Another, Another Faust Contest

Hi Everyone!!

I just wanted to share with everyone one of the entries I wrote for the Another, Another Faust Contest (BTW: Entries for this contest have to be email in to the contest by 1-31-10. Only a few short hours left.) I just wanted to share the one that I didn't enter. I wasn't sure it met the requirements of a deal with the devil, now that I think about it, it might have if the deal could be between Death and the Devil.

To Steal A Soul

The Angel of Death walked the Earth searching for lost souls to save. So many these days, his job was becoming harder and harder. The lives of these humans were becoming more desperate with each passing day. It saddened him.

Satan stalked the Earth in search of lost souls to take. So many these days, his job had lost all of its challenge, it had become almost boring. These humans were desperate for creature comforts, greedily hoarding and wasteful. It would bring him joy, if not for the monotony.

One day, Death and Satan met, enemies on the battlefield, but away from the fighting, they had evolved into a grudging truce.

“I've found and saved two dozen souls today.” Death boasted, happy with his achievement.

“I've taken twice that many and then some.” Satan yawned with boredom, he could have had four times that many, but Purgatory was a nice place to make souls suffer too. Hell was too crowded anyway.

Death knew of Satan's truth, he'd stretched his number and Satan had underestimated. It didn't used to be that way.

Satan cracked his knuckles. “Would you like to make a friendly wager?” He hadn't played with Death lately, and maybe it was time for a game.

“What do you have in mind?” Death inquired, his face breaking into a smile, Satan may be ahead in the taking of souls, but Death was a great equalizer.

“Let's say that if I win, Death takes a holiday, one day for me to work my magic without the interference of the Angel.” Satan grinned with mischief, he thought he might really have Death this time. Of course, he'd have to cheat to win, but what the Hell, Death should expect it.

“And what will happen if I win?” Death inquired, Satan never played fair, and never gave up anything willingly.

“Same thing, I'll take a holiday.” Satan chuckled.

“What's the game?”

“The game is called 'To Steal A Soul'.” Satan's beady eyes were sharp as he awaited Death's answer.

“Satan, you know I'm in the business of saving souls, not putting them in jeopardy.” Death responded, Satan wasn't winning that easily.

“Okay, let's make it fair. I'll put three souls up for grabs, and all you have to do is get one of them to join you. If you convince just one, you get all three. If you can't convince a single soul, then I get to try to tempt a soul that you've claimed.” Satan watched Death carefully, to see if he agreed.

Death considered the possibilities, pondering what the catch could be, coming up blank.

“Alright, I'll play your game.” Death grimaced, he had to take a chance if he could save even one soul, he had to try. The Devil had him by the short hairs and Satan knew it.

“The wager is set then.” Satan said. “Who's soul are you wagering?”

“Your game, you get to tell first.” Death held up a hand, waiting to see what souls Satan had to wager.

“I'll make it easy, are all disgruntled souls, unhappy with their lot in life.” Satan grinned wickedly.

“I'll make it easy too, I'll wager one exceptionally happy soul.” Death smiled. “Where's the playing field?”

“Neutral ground, no where too infected with happiness or despair. Since it's my game, I think it's fair that I choose, seeing as I have the greatest amount to lose. I choose Middle Ground, Earth itself.”

Death knew there wasn't a place on the face of the Earth unaffected by despair; wars, disease, and disasters that set the course of life and it was beyond his control. His only hope was for the small things that brought happiness to the lives of humans.

As the game began, Death took the field and approached the first of Satan's cursed souls.

“My child,” Death began, “how can I offer you comfort? Why do you despair?”

The soul looked Death in the eye. He was young, barely 30 years, but his soul reeked of disdain.

“There is little to offer me,” the soul said. “I hunger after the all mighty dollar with never enough as a child. Can you give me my heart's desire? Can you fill my pockets?” The soul sneered at Death. “Satan has made promises that he's kept. I've always helped myself, easily. Leave me in peace, Angel, I have what I need.”

The second soul strolled boldly up to Death, grabbed him by his lapels, and yelled. “I've been cursed with illness, my whole family has suffered, why wasn't I granted peace and comfort when there was a chance?” He pushed Death away from him. “Leave me to Hell, I want no part of Heaven.”

The third soul was a sweet young woman and she held tears in her eyes. “Angel, if you had approached me when I was younger, I would have followed, I'm a good girl.” Then her eyes turned hard, cold, and distant. “But Satan has saved me from the abuser and the abuses.” She walked to Satan and ran her hand across his fevered cheek. “He has taken away those who've brought me pain. Could or would you have done the same?” She looked at Death, and shook her head. “I didn't think so.”

The Angel looked back upon the souls, and to the first he said, “You, money lover, will money bring you peace? Will your love of money serve you in the end? And, you who suffers from disease, did Satan take your disease away? Has he spared your family? And, you girl, did Satan bring your abusers to justice? Did his vengeance bring you peace? ” And Death looked around. “I thought not.”

The Angel of Death knew that he didn't have a chance with any of these souls, they were already lost. The poor souls gathered around Satan, eager for his touch and smile.

Satan glanced at Death. “Where's my soul to tempt, Angel?”

As Death stepped aside, revealed behind him was a little old lady, smiling happily with her pet Chihuahua. “This is my soul, a happy soul who has lived a happy life. She's earned everything she has needed in her life.” Death smiled at Satan, knowing he had before him an impossible steal.

Satan walked up to the little old lady, smiled and said, “Ma'am, I love Chihuahuas and I have two myself.” He patted the small dog who shivered in dread. Satan actually had Hellhounds, but what's a little white lie.

“Aren't they the sweetest little things?” She hugged her prized pet to her bosom.

“Ma'am, did you ask Death if you can bring little hmmm... I believe it's Roscoe, isn't it? Did you ask if Roscoe will be allowed to stay with you forever and always?”

The little old lady looked at Death, face falling with fear in her eyes. “Roscoe has to stay with me. I could never stand to lose him.”

Ah, Satan had played this one well, for The Angel couldn't bring Death to any creature before it's time.

The little old lady saw the answer in his eyes. She looked at the Angel one last time. “You know it's for the best really. He wouldn't want to be without me.” She walked to the other souls and joined their party.

Satan smiled at Death, the game was over. Death would have to take a holiday. “I win my friend.”

Death grimaced at Satan, “You may have won on this day my friend, but remember that souls can call for forgiveness at any time and then they're mine. The battle continues.” He smiled and turned away.

Satan knew the Angel was right, that was what gave the Devil nightmares. Everything could be lost with two little words. “Forgive me.” Before Death, souls could be boisterous, but upon it's occurrence, Death had the last word.


© Dottie Taylor

Born of Night Giveaway

From the Cover: In the Ichidian Universe, The League and their ruthless assassins rule all.

Expertly trained and highly valued, the League Assassins are the backbone of the government. But not even the League is immune to corruption . . . Command Assassin Nykyrian Quikiades once turned his back on the League—and has been hunted by them ever since. Though many have tried, none can kill him or stop him from completing his current mission: to protect Kiara Zamir, a woman whose father’s political alliance has made her a target.

As her world becomes even deadlier, Kiara must entrust her life to the same kind of beast who once killed her mother and left her for dead. Old enemies and new threaten them both and the only way they can survive is to overcome their suspicions and learn to trust in the very ones who threaten them the most: each other.

Since the wonderful people at St. Martin's Press sent me an extra copy of Born of Night, it's giveaway time. YAY!! So, that means one lucky commenter gets to take home this little jewel home with them. It's an excellent read, Sherrilyn Kenyon creates a wonderful world to explore, and I personally fell in love with Nykyrian (great tortured hero!), sexy paranormal romance. I hope everyone enjoys Born of Night as much as I did. This is Kenyon release of her early work, re-drafted and connected into a series, The League. If you haven't tried Kenyon yet, this is your chance to get in with the first of her new series.

Leave an comment to enter. If you'd like extra entries, follow or current followers, let me know. Tweet, blog (sidebar is fine), share in some way, and let me know. Thanks in advance for making this fun. Open worldwide. Contest ends Wednesday, Feb. 3, 2010 at midnight anywhere.

Flesh and Stone, Book Two of the Gargouillen Series by Vickie Taylor

Publisher: Berkley Publishing Group / Penguin Group
Pages: 297

From the Cover: Acclaimed author Vickie Taylor introduced an extraordinary ancient race of immortas in the dazzling novel Carved in Stone. Now, she presents a bold new adventure about the Gargoyles--a race if shape-changing immortals who have watched over humanity through the ages. But now, they fight for something more....they fight for love.

In her world, she was a protector.

Mara Kincaide knows what is is like to live in chaos. For six years, she has operated a shelter for women, bearing witness to the dark side of mankind as well as the great potential for good in humanity. But when a client whom she deeply cared for disappears, a concerned Mara follows her friend's trail--and ends up falling victim to the same ominous fate....

In his world, he would protect her.

Powerful, lithe, and cunning, Connor Rihyad is a force not to be trifled with, even among the other Gargoyles who, with him, have watched over humanity for centuries. But when Mara is "given" to Connor, she senses something about the brooding guardian that separates him from his ageless brethren--an untamed desire that yearns to be unleashed.... Now, as betrayal and savage violence threaten to explode around them, Mara must decide if she has truly found the man of her dreams--or the embodiment of her nightmares.

Mara has had a hard life, nearly raped at 17, she kills her would be rapist. But, she's just a girl from the wrong side of the tracks and the judge doesn't see it that way. She's incarcerated, locked up for protecting herself. After eight years of incarceration and time to think of what's important, she runs a women's shelter, helping others. Until Angela, her one true friend disappears. Mara follows the breadcrumbs and meets the same foul end, kidnapped for whatever reason, she has no idea what's going on.

Connor Rihyad has been sent on a mission. Someone has tried to steal Chicago's Gargouillen children, this cannot happen, the children are the Gargoyle congregation's life blood. Minnesota is where he has been led. The Brethren there aren't willing to protect humanity, they want to use it, abuse it, murder it if they have to. Just to gain entrance, he'll have to do the unimaginable, kill another Gargoyle and just not any Gargoyle, but an old friend and sometime rival, Nathan.

But an ancient evil exists in coldness of Minnesota, and it's haunting the Chicago Gargoyles. Rachel and Teryn can sense it and soon it will be coming for them all.

Flesh and Stone, Book Two of the Gargouillen Series by Vickie Taylor is the continuing story of the Gargouillen from Carved in Stone. Connor Rihyad is Nathan's rival in Carved in Stone. When Nathan is excommunicated, it's Connor that takes his place. When Nathan is returned to the congregation, there's no room at the top for two leaders, so Connor accepts the mission to Minnesota to see what has gone wrong and why. The Gargoyles from Minnesota are like nothing Connor has seen before. They're not interested in protecting humanity, but raising an army, an army of Gargouillen. But why are these Gargouillen so different from all of his past memories? What has changed to cause them to no longer hold with the values of old? And what's worse, a dark evil is echoing through his body that can be felt all the way back to his roots in Chicago. Rachel, our heroine from Carved in Stone, has been searching for her long lost brother for years with no success until Teryn helps her focus her abilities, but the dark evil again seeps into the visions. Mara, our heroine, tries to help Connor in his quest to find out what has gone so terribly wrong in Minnesota. She's tough as nail and she's trying to keep herself and the group of women detained with her alive. While searching for her friend Angela, she and her group were kidnapped and sent to the despicable miscreants living in Minnesota. Her friend, Angela, disappeared after applying for a job. And the same thing has now happened to her. Living with men more animal than human, she bides her time all the while, hoping for news of Angela. When Connor enters the scene, he'll either be her savior and her ultimate downfall, only time will tell.

When I first met Connor Rihyad in Carved in Stone, I wasn't sure I was going to like him. He's unwilling to change with the times, he wants the Gargouillen to remain the same as they have been for centuries. But, this is a different time, a different place than he has ever existed in before. The times have change and the Gargoyles need to change with it or die out. It's hard won knowledge for our alpha hero, Connor has to grow. When Mara enters his life, his beast comes to life, begging him to take what he wants, daring him to give what she needs.

Flesh and Stone is an exciting conclusion to the story which began in Carved in Stone, without spoilers ruining the tale, I can't say much more. The story continues with Levi's story yet to come in Legacy of Stone, the long awaited third book in the Les Gargouillen Series. Flesh and Stone was very quick read for me. It was begging to be read after Carved in Stone. Connor's story was waiting to unfold and I needed to see how he had changed or if he could change. Again, I wasn't disappointed. Another fun read from Vickie Taylor, an excellent addition to the Urban Fantasy/Paranormal Romance genre.

Dino Vicelli, Private Eye by Lori Weiner

Publisher: Dorrance Publishing
Pages: 98

From the Cover: This story transports the reader to an alternate-reality version of New York City, in which talking dogs interact regularly with humans. The hero, Dino Vicelli, is a private investigator who just happens to be a sharply dressed Italian greyhound with a great fondness for cigars. He takes on what initially appears to be a routine missing person case but soon finds himself in the midst of a sinister plot that involves kidnapping, murder, and bizarre scientific experiments aimed at controlling the world. As he investigates this strange case, Dino repeatedly encounters mortal danger, while also finding romance with a beautiful blonde Afghan dog.

With its unusual twists on the traditional detective story genre, this book blends elements of humor, suspense, and fantasy into a truly unique and entertaining tale.

Dino Vicelli is a PI in the city that never sleeps, New York City. He's your classic private eye from any noir, with one exception, he's an Italian Greyhound, and he literally makes his living seeking out the scent of crime. When blonde bombshell, Jezebel, a long legged afghan comes into his office, needing his assistance, he can hardly restrain himself. He falls for the damsel in distress, but soon discovers a conspiracy that deals with the strange medical experiments and an even stranger doctor.

Dino Vicelli, Private Eye by Lori Weiner is a little novella that creates a whole where people and dogs live together, sometimes as equals, and sometimes not. Sometimes the prose was a little stilted and maybe in need of a little more editing, but overall, a fun quick read for this first time author. It's the classic noir with the gritty private eye who get in way over his head. As Dino struggles to help the voluptuous Jezebel, he finds himself in a world of crime, evil doers, and murder. It's a fun little read slightly reminiscent of Spencer Quinn and his Chet and Bernie books.

Your Best Body Now! by Ashley Marriott & Marc L. Paulsen, MD

Publisher: Stance Publications
Pages: 240

From the Cover: Each of us is unique. We were all born with a specific body type and body shape based upon our genetics. Although we can't change our genetics, we can take charge of our shape by "specific body shape blueprint training." To do this we need to understand shape and put together a workable and enjoyable fitness plan to achieve the best version of ourselves we can.

Ashley Marriott: has been a professional in the field of fitness for more than 13 years. She is a frequent guest on radio and television and has written dozens of articles for publications worldwide. She is certified by the Nation Academy of Sports Medicine and the Aerobics & Fitness Association of America.

Marc L. Paulsen MD: is a graduate of the Stanford University Medical School and trained at the University of California, Irvine Medical Center. He is a memeber of the American Academy of Sports Medicine and a former Medical Director of the Exercise Science Lab at Orange Coast College in California.

Your Best Body Now! is the work of Ashley Marriott and Dr. Marc L. Paulsen. According to the authors there are three body types (Ectomorph, Mesomorph, and Endomorphs) and four body shapes (the A frame-pear shape, the V-apple shape, the I-ruler shape, and the 8 frame-hourglass shape).

Endomorphs-are generally small framed and thin.
Mesomorphs-muscular types, shoulders wider than hips.
Endomorths-curvier body tpyes, hips wider than shoulders.

A-frame-carry excess weight around hips.
V-shape-larger bustline, thinner hips and legs, gains weight around the middle.
I-shape-measurements are the same bottom and top, weight around stomach and backside.
8-frame-narrow waist, bust and hip measurements equal, weight distributes evenly.

The authors give tips on cardio exercises and weight training for each body type to try that targets the areas where you need to help. They go into detail on how to target these areas, such as the hip or waist, and what works the best.

The Best You Now! by Ashley Marriott & Marc L. Paulsen MD gives lots of helpful information about our body types, exercises that may work best with our types and shapes. It also includes diet plans, tasty menus, shopping lists, and quizzes to try to help maximize strengthening potential as well as weight loss.

I wanted to try The Best You Now! because, it never fails, with every new year I hear a promise by friends, family, and other buddies that 'this will be the year that I lose weight'. I've been there and without direction as to what the heck I'm doing wrong, there's no success. Well, not me, this year I'm being proactive. I tired of starvation diets, low fat, carb, calorie plans that never work anyway. I need to know how to condition and to maintain. I wanted to figure out what I've been doing wrong and why I've been having such a hard time working with my body. Well, I can to say this is one educational book! I'm going to give some of menus a try and see if I can maintain my weight (maybe even lose a little weight without really trying), and learn some easy to do new exercises that strengthen muscles. It's an excellent book that tries to steer the reader into ways that works best for them, lots of ideas and helpful hints, some I'm already putting into practice. The book also contains a nice index for quick look ups. If you're like me, you might want to give this one a try.

I received this book from the authors. All opinions expressed are my own.

Can I Say.....I'm Freaking Blown Away!!!

Many of you may remember that a couple of weeks ago, I posted the new contest on Jason Evans' blog, The Clarity of Night, with the picture prompt of a black bird in silhouette. It was an awesomely breathtaking picture that spoke to me, but in a way I wasn't sure I'd be able to capture. Well, I gave it my best shot and I'm happy to say I received an honorable mention!! This may not sound like much to a lot of people, but to me, I was awestruck. You see, I love reading and writing, it was always a dream to be able to write, one that I would have never attempted until I found my place in the blogging community. I've received so much good feed back on this story, I knew I could have improved it, but honestly, I tried to put my best foot forward. This is a learning process, right?

Altogether there was 237 entries, mine was the 234th. First, I forgot the date to send my entry in; then, I didn't know if I was happy with my entry; and finally, our internet was spotty and it went down on the last day of the contest and only came back up with only five minutes to spare in the contest. In the last minutes left, I hurriedly sent Jason my entry and hoped for the best. After I sent my entry, I looked at the others and thought, holy crap! How did I ever think I could compete??? There were so many fantastic entries and as I looked back at my own little tale, I cringed. No one was going to like it, it was a pathetic attempt. I guess this second guessing and nervous anticipation is how it's supposed to work. So, I've been sitting today anxiously waiting for Jason's results, knowing I didn't have a snowball's chance in hell, and wouldn't you know it, the internet goes down again and stays down all freaking day!!! I wasn't able to check the results until almost midnight. And as I was scrolling through the winners (all fine stories I must say) and the honorable mentions (which I didn't think I had a chance at), there was my name!! I rubbed my eyes, closed the browser and re-opened it to look again. And I was still there. I couldn't believe my eyes.

Honorable Mention--Taylor, Dottie, And The Hunt Begins

I'm so honored to be included in such company as those who participated in this contest. Everyone who participated deserves a big pat on the back and a Woo Hoo! To put yourself out before the eyes of so many others is an incredibly hard thing to do. I hardily congratulate you on your most worthy efforts. I didn't make one of the top five entries, but when there were almost 250 entries, I was amazed my story was even noticed.

Thanks Jason for an amazing contest!!! It has to take so much work to have a contest like this, especially with the amount of entries this contest produced. I imagine that exhaustion is reigning in your house tonight. All the participates congratulate you on your worthy efforts!!

I wasn't sure I was going to post my entry, but I'm so happy right now that I'm doing my happy dance. :) So, here's my entry:

Silhouette -- The Clarity of Night Contest

And The Hunt Begins

I raised my face to the night wind. There's the sweet scent I'd caught earlier. I inhale deeply, letting the scent wash over me, through me, heightening my senses.

Fear.

I run, grinning wildly, as the land glides beneath my feet, almost at a full gallop. I scent the air again, yes, there it is! A hawk calls over head, pointing the way.

At the edge of the brush, I skid to a halt. I'm not the only one drawn by the scent as I hear a growl off at a distance in the waning light. I sat on the cold hard ground, forcing my heart to slow, biding my time. I can wait my turn, I will have my feed.

I open my jaws and yawn a loud whine, alerting others that I too wait to feed.

“Help me.” I hear in the distance as the growl grows closer. The ground vibrates, limping footfalls coming nearer. Damn, it's a helpless thing, groping in the twilight for a savior. A small hand lands upon my flank, curling in my fur.

“Please, I'm lost.” It pleads.

Food, my instincts cry.

Help it, my heart demands.

Shifting is always the worst part, especially when I've been denied my feast. Bones pop as I change, no one feeds tonight.

A child cries in the darkness.

“I'm here.” I reach out, taking the small hand in mine. “I'm here.”

Release by Beth Kery (ARC)

Publisher: Berkley Publishing
Pages: 336

(Release Date: February 2, 2010)

From the Cover: His need for her was so absolute, he agreed to share her with another man in order to possess her.

Genny loved her husband Max, but something was missing—a sexual charge that was instead ignited by his business partner, Sean. He was ruggedly handsome, with a heart-stopping smile and a slow, sexy New Orleans drawl that made Genny weak. The more time they spent together, the stronger the attraction between them became and when her husband offered to share her with Sean for one intoxicating night, both Genny and Sean were too tempted to refuse.

That night in the company penthouse, Max and Sean showed Genny the heights of ecstasy. But it was Sean who scored her very spirit, and one-on-one, they were red hot. But as Genny learns, there’s a price to pay for such impulsive pleasure. What began as a night of forbidden desire spirals into a whirlpool of murder, sensual submission, secrets, and a scorching passion that threatens to consume everyone it touches.

****Spoilers Ahead, Beware Before Reading****

Genny has suspected that Sean, menage partner, murdered her husband, Max, three long years ago following their tryst. Max had threatened Genny and she fears that Sean committed the dastardly deed in a bid to protect her.

Sean fears that Genny murdered her husband after their tryst and he will not allow any harm to come to her, so instead of seeking out the person he feels might have committed the crime, he protects Genny the only way he can, he keeps silent.

When Genny's house burns in a horrible fire, she has no choice but to stay at the penthouse owned by her late husband's firm. Upon arriving at the penthouse, she discovers it's currently occupied by none other than the man who haunts her dreams, Sean. When Sean discovers Genny in the penthouse, he seizes the opportunity to keep her there, stranded in a snow storm with no escape. He wants to keep her to himself, not just for now, but forever, and to do that they'll have to confront their demons. But someone else is also watching Genny and it may cost her life. Can Sean keep her safe, one more time?

Release by Beth Kery is a nice hot contemporary romantic suspense that was more than satisfying. Ms. Kery weaves a tale that tells the story of our hero and heroine. Sean is an ex-special forces soldier that has moved to the private sector, taking over the security for a corporate intel company. He's got the sweetest Southern accent that he's employees to get information, to be disarming, and to seduce the willing, and the ladies are lined up to hear that sweet Southern drawl. There's no shortage of women at his beckon call. Genny is an innocent at life, looking for a father figure, when she meets and marries her husband, Max. She only sees him as the wise, strong, careful man she's married. But Max isn't everything he appears to be. When he suggests a menage with Sean, Genny, and himself, Genny is frozen. It's a side of Max she's never seen. But Max is a multi-faceted character with still more sides. After the menage takes places, he first blackmails Sean, and then attempts to keep Genny at his side with the knowledge of a video of the indiscretion, one wild night of abandonment. Max's philosophy is to keep your friends close and your enemies closer, even if you have to use blackmail to do it. He's a ruthlessly evil and cruel character, one by which Genny has lost her innocence. When Max turns up dead three day later, she assumes the worst, Sean has killed him in a fit of rage. Sean also has his doubt as to Genny innocence when long time employee, Albert Rook, comes to him with evidence of Genny's guilt. He suspects Rook's a lair and manipulator, but he can't and won't take a chance of losing Genny. His need to protect Genny wins out over the need to find the truth. But with such a horrific crime between them, they are driven apart. The chance encounter in the penthouse changes that, but will either survive to tell the tale of what really happened to Max?

Release was a very fast read, I couldn't put it down. I read all 336 pages in two days. It's one of those books where you become immersed in the characters and they're lives. When you're not reading it, you're wondering what's happening. It's one of those books, that when the final page comes, you have a smile of your face, knowing these characters are made for each other. And that's how Release captured my attention and held it, physically and emotionally, bound to the story. Now, most of my blogger buddies know that I don't read a lot of contemporary romance, just a sprinkling to keep my reading spicy and unpredictable, my interest captured. But if you're going to read only one contemp this year, pick up Release. It was that good. It's a romantic suspense that moves quickly and quietly as it works it magic, you don't even feel the pages turning. I highly recommend this book to lovers of hot and spicy romance, romantic suspense, and anyone who just wants to try a hot fun romance. I most certainly enjoyed it. Warning: This is an extremely HOT read (a little bondage and games), oven mitts will be required or fingers may be singed.

I won this book in a contest on Beth Kery's blog , which is still on going, so go check it out. Also, check out Lea's sprouts for Ms. Kery's contest and book, too cool. All opinions I have expressed are my own.

Here's a peek at the book trailer, again by the amazing and talented Lea .

The Manufactured Identity by Heath Sommer

Publisher: Tate Publishing
Pages: 308

From the Cover: Months after his mysterious disappearance from a routine fishing trip, no one really expects over-the-hill Texas housewife Lory Latchley to find her missing husband—especially her husband. The Manufactured Identity is clinical psychologist Heath Sommer's ever-escalating immersion into the world of unlikely friends who each awaken to find their faithful companions missing without warning or reason. Desperate to find meaning in their pain, they are thrust by the auspices of fate into a common thread of mystery and human frailty. In the end, the fate of all may reside in the unstable hands of rookie pastor John Joe, but ultimately Lory and her newfound partners will uncover a truth so unnerving it makes even infidelity look palatable.

This is a psychological thriller that splinters off in many directions. I wish I could say who the main character was or was supposed to be, but the storyline has so many subplots that it hard to pin it down. In my opinion John Joe is the protagonist and Peter Mayberry (who also goes by many other names throughout the story) in the antagonist. John brings the story to a close and Pete is his nemesis during the winding tale, demanding Joe's help, which Pete ultimately denies and meets his unsavory end. The true love interest, though varied by the many characters of Peter Mayberry, is Addy Boku who finds herself falling in love with Joe who has all but sworn off women is his pursuit of what he feels in his true destiny, God.

So, it becomes the story of Addy, Joe, and Pete. Pete is an individual who is torn between his many lovers, both male and female. He seems to have a bottomless wealth, able to keep his many irons in the fires until he tires of a lover, and leaves by either his fake death or abandonment. Joe is the person Pete ultimately seeks out to help him discover why he's the way he is. It's an impossible task. But, who really is Pete, the sociable cowboy or the a sociopath given to lying? Joe may never know or be able to help him find his true identity.

The Manufactured Identity by Heath Sommner was an interesting read that had me guessing. It was confusing, winding, and ultimately destructive journey that is weaved by the author. If you enjoy psychological drama, multiple characterizations, and a tale woven between many characters, this book is for you. If your easily confused, try something else. For those of you that give it a try, it is disturbing to find what the human mind is capable of and what it will accept. Very nice entry for this first time author.

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

Promo ~ Carolyn Crane ~ Mind Games

Publisher: Spectra Books
Pages: 384

(Release Date: March 23, 2010)

From the Cover: While the citizens of Midcity are being terrorized by paranormal crime, Justine Jones is battling the paralyzing hypochondria that’s ruining her life. She’d do anything to break free.

She gets her chance when Packard, a handsome mastermind with strange powers, peers into her soul and invites her to join his psychological hit squad.

At first, Justine enjoys being part of the glamorous, thrilling world of neurotic vigilantes who battle Midcity’s depraved and paranormal criminals, though as a crimefighter, she’s far more like Monk than Anita Blake.

She also enjoys the unexpected affection that blossoms between her and Packard. But little by little, Justine begins to uncover strange secrets: like why Packard hasn’t set foot outside the Mongolian Delites restaurant for eight years. And the truth about the disillusionists. Soon their affection is destroyed in an angry inferno.

Things become more complicated when Justine falls for her most dangerous target, a dashing crime boss with a penchant for opera and paranoia about brain hemorrhages. Is he a ruthless criminal or her soulmate? How will she keep Midcity from sliding into a bloodbath?


OMG!! I know I've mentioned Mind Games before, but I love the sound of this book so far. Can't wait to read it!!

Firespell, A Novel of the Dark Elite by Chloe Neill

Publisher: Signet Books/New American Library/Penguin Group
Pages: 246

From the Cover: When Lily’s guardians decided to send her away to a fancy boarding school in Chicago, she was shocked. So was St. Sophia’s. Lily’s ultra-rich brat pack classmates think Lily should be the punchline to every joke, and on top of that, she’s hearing strange noises and seeing bizarre things in the shadows of the creepy building.

The only thing keeping her sane is her roommate, Scout, but even Scout’s a little weird—she keeps disappearing late at night and won’t tell Lily where she’s been. But when a prank leaves Lily trapped in the catacombs beneath the school, Lily finds Scout running from a real monster.

Scout’s a member of a splinter group of rebel teens with unique magical talents, who’ve sworn to protect the city against demons, vampires, and Reapers, magic users who’ve been corrupted by their power. And when Lily finds herself in the line of a firespell, Scout tells her the truth about her secret life, even though Lily has no powers of her own—at least none that she’s discovered yet…

Lily finds herself thousands of miles away from the parents, currently sabbatically in Germany where they hope to peruse ancient philosophical documents. Thrown into the Windy City, known as Chicago, she has to adapt to her new surroundings. St. Sophia's Prep School for Girls, where she an outsider from Sagamore, NY and maybe not all that wanted. She's a junior in high school and has to start all over making friends and connections that are unfamiliar to her. And Chicago is nothing like Sagamore.

Scout, her suitemate and hopefully her new BFF, shows her around, giving her the nickel tour of the school and the Second City. But what lurks beneath the city is what holds Scout's attention, and all to soon, Lily's as well. There are really monsters and most are in human form. Evil denizens that want nothing more than siphon away what the others have, power. Magically power. Lily with her new found family of Adepts will have to confront things that have never been known to her before, if they can stay in one piece.

Firespell by Chloe Neill was a very fast fun YA read. I love books about magic, where is comes from and how it's used. Chloe Neill offers a new take on magic and how it happens to be born within the soul, and when it needs to be given away. Our unwilling heroine, Lily Parker, finds herself thrown into a world not of her own making, but since she's there, she's going to make the most of her situation. She's strong, positive or as positive as a teenage girl can be at a new school with strangers for friends, and she has no idea what she's in for. After befriending Scout, the mysterious girl with nightly errands, Lily has her eyes opened about more than just St. Sophia's and life of a 'regular' (a non-magical person). Jason, Lily's would be hero, is more than he's appears to be as well with his glowing sapphire eyes and wicked smile, but then there's the enigmatic Sebastian, one of the would be bad guys (one of the Reapers - a vampiric type of witch who as they age, need to sustain their power by drawing energy from others, human or witch a like), can see Lily's power and encourages it's use. But is Sebastian what he appears to be? He fights along side the evil denizens, but helps Lily when she needs it most and no one but Lily knows. How he comes to figure into the later storylines, this reader will be interested to know.

Firespell by Chloe Neill is a little reminiscent of the House of Night Series, but not too much, which I have seen it compared to. I think the resemblance begins and ends with Lily being sent to a prep house that isn't exactly what it appears to be. If you enjoy House of Night or Dead is the New Black Series, you'll enjoy this new series as well. I had fun with this little pager turner that demanded to be read, I certainly had trouble putting it down. If you're looking for a new YA series for the new year, trying Firespell, A Novel of the Dark Elite Series. I can't wait for the next in this new series. I recommend this book for lovers of YA, magic, mystery, and mayhem. I had fun with it.

I bought this book for my own enjoyment. Thanks Chloe Neill for a great read.

Born of Night by Sherrilyn Kenyon

Publisher: St. Martin's Press
Pages: 533

From the Cover: In the Ichidian Universe, The League and their ruthless assassins rule all.

Expertly trained and highly valued, the League Assassins are the backbone of the government. But not even the League is immune to corruption . . . Command Assassin Nykyrian Quikiades once turned his back on the League—and has been hunted by them ever since. Though many have tried, none can kill him or stop him from completing his current mission: to protect Kiara Zamir, a woman whose father’s political alliance has made her a target.

As her world becomes even deadlier, Kiara must entrust her life to the same kind of beast who once killed her mother and left her for dead. Old enemies and new threaten them both and the only way they can survive is to overcome their suspicions and learn to trust in the very ones who threaten them the most: each other.

Nykyrain will not be the pawn of The League, assassin to the assassins, one of the deadliest creatures that has roamed the galaxies. He will not slaughter the innocent for political gain, not now, not ever, even if it costs him his life. He turns his back on his life, his one-time friends, and his fellow assassins. And becomes the scrounge of the universe, the pirate known as Nemesis.

Kiara, though the daughter of one of the most powerful leaders in the universe, has had a hard life. She watched her mother being slaughtered before her eyes, then beaten and stabbed, left for dead, and now, she's been kidnapped and marked for murder. Can her life get any worse? As one of the renown dancers throughout the universe, she's been praised for her talent and now she's going to be killed to weaken her politically powerful father. Nothing can save her.

When Nemesis boards the enemy freighter and discovers Kiara on board, his heart goes out to her. He must save her and keep her safe, even if it means that she is to discover his true identity that he has kept hidden all these years. Even if it means his life when her father sets the rest of the league assassins on his tail. Because, he realizes, he has to have her, can't live without her, the only woman who has seen past the scars and into his soul.

With assassins after Nemesis and murderers and thugs after Kiara, will either survive? Will Nemesis learn to truly trust the one person who might complete his life? Will Kiara get to keep the wondrous creature she has come to love?

Born of Night, Book One of The League Series by Sherrilyn Kenyon is a great fantasy read. It takes place of a future galaxy that screams to be explored and I'm looking forward to the next two books in the series, Born of Fire and Born of Ice. Nykyrain (alter ego Nemesis) is a half breed, part human and part Ritadarion (one of the deathliest and strongest species in the known galaxies), but he was been turned out of his mother's family for his humanity, dumped in an orphanage, a stain upon the royal lineage. He's then tortured by his would be foster father and foster brothers. He's beaten, burned, mutilated, and told he's unworthy of love. His humanity is beaten away, and left in it's place is a creature of vengeance. But, children are his weakness, he will not tolerate bringing a child pain, and Kiara has had one of the worst childhoods, besides his, that he's ever seen. Kiara is an insecure young woman who has shut herself off from all but a few close friends. She never knows who will betray her, selling her secrets or even her very life to the highest bidder. She's marked for death not for who she is or what she has done, but because of who her father is. It's the same reason that her childhood was traumatized beyond repair, something she may never recover from and that taunts her, keeps her awake at night and invades her nightmares. But when she in Nykyrain's care, the monsters go away. His strength and powerful presences keeps her safe from the beasts that she alone cannot out run.

Born of Night is an excellent read that will certainly entice the fantasy reader. It has action, adventure, and a sweet romance that bring hero and heroine together with more than mere sparks. I fell in love with Nemesis/Nykyrain, the young boy that endured the horrors of life to become the man who still has the ability to show compassion, love, and wonder. Kiara is an innocent at life who has to learn to trust her better instincts and grow to be the woman worthy of Nykyrain's love. Though Kiara suffered greatly as a child, she has been sheltered and protected since and then put on a pedestal of one of the greatest dancers in the universe. What she has missed is the ability to grow, mature, and to learn to actually live, until she meets Nykyrain who opens her eyes and keeps her safe. When Nykyrain loves, it's for all time. I highly recommend this book for lovers of fantasy and romance. You won't want to miss it.

I received this book from St. Martin's Press. The opinions I've expressed are my own.

On My Radar for 2010

Here's some of the books I have on my radar for 2010. Some of are authors I've heard of before and a couple are brand new to me. I love finding new authors! :)

(Release Date: January 2010)

From the Cover: Athena Hera Sinistra never wanted to go to space. Never wanted see the eerie glow of the Powerpods. Never wanted to visit Circum Terra. Never had any interest in finding out the truth about the DarkShips. You always get what you don’t ask for. Which must have been why she woke up in the dark of shipnight, within the greater night of space in her father’s space cruiser, knowing that there was a stranger in her room. In a short time, after taking out the stranger—who turned out to be one of her father’s bodyguards up to no good, she was hurtling away from the ship in a lifeboat to get help. But what she got instead would be the adventure of a lifetime—if she managed to survive. . . .

(Release Date: May 4, 2010)

From the Cover: Eons ago, Homo Lupens ruled the earth. Possessing extraordinary powers, they were the source of all of the myths and legends of the uncanny. And though their numbers have been greatly reduced, they exist still — though not as purebreds.

Adrian Breze is one such being. Wealthy and reclusive, he is more Shadowspawn than human. But he rebelled against his own kind, choosing to live as an ordinary man. Now, to save humanity, he must battle the dark forces of the world — including those in his own blood…

(Release Date: May 11, 2010)

From the Cover: Zephyr Hollis is an underfed, overzealous social activist who teaches night school to the underprivileged of the Lower East Side. Strapped for cash, Zephyr agrees to help a student, the mysterious Amir, who proposes she use her charity worker cover to bring down a notorious vampire mob boss. What he doesn’t tell her is why. Soon enough she’s tutoring a child criminal with an angelic voice, dodging vampires high on a new blood-based street drug, and trying to determine the real reason behind Amir’s request – not to mention attempting to resist (often unsuccessfully) his dark, inhuman charm.

(Release Date: June 1, 2010)

From the Cover: The Darkborn aristocracy has rejected magic, viewing the pursuit of science as the only worthy goal. But Lady Telmaine Hearne does not have that luxury. She has kept her own powers secret, fearful of being ruined in society… until her husband Balthasar draws her into a conspiracy to protect the archduke and his brother against a magical enemy. But who will protect them from her?


I also stumbled upon a wickedly awesome sight: http://www.baen.com/ Everyone else as probably already found this site, but it's new to me! It's similar to Suvudu in that it offers free ebooks. Some can be downloaded and some can be read online, and some only have sample chapters (but what a great way to try before you buy). ALL are fantasy/science fiction reads. They offer YA as well as Adult ebooks. It's simply too cool!

Just A Reminder......

Around the end of October, I posted about a writing contest, Another Another Faust Contest. And I wanted to make sure that everyone hadn't forgotten about it. So, I'm re-posting the details.

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.]

Carved in Stone, Book One of Les Gargouillen Series by Vickie Taylor

Publisher: Berkley Publishing Group/Penguin Group
Pages: 328

From the Cover: They are the gargoyles--a race of shape-changing immortals who have watched over humanity through the ages. But now, they must fight for something more...

She could not forget what she saw.

Years ago, Rachel Vandermere witnessed the brutal murder of her parents by a demonic winged creature--but no one believed her story. Now an agent with Interpol, Rachel quietly tracks unusual leads and evidence that may point her to her parents' killers. Then, while in Chicago to guard a diplomat, she notices a man in the crowd unlike any she has ever seen--dark, handsome, and strangely alone.

He could not forget what he was.

Nathan Cross looks like a man, but he is something much more dangerous--a gargoyle. Created long ago to protect mankind from evil, Nathan and his kin exist in darkness, cursed with the knowledge that their race is slowly dying out. When he crosses path with Rachel, the desire he feels is overshadowed by what will happen if her reveals himself if he reveals himself to her.
Yet, even as Rachel is determined to discover the truth about the enigmatic Nathan, both will be faced with a nightmare from the past that threatens their love, their lives, and their very souls....

Rachel Vandermere can never forget what she saw, what she heard, it has been burned into her memory as only a trauma from childhood can. What she saw were the monsters that only come out at night to haunt her dreams, now and forever. As an agent with Interpol, she has many resources at her disposal, but still she can't discover the monsters who took away her mother and father. She repeated the tale throughout her childhood, only to be called crazy. It's the one thing she will not tolerate, her sanity called into question.

Nathan Cross has lived many lifetimes, cursed with the immortality of his species, the Gargoyles, the protectors of humanity. When Rachel Vandermere crosses his path, his first desire is to protect, his second to mate. But he has sworn that this will be his last life of existence, he will produce no children in this life, his existence will end with his one true death. Until he meets Rachel, he has been able to fight The Awakening, fight the powerful need to change to his cursed Gargoyle form. But Rachel sends his senses reeling, his needs come pounding back to life. Though he has been excommunicated for his beliefs, he will sacrifice those firmly held beliefs to save his friends, family, and for Rachel herself.

Rachel is trapped in her search for the monsters until Nathan comes into her life. Then she's not so sure who the true monsters are. It couldn't be Nathan, though sour and taciturn, he has the greatest capacity to love that she's ever seen. It couldn't be her father, her eyes couldn't lie. Who are the true monsters that ripped her life apart?

Carved in Stone, Book One of the Les Gargouillen Series by Vickie Taylor is a new adventure in the genre of Urban Fantasy. Not often do I read a fantasy with shape shifting abilities that allow the characters to shift into creatures long forgotten, beasties of centuries past. Legend has it that the Gargoyles are the protectors of society, guarding what is held sacred. So it is with the story of the Gargouillen, cursed by an evil priest who promises to rid a village of the dragon Gargouillen that's been terrorizing the villagers if they convert to Christianity. But, in keeping his promise, he uses the villagers own pagan ritual magic against them. He curses the men of the village to everlasting immortality and forces them to become the monsters of nightmares. With every male child born, the soul of a departed Gargouillen is reincarnated to live again. In Carved in Stone, our hero, Nathan Cross has lived 14 lifetimes, but he has vowed that this lifetime will be his last, he will remain childless, and when this lifetime is finished, his soul will perish never to reincarnate again. He has been excommunicated from his congregation, his community, for his beliefs. If the younger men follow his example, their species will cease to exist, ending the curse but their existence as well. The Gargouillen are the protectors of humanity, charged with watching over the frail humans, but have they outlasted their usefulness? In this new millennium, are the Gargouillen still necessary? Rachel Vandermere, our heroine, is a new breed of woman, not dependent upon anything but herself. She has little fear of the unknown, only her nightmares bring her fear and then her monsters come to life, the monsters from her childhood who killed her mother and father before her eyes. The choking fire, the winged monster, and death was all she remembered. Could her child's eyes have been deceived? Nathan Cross is the monster that she dreams of and who steps into her life. But, his tenderness belies his monstrous form, making her question all she has thought to be true. How can she accept his love, when deep inside the monster lurks to be born again and again?

Carved in Stone was a sweet ride for me, I enjoyed meeting Les Gargouillen, an entirely different view of shape shifting, mythical beasts of old legends which can be any combination of beasties, from forest creatures to ancient beast. Urban Fantasy has become one of the genres of choice for me, and Vickie Taylor has yet to lead me down a path that I didn't want to go. Her alpha males are strong and powerful, yet tender and loving, capable of strong emotions. Her heroines are kick ass and not afraid to seek what they want, no matter what it is. If you want a different take on shape shifting in your Urban Fantasy, try Carved in Stone. I wasn't disappointed, not for a minute. I highly recommend this book for all readers who enjoy urban fantasy/paranormal romance. It was great fun.

I received this book from Anna at Anna's Book Blog. The opinions I've expressed are my own.

It's Time for Short Fiction Writing Contests!!

Hello Everyone Throughout The Blogoshere!!!

There are a couple of writing contest out there for lovers of flash fiction to participate in and some great prizes up for grabs.

Jason Evans from The Clarity of Night is having his contest for flash fiction entries (which means short fiction and word counts, 250 words or less). I know several bloggers participated with me last time Jason ran a contest and I hope to see you ladies and gentlemen this time too. Here's the picture prompt from Jason's current contest:


If this doesn't inspire some of those wicked imaginations out there, I don't know what will!! The majesty of the mighty hawk holds many possibilities! Deadline for entry is January 13, 2010, so get cracking!!

Also......

The Deadline Dames are holding their first Readers on Demand (ROD) contest of the New Year, Happy 2010!! Their contest is also flash fiction of 250 words or less. The Dames have requested that their picture prompts not be copied from their website, so if you want a peek at it, you'll have to check out their site. I will say it's a grabber!! Even if you're not going to participate, check out this picture, it's very Psycho-ish.... I can't wait to see the fiction that goes along with this one! Deadline for entry is January 13, 2010, get writing folks!

I hope everyone is having an awesome start to the new year! Reading great books, keeping warm with a nice cup of hot chocolate, and enjoying this wicked winter weather. I know it's frigidly cold here and curling up with my laptop and a fantastic book to wake my imagination is the perfect solution to the arctic temperatures. Have fun with the competitions!!

Promo ~ Juliana Stone ~ His Darkest Hunger (And Contest Alert on Juliana's Blog!!)

Publisher: Avon Books, Imprint of Harper Collins
Pages: 384

(Release Date: March 30, 2010)

From the Cover: Jaxon Castille: jaguar shifter, warrior, assassin. He has long hungered for the chance to make his former lover, Libby Jamieson, pay for her deadly betrayal. After three long years he’s finally found her. The hunt is over…

But the Libby that he finds is not what he expected. She has no memory of their tumultuous affair; of her treachery; of anything beyond her own name. A shadowy and deadly clan has marked them both for death, and in an instant the game changes: the hunter has become the hunted.

On the run, with the ghosts of their past between them and a dark, desperate hunger quickly reclaiming their bodies and souls, Libby and Jaxon must discover the truth behind the dark forces working against them. Together, they must grab hold of a destiny that has the power to either heal them or destroy them.

But the truth is far more shattering than anyone could imagine…


Doesn't this sound great??? Don't you love that cover???

Well, Juliana Stone is giving an ARC of her very first release with Avon Books away (2 copies in fact) one on her blog and as a follower of The Bradford Bunch, she's also giving one away there too. Excellent!! Hurry over to enter and help spread the word about something that sounds pretty darn good! You have until January 16, 2010 to enter.

Rabbit: Chasing Beth Rider by Ellen C. Maze

Publisher: Outskirt Press
Pages: 340

From the Cover: Author Beth Rider's second vampire novel has hit number one and she is flying high on her new-found fame. But at a fated book signing that runs late into the night, Beth is confronted by an evil she'd only experienced in nightmares. Jack Dawn, a supernatural monster belonging to an ancient race of bloodthirsty immortals known as the Rakum, vows to track down and kill the young writer because of the vile redemptive message her book is bringing his people.

The Rakum have spread evil among mankind since the Beginning, growing in strength and influence with every passing century. A respected Elder among his brethren, Jack recognizes the novel's destructive potential and his duty to destroy her before the book's promises annihilate his Kind. His method of subduing the novelist is an ancient punishment perpetrated against humans who bring them the ultimate displeasure; Jack marks her as a Rabbit. By forcing her to ingest his poisonous blood, Beth's body now regenerates endlessly and she is set free to be tracked by his hungry brethren. The plan? His people will torture her, slowly, night after night, until she goes insane. Marking her was easy - now Jack only has to sit back and wait for the Rakum to do their worst.

Jack's proselyte Michael Stone was brought up from his youth to be strong, sensible and oftentimes, brutal. But at one hundred and thirty, Michael is old enough to appreciate the quiet and ordered life he'd carved out for himself over the years. Aware that his Elder has marked a human for death, Michael is on the lookout as he leaves work late one night. When he stumbles upon the beautiful and apparently innocent Beth Rider, he is instantly smitten, despite the fact that a few seconds later he realizes that she is the target of his Elder's fury. Puzzled by Jack's unreasonable condemnation, Michael takes it upon himself to protect the lovely author from the limitless lust of his brethren.

Rakum grunt Javier d'Millier was never one to question the Fathers nor doubt the word of the Elders but after reading a curiously odd vampire novel, he begins to doubt the understood deity of his race. Soon identified by Jack Dawn as a traitor, Javier goes on the run with Elder Roman and a mortal with a personal hidden agenda. They also are in pursuit of the book's author, although their intentions are quite dissimilar from those of their brethren.

Facing the most terrifying trial of her life against creatures known only in fables, one simple woman will unintentionally threaten the very existence of a powerful and accursed people. In the climactic mêlée, it is a race to the death, or if Beth has her way, a race to the life-of every Rakum who makes the choice.

Beth Rider is an author who writes about mysterious vampires and who has been marked as a Rabbit by one of the most vicious of the Brethren. Jack Dawn, a malicious, malcontent who has little regard for his pups or the human cows that they feed upon has marked her as a Rabbit on the run. His second in command, Michael Stone, spots the Rabbit, but cannot take her to be used. She'll be no match for the Brethren, she'll be dead by her own hand or insane in a matter of days.

The Ten Fathers that created and procreate the Rakum race are at a loss, Brethren are quitting their race and following an uncharted path away from all they have known. Could this novel by the Rabbit be the root of discontent?

Rabbit: Chasing Beth Rider by Ellen C. Maze feels like Christian Literature (it's the closest category I could come up with, but it does discuss the Jewish religion and Hebrew terms as well), and if this is your cup of tea, she writes her story well. Lots of books contain the elements of a religion, but this book focuses on it as a storyline, instead of vampires being the true focus. Unfortunately, it's also billed as a novel about vampires, which would be an Urban Fantasy in the strictest terms. The Rakum race does co-exists within the human race, only known to a few select Cows (human blood donors) and Breeders (human females chosen to breed with the Ten Fathers). But, as it turns out there is heavenly and demonic forces at play from the beginning of all time, since the battle between God and the Angel, Lucifer. If you didn't know your Bible stories before reading the book, you will know the authors interpretation of them upon finishing the book. There are many quotes from the Bible interspersed throughout the book, as the would be heroine tries to convert the Rakum (vampiric beings who are demon created) to the way of God and to become one with His word. I tried to like Beth Rider, I really did, but it goes against the grain of my being to be forced into acceptance, and ultimately, this is what happens to the Rakum, chose God or die. I did like the main hero in the book, Michael Stone, he defended his heroine even with his life. I wish the cover blurb would have clued the reader into the religious overtones found within the book, so I would have been prepared for them. If you enjoy a battle between Godliness and Godlessness, then this book is for you. It is the ultimate battle between the word of God and the ancient evil of Lucifer and his demonic minions.

I received this book from the author for review. All opinions I express are my own.