REVIEW: Falling Under by Gwen Hayes

Description

Theia Alderson has always led a sheltered life in the small California town of Serendipity Falls. But when a devastatingly handsome boy appears in the halls of her school, Theia knows she's seen Haden before- not around town, but in her dreams.

As the Haden of both the night and the day beckons her closer one moment and pushes her away the next, the only thing Theia knows for sure is that the incredible pull she feels towards him is stronger than her fear.

And when she discovers what Haden truly is, Theia's not sure if she wants to resist him, even if the cost is her soul.

About the Author

Gwen Hayes lives in the Pacific Northwest with her real life hero and a pack of wild beasts (two of whom she gave birth to). She is a reader, writer, and lover of pop culture (which, other than yogurt, is the only culture she gets).

Details

• Paperback: 336 pages
• Publisher: NAL Trade (March 1, 2011)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0451232682
• ISBN-13: 978-0451232687

SOURCE:  AROUND THE WORLD ARC TOURS

MY THOUGHTS
LOVED IT

**slight spoilers**

I totally got wrapped up in this one.  The story about Theia and Haden is a new take on the paranormal romances that are directed at teens these days.  I am sure you can tell be the description that Theia is human and Haden is something else.  There are no faeries, werewolves or vampires to be found which is a nice change of pace.  The writing is very lyrical and captivating.  It has a slow beginning but quickly picks up after 50 pages.  I think part of the problem was with Theia and how she wasn't acting like a normal almost 16 year old girl would act.  This issue resolved itself nicely.

As Theia nears her birthday, she dreams about a boy and when she sees the boy in school she has an immediate connection to him.  Things develop and become more dreamlike even while she is awake.  Her father is pretty much absent and like a Disney story, good and evil come out to play.  There is even the wicked mother of her beloved to contend with as well!  The ending did leave me wondering if there will be another book to follow up some unanswered questions.  There are some scenes of heavy petting, mild language and alcohol use-- well, I think it was alcohol, do they have alcohol in hell?

REVIEW: Hexbound by Chloe Neill

Description

Lily Parker is new to St Sophia's School for Girls, but she's already learned that magic can be your best friend ...or your worst enemy. So they say absolute power corrupts absolutely. But it turns out even a little bit of magic can turn you to the dark side. That's why Lily has to learn how to control her newly discovered abilities and quickly, on top of avoiding the snobs who think they run her school, nursing a crush on a cute sophomore with a big, werewolfy secret, and fighting the good fight with her best friend Scout as they take on Chicago's nastiest nightlife - including the tainted magic users known as the Reapers. All that's even before Lily's invited to a private meeting with Sebastian. He's hot, he's powerful, and he's offering to help her harness the magic flowing through her veins in a way that no one else can. He's also a Reaper. Lily can't help but be suspicious of his offer. But she also needs his help. It seems that the line between good and evil isn't quite so clear as she thought ...

About the Author

Chloe Neill was born in the south of the USA and currently resides in the US Midwest. FIRESPELL was her debut YA novel and the first in the Dark Elite series, and HEXBOUND continues the adventure!

Product Details

• Hardcover: 256 pages
• Publisher: Gollancz (January 2011)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0575095431
• ISBN-13: 978-0575095434

SOURCE:  AROUND THE WORLD ARC TOURS

MY THOUGHTS
LOVED IT

**slight spoilers**

So, at the end of Firespell, we learn that Lily does indeed have magical powers and they are above and beyond what even she could have imagined.  She quickly learns that there are risks to having powers.  Those stakes are raised when she has a meet up with the local vampire gangs and becomes the center of what may become all out war.  The Reapers are now after her as well.

There is wonderful and witty dialogue that will have you rereading parts just to make sure you don't miss any snappy comebacks that are being flung about between Lily and Scout.  How I wish my high school was that cool.  Lily also discovers that her parents may be hiding more than they are telling her and the school administration may be in on it as well.  I can't wait for the next one!  This is pretty clean fun.  Some inter-species kissing, a few choice words and I don't remember if there is any drug or alcohol issues, so it must not be that prevalent.

Now how long before I can read the next one?

REVIEW: Secrets and Shadows (13 to Life #2) by Shannon Delany

Description

Nothing's simple when you run with werewolves. Jess Gillmansen thinks she's seen it all but her eyes are about to be opened to even more danger and a reality far more paranormal than she's suspected. With Jess' realization that the Rusakovas' mother is still alive and imprisoned, the group's choices become harder and trust more important. Lines are drawn and relationships change as the broken Rusakova family struggles to reunite to free their mother - and those who Jess thought to be normal people show themselves to be much, much more...

About the Author

Since she was a child Shannon Delany has written stories, beginning writing in earnest when her grandmother fell unexpectedly ill. In 2008 her greatly abbreviated version of 13 to Life (written in just five weeks) won the grand prize in the first-ever cell phone novel contest in the western world through Textnovel.com. Previously a teacher and now a farmer raising heritage livestock, Shannon lives and writes in Upstate New York and enjoys traveling to talk to people about most anything.

Product Details

• Reading level: Young Adult
• Paperback: 320 pages
• Publisher: St. Martin's Griffin (February 15, 2011)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0312609159
• ISBN-13: 978-0312609153

SOURCE:  AROUND THE WORLD ARC TOURS

 MY THOUGHTS
LOVED IT

**slight spoilers**

The story picks right up after 13 to Life ends and answers a few questions about the cliffhanger ending.  It took me about 100 pages to really become interested in the story in this one as well since I had the same issues with the first book.  The last two-thirds of the book was a page turner.  Of course this one ends with a cliffhanger as well, so be prepared to wait another a year (fingers crossed, maybe later this year?) to read the next installment. 

Jess, Cat and Pietr are trying to work together now that they have located the Rusakova's mother.  As Jess acts as an intermediary between the CIA and the family, they find themselves still being trailed by the Mafia.  A little more light is shed on the gang's interest in the family.  Pietr and Jess are no closer to becoming attached, although Derek shows his true colors and now we are left wondering what his real story is as well.  There are lots of twists and turns in the plot.  Oh, and Sarah is getting her memory back!  There is some sexual tension, alcohol use and of course, bad words, even though Jess struggles valiantly against them.

REVIEW: 13 to Life by Shannon Delany

Description

Everything about Jessie Gillmansen’s life changed when her mother died. Now even her hometown of Junction is changing.  Mysterious dark things are happening. All Jessie wants is to avoid more change. But showing a hot new guy around Junction High, she’s about to discover a whole new type of change. Pietr Rusakova is more than good looks and a fascinating accent—he’s a guy with a dangerous secret. And his very existence is sure to bring big trouble to Jessie’s small town.  It seems change is the one thing Jessie can’t avoid…

About the Author

Since she was a child Shannon Delany has written stories, beginning writing in earnest when her grandmother fell unexpectedly ill. In 2008 her greatly abbreviated version of 13 to Life (written in just five weeks) won the grand prize in the first-ever cell phone novel contest in the western world through Textnovel.com. Previously a teacher and now a farmer raising heritage livestock, Shannon lives and writes in Upstate New York and enjoys traveling to talk to people about most anything.

Details

• Reading level: Young Adult
• Paperback: 320 pages
• Publisher: St. Martin's Griffin; 1 edition (June 22, 2010)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0312609140
• ISBN-13: 978-0312609146

SOURCE:  Purchased

MY THOUGHTS
LOVED IT

**slight spoilers**

Like all first books in a series, this one deals with a lot of set up, getting to know the characters and setting the scene.  It took about a hundred pages and then it clicked.  Jessie (don't call her Jessica) is trying to be the all around good girl by befriending Sarah, the girl who caused her mother's death by driving without a license.  Before her mother dies, she tells Jessie to save the girl's life.  For some reason, this little plot point stuck with me and the fact that Sarah was the resident "mean girl" before the accident took the meanness away.

Jess has another friend, Amy who tries to keep her grounded and less involved with Sarah.  And then the new boy arrives on the scene.  Pietr has a past and when Jess is required to show him around school, her crush on Derek, the star football player becomes questionable.  A love triangle ensues between Sarah, Pietr and Jess when Jess pushes him to "help" Sarah recover from her brain injury that occurred during the accident that killed her mother.  Also, Jess realizes that there is something not right with Pietr and it is not just the Russian Mafia that is tracking him down. 

This is a nice paranormal romance will probably need several books to complete the story.  I was intrigued enough to want to read the next book in the series.  There is normal romantic teen high jinx, some kissing, some alcohol and a few cuss words.  This is probably better suited to older teens and adults.

WANT TO WIN THIS BOOK?
Go on over to my other blog, FOREVER YOUNG (adult) HERE and enter by 1.15.11

AND THE WINNER IS: The Reversal by Michael Connelly

NICOLE -- nicolesender

BETHIE --  lizzi0915

NATASHA -- natashajennex


An email has been sent to the lucky people named above (first part of their email address in case my note ends up in spam).  The winner(s)  has 48 hours to respond or a new winner will be chosen.
Thanks to all who entered.

Didn't win?  Order your copy from my Amazon link:

AND THE WINNER IS: The Brave by Nicholas Evans (audio)

DEBBIE -- debdesk9

KRISTIN -- kdurham2 -- Be sure to stop by KRITTERS RAMBLINGS

DONNA -- dsfrankj -- Be sure to stop by THE HAPPY BOOKER


An email has been sent to the lucky people named above (first part of their email address in case my note ends up in spam).  The winner(s)  has 48 hours to respond or a new winner will be chosen.
Thanks to all who entered.

Didn't win?  Order your copy from my Amazon link:

Friday PhoDOGraphy

5...4....3...2...1 

HAPPY NEW YEAR!

Don't forget to check out FRIDAYS WITH FRED 
You also should check out Mina's blogoversary giveaway!  Prizes! 

GIVEAWAY & REVIEW: Get Energy by Denise Austin

 

 

Description

With busy schedules, demanding careers, and little time, many of us battle just to stay awake. But energy is something that is in our control, even when time is short. Now 50 years young, fitness guru Denise Austin shows readers how to super-charge their lives, using her innovative lifestyle plan. She eats the right foods at the right time of day. She uses the power of stretching and breathing to feed her body with energy-enhancing oxygen. She uses mini-workouts to get energy even on her busiest days--and now you can too!

Denise shows how simple changes can add up to increased energy levels throughout the day. From the foods they consume to the way they sit in their chairs, readers won't believe how Denise's quick and easy plan will dramatically increase their energy levels. In as little as a week, results will be felt: radiant skin, more restful sleep, and a sharper mind...so follow Denise Austin and prepare for a fitness wake-up call!

About the Author

A native of San Pedro, California, Denise Austin started gymnastics at the age of 12 and earned an athletic scholarship to the University of Arizona, graduating in 1979 with a Bachelor's degree in education with an emphasis in exercise physiology. She began her career teaching aerobic exercise classes in the Los Angeles area and went on to co-host the The Jack LaLanne Show, in 1981.
During more than 25 years promoting health and fitness, Denise has created 82 workout videos/DVDs. Her enormous number of sales led to her 2003 induction into the Video Hall of Fame.
Denise has been married for 25 years to Jeff Austin, a sports attorney and brother of tennis champ Tracy Austin. They share a home with their two teenage daughters, Kelly and Katie.

Details

• Paperback: 256 pages
• Publisher: Center Street; Original edition (January 7, 2011)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 1599952475
• ISBN-13: 978-1599952475

SOURCE:  PUBLISHER

MY THOUGHTS
LOVED IT

First off, this is NOT a diet or exercise book.  Yes, there are diet and exercise suggestions through out the book, but they are helpful hints and some lifestyle changes that can help towards that first step of taking action.  Get Energy is all about figuring out what is blocking you from taking action and overcoming the hardest thing:  taking that first step.  I love that this makes it easy to do one little thing at a time that can make a difference in your daily life.  Austin doesn't make you feel bad that you have bad habits, she tries to make you understand how each little thing can help you change for the better.

The book is broken down into bite size bits that are easy to digest and actually accomplish.  Although I doubt I will ever look anything like Denise Austin, it is comforting to know that she has the same issues and problems that most women around 50 have and that at this time in our lives, our bodies are changing.  I have tried several of the suggestions in this book when I am feeling out of sorts and they really do help.  Even getting up and walking around the block can help change your outlook on life.  Everyone needs this book and it will help your New Year's resolutions so much easier!

WANT TO WIN A COPY OF THIS BOOK?

Contest is open to anyone with a US or Canadian mailing addresses (no PO Boxes)

Contest ends on 1.15.11 Winner will be chosen by Random.org on 1.16.11
Winner will have 48 hours to respond to email or a new winner will be chosen.
This giveaway is sponsored by Hachette Book Group and up to 3 copies of the book will be available.
Only one winner per household address!

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Waiting on Wednesday: Does The Noise in My Head Bother You by Steven Tyler

"Waiting On" Wednesday is a weekly event, hosted by Jill at Breaking the Spine, that spotlights upcoming releases that we're eagerly anticipating.

This week's pre-publication "can't-wait-to-read" selection is:

Details

• Hardcover: 352 pages
• Publisher: Ecco (May 11, 2011)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0061767891
• ISBN-13: 978-0061767890

Not much about it yet, but it looks promising!  

BLOG TOUR & REVIEW: Brooklyn Story by Suzanne Corso

Description

To me, some people lived in the real world and others lived Brooklyn. . . .It’s the summer of 1978, and Samantha Bonti is fifteen years old, half Jewish and half Italian, and hesitantly edging toward pure Brooklyn, even if her dreams of something more are bigger than the neighborhood girls’ teased hair. She lives in Bensonhurst with her mother, Joan, a woman abandoned and scarred in a ruinous marriage, poisoned with cynicism, and shackled by addictions; and with her Grandma Ruth, Samantha’s loudest and most opinionated source of encouragement. As flawed as they are, they are family.
Samantha’s best friend is Janice Caputo, a girl who understands, as well as Samantha does, this close-knit community of ancestors and traditions that stand like roadblocks, this insular overcrowded little world of controlling mobsters who mold their women like Jell-O; and of the wannabes, the charismatic young guys who are willing to engage in anything illegal to get a shot at playing with the big boys. Yet, Samantha has something Janice doesn’t—a desire to become a writer and to escape the destiny that is assumed for all of them in the outer reaches of Bensonhurst. And it’s to be had just across the Brooklyn Bridge.
Then comes Tony Kroon.
Older than Samantha, Tony is a blonde-haired, blue-eyed, half-Sicilian, half-Dutch mobster wannabe. A Bensonhurst Adonis. Taken in by his adoring attention, and empathetic to Tony’s own struggles with identity, Samantha is falling in love, even when she’s warned never to ask imprudent questions of Tony’s life. Even when her family and friends warn her to stay away. Even when Samantha knows she’s too smart to fall this deep . . . but the last thing she wants is the first thing to happen. Unable to resist Tony’s seductive charms, Samantha soon finds herself swallowed up by dangerous circumstances that threaten to jeopardize more than her dreams. Grandma Ruth’s advice: Samantha had better write herself out this story and into a new one, fast.
Told from the adult perspective, this is a powerful, true-to-life novel of leaving the past to history and the future to fate—of restoring hope where there was none, and reaching for dreams in an inspiring promise of paradise called Manhattan.

About the Author

Suzanne is the author of two feature film screenplays, has produced two documentaries, and written one children's book. She currently lives in New York City. This is her first novel.

Details

• Hardcover: 336 pages
• Publisher: Gallery (December 28, 2010)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 1439190224
• ISBN-13: 978-1439190227

SOURCE:  PUBLISHER

MY THOUGHTS
LOVED IT

I adored debut authors and this one lived up to my expectations.  While reading it, I thought that this would make a wonderful movie and yes, it will be made into a movie!  Some books just really lend themselves to the big screen.  I was also interested in how the author depicts the year of 1978 and how New York becomes the goal of Samantha and how it represents "making it".  There is lots of angst and drama that keep with the time period.  It reminded me a bit of Boardwalk Empire as well.  

BLOG TOUR & REVIEW: Earl of Darkness by Alix Rickloff

Description

The magic she tries to hide . . . Born a lady, but reduced to surviving in the slums of Dublin, Catriona O’Connell has been hired to steal a mysterious book from Aidan Douglas, Earl of Kilronan. But Cat is secretly Other, an age-old mixture of Fey and human—something Aidan recognizes immediately when he surprises the lovely young burglar in his library, about to steal a magical diary.
 . . . is the magic he desperately wants.
From the moment Aidan sees her, Cat’s spirited beauty enchants him, but her uncanny abilities are what he truly needs, for Cat can understand the mystical language in the diary he inherited from his murdered father. So Aidan makes an offer: translate the book or be thrown in prison as a thief. And as Cat slowly deciphers each page, she and Aidan are drawn together by passion . . . and into the violence of the Other world that is the Kilronan legacy. Can they defeat those who seek the book, or are their lives in even greater danger than their hearts?

About the Author

ALIX RICKLOFF  has never been able to decide who she enjoys reading more; Austen or Tolkien. That lifelong indecision drove her to create stories of her own, combining those distinct loves. Her writing awards include a final in the Golden Heart, while Romantic Times Magazine calls her work both compelling and original.
To learn more you can visit her on the web at www.AlixRickloff.com.

Details

• Mass Market Paperback: 368 pages
• Publisher: Pocket; Original edition (December 28, 2010)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 1439170363
• ISBN-13: 978-1439170366

SOURCE:  PUBLISHER

MY THOUGHTS
LOVED IT

What a wonderful historical paranormal romance!  I am just starting to discover this genre and really enjoyed this one.  There are lots of twists and turns in the plot and everything moves along rapidly.  There is always a part of the book where you have to make the jump to accept the magical elements in a story like this, but there is no effort on the reader's part since it is a very smooth and discreet leap of faith.  This is definitely an author to watch and see how this series develops. 

BLOG TOUR & REVIEW: The Scent of Jasmine by Jude Deveraux

Description

Would you risk your life—on the love of a lifetime? Charleston, 1799: A daughter of Southern gentility and a gifted painter, Catherine Edilean Harcourt has no lack of suitors at home in Virginia, waiting to fulfill her dream of marriage and family. But Cay’s adventurous spirit, fostered by growing up with her three brothers, is piqued while visiting her godfather in South Carolina. Bedridden with a broken leg, he asks Cay to fill in for him on an urgent task: on her way to a fancy dress ball, she must deliver a packed horse to an old friend’s son—who also happens to be an escaped convict charged with murdering his wife! Cay agrees to the plan, which doesn’t go at all as planned . . . whereupon she finds herself fleeing Alexander McDowell’s captors, riding blind into the night with the fugitive Scotsman. Though she should fear him, Cay finds herself overwhelmingly attracted to Alex, and drawn into his tale of misguided justice and his innocence as they seek refuge in the steamy Florida everglades. Will trusting him be the worst mistake of her life? Or will falling in love be the salvation both of them have been looking for?

About the Author

Jude Deveraux is the author of thirty-nine New York Times bestsellers, including Scarlet Nights, Days of Gold, Lavender Morning, Return to Summerhouse, and Secrets. To date, there are more than sixty million copies of her books in print worldwide. She lives in North Carolina. To learn more, visit www.judedeveraux.com.

Details

• Mass Market Paperback: 432 pages
• Publisher: Pocket; Original edition (December 28, 2010)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0743479025
• ISBN-13: 978-0743479028

SOURCE:  PUBLISHER

 MY THOUGHTS
LOVED IT

This is the fourth book in the Edilean series that covers centuries.  I have not read any of the other books in this series, but I think this one can stand alone.  I had no problem picking up with any of the background.  This is an action-adventure historical romance set in the Everglades during 1799 and filled with lots of wonderful historical facts.  I love authors who can combine fact with fiction.

Alex, who just broke out of prison is expecting Catherine's grandfather to meet him with a horse.  Instead, he meets Catherine and decides to take her with him as he out runs the law.  Catherine's three brothers chase after them and lots of wonderful chemistry ensues between Cay (Catherine) and Alex.  This is a good way to pass a cold winter's night. 

New Weekly Giveaway @ Linda Weaver Clarke's blog!

"Linda Weaver Clarke has another giveaway over at her blog: Book Give-Away December 23 – January 4: for those interested in Purple Snowflake Marketing as an e-book, leave a comment about this interview with your e-mail. International. Purple Snowflake Marketing is basically a 195-page reference guide for self-marketing authors who are working with a limited budget and are looking for a way to stand out like a purple snowflake in a snowstorm."

Please go HERE to enter!

Book Trailer Tuesday: The Science of Kissing by Sheril Kirshenbaum

This book is awesome! If you like Mary Roach, you will love this one! I will have a review and giveaway soon!

AND THE WINNER IS: What I Thought I Knew by Alice Eve Cohen

TAFFY -- Be sure to stop by TAFFY'S WRITING

An email has been sent to the lucky person named above (first part of their email address in case my note ends up in spam).  The winner(s)  has 48 hours to respond or a new winner will be chosen.
Thanks to all who entered.

Didn't win?  Order your copy from my Amazon link:

PhoDOGraphy: Special Holiday Edition

I got a book about Picasso's dachshund, Lump -- Schatze got a friend named Frank!

Hope everyone had a special day!

Friday PhoDOGraphy

It's the most weinerful time of the year!

Although Schatze will be glad when it is over.

And the hat is dead.

Don't forget to visit Fridays with Fred at Mina Burrow's Blog HERE

AND THE WINNER IS: Midwinter's Eve Blog Hop

MARE -- tommygirl828, be sure to visit DESTINY IS DEAFENING and offer congratulations!

An email has been sent to the lucky person named above (first part of their email address in case my note ends up in spam).  The winner  has 48 hours to respond or a new winner will be chosen.
Thanks to all who entered.

I had 180 unique entries!  Random.org picked the 139 entry here:  12/21/2010 17:04:11

Didn't win?  Order your copy from my Amazon link:

BookHounds & GalleyCats Launch Our Pet Parade - GalleyCat

WooHoo Schatze is world famous!

BookHounds & GalleyCats Launch Our Pet Parade - GalleyCat

Stop by and leave a comment with your Schatze Love!

BLOG TOUR & REVIEW: The Secret History of Elizabeth Tudor, Vampire Hunter by Lucy Weston

Description

Sovereign Power. Eternal Pleasure.Revealed at last in this new vampire saga for the ages: the true, untold story of the “Virgin Queen” and her secret war against the Vampire King of England. . . .
On the eve of her coronation, Elizabeth Tudor is summoned to the tomb of her mother, Anne Boleyn, to learn the truth about her bloodline—and her destiny as a Slayer. Born to battle the bloodsucking fiends who ravage the night, and sworn to defend her beloved realm against all enemies, Elizabeth soon finds herself stalked by the most dangerous and seductive vampire of all.
He is Mordred, bastard son of King Arthur, who sold his soul to destroy his father. After centuries in hiding, he has arisen determined to claim the young Elizabeth as his Queen. Luring her into his world of eternal night, Mordred tempts Elizabeth with the promise of everlasting youth and beauty, and vows to protect her from all enemies. Together, they will rule over a golden age for vampires in which humans will exist only to be fed upon. Horrified by his intentions, Elizabeth embraces her powers as a Slayer even as she realizes that the greatest danger comes from her own secret desire to yield to Mordred . . . to bare her throat in ecstasy and allow the vampire king to drink deeply of her royal blood.
As told by Lucy Weston, the vampire prey immortalized in Bram Stoker’s Dracula, this spellbinding account will capture your heart and soul—forever.

Details

• Paperback: 320 pages
• Publisher: Gallery; Original edition (December 21, 2010)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 143919033X
• ISBN-13: 978-1439190333

SOURCE:  PUBLISHER

MY THOUGHTS:
LOVED IT

This book is a fusion of my favorite historical fiction writers and fantasy masters.  The book starts out in typical historical fashion with Elizabeth gaining the throne and then being told the state secrets which include the fact that she is the *one* that time has designated as *the* vampire hunter with special skills.  It only gets better from there.  The story becomes a quickly paced thrilled as we watch Elizabeth gain power and ability to hunt vampires.

I really enjoy these mash ups, so if you have tried before and didn't like them, you might want to take a chance on this one.  I really liked this one better than Abraham Lincoln, Vampire Hunter.  Couldn't you just imagine all historical characters coming together to create a super force of vampire hunters?  

Waiting on Wednesday: Unseen by Rachel Caine

"Waiting On" Wednesday is a weekly event, hosted by Jill at Breaking the Spine, that spotlights upcoming releases that we're eagerly anticipating.

This week's pre-publication "can't-wait-to-read" selection is:

Description

After Cassiel and Warden Luis Rocha rescue an adept child from a maniacal Djinn, they realize two things: the girl is already manifesting an incredible amount of power, and her kidnapping was not an isolated incident.

This Djinn-aided by her devoted followers-is capturing children all over the world, and indoctrinating them so she can use their strength for herself. With no other options, Cassiel infiltrates the Djinn's organization-because if Cassiel cannot stop the Djinn's apocalyptic designs, all of humanity may be destroyed.

Details

• Paperback: 320 pages
• Publisher: Roc (February 1, 2011)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0451463838
• ISBN-13: 978-0451463838

REVIEW: Wolf Fever by Terry Spear

Description

She may be his destiny, but she's not his first choice...
Hospital nurse and newly turned red werewolf Carol Woods is being pressured by her pack leader to find a mate, but he's the only guy in the pack who remotely attracts her.
Why is he playing so hard to get?
The fate of the pack rests on his shoulders...
Gray pack leader Ryan McKinley doesn't want anything to do with Carol unless she's willing to embrace her wolf nature-no matter how beautiful she is.
But when a virus infects the local lupus garou pack, Ryan realizes just how wrong he's been not to seize the moment with the woman he's come to love. And now, it may be too late...

About the Author

With almost 56,000 copies sold, Terry Spear is also a retired lieutenant colonel in the US Army Reserves. She received her MBA from Monmouth College. An eclectic writer, she dabbles in the paranormal as well as writing historical and true life stories for both teen and adult audiences. Spear lives in Crawford, Texas.

Product Details

• Mass Market Paperback: 416 pages
• Publisher: Sourcebooks Casablanca; Original edition (December 1, 2010)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 1402237529
• ISBN-13: 978-1402237522

SOURCE:  PUBLISHER

MY THOUGHTS

REALLY LIKED IT

Part of my fascination with this Terry Spear's wolf series is that she gets the technical parts down so that the story is incredible believable.  You understand the transformation and the need for a pack.  She does a wonderful job uniting the human condition with the animal instincts.  I have really enjoyed the series so far, but this one wasn't my absolute favorite.  That usually falls to the first in the series since there is always something special about your first time.

Carol is a newly minted wolf in Silver City (yes, I can hear you groan) with psychic abilities when she meets alpha Ryan who doesn't believe in psychic ability but is attracted none the less.  Lots of heavy petting ensues since if they mate, they are mated for life.  There are lots of hot moments in the story and overall this will get you through a cold winter night.  Overall, this is a fun read if you enjoy some feverish werewolf sex.  

Book Trailer Tuesday: How to Marry a Duke by Vicky Dreiling

Look for a review and giveaway on this one next month!

GIVEAWAY! Midwinter's Eve Blog Hop ---- Three Holiday Novels

Midwinter's Eve is the longest night of the year so why not spend it entering some great giveaways.

The is a quick hop that runs from 12:01 AM on Tuesday, December 21st to 11:59 PM on Wednesday, December 22nd. 

Each participating blog is hosting their own giveaway with their own entry requirements. All participating blogs are linked up through a Midwinter's Eve linky. After you have entered one giveaway hop to the next giveaway on the list. Please stop by the Midwinter's Eve Blog Hop Page

Special thanks to Inspired Kathy over at I Am a Reader, Not a Writer for putting together this amazing hop!

HERE ARE THE BOOKS:
(you can click on the titles for more information)

Promise Me by Richard Paul Evans 

 Dating Mr December by Phillipa Ashley

A Season of Seduction by Jennifer Haymore (ARC)

WANT TO WIN THESE BOOKS?

Contest is open to anyone with reliable mail service (Worldwide and PO Boxes OK!)
Contest ends on 12.22.10 and the winner will be chosen by Random.org on 12.23.10
Winner will have 48 hours to respond to email or a new winner will be chosen.
This giveaway is sponsored by ME one set of books is available.

NOTE:  Postage is due to increase again and if the winner lives outside the US, I may opt to replace this set with the book of your choice from the Book Depository, up to $15 value.


+1 Complete the below form
+1 Follow Me *you must be a subscriber to enter!
Yeah, I know -- it's a pain, but this is how I get books to give away.

+1 Be my friend on GoodReads HERE

+1 Follow me on Twitter HERE

+1 Like the SWAMPED Facebook Page HERE 

+1 Follow my other blog: Forever Young (adult) HERE

New Weekly Giveaway @ Linda Weaver Clarke's blog!

Linda Weaver Clarke

1. Midwinter's Eve Giveaway Hop

 

Book Give-Away Ending December 22: for historical romance novel, Melinda and the Wild West, read the directions below. International.

In 1896 Melinda Gamble—a very elegant, naïve young woman from Boston—decides to give up her life of monotonous comfort for the turbulent uncertainty of the still untamed Wild West. Driven by her intense desire to make a difference in the world, Melinda takes a job as a schoolteacher in the small town of Paris, Idaho, where she comes face-to-face with a notorious bank robber, a vicious grizzly bear, and a terrible blizzard that leaves her clinging to her life. But it’s a rugged rancher who challenges Melinda with the one thing for which she was least prepared—love.

Post a comment at http://lindaweaverclarke.blogspot.com

2. Interview with Authors Dave and Lillian Brummet

Book Give-Away December 23 – January 4: for those interested in Purple Snowflake Marketing as an e-book, leave a comment about this interview with your e-mail. International.

Purple Snowflake Marketing is basically a 195-page reference guide for self-marketing authors who are working with a limited budget and are looking for a way to stand out like a purple snowflake in a snowstorm.

GIVEAWAY! December Mystery Box -- Guess the Title #7

Since there are going to be several books for the December Mystery Box, you can still get extra entries by guessing the titles.  I will do all of the titles individually and they should be easy to google.  I think this is the last one!


Rules:
This is an additional entry for the main Giveaway of a box of books HERE
It is only open to those with a US Mailing address since this is going to be one heavy box!

Just complete the form below and you can get up to two extra entries, one just for your email address and another one for correctly guessing the title. These books are all by James Patterson!
Please don't post the answer in the comments!

Here is the first line of the blurb:

The Women's Murder Club faces not one-but two-terrifying cases that may tear it apart.

GIVEAWAY! December Mystery Box -- Guess the Title #6

Since there are going to be several books for the December Mystery Box, you can still get extra entries by guessing the titles.  I will do all of the titles individually and they should be easy to google.   


Rules:
This is an additional entry for the main Giveaway of a box of books HERE
It is only open to those with a US Mailing address since this is going to be one heavy box!

Just complete the form below and you can get up to two extra entries, one just for your email address and another one for correctly guessing the title. These books are all by James Patterson!
Please don't post the answer in the comments!

Here is the first line of the blurb:

A stunningly brilliant psychopathic killer who has skillfully eluded the police from London to Paris to New York.

AND THE WINNER IS: My Reading Life by Pat Conroy

JULIA -- JHolden955  (this is the first time in a long time that #1 has come up on Random.org and Julia is usually the first entry LOL)

SHARON -- sharon54220


An email has been sent to the lucky people named above (first part of their email address in case up in spam).  The winner(s)  has 48 hours to respond or a new winner will be chosen.
Thanks to all who entered.

Didn't win?  Order your copy from my Amazon link:

GIVEAWAY! December Mystery Box -- Guess the Title #5

Since there are going to be several books for the December Mystery Box, you can still get extra entries by guessing the titles.  I will do all of the titles individually and they should be easy to google.   


Rules:
This is an additional entry for the main Giveaway of a box of books HERE
It is only open to those with a US Mailing address since this is going to be one heavy box!

Just complete the form below and you can get up to two extra entries, one just for your email address and another one for correctly guessing the title.
Please don't post the answer in the comments!

Here is the first line of the blurb:

After losing one of its own, Lindsay Boxer and the Women's Murder Club make a courageous return for their fourth and most chilling case ever-one that could easily be their last.

Friday PhoDOGraphy

I'm feeling a bit camera shy today.

Sorry, we are so late with this today. 

Don't forget to check out Fridays with Fred

AND THE WINNER IS: Euphemania by Ralph Keyes

SHANA -- shanaelyse

CHRISTINE - TEAM JC -- schaefer7382

KANDACE -- kandycain
An email has been sent to the lucky people named above (first part of their email address in case my note ends up in spam).  The winner(s)  has 48 hours to respond or a new winner will be chosen.
Thanks to all who entered.

Didn't win?  Order your copy from my Amazon link:

AND THE WINNER IS: Duchess of Sin by Laurel McKee

LAURA -- Bornajhawk

RUTHIE -- ruthiekb72

LISA -- starmetaloak -- be sure to visit STAR METAL OAK BOOK BLOG

VONDA -- 2much2reid

MINDIE -- whitten100

An email has been sent to the lucky people named above (first part of their email address in case my note ends up in spam).  The winner(s)  has 48 hours to respond or a new winner will be chosen.
Thanks to all who entered.

Didn't win?  Order your copy from my Amazon link:

REVIEW: An Object of Beauty by Steve Martin

Product Description

Lacey Yeager is young, captivating, and ambitious enough to take the NYC art world by storm. Groomed at Sotheby's and hungry to keep climbing the social and career ladders put before her, Lacey charms men and women, old and young, rich and even richer with her magnetic charisma and liveliness. Her ascension to the highest tiers of the city parallel the soaring heights--and, at times, the dark lows--of the art world and the country from the late 1990s through today.

About the Author

Steve Martin is a legendary writer, actor, and performer. His film credits include Father of the Bride, Parenthood, The Spanish Prisoner, and Bringing Down the House, as well as Roxanne, L.A. Story, and Bowfinger, for which he also wrote the screenplays. He's won Emmys for his television writing and two Grammys for comedy albums. In addition to a play, Picasso at the Lapin Agile, he has written a bestselling collection of comic pieces, Pure Drivel, and a bestselling novella, Shopgirl, which was made into a movie. His work appears frequently in The New Yorker and The New York Times.

Product Details

• Hardcover: 304 pages
• Publisher: Grand Central Publishing (November 23, 2010)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0446573647
• ISBN-13: 978-0446573641

SOURCE:  PUBLISHER

MY THOUGHTS
LOVED IT

I normally tear through Steve Martin's stories, but this one had a lot of information about international art trade and the New York art scene.  I really had to absorb the information to understand all of the plot points. The story revolves around Lacey and I am not really sure if she is good or bad, so I suppose like most people she has a bit of both.  Daniel is more of a narrator than actual character although he does tell the story from an observer's point of view and acts as a voice of reason even when he finds Lacey has used him in one of her schemes. 

A key point that is when Lacey finds out the biggest new name in art is a former boyfriend using the moniker of Pilot Mouse and of course Lacey uses that to her advantage, playing upon the giant egos that exist when money and objects collide.  Martin lampoons people who buy art for no other reason than to own it.  He explained this syndrome rather well when he appeared on the Colbert Report recently.  This is overall of Martin's more in depth books and it is well worth reading.