly served time for.
Only, could they both be wrong, what if another had pulled the trigger, ending the bastard's life and his sick cruelty along with him. The answer may not be what either one expects.
Released by Kimber Chin was an intense drama belying the few pages it was written upon. In the short space of pages, the reader learns what the hero and heroine have given up, each for the other, without ever recognizing the truth. Quickly, the story unfolds, revealing a love story that has been unrequited. Alvar for his youth and inexperience, and Edenia for her fear of reprisal. Only her best friend, Stigr, has allowed her to keep her sanity through Alvar's imprisonment. Each thinking the other guilty, it's only through confrontation that they realize a third party is involved. But the threatening messages to leave the past alone only serve to wet Alvar curiosity and anger. Who did he go to prison for if not Edenia?
Released was a quick read, sweet love story, and mystery all wrapped up in a nice little package. If you'd like a quick little crime drama to read, I recommend Released. It's available in ebook format from Amazon as well as other ebook distributors.
I received the short story from the author. All opinions expressed are my own.
Sunday, December 6, 2009
What Lies Beneath by Charles Bice
Publisher: Wimabi Press
Pages: 201
In the summer of 1976, thirteen-year-old George Moody visits his scientist grandfather. There he is introduced to precocious distant cousin, Liza, who is George’s age and also staying with Grandpa. The other member of the household is Kizzy, the mystical housekeeper who charms animals, possesses healing powers and lives in the coal cellar. George finds friendship and diversion with Sammy Sweeney, the neighborhood oddball. Their numerous misadventures include dodging the local bullies, risking life and limb in Sammy’s tree house and snooping around Grandpa’s off-limits shed, which is at the center of strange occurrences.
A second summer at Grandpa’s will change George’s life permanently as he uncovers the nature of the household in which he has been passing his carefree vacations. And not until decades later will he comprehend the full, bewildering truth.
"A late night incident draws George Moody into the dilapidated shed behind the home he inherited from his grandfather, forcing him to confront long-buried family secrets and to relive two extraordinary summers of his early teens. Seasoned with magical realism, What Lies Beneath is a coming-of-age novel for anyone who has ever been a kid."
George doesn't even remember the father that perished in the Vietnam War. All he does remember is the triangle shaped flag given to his distraught mother with his last goodbye. Stewie Nye, the carpet guy, with his garish grin soon came into their lives and became his step-father. George's family was never really close, no hugging, at arms length, he grows up missing what most kids find natural.
Until he gets to spend the summer of 1976 at Grandpa Moody's Durham house. George is thirteen years old, ready to try a little independence and not all that happy to visit Grandpa. Cousin Liza from Aberdeen is the opposite of him and what he has grown with. She hugs, smiles, and though grown up beyond her years, she slowly becomes what George has been missing, companionship. Sammy from next door becomes a constant companion with whom mischief can be found. Too soon, the summer time at Grandpa's is over and George returns home but Liza keeps up with George through letters and phone calls. It becomes something that George looks forward.
The only thing that George is the most curious about is the small shed behind Grandpa's house where Grandpa seems to spend all of his spare time. What does he do in there to all hours of the night? He and Sammy managed to sneak into the shed only to discover it's not exactly what Grandpa said it was.
The next summer comes and though Stewie, with the same vicious yellow grin invites George to work at the carpet store, he chooses to return to Grandpa after talking to Liza. She can't return, but her sister Ann who is seventeen will be there and is dying to meet him. Cousin Ann turns out to be an exact copy of an older Liza and turns out to be just as sweet.
But suddenly Ann becomes sick and must return to Aberdeen where she spends a week and returns still not herself. And as the summer progresses, she becomes weaker and has to return home again. Grandpa seems more and more preoccupied with his little shed. It's not until Grandpa's refugee from a Nazi concentration camp and housekeeper, Kizzy, sends him to the shed that George begins to unravel the mysteries surrounding the small building and what it houses.
What Lies Beneath by Charles Bice is an excellent mystery that put me in mind of something in between Dean Koontz and Robin Cook. Young George never really knew his grandparents and with the death of his father and the remarriage of his mother, he soon loses contact with Grandpa Moody who lost his wife soon after the death of their only son. George is kind of an outsider, a loner, it's the way he's been brought up. What he discovers at his grandpa's is the love he's been missing. Liza, and then Ann, envelop him in their shining light and become an important part of his life. When Ann becomes sick, he is at a loss. Kizzy is a mystery all on her own. She appears to be ancient, older than Grandpa, yet never seems to age, living in Grandpa's basement apartment and strange beliefs about souls. It's all odd to George who is baffled in his youth. It won't be until George reaches adulthood, after the death of his grandpa and Kizzy, that he comes to understand everything that has happened.
What Lies Beneath is an excellent YA coming of age story that brought back memories of my own youth and forgotten times. There are many twists and turns throughout the story that lead to it's eventual conclusion and George's discoveries. It was a short read and it ended being a page turner that I couldn't put down. It was an excellent little thriller that I would recommend to anyone who enjoys a good mystery and the thrill of discovery. For more information about this author and his books, please visit his website.
I received this book for review from the publisher, Wimabi Press, and Library Thing. All opinions expressed are my own.
Pages: 201
In the summer of 1976, thirteen-year-old George Moody visits his scientist grandfather. There he is introduced to precocious distant cousin, Liza, who is George’s age and also staying with Grandpa. The other member of the household is Kizzy, the mystical housekeeper who charms animals, possesses healing powers and lives in the coal cellar. George finds friendship and diversion with Sammy Sweeney, the neighborhood oddball. Their numerous misadventures include dodging the local bullies, risking life and limb in Sammy’s tree house and snooping around Grandpa’s off-limits shed, which is at the center of strange occurrences.
A second summer at Grandpa’s will change George’s life permanently as he uncovers the nature of the household in which he has been passing his carefree vacations. And not until decades later will he comprehend the full, bewildering truth.
"A late night incident draws George Moody into the dilapidated shed behind the home he inherited from his grandfather, forcing him to confront long-buried family secrets and to relive two extraordinary summers of his early teens. Seasoned with magical realism, What Lies Beneath is a coming-of-age novel for anyone who has ever been a kid."
George doesn't even remember the father that perished in the Vietnam War. All he does remember is the triangle shaped flag given to his distraught mother with his last goodbye. Stewie Nye, the carpet guy, with his garish grin soon came into their lives and became his step-father. George's family was never really close, no hugging, at arms length, he grows up missing what most kids find natural.
Until he gets to spend the summer of 1976 at Grandpa Moody's Durham house. George is thirteen years old, ready to try a little independence and not all that happy to visit Grandpa. Cousin Liza from Aberdeen is the opposite of him and what he has grown with. She hugs, smiles, and though grown up beyond her years, she slowly becomes what George has been missing, companionship. Sammy from next door becomes a constant companion with whom mischief can be found. Too soon, the summer time at Grandpa's is over and George returns home but Liza keeps up with George through letters and phone calls. It becomes something that George looks forward.
The only thing that George is the most curious about is the small shed behind Grandpa's house where Grandpa seems to spend all of his spare time. What does he do in there to all hours of the night? He and Sammy managed to sneak into the shed only to discover it's not exactly what Grandpa said it was.
The next summer comes and though Stewie, with the same vicious yellow grin invites George to work at the carpet store, he chooses to return to Grandpa after talking to Liza. She can't return, but her sister Ann who is seventeen will be there and is dying to meet him. Cousin Ann turns out to be an exact copy of an older Liza and turns out to be just as sweet.
But suddenly Ann becomes sick and must return to Aberdeen where she spends a week and returns still not herself. And as the summer progresses, she becomes weaker and has to return home again. Grandpa seems more and more preoccupied with his little shed. It's not until Grandpa's refugee from a Nazi concentration camp and housekeeper, Kizzy, sends him to the shed that George begins to unravel the mysteries surrounding the small building and what it houses.
What Lies Beneath by Charles Bice is an excellent mystery that put me in mind of something in between Dean Koontz and Robin Cook. Young George never really knew his grandparents and with the death of his father and the remarriage of his mother, he soon loses contact with Grandpa Moody who lost his wife soon after the death of their only son. George is kind of an outsider, a loner, it's the way he's been brought up. What he discovers at his grandpa's is the love he's been missing. Liza, and then Ann, envelop him in their shining light and become an important part of his life. When Ann becomes sick, he is at a loss. Kizzy is a mystery all on her own. She appears to be ancient, older than Grandpa, yet never seems to age, living in Grandpa's basement apartment and strange beliefs about souls. It's all odd to George who is baffled in his youth. It won't be until George reaches adulthood, after the death of his grandpa and Kizzy, that he comes to understand everything that has happened.
What Lies Beneath is an excellent YA coming of age story that brought back memories of my own youth and forgotten times. There are many twists and turns throughout the story that lead to it's eventual conclusion and George's discoveries. It was a short read and it ended being a page turner that I couldn't put down. It was an excellent little thriller that I would recommend to anyone who enjoys a good mystery and the thrill of discovery. For more information about this author and his books, please visit his website.
I received this book for review from the publisher, Wimabi Press, and Library Thing. All opinions expressed are my own.
Saturday, December 5, 2009
Beth Kery's New Contest
Our sweet friend Lea at Closetwriter is promoting Beth Kery's new contest, and it's definitely worth checking out!
Beth Kery's new contest is for a Sony E-Reader!! Who wouldn't want to win one of these spiffy new ereaders??
Just click on the link and check out the rules for this great contest!
While you're there, check out her new book soon to be available, 'Release', and it sounds great!
Beth Kery's new contest is for a Sony E-Reader!! Who wouldn't want to win one of these spiffy new ereaders??
Just click on the link and check out the rules for this great contest!
While you're there, check out her new book soon to be available, 'Release', and it sounds great!
Friday, December 4, 2009
Wednesday, December 2, 2009
The Soul Catcher by Leigh Bridger (Deborah Smith)
Publisher: Belle Bridge Books
Pages: 264
From the Cover: Ian’s blood seeped from the gashes in his side onto the gray, weathered floor. This time I couldn’t heal him. I could only free him. Outside, in the strangely bright sunshine of a North Carolina morning, things you don’t want to imagine in your worst nightmares tried to rip the building’s big windows out of their aging brick sills.
Downstairs, the broad chestnut doors of the old Asheville Bible printing shop bulged inward as Pig Face slammed it again. The wood began to splinter.
I cocked the pistol. Everything inside me screamed against pointing it at Ian’s heart. I hated his body; I ought to be able to kill that body without caring. But a funny thing had happened on the way to that moment. I’d fallen in love with my husband again.
I knelt over Ian, straddling him. I put both hands on the shaking gun to steady my aim. My tears fell on his blood-stained face.
He managed a rueful smile. “Now, that’s a sight I’ll remember to death and back,” he whispered. He clamped one bloody hand on mine. As always, we shared the choices, the pain, the passage.
We had found each other again, across centuries. Why hesitate on a single sunny day in North Carolina?
“See you later,” I said hoarsely.
I pulled the trigger.
Livia Belane is an old soul reborn over and over, but she doesn't remember her past lives. In this incarnation, little Livia Belane receives a message. Draw them. Trap them. Burn them. This scares her, but her mother's reaction is even worse. She locks her in the closet. As Livia watches, her mother is slowly torn away, leaving a demon is her place. One by one, each member of her family is ripped away. And she stands accused of the heinous crime of killing her mother and brother.
After spending time in a mental facility, Livia is released and she returns to Asheville, NC, the only home she has ever known during her many lifetimes. She lets no one get close to her, she's like a death sentence, those she loves die.
Even as she fights to be alone, an eclectic group forms around her, refusing to leave her in peace. A couple of hippie artists, a bar owner, and a street performer surround her, making up an eccentric unit that becomes her family.
Then, one evening as the bar closes, she's attacked viciously, raped and left for dead. But her rapist is none other than the demon of old, Pig Face, who has been tracking and killing her throughout many lifetimes seeking his revenge. And this time, he's just getting started.
The one thing that might save Livia is to remember her past lives as a soul catcher, one who can trap the demonic soul and banish it permanently. But to do so, she'll also have to recall her one true love and soul mate, Ian, soul hunter to her soul catcher. Paired together throughout time, her protector and lover.
The Soul Catcher by Leigh Bridger is dark urban fantasy that takes a walk on the wild side. We meet our kick ass heroine as her cringes away from what her life demands. No ties, no strings. She just wants to be left in peace. But the demon sees her solidarity existence as a weakness, one to be exploited. As her group of friends surround Livia, she comes to realize that they are her guides and protectors, pushing her to find what she has lost, Ian. Ian is a strapping Scot-Irish soul that is called to Livia again and again. But, having watched him die horrifically, Livia banishes him from her memory, and it isn't until she's almost killed that she starts to remember bits and pieces of what her life once was. If she is to survive, she must regain what she has denied. Souls never really died, they're reborn in different bodies, old and young alike. Bodies are temporary housing for souls to be replaced when the old one has been used up. And this is what happens to Ian. When Livia finally calls him back to her, she makes a horrible discovery, he takes the body of the one possessed by her demon attacker. In the core of her soul, she knows Ian is her one true love, but how do you learn to love a body that once tried to kill you?
The Soul Catcher is wonderfully dark urban fantasy, a quick read and a page turner. There is graphic violence and sex involved and hard language, so if this isn't your cup of tea, try something lighter. It brings together Cherokee legends, myths, and traditions of old and mashes it together with modern times, very unique world building. I thoroughly enjoyed it. Livia is shaped by the violence she endures to become the kick ass heroine that the story needs to banish the demons from her life and those that she comes to love. Because at the heart of this dark urban fantasy, is a love story that out lasts time and cannot be denied. If you love dark urban fantasy, I highly recommend this book.
I received this book in PDF format for review from Belle Bridge Publishers. The opinions I have expressed are my own.
Pages: 264
From the Cover: Ian’s blood seeped from the gashes in his side onto the gray, weathered floor. This time I couldn’t heal him. I could only free him. Outside, in the strangely bright sunshine of a North Carolina morning, things you don’t want to imagine in your worst nightmares tried to rip the building’s big windows out of their aging brick sills.Downstairs, the broad chestnut doors of the old Asheville Bible printing shop bulged inward as Pig Face slammed it again. The wood began to splinter.
I cocked the pistol. Everything inside me screamed against pointing it at Ian’s heart. I hated his body; I ought to be able to kill that body without caring. But a funny thing had happened on the way to that moment. I’d fallen in love with my husband again.
I knelt over Ian, straddling him. I put both hands on the shaking gun to steady my aim. My tears fell on his blood-stained face.
He managed a rueful smile. “Now, that’s a sight I’ll remember to death and back,” he whispered. He clamped one bloody hand on mine. As always, we shared the choices, the pain, the passage.
We had found each other again, across centuries. Why hesitate on a single sunny day in North Carolina?
“See you later,” I said hoarsely.
I pulled the trigger.
Livia Belane is an old soul reborn over and over, but she doesn't remember her past lives. In this incarnation, little Livia Belane receives a message. Draw them. Trap them. Burn them. This scares her, but her mother's reaction is even worse. She locks her in the closet. As Livia watches, her mother is slowly torn away, leaving a demon is her place. One by one, each member of her family is ripped away. And she stands accused of the heinous crime of killing her mother and brother.
After spending time in a mental facility, Livia is released and she returns to Asheville, NC, the only home she has ever known during her many lifetimes. She lets no one get close to her, she's like a death sentence, those she loves die.
Even as she fights to be alone, an eclectic group forms around her, refusing to leave her in peace. A couple of hippie artists, a bar owner, and a street performer surround her, making up an eccentric unit that becomes her family.
Then, one evening as the bar closes, she's attacked viciously, raped and left for dead. But her rapist is none other than the demon of old, Pig Face, who has been tracking and killing her throughout many lifetimes seeking his revenge. And this time, he's just getting started.
The one thing that might save Livia is to remember her past lives as a soul catcher, one who can trap the demonic soul and banish it permanently. But to do so, she'll also have to recall her one true love and soul mate, Ian, soul hunter to her soul catcher. Paired together throughout time, her protector and lover.
The Soul Catcher by Leigh Bridger is dark urban fantasy that takes a walk on the wild side. We meet our kick ass heroine as her cringes away from what her life demands. No ties, no strings. She just wants to be left in peace. But the demon sees her solidarity existence as a weakness, one to be exploited. As her group of friends surround Livia, she comes to realize that they are her guides and protectors, pushing her to find what she has lost, Ian. Ian is a strapping Scot-Irish soul that is called to Livia again and again. But, having watched him die horrifically, Livia banishes him from her memory, and it isn't until she's almost killed that she starts to remember bits and pieces of what her life once was. If she is to survive, she must regain what she has denied. Souls never really died, they're reborn in different bodies, old and young alike. Bodies are temporary housing for souls to be replaced when the old one has been used up. And this is what happens to Ian. When Livia finally calls him back to her, she makes a horrible discovery, he takes the body of the one possessed by her demon attacker. In the core of her soul, she knows Ian is her one true love, but how do you learn to love a body that once tried to kill you?
The Soul Catcher is wonderfully dark urban fantasy, a quick read and a page turner. There is graphic violence and sex involved and hard language, so if this isn't your cup of tea, try something lighter. It brings together Cherokee legends, myths, and traditions of old and mashes it together with modern times, very unique world building. I thoroughly enjoyed it. Livia is shaped by the violence she endures to become the kick ass heroine that the story needs to banish the demons from her life and those that she comes to love. Because at the heart of this dark urban fantasy, is a love story that out lasts time and cannot be denied. If you love dark urban fantasy, I highly recommend this book.
I received this book in PDF format for review from Belle Bridge Publishers. The opinions I have expressed are my own.
Winner of Immortal: Love Stories With Bite
There were 98 entries for this contest, WOW!!
The winner of Immortal: Love Stories With Bite is..............
LILI
Yay Lili!! I'll be sending you an email.
Thanks everyone for playing along.
Tuesday, December 1, 2009
Contest at St. Martin's Press
From Tara @zeitghostmedia and St. Martin's Press
Happy Holidays!
In celebration of the release of Sherrilyn Kenyon's new trilogy 'The League', St. Martins Press is also offering your readers a chance to enter a sweepstakes to win digital downloads of all three books from 'The League'. Here is the link:
http://us.macmillan.com/smp/promo/bornofaudio
Have you been thinking of reading 'The League'? What a better way than to win a digital download of one of the books? Just click the link above and you'll be taken to the contest page.
Monday, November 30, 2009
ROD Readers On Deadline #9 at the Deadline Dames
Okay, since my brain is still in lock down mode I mean, I don't even want to read and since I've hardly posted anything in November, I've decided to post the entry I did during the month of November for the Deadline Dames ROD. They'll soon be posting their winner for this ROD. I want to thank all the Dames for their excellent contests, I feel their site has given invaluable advice, not just how to write, but also on what it takes to put the words down. I always imagined that the words would just spring to life, it doesn't work that way at all. If you haven't visited their site, please do.
I had difficulty coming up with something worthy of this image. I loved the style and look, very talented artist.
When Yuki was five years old, she would scream, “Faster, Mommy, faster!” Then she would wait for the peak of the spinning wheel's arc, and leap. Leap with the excitement that would course through her young body before she would come crashing to the ground laughing, dancing with the thrill.
Now, at her twenty-fifth year, the smoky-eyed beauty with just a hint of mischief in her soul, danced around once more. Daringly she whispered the enchantment, feeling the magic course through and around her like electricity filling the air.
“Kimiko, can you see it, can you feel it?” She called giddily, her mind spinning much like the merry-go-round of her childhood.
“The magic runs through us with flashes of color .... blue, violet, red.” Kimiko circled around gazing with amazement as the magic poured forth from her sister's slender form surrounding her like a cloud.
Yuki grinned as she focused her will, drawing on the power, her heart racing as she raised her eyes to the heavens. She was blessed with the magic that had been renewed in her spirit, bringing together her life force with her ancestors of old.
I had difficulty coming up with something worthy of this image. I loved the style and look, very talented artist.
When Yuki was five years old, she would scream, “Faster, Mommy, faster!” Then she would wait for the peak of the spinning wheel's arc, and leap. Leap with the excitement that would course through her young body before she would come crashing to the ground laughing, dancing with the thrill.
Now, at her twenty-fifth year, the smoky-eyed beauty with just a hint of mischief in her soul, danced around once more. Daringly she whispered the enchantment, feeling the magic course through and around her like electricity filling the air.
“Kimiko, can you see it, can you feel it?” She called giddily, her mind spinning much like the merry-go-round of her childhood.
“The magic runs through us with flashes of color .... blue, violet, red.” Kimiko circled around gazing with amazement as the magic poured forth from her sister's slender form surrounding her like a cloud.
Yuki grinned as she focused her will, drawing on the power, her heart racing as she raised her eyes to the heavens. She was blessed with the magic that had been renewed in her spirit, bringing together her life force with her ancestors of old.
Sunday, November 29, 2009
NaNoWriMo Certificate ------ YAY!!!!
Here is the handy dandy little certificate that the writers receive upon completion of their MS. Isn't it cool???? So pretty, think my kids will think I was crazy if I framed it?? LOL! Just thought I'd share the goodies that NaNoWriMo offers.
I almost freaked out, I uploaded my MS only to be told that I was 31 words short of completion. And there is only one day left in which to upload your MS! I only had to add another sentence or two, but my already fried brain was doubting it had the ability to complete a thought, let alone a freaking sentence, lol. But, my brain came through, after much coaxing, and produced the needed words. So happy I didn't wait until tomorrow to submit.
Saturday, November 28, 2009
Relentless by Dean Koontz
Publisher: Bantam Books, imprint of Random House Publishing
Pages: 356
From the Cover: #1 New York Times bestselling master of suspense Dean Koontz delivers a mesmerizing new thriller that explores the razor-thin line between the best and worst of human nature—and the anarchy simmering just beneath society’s surface—as a likeable, successful family man is drawn into a confrontation with a foe of unimaginable malice….
Bestselling novelist Cullen “Cubby” Greenwich is a lucky man and he knows it. He makes a handsome living doing what he enjoys. His wife, Penny, a children’s book author and illustrator, is the love of his life. Together they have a brilliant six-year-old, Milo, affectionately dubbed “Spooky,” and a non-collie named Lassie, who’s all but part of the family.
So Cubby knows he shouldn’t let one bad review of his otherwise triumphant new book get to him—even if it does appear in the nation’s premier newspaper and is penned by the much-feared, seldom-seen critic, Shearman Waxx. Cubby knows the best thing to do is ignore the gratuitously vicious, insulting, and inaccurate comments. Penny knows it, even little Milo knows it. If Lassie could talk, she’d tell Cubby to ignore them, too.
Ignore Shearman Waxx and his poison pen is just what Cubby intends to do. Until he happens to learn where the great man is taking his lunch. Cubby just wants to get a look at the mysterious recluse whose mere opinion can make or break a career—or a life.
But Shearman Waxx isn’t what Cubby expects; and neither is the escalating terror that follows what seemed to be an innocent encounter. For Waxx gives criticism; he doesn’t take it. He has waysof dealing with those who cross him that Cubby is only beginning to fathom. Soon Cubby finds himself in a desperate struggle with a relentless sociopath, facing an inexorable assault on far more than his life.
Fearless, funny, utterly compelling, Relentless is Dean Koontz at his riveting best, an unforgettable tale of the fragile bonds that hold together all that we most cherish—and of those who would tear those bonds asunder.
Cubby seems to have it all, a beautiful wife, Penny, and amazing kid, Milo (who may be just a little too amazing), and the best dog in the world, a mutt named Lassie. That is until he comes under the scrutiny of Shearman Waxx.
Waxx finds he's a hack, people had been fooled by Cubby's best selling books. But, once you've been Waxxed, you can never go back.
His editor, Hud Jacklight, thinks that this is the cherry on top of the sundae, but Waxx means to do more than just rip Cubby's book. He means to Waxx Cubby and his family. With the help of their loyal babysitter and super pal, Vivian Norby, and Penny's demolition family, Grimbald and Clotilda Boom, Cubby does the impossible, he survives where many others have been lost.
Relentless by Dean Koontz is classic Koontz' and it doesn't get much better. He's the one writer that I've found who cannot only weave a spellbinding story, but he does it with wit and grace. The story of Cubby, Penny, and Milo is almost idyllic. They seem to have it all. Cubby and Penny are both best selling authors and Milo is brinking on the edge of supernatural genius. Cubby is an inept hero, he can't change a light bulb without a minor catastrophe happening. Penny is super Mom, our heroine, able to fix automobiles and supper in a single bound. Milo is scary smart, one word speaks a sentence. And Lassie is the wonder dog of the story, she is literally able to jump space at will, either naturally or supernaturally, who knows? She just knows where she needs to be.
To say I was enchanted by Relentless would be an understatement. I was not only enchanted, but spellbound, anticipating, laughing so hard my kids thought I was nuts, and amazed. How can one person do all of this in a single book? I was cringing with the thought that Cubby would answer Waxx's critque, then cringing with the thought of what Waxx was capable of, and believe me, it was not only cringe worthy, but duck and cover worthy, hide under the blanket worthy because he is truly evil, beyond redemption. There really are monsters in the dark and Shearman Waxx is one of them. And at the same time it's told with such humor that I was laughing out loud. Koontz shines in this book like he has in so many others, and I'm reminded why I to love his stories so much. Yes, some are scarier than hell, some take place outside the normal bounds of human existence, and some emphasize the loneliness and longing of humanity. But in Relentless, you get all three with a twist, the humor that Koontz employees to make you want more. And I do, and so continues my love affair with Dean Koontz' books. I'll be picking up Breathless, release date 11-24-09, very soon. This is an very quick read and for all the mystery/thriller/supernatural lovers out there, I highly recommend it.
I picked up this book myself for my own enjoyment. The opinions I have expressed are my own.
Pages: 356
From the Cover: #1 New York Times bestselling master of suspense Dean Koontz delivers a mesmerizing new thriller that explores the razor-thin line between the best and worst of human nature—and the anarchy simmering just beneath society’s surface—as a likeable, successful family man is drawn into a confrontation with a foe of unimaginable malice….
Bestselling novelist Cullen “Cubby” Greenwich is a lucky man and he knows it. He makes a handsome living doing what he enjoys. His wife, Penny, a children’s book author and illustrator, is the love of his life. Together they have a brilliant six-year-old, Milo, affectionately dubbed “Spooky,” and a non-collie named Lassie, who’s all but part of the family.
So Cubby knows he shouldn’t let one bad review of his otherwise triumphant new book get to him—even if it does appear in the nation’s premier newspaper and is penned by the much-feared, seldom-seen critic, Shearman Waxx. Cubby knows the best thing to do is ignore the gratuitously vicious, insulting, and inaccurate comments. Penny knows it, even little Milo knows it. If Lassie could talk, she’d tell Cubby to ignore them, too.
Ignore Shearman Waxx and his poison pen is just what Cubby intends to do. Until he happens to learn where the great man is taking his lunch. Cubby just wants to get a look at the mysterious recluse whose mere opinion can make or break a career—or a life.
But Shearman Waxx isn’t what Cubby expects; and neither is the escalating terror that follows what seemed to be an innocent encounter. For Waxx gives criticism; he doesn’t take it. He has waysof dealing with those who cross him that Cubby is only beginning to fathom. Soon Cubby finds himself in a desperate struggle with a relentless sociopath, facing an inexorable assault on far more than his life.
Fearless, funny, utterly compelling, Relentless is Dean Koontz at his riveting best, an unforgettable tale of the fragile bonds that hold together all that we most cherish—and of those who would tear those bonds asunder.
Cubby seems to have it all, a beautiful wife, Penny, and amazing kid, Milo (who may be just a little too amazing), and the best dog in the world, a mutt named Lassie. That is until he comes under the scrutiny of Shearman Waxx.
Waxx finds he's a hack, people had been fooled by Cubby's best selling books. But, once you've been Waxxed, you can never go back.
His editor, Hud Jacklight, thinks that this is the cherry on top of the sundae, but Waxx means to do more than just rip Cubby's book. He means to Waxx Cubby and his family. With the help of their loyal babysitter and super pal, Vivian Norby, and Penny's demolition family, Grimbald and Clotilda Boom, Cubby does the impossible, he survives where many others have been lost.
Relentless by Dean Koontz is classic Koontz' and it doesn't get much better. He's the one writer that I've found who cannot only weave a spellbinding story, but he does it with wit and grace. The story of Cubby, Penny, and Milo is almost idyllic. They seem to have it all. Cubby and Penny are both best selling authors and Milo is brinking on the edge of supernatural genius. Cubby is an inept hero, he can't change a light bulb without a minor catastrophe happening. Penny is super Mom, our heroine, able to fix automobiles and supper in a single bound. Milo is scary smart, one word speaks a sentence. And Lassie is the wonder dog of the story, she is literally able to jump space at will, either naturally or supernaturally, who knows? She just knows where she needs to be.
To say I was enchanted by Relentless would be an understatement. I was not only enchanted, but spellbound, anticipating, laughing so hard my kids thought I was nuts, and amazed. How can one person do all of this in a single book? I was cringing with the thought that Cubby would answer Waxx's critque, then cringing with the thought of what Waxx was capable of, and believe me, it was not only cringe worthy, but duck and cover worthy, hide under the blanket worthy because he is truly evil, beyond redemption. There really are monsters in the dark and Shearman Waxx is one of them. And at the same time it's told with such humor that I was laughing out loud. Koontz shines in this book like he has in so many others, and I'm reminded why I to love his stories so much. Yes, some are scarier than hell, some take place outside the normal bounds of human existence, and some emphasize the loneliness and longing of humanity. But in Relentless, you get all three with a twist, the humor that Koontz employees to make you want more. And I do, and so continues my love affair with Dean Koontz' books. I'll be picking up Breathless, release date 11-24-09, very soon. This is an very quick read and for all the mystery/thriller/supernatural lovers out there, I highly recommend it.
I picked up this book myself for my own enjoyment. The opinions I have expressed are my own.
Thursday, November 26, 2009
Happy Thanksgiving To One And To All!!
Happy Thanksgiving from my family to all of yours!!
ThanksgivingIt's time to eat turkey
but, I'd rather have jerky.
And pumpkin pie!
Oh my, oh my!
Greet the family without fear,
It only comes once a year.
There's lots football
yet can't go to the mall.
We could have outside fun,
if there was some sun.
Eat way too much,
but you continue to munch.
Pack to go home,
and it's the end of this poem.
Instead of once a year, give thanks everyday
for luck, love, and happiness, celebrated today!
Have fun everyone!!!
Hugs to yours!!
Wednesday, November 25, 2009
I Am Sooo Chilled and Now the Freaking Holiday Weekend Starts!
I'm Finished!!!
Last night I put my baby to bed at 3 am. The baby being the massive piece of writing that I've been attempting for the entire month of November. It's finished at the bare minimum of 50119 words, but it's finished. Yay!!
It was fun to participate in NaNoWriMo, as to if I'll ever do it again?? I'll have to wait to say. It depends on how long it takes to recover from November, lol. They do have great organization and lots of pep talks to keep the writers going.
In a few days, I'll go back to edit out some of the really bad parts, and believe me, there are plenty. But maybe I can make the good parts stand out a little more. I don't know if it will ever be book length, but it might make an interesting short story one day.
Here's a short synopsis of the NaNoWriMo entry:
Dory, Illinois is a sleepy little town where a family of witches reside. They've lived there since the persecution committed in Massachusetts so many years ago.
But a great evil has come back to haunt the family and with it, the town. Mysterious deaths have occurred and only the witches will be able to confront and stop it.
Necromancy is the ancient art of reviving the dead, but this necromancer uses the dead for revenge. And ultimately, only one can survive: good or evil.
Okay, maybe a little over dramatic, but it's the basic gist of the story. One day after it's cleaned up and I'm more comfortable with it, I might post a little of it.
Thanks to everyone who stopped by and offered words of encouragement! I couldn't have made it through this month without you. I very much appreciated all of your thoughts!
Now I have to get ready for the family get together. It will be an incredibly long day, but well worth the trouble.
((hugs))
Last night I put my baby to bed at 3 am. The baby being the massive piece of writing that I've been attempting for the entire month of November. It's finished at the bare minimum of 50119 words, but it's finished. Yay!!
It was fun to participate in NaNoWriMo, as to if I'll ever do it again?? I'll have to wait to say. It depends on how long it takes to recover from November, lol. They do have great organization and lots of pep talks to keep the writers going.
In a few days, I'll go back to edit out some of the really bad parts, and believe me, there are plenty. But maybe I can make the good parts stand out a little more. I don't know if it will ever be book length, but it might make an interesting short story one day.
Here's a short synopsis of the NaNoWriMo entry:
Dory, Illinois is a sleepy little town where a family of witches reside. They've lived there since the persecution committed in Massachusetts so many years ago.
But a great evil has come back to haunt the family and with it, the town. Mysterious deaths have occurred and only the witches will be able to confront and stop it.
Necromancy is the ancient art of reviving the dead, but this necromancer uses the dead for revenge. And ultimately, only one can survive: good or evil.
Okay, maybe a little over dramatic, but it's the basic gist of the story. One day after it's cleaned up and I'm more comfortable with it, I might post a little of it.
Thanks to everyone who stopped by and offered words of encouragement! I couldn't have made it through this month without you. I very much appreciated all of your thoughts!
Now I have to get ready for the family get together. It will be an incredibly long day, but well worth the trouble.
((hugs))
Friday, November 20, 2009
Review & Giveaway: Immortal: Love Stories With Bite Anthology
From the Cover: In Immortal: Love Stories With Bite, edited by New York Times bestselling author of the House of Night series P.C. Cast, seven of today's most popular YA vampire and contemporary fantasy authors offer new short stories that prove that when you're immortal, true love really is forever.Rachel Caine (the Morganville Vampires series) revisits the setting of her popular series, where the vampires are in charge and love is risky
Cynthia Leitich Smith (Tantalize) gives us a love triangle between a vampire, a ghost and a human girl, in which none of them are who or what they seem
Claudia Gray (Evernight) takes us into the world of her Evernight series, in which a pre-Civil War courtesan-to-be is courted by a pale, fair-haired man whose attentions are too dangerous to spurn
Richelle Mead (the Vampire Academy series) brings us the tale of a young vampire on the run from the rest of her kind, and the human boy who provides the getaway car
Nancy Holder (the Wicked series, Buffy the Vampire Slayer) immerses us in a post-apocalyptic New York where two best friends are forced to make a choice that may kill them both
Kristin Cast (the House of Night series) introduces us to a new kind of vampire: one with roots in Greek mythology, and the power to alter space and time
And Tanith Lee (Black Unicorn) shows us what happens when a bright young woman with some supernatural savvy encounters a misguided (but gorgeous) young vampire
I had read about this book on Rachel Vincent's blog, so when the publisher offered a copy, I snatched up the opportunity to review. I had it on my TBB list and I would have gladly paid the purchase price! Excellent reading!!
P.C. Cast - Offers her views on why there is a fascination with vampyres. Could it be the search for immortality? How do teenagers view lifestyle and does this continues throughout adulthood? Interesting viewpoint, this author stirs my interest with her wit and wisdom.
Haunted Love by Cynthia Leitich Smith (new author for me)
Cody is the only vampire in town ... or so he thought. Come and watch what happens when he buys the local haunted theater. Monsters come in all shapes, sizes, and genders and they aren't always what we think.
Amber Smoke by Kristin Cast
Ever want to meet the furies? If you read this story, not only do you meet them, but their gorgeous son too. He has a mission and he must save her or lose his soul forever.
Dead Man Stalking (A Morganville Vampire Story) by Rachel Caine
What's like to live in a town full of vampires? If you visit Morganville, TX, you won't have to wonder. Vampires, zombies, and a crazy old man make this story come to life.
Table Manners by Tanith Lee (new author for me)
Lel has been sent to find a vampire .... but do you know what a vampire really is?? Only Lel and her father, Anthony Draculian can help with that question .... but wouldn't you like to know??
Blue Moon by Richelle Mead
Have you ever heard the saying 'once in a blue moon'?? Well, Lucy Wade of the Chicagoland Vampire Mob Wades hadn't until her eighteenth birthday draws near. She has to make a choice: leave, escape or die....by her own family's hand. Very blood thirsty.
Changed by Nancy Holder (new author for me)
The day the vampires came, Jilly ran, ran for her life, her love, and away from the death and destruction. But to save her true unrequited love, will she sacrifice herself??
Binge by Rachel Vincent
Andi sings to feed, and feed she must or she will die, all sirens need to feed off the energy of humans. But Mallory is something else all together. She gives to feed. But how do you know when you've given too much??
Free (A Story of Evernight) by Claudia Gray (new author for me)
New Orleans (1841) Patrice and Amos want nothing more than to be together, both are free. But Patrice's mother has other plans, and she'll go to the highest bidder. Until Julien Larroux tries to make her his ... A life for a life.
Each of these little novellas are a tasty treat well worth reading. I thoroughly enjoyed this book. It was filled with just the right amount of urban fantasy and paranormal romance. I'll definitely be trying some of these new authors.
Giveaway!!!!
Jennifer at Ben Bella Books has generously offered a copy of this fabulous book for giveaway. All you have to do is leave a comment. For an extra entry post somewhere, please let me know where. For another try, follow and if you already follow, just let me know. This giveaway is open to US and Canada, but as always, for those of you across the big pond if you have a friendly US address to use, please feel free to enter. Contest will run until the end of the month, 11-30-09 midnight anywhere, winner announced December 1, 2009. Thanks and Good Luck!!!
I received this book for review from the publisher, Ben Bella Books. The views I have expressed are my own.
Wednesday, November 18, 2009
Promo ~ Sherrilyn Kenyon ~ Born of Ice
It's time for another installment of The League Series by Sherrilyn Kenyon!! I can't wait to take a peek!!
From the cover: In the Ichidian Universe, the League and its ruthless assassins continue to keep rule. But at what cost? Welcome back to the future…and a whole new world.
Devyn Kell spent his life in service to the League until he learned of the double dealing and backstabbing that was costing innocent people their lives. Refusing to play those politics, he became a Runner—someone who makes sure planets get the weapons, medicine and supplies they need to survive. May the gods have mercy on any who get in his way, because he definitely won’t.
Alix Garran is a woman on the run from a past she can’t escape. Signing on to work for Devyn as a System’s Engineer, she finds a cause she can fight for—and a man she can respect. But as Alix’s past catches up to her, and Devyn’s old enemies turn lethal, they have to fight together…or fall alone.
For more information about Sherrilyn Kenyon's The League and all of her other great books, please go to her website.
(Release date: December 1, 2009)
From the cover: In the Ichidian Universe, the League and its ruthless assassins continue to keep rule. But at what cost? Welcome back to the future…and a whole new world.Devyn Kell spent his life in service to the League until he learned of the double dealing and backstabbing that was costing innocent people their lives. Refusing to play those politics, he became a Runner—someone who makes sure planets get the weapons, medicine and supplies they need to survive. May the gods have mercy on any who get in his way, because he definitely won’t.
Alix Garran is a woman on the run from a past she can’t escape. Signing on to work for Devyn as a System’s Engineer, she finds a cause she can fight for—and a man she can respect. But as Alix’s past catches up to her, and Devyn’s old enemies turn lethal, they have to fight together…or fall alone.
For more information about Sherrilyn Kenyon's The League and all of her other great books, please go to her website.
The Evil Iguana Is At It Again!!!!
Okay, I'm stuck, bored, bothered, whatever, I know I should be working on my word count (35000/50000 15000 words - 30% - left to go until the finish line)....so instead I checked my email, and this is what I found...... I can't freaking wait for this movie!!! I got a big chuckle out of this, the end is priceless!!!
Friday, November 13, 2009
Just A Wee Bit Stressed Out ---- Or How I Spent My November
EEK!!! It's Friday the 13th!!!
Okay, some of you have noticed that I've been AWOL for a bit. I hope I have more time for blogging soon.... I'm trying the NaNoWriMo this year for the first time. I'll still be blogging, but at a slightly slower rate. NaNoWriMo is organization that encourages all writers of all types, fledgeling writers like myself or even the published authors that we all love to read, to write. Write a complete book in one month, granted it is a short book at 50000 words, but it's still a massive piece of writing in 30 days. So from November 1st through the 30th, you're encouraged to write everyday. I started with an idea of what I wanted to write about, but it took three different attempts before I could come up with something that I thought I could carry through to the finish line. It's now the middle of November and I've passed the halfway point at 52 percent completed. I hope I can keep going to at least complete the challenge. It's so much harder than we as readers think it's going to be. And as I quickly read through what I've written so far, a lot of it is crap and will have to be edited. But, it's a satisfying feeling to see 50 pages of something that could one day work it's way into being a book or a novella. Thanks everyone for your support and patience!!! It is more than appreciated!
Now, some fun stuff from around the blogosphere.
Laurell K. Hamilton's newest entry into the Anita Blake Vampire Series is being display, shown off, etc. I personally can't wait for the next installment. I enjoyed Skin Trade as LKH creeps back to the roots of the Anita Blake Saga. The necromancer is back and just as good as before. I only hope that this entry brings us closer to those roots once again. (But I'd read just for another taste of Jean-Claude, lol!) Released Date: February 2010
The next entry into the Merry Gentry Series, Divine Misdemeanors, will be released December 2009. I hope this series follows Laurell K. Hamilton's need to find her roots as well. It a magically fun series of light and dark fae.
From the Cover: You may know me best as Meredith Nic Essus, princess of faerie. Or perhaps as Merry Gentry, Los Angeles private eye. In the fey and mortal realms alike, my life is the stuff of royal intrigue and celebrity drama. Among my own, I have confronted horrendous enemies, endured my noble kin’s treachery and malevolence, and honored my duty to conceive a royal heir—all for the right to claim the throne. But I turned my back on court and crown, choosing exile in the human world—and in the arms of my beloved Frost and Darkness.
While I may have rejected the monarchy, I cannot abandon my people. Someone is killing the fey, which has left the LAPD baffled and my guardsmen and me deeply disturbed. My kind are not easily captured or killed. At least not by mortals. I must get to the bottom of these horrendous murders, even if that means going up against Gilda, the Fairy Godmother, my rival for fey loyalties in Los Angeles.
But even stranger things are happening. Mortals I once healed with magic are suddenly performing miracles, a shocking phenomenon wreaking havoc on human/faerie relations. Though I am innocent, dark suspicions of banned magical activities swirl around me.
I thought I’d left the blood and politics behind in my own turbulent realm. I had dreamed of an idyllic life in sunny L.A. with my beloved ones beside me. But it becomes time to wake up and realize that evil knows no borders, and that nobody lives forever—even if they’re magical.
New Moon Love!!!
In exactly one week, (please, if you haven't already, mark your calendars), Stephenie Meyer's second installment in the Twilight Saga will be released on the silver screen. I can't wait to gaze upon the characters one more time.
Release date: November 20, 2009
Cast: Kristen Stewart, Robert Pattinson, Taylor Lautner
Directed by: Chris Weitz
Written by: Melissa Rosenberg
Synopsis: Bella Swan is devastated by the abrupt departure of her vampire love, Edward Cullen, but her spirit is rekindled by her growing friendship with the irresistible Jacob Black. Suddenly she finds herself drawn into the world of the werewolves, ancestral enemies of the vampires, and finds her loyalties tested.
(I never knew so many guys to leap through one window, but damn, Bella's window gets a workout!!)
I can't freaking wait!!
Okay, some of you have noticed that I've been AWOL for a bit. I hope I have more time for blogging soon.... I'm trying the NaNoWriMo this year for the first time. I'll still be blogging, but at a slightly slower rate. NaNoWriMo is organization that encourages all writers of all types, fledgeling writers like myself or even the published authors that we all love to read, to write. Write a complete book in one month, granted it is a short book at 50000 words, but it's still a massive piece of writing in 30 days. So from November 1st through the 30th, you're encouraged to write everyday. I started with an idea of what I wanted to write about, but it took three different attempts before I could come up with something that I thought I could carry through to the finish line. It's now the middle of November and I've passed the halfway point at 52 percent completed. I hope I can keep going to at least complete the challenge. It's so much harder than we as readers think it's going to be. And as I quickly read through what I've written so far, a lot of it is crap and will have to be edited. But, it's a satisfying feeling to see 50 pages of something that could one day work it's way into being a book or a novella. Thanks everyone for your support and patience!!! It is more than appreciated!
Now, some fun stuff from around the blogosphere.
Laurell K. Hamilton's newest entry into the Anita Blake Vampire Series is being display, shown off, etc. I personally can't wait for the next installment. I enjoyed Skin Trade as LKH creeps back to the roots of the Anita Blake Saga. The necromancer is back and just as good as before. I only hope that this entry brings us closer to those roots once again. (But I'd read just for another taste of Jean-Claude, lol!) Released Date: February 2010
The next entry into the Merry Gentry Series, Divine Misdemeanors, will be released December 2009. I hope this series follows Laurell K. Hamilton's need to find her roots as well. It a magically fun series of light and dark fae.
From the Cover: You may know me best as Meredith Nic Essus, princess of faerie. Or perhaps as Merry Gentry, Los Angeles private eye. In the fey and mortal realms alike, my life is the stuff of royal intrigue and celebrity drama. Among my own, I have confronted horrendous enemies, endured my noble kin’s treachery and malevolence, and honored my duty to conceive a royal heir—all for the right to claim the throne. But I turned my back on court and crown, choosing exile in the human world—and in the arms of my beloved Frost and Darkness.
While I may have rejected the monarchy, I cannot abandon my people. Someone is killing the fey, which has left the LAPD baffled and my guardsmen and me deeply disturbed. My kind are not easily captured or killed. At least not by mortals. I must get to the bottom of these horrendous murders, even if that means going up against Gilda, the Fairy Godmother, my rival for fey loyalties in Los Angeles.
But even stranger things are happening. Mortals I once healed with magic are suddenly performing miracles, a shocking phenomenon wreaking havoc on human/faerie relations. Though I am innocent, dark suspicions of banned magical activities swirl around me.
I thought I’d left the blood and politics behind in my own turbulent realm. I had dreamed of an idyllic life in sunny L.A. with my beloved ones beside me. But it becomes time to wake up and realize that evil knows no borders, and that nobody lives forever—even if they’re magical.
New Moon Love!!!
In exactly one week, (please, if you haven't already, mark your calendars), Stephenie Meyer's second installment in the Twilight Saga will be released on the silver screen. I can't wait to gaze upon the characters one more time.
Release date: November 20, 2009
Cast: Kristen Stewart, Robert Pattinson, Taylor Lautner
Directed by: Chris Weitz
Written by: Melissa Rosenberg
Synopsis: Bella Swan is devastated by the abrupt departure of her vampire love, Edward Cullen, but her spirit is rekindled by her growing friendship with the irresistible Jacob Black. Suddenly she finds herself drawn into the world of the werewolves, ancestral enemies of the vampires, and finds her loyalties tested.
(I never knew so many guys to leap through one window, but damn, Bella's window gets a workout!!)
I can't freaking wait!!
Thursday, November 12, 2009
Dust by Susan Berliner
Publisher: iUniverse, Inc.
Pages: 205
From the cover: While unloading groceries in her Rock Haven condo, Karen McKay notices a strange swirl of red, green, and blue dust. The swirl follows her inside, lifts a porcelain ballerina from her wall unit, twirls it in the air, and throws it to the floor, shattering it into pieces.
The following evening, Karen hears her neighbor's dog barking loudly. Upon investigation, she finds her neighbor, Marion, at the bottom of the stairs—dead. At the top of the stairs, a colorful whirlpool of dust circles ominously.
Now the feisty librarian must consider the unthinkable: Could the dust be responsible for her neighbor's death and, if so, would it kill again? Karen turns to her ex-husband, Jerry, for help and together they bravely confront the mysterious dust. But will their daring actions cost them their lives?
Karen first see the dust while putting her groceries away. It's unique from anything the librarian has seen before and she's a research librarian, so she's seen a lot. After smashing her porcelain ballerina, she can feel the violence emanating from the swirling red, blue, and green dust.
She contacts her ex-husband, Jerry, because though they're divorced, he's still her best friend. She needs someone to believe her and see the dust too. Soon the mysterious dust is making itself known around the condos in Karen's neighbor.
Her elderly, but spry neighbor tumbles down her steps, a baseball player ends up on life support, and a young teenage girl is literally cut down while driving. All die from their injuries. And the suspicious dust is wreaking havoc where ever it goes, multiple injuries have occurred.
As Karen and Jerry try to unravel the malicious dust, they wonder where is has come from and how to kill it.
Dust by Susan Berliner is a first novel from this author. It was an incredibly quick read that kept the reader wondering about the dust. Is it intelligent? Where does the dust come from? There's a vehemence in this dust that fills the story and makes the pages easy to turn. I was intrigued by this deadly dust. Could it be toxic dust? Pollution driven? But as violent as the dust is, the most important questions of can it be killed and how to kill it are answered.
Dust is an excellent first attempt for this new author. I very much enjoyed this actioned scifi/mystery/thriller. There are elements of the paranormal in that the dust is out of this world, dangerous, and murderous. I was also intrigued by the relationship between Karen and Jerry. They divorced because of their differences, he's rock and roll, she's ballet. Karen wants to start a family and Jerry's not ready for that step, but neither one will be satisfied with another partner. Fighting the dust brings them closer together, making them realize that maybe they've made a mistake. I'll be watching for the next book from this author. If you'd like to find out more information about this author, please visit her website. Look out Stephen King, this lady may be on your tail!
I received this book from the author and publicist as part of Susan Berliner's Pump Up Your Book Tour. All the opinions expressed are my own.
Pages: 205
From the cover: While unloading groceries in her Rock Haven condo, Karen McKay notices a strange swirl of red, green, and blue dust. The swirl follows her inside, lifts a porcelain ballerina from her wall unit, twirls it in the air, and throws it to the floor, shattering it into pieces.The following evening, Karen hears her neighbor's dog barking loudly. Upon investigation, she finds her neighbor, Marion, at the bottom of the stairs—dead. At the top of the stairs, a colorful whirlpool of dust circles ominously.
Now the feisty librarian must consider the unthinkable: Could the dust be responsible for her neighbor's death and, if so, would it kill again? Karen turns to her ex-husband, Jerry, for help and together they bravely confront the mysterious dust. But will their daring actions cost them their lives?
Karen first see the dust while putting her groceries away. It's unique from anything the librarian has seen before and she's a research librarian, so she's seen a lot. After smashing her porcelain ballerina, she can feel the violence emanating from the swirling red, blue, and green dust.
She contacts her ex-husband, Jerry, because though they're divorced, he's still her best friend. She needs someone to believe her and see the dust too. Soon the mysterious dust is making itself known around the condos in Karen's neighbor.
Her elderly, but spry neighbor tumbles down her steps, a baseball player ends up on life support, and a young teenage girl is literally cut down while driving. All die from their injuries. And the suspicious dust is wreaking havoc where ever it goes, multiple injuries have occurred.
As Karen and Jerry try to unravel the malicious dust, they wonder where is has come from and how to kill it.
Dust by Susan Berliner is a first novel from this author. It was an incredibly quick read that kept the reader wondering about the dust. Is it intelligent? Where does the dust come from? There's a vehemence in this dust that fills the story and makes the pages easy to turn. I was intrigued by this deadly dust. Could it be toxic dust? Pollution driven? But as violent as the dust is, the most important questions of can it be killed and how to kill it are answered.
Dust is an excellent first attempt for this new author. I very much enjoyed this actioned scifi/mystery/thriller. There are elements of the paranormal in that the dust is out of this world, dangerous, and murderous. I was also intrigued by the relationship between Karen and Jerry. They divorced because of their differences, he's rock and roll, she's ballet. Karen wants to start a family and Jerry's not ready for that step, but neither one will be satisfied with another partner. Fighting the dust brings them closer together, making them realize that maybe they've made a mistake. I'll be watching for the next book from this author. If you'd like to find out more information about this author, please visit her website. Look out Stephen King, this lady may be on your tail!
I received this book from the author and publicist as part of Susan Berliner's Pump Up Your Book Tour. All the opinions expressed are my own.
Sunday, November 8, 2009
Saturday, November 7, 2009
How Not to Make a Wish, Book 1 of the As You Wish Series by Mindy Klasky
Publisher: Mira Books
Pages: 329
From the Cover: While cleaning an old lantern, Kira Franklin releases a genie. But this gender-morphing, appearance-bending creature doesn't do "big" wishes. So forget stopping world hunger or ending war. And still heartbroken from the jerk who dumped her, Kira doesn't believe in the perfect man.
So she wishes for her dream job. Stage manager at the hottest theater in town, the Landmark. And presto: she's running Romeo and Juliet. Except, like everything else these days, this is one crazy production. And now Teel, the genie, insists she finish her wishes so "he" can move on.
Her second wish is about her appearance, which isn't exactly catching her third wish's eye. And there's the rub.
Because that old saying about being careful what you wish for is so spot-on. And Kira is about to discover that moxie, not magic, is what can make all your dreams come true.
Kira is a stage manager down on her luck. A year ago, TEWSBU (the ex who shall be unnamed), dumped her at the alter, and she's been slowly eating her way to oblivion. She works at a small dinner theater in Minneapolis that is one step away from disaster. And her boss has all but given her her walking papers. The theater is broke. Her next check could be her last.
That is until she finds an old lamp and tries to gloss it up. And what appears before her wondering eyes? An age old genie, Teel, who agrees to make her wishes come true.
But wishes should really come with a warning, be careful what you wish for because it just might come true. And not all wishes turn out to be what you were wishing for.
How Not to Make a Wish by Mindy Klasky is a fun piece of chick lit that has magical qualities. Kira's life has been in turmoil for the last year, but finding Teel seems to be the answer to all of her problems. She can solve all of her problems if she just using her wishes correctly. She can't solve world violence, cure all the ills, or feed all the hungry. Big wishes aren't allowed. But maybe, she can take care of a few of her own small problems, if she words her wishes just right. She doesn't want to make a wish that backfires on someone else. But while she's concerned with her own problems, she almost misses out on what could be her one true love that is right before her eyes, and she doesn't even need Teel to make it happen.
How Not to Make a Wish is the perfect read to grab as you're heading out to the beach or as your curling up for a nice winter read. I felt sorry for Kira at first, but she keeps going back for more and instead of solving her problems, she just makes them worse. Her father want to commandeer her life and he almost does. When she finally grows up and finds herself on her own two feet, she has the ability to grab onto her out of control life and put it on the right track. Maybe for success and happiness, or maybe not, but at least she'll be making her own decisions. I had fun with this book and I'll be looking to try Mindy Klasky next book, When Good Wishes Go Bad, Book 2 of the As You Wish Series coming April 2010.
I received this book for review from the author. The opinions I have expressed are my own.
Pages: 329
From the Cover: While cleaning an old lantern, Kira Franklin releases a genie. But this gender-morphing, appearance-bending creature doesn't do "big" wishes. So forget stopping world hunger or ending war. And still heartbroken from the jerk who dumped her, Kira doesn't believe in the perfect man.So she wishes for her dream job. Stage manager at the hottest theater in town, the Landmark. And presto: she's running Romeo and Juliet. Except, like everything else these days, this is one crazy production. And now Teel, the genie, insists she finish her wishes so "he" can move on.
Her second wish is about her appearance, which isn't exactly catching her third wish's eye. And there's the rub.
Because that old saying about being careful what you wish for is so spot-on. And Kira is about to discover that moxie, not magic, is what can make all your dreams come true.
Kira is a stage manager down on her luck. A year ago, TEWSBU (the ex who shall be unnamed), dumped her at the alter, and she's been slowly eating her way to oblivion. She works at a small dinner theater in Minneapolis that is one step away from disaster. And her boss has all but given her her walking papers. The theater is broke. Her next check could be her last.
That is until she finds an old lamp and tries to gloss it up. And what appears before her wondering eyes? An age old genie, Teel, who agrees to make her wishes come true.
But wishes should really come with a warning, be careful what you wish for because it just might come true. And not all wishes turn out to be what you were wishing for.
How Not to Make a Wish by Mindy Klasky is a fun piece of chick lit that has magical qualities. Kira's life has been in turmoil for the last year, but finding Teel seems to be the answer to all of her problems. She can solve all of her problems if she just using her wishes correctly. She can't solve world violence, cure all the ills, or feed all the hungry. Big wishes aren't allowed. But maybe, she can take care of a few of her own small problems, if she words her wishes just right. She doesn't want to make a wish that backfires on someone else. But while she's concerned with her own problems, she almost misses out on what could be her one true love that is right before her eyes, and she doesn't even need Teel to make it happen.
How Not to Make a Wish is the perfect read to grab as you're heading out to the beach or as your curling up for a nice winter read. I felt sorry for Kira at first, but she keeps going back for more and instead of solving her problems, she just makes them worse. Her father want to commandeer her life and he almost does. When she finally grows up and finds herself on her own two feet, she has the ability to grab onto her out of control life and put it on the right track. Maybe for success and happiness, or maybe not, but at least she'll be making her own decisions. I had fun with this book and I'll be looking to try Mindy Klasky next book, When Good Wishes Go Bad, Book 2 of the As You Wish Series coming April 2010.
I received this book for review from the author. The opinions I have expressed are my own.
Thursday, November 5, 2009
Samhain Publishing Is Having A Birthday Party
Got this in my mailbox today and thought I'd share with everyone!
Please join Samhain in the Samhain Cafe to chat with authors, play games and win yourself some SWAG! eBooks, Print titles and an eBook reader will be given away during this event so be there or be talked about.
I haven't join their yahoo group, but maybe it's not necessary, anyone who'd like to have a chance at books and swag, looks like this is the place to be.
Friday, November 6, 2009 - 10:00 A.M. to 10 P.M. (EST)
Samhain Publishing’s 4th Birthday!!
Samhain Publishing’s 4th Birthday!!
Please join Samhain in the Samhain Cafe to chat with authors, play games and win yourself some SWAG! eBooks, Print titles and an eBook reader will be given away during this event so be there or be talked about.
I haven't join their yahoo group, but maybe it's not necessary, anyone who'd like to have a chance at books and swag, looks like this is the place to be.
Wednesday, November 4, 2009
Chiller TV ~ November is Vampire Month
Chiller TV was picked up by our cable company about a year ago, so I'm relatively new to the Chiller programming. But it has declared November 'Vampire Month' and some of my favorite series are being re-broadcast. They will also be showing all types of vampire movies including Bram Stoker's Dracula, Bitten, The Vampire Effect and many others. They be also showing scifi related shows like Millennium, Poltergeist The Legacy, and Tales from the Darkside. I've recently discovered a British show called Hex which is witchy fun! They also have an anni-Monday currently. If Chiller TV is available in your area, you might like to take a peek.
Here are the series that will be re-broadcasted:
Kindred, The Embrace (all 8 episodes will be broadcast)
Moonlight
Forever Night
Also available on Hulu.com
Dark Shadows (remake of 1960's show - Johnny Depp considering movie possibilities.)
Dark Shadows (1991) is also available of Hulu.com
I found this interesting picture from Dread Central.com:
Sorry to all of you Blood Ties lovers, the only place to catch these episodes is on Lifetime Channel.
Here are the series that will be re-broadcasted:
Kindred, The Embrace (all 8 episodes will be broadcast)
Moonlight
Forever Night
Also available on Hulu.com
Dark Shadows (remake of 1960's show - Johnny Depp considering movie possibilities.)
Dark Shadows (1991) is also available of Hulu.comI found this interesting picture from Dread Central.com:
Sorry to all of you Blood Ties lovers, the only place to catch these episodes is on Lifetime Channel.
Tuesday, November 3, 2009
Teens Read and Write is having a contest
Teens Read and Write is having a Mega-Giveaway. As more followers are added, more books get added too. Hurry over to enter at http://teensreadandwrite.blogspot.com/ or click the pic under my banner. The pic is just a partial list of books being given away. Multiple winners!! Hurry over, contest ends 11-15-09.
Good Luck!!
Saturday, October 31, 2009
How did You Spend All Hallow's Eve?
Quite a busy day here at the Taylor household!! I started off the morning shopping, my 14 year old decided at 9:00 this morning that he wanted to be a 1920's gangster for Halloween, complete with Fedora, jacket and tie. Where are you going to find a suit jacket small enough or large enough without alterations to fit a 14 year old???? So we (Kirsten and I) head off to the thrift stores, because I'm also not spending a fortune on a suit jacket that he's never wearing again. Fortunately, we hit Walmart and found a Fedora in the men's department for only $10.00. Next, we hit the thirty stores, and on our first try, we found a small brown suit jacket that matched the Fedora perfectly, only $4.00! We left the tie for last because we were hoping to raid his dad's ties for one that would match and yet worn enough that it wouldn't be missed, found a perfect match and it won't be missed.
Kirsten finally decided to be a mouse or kitten, depending on what was still available. We checked at WalMart, nothing, a few pumpkins still available and some wigs, that was it. Next, the Dollar Store, they didn't even have any candy left!! As a last resort, we went to the Mall. Should have started there! At Claire's, we found adorable mouse ears and headed back to WalMart where we picked up liquid and pencil eyeliner in black and brown so she could draw a mouse face onto hers. Too Cute!
And we still had to find candy. Back to Sullivan, and the local IGA, candy found and on sale. YAY!! Shopping complete (I even bought supper at the Deli).
Since I didn't have to cook, I spent the rest of my day and evening watching scary movies.
The movies that I perused today were:
Halloween (1978) - The original Michael Meyers fright fest. I couldn't believe that a little boy went crazy!! And grew up to kill again. I saw this for the first time when I was in high school. Screamed my head off, lol.
Halloween IV, The Curse of Michael Meyers (1988) - Not the finally installment, half-way through the series. This one has the little kids in it. Michael Meyers is now Uncle Michael Meyers, but still happily murdering his way through the movie.
Night of the Living Dead (1968) - The original zombie fest where a meteor smashes into Earth releasing a virus that brings the dead back to life, infecting all they come into contact with. The final scene, the lone survivor from the zombie attack is shot and killed by his would be rescuers.
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Psycho (1998) - Vince Vaughn's reprisal of the 1960 classic, just as freaky, just as murderous. He appears so normal, who knew Mom lived on as a corpse? Who knew that Vince Vaughn would be so believable.
The Witches (1990) - Witches take over a small resort village in England, determined to turn the world's smelling children into mice, and the tables are turned on them. Parts of the movie are filmed in the Netherlands. Angelica Huston is quite convincing as the evil leader in this YA fantasy.
Bram Stroker's Dracula - Okay, I only watched portions of this movie because I wanted to be able to sleep at night, lol. This movie freaking scared me to death when I watched it back in 1992. Still gives me nightmares. Excellent rendition of Dracula, sexy, frightening, and deadly.
American Werewolf in London (1981) - Halloween just wouldn't be complete without a few werewolves. In this original, the prey of the werewolf never die, but live on as ghostly apparitions to torment the would be werewolf, until he gives in, sacrificing his life to release them from their ghostly ones.
Scream (1996) - The original gore fest where Casey and her boyfriend are sliced and diced, along with nearly everyone in the movie. Sidney just can't catch a break, first her mom's murdered, her father disappears, her bestfriend is eaten by a garage door, and her boyfriend, Billy, is a bad, bad boy. Again, I only watched bits and pieces, it's an awfully messy movie! This one I had to leave and come back to.
Most of these movies were on AMC, CHILLER, and SYFY, but I did order a couple on demand.
During the movies, I saw numerous treat-or-trickers, took a few pictures of my kids and their friends, and made popcorn and cookies.
How was your evening? Was it witching?? Ghostly??? Heaven forbid, Sexy Vampirey???
Kirsten finally decided to be a mouse or kitten, depending on what was still available. We checked at WalMart, nothing, a few pumpkins still available and some wigs, that was it. Next, the Dollar Store, they didn't even have any candy left!! As a last resort, we went to the Mall. Should have started there! At Claire's, we found adorable mouse ears and headed back to WalMart where we picked up liquid and pencil eyeliner in black and brown so she could draw a mouse face onto hers. Too Cute!
And we still had to find candy. Back to Sullivan, and the local IGA, candy found and on sale. YAY!! Shopping complete (I even bought supper at the Deli).
Since I didn't have to cook, I spent the rest of my day and evening watching scary movies.
The movies that I perused today were:
Halloween (1978) - The original Michael Meyers fright fest. I couldn't believe that a little boy went crazy!! And grew up to kill again. I saw this for the first time when I was in high school. Screamed my head off, lol. 
Halloween IV, The Curse of Michael Meyers (1988) - Not the finally installment, half-way through the series. This one has the little kids in it. Michael Meyers is now Uncle Michael Meyers, but still happily murdering his way through the movie.
Night of the Living Dead (1968) - The original zombie fest where a meteor smashes into Earth releasing a virus that brings the dead back to life, infecting all they come into contact with. The final scene, the lone survivor from the zombie attack is shot and killed by his would be rescuers..jpg)
Psycho (1998) - Vince Vaughn's reprisal of the 1960 classic, just as freaky, just as murderous. He appears so normal, who knew Mom lived on as a corpse? Who knew that Vince Vaughn would be so believable.
The Witches (1990) - Witches take over a small resort village in England, determined to turn the world's smelling children into mice, and the tables are turned on them. Parts of the movie are filmed in the Netherlands. Angelica Huston is quite convincing as the evil leader in this YA fantasy.
Bram Stroker's Dracula - Okay, I only watched portions of this movie because I wanted to be able to sleep at night, lol. This movie freaking scared me to death when I watched it back in 1992. Still gives me nightmares. Excellent rendition of Dracula, sexy, frightening, and deadly.
American Werewolf in London (1981) - Halloween just wouldn't be complete without a few werewolves. In this original, the prey of the werewolf never die, but live on as ghostly apparitions to torment the would be werewolf, until he gives in, sacrificing his life to release them from their ghostly ones.
Scream (1996) - The original gore fest where Casey and her boyfriend are sliced and diced, along with nearly everyone in the movie. Sidney just can't catch a break, first her mom's murdered, her father disappears, her bestfriend is eaten by a garage door, and her boyfriend, Billy, is a bad, bad boy. Again, I only watched bits and pieces, it's an awfully messy movie! This one I had to leave and come back to.
Most of these movies were on AMC, CHILLER, and SYFY, but I did order a couple on demand.
During the movies, I saw numerous treat-or-trickers, took a few pictures of my kids and their friends, and made popcorn and cookies.
How was your evening? Was it witching?? Ghostly??? Heaven forbid, Sexy Vampirey???
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