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.

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???

Happy All Hallows Eve!!

Tink and I just wanted to wish everyone a Happy Samhain!! Be careful out there, ghouls and ghosts, witches and wizards, weres and vamps!!






Some fun Halloween facts:

It's a Celtic custom to wear costumes to fool ghostly apparitions, and to carve and light turnips and gourds to guide/frighten wayward spirits. Pumpkins weren't used until the 1800's.

Halloween has many names: Samhain, All Hallows Eve, All Saint's Eve, Hallowe'en

All Saints Day (November 1st) and All Souls Day (November 2nd) follow Catholic religious customs. Dia De los Muertos (Day of the Dead) is celebrated on November 1st + 2nd in connection with All Saints Day and All Souls Day.

The colors orange and black stand for: orange - Fall harvest and black - darkness and death. (there is no rhyming word for orange in the English language)

The word 'Witch' comes from the word 'wicca' which means wise one.

The mask worn by Michael Meyers in the 'Halloween' movies is actually a William Shatner Star Trek mask painted white.

Famed magician, Harry Houdini (Ehrich Weiss) died on Halloween in 1926, he vowed that if it was possible to contact the living after his death, he would do so.

Here's a little Monster Mash!!

Is it contagious? Werewolves and Vampires Explored.

I've been researching two of my favorite subjects, werecreatures and vampires, and I've come across some frightening, if not terrifying, information. The findings that I have discovered were acquired from need to know documents found in governmental health agencies. When the general populace will be informed of these recent discoveries, I do not know. But you, my dear readers, will benefit from my strenuous and exhaustive activities.

Werecreatures have been created by an infection with a rare form of rabies recently discovered by American scientists. There is no known treatment or cure and no one has yet discovered when the mutation will occur. When a human is bitten by a creature (wolf, tiger, panther, etc.) that is infected by this form of rabies which has mutated from this it's original state (by an outside factor such as pollution, interaction with certain drugs), the person contracts this mutated rabies which in turn develops into a were condition. The rabid animal is NOT a werecreature itself, but may be a carrier of this mutation and pass it along to others of it's species. It is a myth that the full moon is needed for the werecreature to become active. Weres (especially the newly infected) can change at any time. It is true that the mutated rabies is influenced by the cycles moon, much like the tide of the ocean, causing an increase in activity during the full moon phase. It is also been documented that certain allergies occur such as a reaction to silver that can cause pain and even death. With the were infection, certain attributes of the animals involved are acquired including increased strength, speed and coordination as well as greater visual acuity and the ability to heal the most grievous of wounds.

Vampirism has been found to be caused by a virus that is contracted by blood exchange (various forms of exchange to explore such as transfusion). The cause of this virus is currently under investigation and it is undetectable with current testing procedures. The virus causes an infection leading to a deathlike coma for an period of time ranging from a few days (three or more) to a week. When the person awakes, changes have taken place within the body. The changes including the development of new allergies to the sun and certain seasonings like garlic and wolvesbane. It is a myth that people infected with vampirism cannot go out in the sun, it's just not well tolerated. There develops an increased need for protein best supplied by blood as their body begins to reject certain nutrients and develops greater food allergies. A stake through the heart or removal of the head will kill a vampiric person, but it is a well documented fact that said procedures will kill any living creature. It has been documented that vampiric individuals have increased strength, most likely related to their increased need for protein; as well as an increased life span which appears to be the result of the physical changes that have occurred. For some odd reason yet to be discovered, the canines of these individuals have reverted to a less developed bite becoming longer and pointed increase the bite pattern of the individuals.

So, this Halloween as you're getting ready to leave the safety and warmth of your home, remember these facts that I have taken great risk to procure and present. Enter the darkness as one who understand the consequences of your actions.

Oh, and Happy Halloween!

Happy Birthday Amy and Cecile!!!!

Have a Happy Halloween Eve Birthday!!

May all your birthday wishes come true!

A Spooky Little Tale for You

A Haunting Embrace

When I was only 15 years old, I lost my cousin to a horrible accident. She fell to her death from a bridge that stretched across the Randike River. The Randike River is one of the deepest rivers with a muddy bottom, as well as one of the dirtiest, it's filth and grime well known. It was the worst feeling I've ever had, knowing that Helene's life and beauty perished in the stink of that disgusting river. The night before her death, Helene had called me and I had been furious with her; not even taking the time to talk to her. She was only two years older than I was and we had had a teenagers' fight over a boy. She was the youngest daughter of my mother's sister, Teresa who was over wrought with grief at her loss. Helene was a dark haired, dark eyed beauty who attracted guys like moths to light. The guilt that I felt haunted me.

But later that same night, I dreamed of Helene. In my dream, she spoke to me with tears streaming down her face. It felt so real, almost like she was in the room with me. She told me that her death was not an accident; that she had been attacked, drained of all of her blood by a mysterious creature who whispered her name and drew her to the bridge. She felt compelled to go to the bridge; unable to stop her questing feet. She had been murdered by this creature and thrown to her death. I awoke with a start, my heart pounding and the blood rushing through my ears, to find tears upon the pillow next to mine, yet my own face was dry. I jumped from my rumpled bed and raced to the bathroom to peer at my own white face. Though my eyes were wide with terror, there was no evidence of the moisture I had found upon my pillow.

The next night, the same thing happened again. Helene came to me, almost frantic this time. Begging me to help her, begging me to help myself. But how was I going to help her, I was just a 15 year old girl with an over active imagination that couldn't quit dreaming of her departed cousin. Helene in a panicked voice screamed at me to take care, that she feared for my life. By this time, I was starting to question my own sanity. Wasn't my father's uncle living in the McLaird Center? Was I crazy, should I seek help? Why was I having nightmares about my cousin Helene and her accidental death? Sure, I was sorry that I hadn't talked to her when she had called, but now I was afraid to go to sleep. Afraid that she would invade my dreams again, terrified of what she would tell me next. With the daylight slowly seeping away and night quickly approaching, I refused to let sleep take me. But, try as I might, sleep came to me when I least expected it.

I fell into a hard fast sleep on the sofa in my parent's living room. I woke to Helene shaking my shoulder, telling me it was the last night that she would be visiting me, for a time at least, but she would be watching and waiting. She seemed almost happy now, saying that she finally understood. She again urged me to be wary of the darkness of the night, begged me not to go to the bridge, no matter what. When I awoke again, it was to the bright sunshine of morning and I was in my own rumpled bed, but with Helene's favorite doll on the pillow next to my head. How it had gotten there, I hadn't a clue. I called my aunt Teresa and casually asked her about Helene's treasured doll that had rested on her bed for as long as I could remember. But she said that Helene must have had it with her since Teresa had not seen it since the night of Helene's death.

Two months had passed since the death of Helene. I was finally sleeping all night without worrying about the nocturnal visits from my cousin. But then I started having the dreams. He was the most gorgeous guy I'd seen, tall and pale with the deepest blue eyes that I had ever beheld, but there was an oldness about him that belied his teenage appearance. I could almost smell the scent of death upon him. And he kept whispering my name, begging me to come to him with those beguiling eyes. What fun we could have, and God help me, I wanted to go. But remembering Helene's parting words, I was scared near to death. I started swallowing pills to keep myself awake for the night time hours. I was once again afraid to close my eyes, feared the sleep that would bring him into my dreams. I used to be fun, happy, popular; now I was a freak that people stayed away from, like I had some contagious disease. What was I going to do? I was exhausted all the time, pale as the ghost that Helene was. I no longer wanted to eat, the only thing I really wanted to do was to go; go to he who called me from my dreams. If I allowed this to happen, I knew my fate would end the same as Helene. But, I was starting not to care. I needed help, but who could save me.

And then Helene came again, and told me what to do. The next night I gave myself to sleep quickly and easily being deprived as I had been. When he called to me, I went greedily, eager for the caress of his hands, his embrace, his lips upon mine. But little did he know that I had my own secret. Pressed to the inside of my right thigh was a pointed death stick to be delivered to his heart in the heat of his excitement to complete his deed, to quench his desirous thirst with me, body and soul. As he eagerly brought me to his side, enveloping me with his one desire, I delivered mine. Surprise was in his eyes as he roughly released me, pulling at the embedded stick as if the poison of his kiss would not have been as deadly, draining his life as he would have surely drained mine; as he had drained Helene. I watched with terror as he dissolved before my eyes, turning to dust and smoke, forever to leave this place and time.

It has been many years since I have been reminded of my past deed, and I have slept easily for all these long years. It has been a lifetime ago for me. But now my fears have returned and I have begun hearing his voice calling me, greedily and hungrily, begging for my return to his embracing arms. I had thought his existence ceased with the plunge of the pointed stick. I was wrong... I don't believe I can refuse his call this time, I'm weaker now and more easily won. His need and desire for my life, body and soul, have begun to be my own. There is no one to turn to; I fear that I am lost.

© 2009 Dottie Taylor

Promo ~ Sherrilyn Kenyon ~ Born of Fire and St. Martin's Press Contest

(release date: November 3, 2009)

Sherrilyn Kenyon's new trilogy, The League, is moving into it's second installment with Born of Fire.

Want to try your hand at winning your very own copy? In celebration of 'Born of Fire', St. Martin's press is holding a book sweepstakes - winners receive a free copy of 'Born Of Fire'! The contest is over on November 11th, so hurry over to throw your hat in, 50 copies up for grabs!! Here is the link for the 'Born of Fire' sweepstakes offer!!
(This is not my contest, click the link below to enter.)

http://us.macmillan.com/smp/promo/bornoffire


Want to read an excerpt? Click here.


For more information about Sherrilyn Kenyon, click here or here.


Here's a peek at the new book trailer for Born of Fire:

Just Another One Of Those Days

I'm feeling kind of blah today, so I'd thought I share a little Nickelback (great image of the band). I love this video. If Today Was Your Last Day....

If Today Was Your Last Day lyrics
Songwriters: Kroeger, Chad;

My best friend gave me the best advice
He said each day's a gift and not a given right
Leave no stone unturned, leave your fears behind
And try to take the path less traveled by
That first step you take is the longest stride

If today was your last day and tomorrow was too late
Could you say goodbye to yesterday?
Would you live each moment like your last
Leave old pictures in the past?
Donate every dime you had, if today was your last day?
What if, what if, if today was your last day?

Against the grain should be a way of life
What's worth the price is always worth the fight
Every second counts 'cause there's no second try
So live like you're never living twice
Don't take the free ride in your own life

If today was your last day and tomorrow was too late
Could you say goodbye to yesterday?
Would you live each moment like your last?
Leave old pictures in the past?
Donate every dime you had?

And would you call those friends you never see?
Reminisce old memories?
Would you forgive your enemies?
And would you find that one you're dreaming of?
Swear up and down to God above
That you'd finally fall in love if today was your last day?

If today was your last day
Would you make your mark by mending a broken heart?
You know it's never too late to shoot for the stars
Regardless of who you are

So do whatever it takes
'Cause you can't rewind a moment in this life
Let nothing stand in your way
'Cause the hands of time are never on your side

If today was your last day and tomorrow was too late
Could you say goodbye to yesterday?
Would you live each moment like your last?
Leave old pictures in the past?
Donate every dime you had?

And would you call those friends you never see?
Reminisce old memories?
Would you forgive your enemies?
And would you find that one you're dreaming of
Swear up and down to God above
That you'd finally fall in love if today was your last day?

*Another* Another Faust Contest

I'm picking this up for /- LA FEMME READERS -/ (Eleni's blog).

Hi everyone!

Dina and I are about to kick off a month-long tour for our book, Another Faust, and we want to do it by announcing a contest! We are looking for the most promising writers out there (that’s YOU). And then we want to showcase their work, so that all of the Internet can bask in their awesome writing might (and, you know, give them prizes).

HERE’S HOW IT GOES.

We want you to write your own short story, re-imagining of the Faustian Bargain. (For inspiration, check out Bedazzled, Simpsons “Tree House of Horrors IV,” and The Little Mermaid). It can be about anything you like (but let’s keep it PG-13, and under 3,000 words), and it’s open to everyone.

All you have to do is send your entry to dviergutz@gmail.com before January 31.

Rules and details can be found here:

http://www.danielanddina.com/site/2009/10/writing-contest-create-another-another-faust/

Here are the d's:

Make sure to read them so you don’t get DQed

And the winner gets all kinds of sweetness:

-A signed copy of Another Faust
-A handwritten deleted scene
-A featured article & interview on our site
-An author’s galley of the sequel Another Pan

Though we’ll feature the top five on our site for comments, the judging WON’T happen by popular vote (so basically, we don't care which contestant has the most friends). Dina and I will personally read them.

So, spread the word! Tweet, retweet, forward, thread, spread, embed this post.

Good luck!

D&D

My Note:

[Now remember the Faust story is where Faust makes a deal with the devil. In exchange for, in his case knowledge, (the story has been retold many times for love, beauty, riches, life, or to barter for another person's life or soul) he sold his soul to the devil to reside in hell for his afterlife (an remember, the devil is devious, the afterlife maybe start in moments or years). So, in 3000 words or less, can you come up with a story where the darkness (evil) could barter with your hero/heroine for their eternal soul??? Could they escape the devilish darkness??? Hmmm ...... many possibilities here.]

Don't Look Down by David Laing Dawson

Publisher: Bridgeross Communications
Pages: 194

From the Cover: Four men, age 18 to 81, have murdered, and now share a room in the secure forensic psychiatry ward of a mental hospital. Who better to get inside their heads, and find both the tragedy and comedy of their lives than Canadian psychiatrist and novelist David Laing Dawson. Three of Dawson's previous novels, Last Rights, Double Blind, and Essondale have been published in seven European countries, the US and the UK. Dawson's novels have been described as a cross between Elmore Leonard and Seinfeld and as close to reality as it gets.

Henry is an 81 year old man who has lost his grip on reality. First his wife dies from cancer when they are both in their 70's. Marion wanted to try some whacking Mexican cure, but the shyster just steals their money. Dixie comes into his life soon after and for 10 years, it's a new lease on life. Then cancer comes again, but this time, Dixie begs Henry; Please, Please.

Frank is a middle aged Socio/Psychopath. He's abuse as a child by his mother. He's blamed for his father's death. He's abused and has abused; mentally, physically, and drugs of all kinds. He's evil to his soul.

Joseph has suffered of all of his life. He trusts no one. He's paranoid and hearing voices. He believes his wife has never been faithful. He knows he's no good and he will be punished; there will only be one escape for him.

David is an 18 year old boy with disillusions. He's schizophrenic, obsessive compulsive disordered. He tries to keep the voices of other from invading his mind; he wets his hair and wraps his head. Evilness scares him. He knows he can be the hand of God. There will be only one escape for him as well.

Don't Look Down is the journey of these four men, held at mental facility that keeps the inmates compliant with medication of all kinds. If you do look down, it's further than you think to fall.

Don't Look Down by David Laing Dawson is a psychological thriller about four men capable of the worse crime imaginable. Henry has released his live in from the pain and suffering as she had been begging. Joseph can no longer function in the world, he has punished and knows God will bring punishment to him as well. He knows he will be stricken, but it will be by his hand, not another. David can no longer stay in the controlling influence of his mother. He leaves home, only to find Sally. Sally is an older woman (much older than David) who prays upon the system. She wants the easy way, but David can see the evilness in her soul. He must save her by freeing her from the evilness. Frank learned long ago not to let anyone use him, he is the user. He is truly a dangerous, sick individual. All of the men are being held and treated in a Canadian mental facility. But do they all belong there? When the opportunity arises, Frank makes a break for it, taking a nurse hostage. Henry can't allow this to happen, so he offers himself. David can't let the evilness take Henry. Will they escape?

Don't Look Down was an interesting psychological read that kept me guessing. All four of these men are capable of murder. The question is who will commit it and why. And will they all survive their own fears and reality? Definitely a gripping read that it capture your attention, a quick read that leaves you wondering with quirky humorous moments. For more information, please visit http://www.bridgeross.com. David Laing Dawson is a Forensic Psychiatrist who has written several books.

I received this book from the author for review and all opinions expressed are my own.

Bitten by Books, Blood Bank Members, And All Others - Mega Contests Going On!

Bitten by Books is having a month long party. Here is the current schedule:

It is a HUGE week for us at BBB!

We have several events that I could really use your help promoting. Feel free to copy the text in it's entirety and post to your blogs, groups etc. BE SURE to include the RSVP link so they know where to go. :) This is a HUGE HUGE help to me, the more places you post it, the better it is for the site and the authors. LOTS of great prizes are being given away. Remember you can enter all of the contests too!

Tuesday Author PC Cast!
RSVP HERE: http://bittenbybooks.com/?p=11900

Wednesday Erica Hayes
RSVP HERE: http://bittenbybooks.com/?p=11651

Thursday Charlaine Harris
RSVP HERE: http://bittenbybooks.com/?p=11942

RSVP's to follow later in the week!
10/22 - Bring Your Cover Model To Work Day - Carey Hope Interview/Contest
10/23 - Eva Gordon - Release Party

Also, here are a few other contests going on around the blogosphere:

Suburban Vampire - check out Catherine site, several contests right now, and I'm sure more to follow.

Patricia's Vampire Notes - Patricia has several contest going on this now, check this site out.

Scifiguy - Doug always has contests going on and he's a fountain of information from around the blogosphere.

Vampire Wire - Marta has some sweet contests going on right now, be sure to stop by.

All I Want And More - Cecile is having a month long birthday celebration.

Queen of Happy Endings - Alaine is having her monthly contest and more, stop by!

The Electic Reader - Teddyree is celebrating her son's birthday, stop and help her celebrate. Give her a hug while you're there, she's a sweetie!

The Book Resort - Diane always has something going on, and you never know what you find!

The Royal Reviews - The Princess always having some contests going on, check out these ladies.

Anna's Book Blog - OMG! Have you been to Anna's site lately? Hurry over, she has a box of books giveaway.

Stumbling Over Chaos - Chris has a great site, and she usually is running at least one contest (check out her huge mega giveaway by the 26th) and a great contest listing. Besides Chaos and Mayhem are entirely too cute.

The Book Butterfly - If you love YA, check Kim's site out, always a few contests going on.

The Book Muncher - Again YA site, but Scarlet has sweet contests going on.

Donna's Fantasy Dreamers Rambling - Donna has the neatest contest for Lenore going on and she has an incredible contest listing, make sure to check her site out!!

The Lateiner Gang Book Review Spot - huge contest going on!! If you haven't visited, you really should!

Houston A.W. Knight - Hawk is having a 'guess the jelly bean contest', check it out, too much fun!!

And remember, Michele Hauf's site, The Bite Club is having a Halloween Celebration starting on Oct. 25, should be fun!

I know I'm missing some great contests, but if you check out these sites contest listings as well, you'll find even more!!! Halloween contests galore!!

Get Your Scare On: Check out these ghostly pictures!
http://paranormal.about.com/od/ghostphotos/ig/Best-Ghost-Photos/

Murder in the Magick Club by Byron A. Lorrier, Esq.

Publisher: Booksurge
Pages: 354

From the Publisher: “Pure porn!” the critics cry. “Throw it on the fire!” Murder in the Magick Club is an occult-themed murder mystery; perfect for your next banned-book bonfire. Murder in the Magick Club takes place in the exotic, faraway land of Tampa, Florida and offers an insider’s exposé of the “Salem of the South” . . . written straight from the spleen. Murder in the Magick Club is the first in a series wherein the victim needs killin’ and the murderer always gets away with it . . . maybe. All of the characters—moochy customers, cops, self-absorbed and wastrel staff, and the impotent, financially longsuffering owner of the Magick Club—are always ready with an easy bit of slander and perhaps an easy bit of murder. Murder in the Magick Club is a ripping good read to grab on the way to the beach, or to help set just-the-right-tone before the reader jumps off the Skyway Bridge. Perfect to curl up with a steaming hot cup of mugwort tea, a bottle or two of merlot, the beer bong &/or the hashish-stoked hookah.

Bryn Thomas is a down on his luck bar owner. The name of his club 'The Magick Club' (because real magic is spelled with a 'k') is meant to attract other of a similar nature. Those looking for a little magic in their lives. Unfortunately, those who seek magic for real are often those living on the fringe of society. The losers, the pimps, the people who are different from everyone else. The criminals and shysters work for Bryn, and once they get their hooks in him, he can't let them go.

Bryn is a little psychic, seeing his past lives, and his thieving employees tend to be a little as well. The whole story centers around the owner and the thugs he lives with (thugs being his employees and customers). It seems everyone who frequents this club is one step away from disaster. And the topping glory of it all is a death that takes place somewhere in the area of the club. Is it murder, an old drunk who has fallen and cracked his skull, or is there something else at work in the Magick Club?

Murder in the Magick Club by Bryon A. Lorrier, Esq. is a very long read. From the title one would believe that either the story is a mystery or urban fantasy with mystery elements. It is neither. I can't say there was exactly a hero or heroine in the story. Bryn's existence sucks, there's no other way to put it. He hates his life and everyone in it. He hates the cowans that exist in the world (for those of us not in the know a cowan is an unwelcome non-Pagan intruder. Non-craft person, an outsider. Term also used by freemasons to describe the same type of person. A person not of Wiccan beliefs. It is used to refer, as a derogatory term, for a 'fake' or 'gameplayer' Pagan; a FOOL who doesn't know what they are talking about - thanks Global Oneness - so I did learn something.) To make his life even more miserable that it was, he can remember everything about his past lives, knows how each existence was a failure and how he died over and over again without happiness, and this life will be no different. He's already seen his death. He gravitates to those with some psychic ability, not that he enjoys them or himself much. Heroine, none that I could discern. This is mostly a study of Bryn life and it's sadness.

Murder in the Magick Club is a book about the human condition, it full of character studies, all the underbelly elements of society are covered. So if you enjoy lengthy monologues and diatribes about the human condition, this is the book for you. If your looking for a mystery or urban fantasy, look elsewhere. There were a couple of moments that garnered a laugh or two. But I can say with certainty, this was not my cup of tea. I have read several very complimentary reviews of this book, so I know others really enjoyed this book and the characters found within, it may be that the problem is with me and what I was looking for and not finding within the pages. Many have called it a book of dark humor, seedy entertainment, and it is; and as I said there are humorous moments throughout the book. I will say it was an interesting read. I could not locate a website for this author, but the book is available at various locations. For more information try NewsWire.com. Blogger News and Maymays Memos have a very complimentary reviews.

I received this book for review from the author and all opinions expressed are my own.

Syfy (SciFi)'s Sanctuary Season 1 versus Season 2

The Syfy (SciFi) channel is one of my favorite channels when I have time to watch TV that is (which is not often). I'm home a lot during the day, and they replay shows that I loved, like Moonlight, that have been cut by the major networks. But, I'm making an exception for Sanctuary this year. Here, it's on Fridays at 9pm central (with a replay at 11pm central). I started watching last year, but it just wasn't working for me, I thought it was going to be dark urban fantasy, and for some reason, it didn't click for me. But, thank God for second seasons because I decided to give it another try. And hot damn, it's dark urban fantasy!! Not only are there supernatural creatures that are protected by the Sanctuary and hidden from society, but there are good guys and very nasty bad guys. Now, don't get me wrong, there were good guys and bad guys last season, but the bad guys this season are these dark evil people who want to use the Sanctuary and the creatures to their own devices. I was very impressed with the first two shows this season, a two part episode called 'End of Nights' and it very well almost was the end of night for the Sanctuary. I hope it continues in this vein!!! (I tried Warehouse 13, and it's okay, but not spectacular). I'm still liking Vampire Diaries, I just wished they'd replay it at different times. So far this TV season, there are two shows that I don't mind taking a peek at (I also like NCIS.....I watch long distance with my pop, but it's on Tuesdays, so don't get to watch often, Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays are activity nights for the kids, and with basketball season fast approaching, there goes Monday, only one more football game.....woohoo!!!)

*Contest For Dakota Banks' Dark Time Now Closed* Congrats Winner!!!

There were 60 unique entries. Wow!! Thanks to everyone for entering!!

The winner of Dark Time Mortal Path Book 1 is...................

Patricia
(from Patricia's Vampire Notes)

Patricia, I'll be emailing you shortly for your snail mail and again.....

Congratulations and Happy Reading!!

Last Day to Enter for Dakota Banks' Dark Time Giveaway!!

If you haven't entered, tonight is the last night to get your entry in!! I'll draw a winner first thing in the morning!!



Thanks to everyone who has made this a fun giveaway!

For Kirsten....Happy Birthday Baby!!!




FTC Note: I have always stated where or when I've received a book, but from now on I will now be ending reviews with a disclosure statement something like:

I received this book for review from (the author, publicist, publisher, editor, win, buy, or library) and all opinions expressed are my own. Thanks to the FTC for making reading and blogging a little more fun!! (If I purchase, borrow, or win a book, I am forgo the statement as I see fit.)

Promo ~ P.C. Cast + Kristin Cast ~ Tempted, House of Night Series, Book 6

Publisher: St. Martin Press
Pages: 336

(Release Date: October 27, 2009)

From the Cover: So...you'd think after banishing an immortal being and a fallen High Priestess, saving Stark's life, biting Heath, getting a headache from Erik, and almost dying, Zoey Redbird would catch a break. Sadly, a break is not in the House of Night school forecast for the High Priestess in training and her gang. Juggling three guys is anything but a stress reliever, especially when one of them is a sexy Warrior who is so into protecting Zoey that he can sense her emotions. Speaking of stress, the dark force lurking in the tunnels under the Tulsa Depot is spreading, and Zoey is beginning to believe Stevie Rae could be responsible for a lot more than a group of misfit red fledglings. Aphrodite's visions warn Zoey to stay away from Kalona and his dark allure, but they also show that it is Zoey who has the power to stop the evil immortal. Soon it becomes obvious that Zoey has no choice: if she doesn't go to Kalona he will exact a fiery vengeance on those closest to her. Will Zoey have the courage to chance losing her life, her heart, and her soul? Find out in the next spectacular installment in the House of Night Series, "Tempted."

The House of Night Series follows 16-year-old Zoey Redbird, who gets “Marked” by a vampyre tracker and begins to undergo the Change into an actual vampyre. If you'd like to read the first chapter or listen to the first two chapters, click here.

I can't wait to get my hands on this book!!

Here is an exclusive look at the new book trailer just released today!!

Deadline Dames: Readers on Deadline ROD #8

Hello fellow readers!! It's time for another round of flash fiction for the Deadline Dames! The picture below is the prompt for this month's contest. Interesting isn't it. I could immediately feel the abandonment of this place, the emptiness of long forgotten times. If you'd like to check out the Dames site or contest, click here.

This is what I've come up so far.



Brimstone

I slowly woke with my head thick and cottony from a drug induced sleep; trying to stretch and finding I was bound and blind.

Where the hell am I and how did I get here? The floor where I found myself was tacky like old wax.

The panic I'd been suppressing raised it's ugly head; my breathing became rapid, heart pounding as I began to work my bonds.

“Struggle if you must.” I heard a dark voice call cordially. “It will do you little good.” The voice laughed heartily.

“Please, you don't have to do this, tell me what you want.” I begged becoming claustrophobic in the blindfolded darkness.

“All in good time.” The voice boomed happily, enjoying my anxiety.

I screamed piercingly; now I could smell the brimstone of hellfire. I knew where I was; realized my captor. How was I found?

“I will never submit. Let me go!” I yelled, working my bonds; hoping for freedom.

I felt a fiery breath brush my cheek. “Lucy, love, why would I do that?”

My body filled with dread and desire as the demon lips caressed my cheek, easing down my neck, and lingering at the hollow between neck and shoulder; his tongue licking almost lovingly, remembering my taste.

I screamed again this time in frustration and with arousal; I would not become the demon's servant, bound and cursed.



Okay, this is what I have so far. I'm right at my word limit with 245 words. Not sure if it will be my entry or not.

Happy Thanksgiving to Canada

Canadian Thanksgiving is celebrated on the 2nd Monday of October.

Thanksgiving in Canada has generally thought to come from three traditions.

European farmers in Europe held celebrations at harvest time to give thanks for their good fortune of a good harvest and abundance of food. They would often fill a curved goat's horn with fruits and grains. This was known as a cornucopia or horn of good plenty. When Europeans came to Canada it is thought to have become an influence on the Canadian Thanksgiving tradition.

Around 1578 English navigator Martin Frobisher held a ceremony, in what is now called the province of Newfoundland to give thanks for surviving his journey there. Other settlers later arrived and continued these "thankful" ceremonies. This was also thought to be an influence on the Canadian Thanksgiving tradition.

The third influence happened in 1621 in what was to become the United States. Pilgrims celebrated their first harvest in the "New World". Around 1750 this celebration of harvest was brought to Nova Scotia by American settlers from the south. At the same time, French settlers arriving were also holding feasts of "thanksgiving". These celebrations and offerings of "Thanks" influenced the Canadian Thanksgiving.

In 1879 Canadian Parliament declared November 6th a day of Thanksgiving and a national holiday. Over the years the date of Thanksgiving changed several times until on January 31st, 1957 Parliament proclaimed....."that the 2nd Monday in October"........"be a Day of General Thanksgiving to Almighty God for the bountiful harvest with which Canada has been blessed.".

In the United States, Thanksgiving is celebrated on the 4th Thursday of November according to a declaration by President Abraham Lincoln in 1863. For more information about the holidays, click here.

However the day of thanks was decided, it is the bounty of the Earth we celebrate.

Happy Thanksgiving to all my Canadian blogger buddies!!

Picked This Up From The Deadline Dames: Dame For A Day: Jocelynn Drake

Over at The Deadline Dames this weekend, Jocelynn Drake gave us the titles coming up in the Dark Days Series:

~Jocelynn Drake
Author of the Dark Days Series
Nightwalker, August 2008
Dayhunter, May 2009
Dawnbreaker, October 2009
Pray for Dawn, Summer 2010
Wait for Dusk, Summer 2010

I am too freaking excited!! Book 4: Pray for Dawn, Book 5: Wait for Dusk, Book 6: ?????

Just had to share my joy!!

In My Mailbox

I'm picking this up from Anna's Book Blog and The Story Siren (I'm not sure I'll do it every week, but I'll try!!) In the craziness of Homecoming Weekend, and I do mean is has been zany here, I found a few minutes to relax.



R.L. Holbrook sent me her series, Children of Sun and Shadows of Fate, YA fantasy.





Catching Fire by Suzanne Collins, sweet win at Fantasy Book Critic, YA Urban Fantasy.



Lucan by Susan Kearney, sweet win at Anna's Book Blog, Paranormal Romance.



David Laing Dawson sent his novel, Don't Look Down, Mystery.



Mindy Klasky sent her novel How Not To Make A Wish, Paranormal Romance.



Sheldon Greene sent his novel Prodigal Sons, Mystery.



CherryD (BBBe) sent Griffin Daughter by Lelsie Ann Moore, Urban Fantasy.



Library Thing sent What Lies Beneath by Charles Bice, YA/Adult Mystery.



Last Weeks Arrivals

Bryron Lorrier sent Murder In The Magick Club, Mystery.



Jerry Bayne sent Kill Me Twice, Action/Thriller.



Intertwined by Gena Showalter sweet win at Amy's Addicted to Books.



Penguin Books sent Fired Up by Jane Ann Krentz, Paranormal Romance.



Cold Streak by Lewis Aleman sweet win from Eleni's /- La Femme Readers -/, Dark YA Urban Fantasy.



Gena Showalter's Darkest Night, Darkest Kiss, and Darkest Pleasure, all sweet wins from Gena Showalter and Paranormal Romance Books & Paranormal Romance Authors
From Harlequin, Paranormal Romance.







Have a great weekend everyone!!!