tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-32661797540277526132024-02-18T21:42:54.968-08:00That's QUEEN Bitch To YouThe Queen Bhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08085144266758113392noreply@blogger.comBlogger227125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3266179754027752613.post-73867328833246038462012-09-11T20:22:00.001-07:002012-09-11T20:22:41.432-07:00Review: Grave Memory by Kalayna Price (Alex Craft series #3)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span class="readable reviewText"><span id="freeTextreview402726277"> Back cover summary via goodreads:<i> <span id="freeText16973993173646579749">As a Grave Witch, Alex
solves murders by raising the dead—an ability that comes at a cost, and
after her last few cases, that cost is compounding. But her magic isn’t
the only thing causing havoc in her life. While she’s always been on
friendly terms with Death himself, things have recently become a whole
lot more close and personal. Then there’s her sometime partner, agent
Falin Andrews, who is under the glamour of the Winter Queen. To top
everything off, her best friend has been forever changed by her time
spent captive in Faerie.<br /><br />But the personal takes a backseat to the
professional when a mysterious suicide occurs in Nekros City and Alex
is hired to investigate. The shade she raises has no memory of the days
leading up to his brutal ending, so despite the very public apparent
suicide, this is murder. But what kind of magic can overcome the human
will to survive? And why does the shade lack the memory of his death?
Searching for the answer might mean Alex won’t have a life to remember
at all…</span></i></span></span><br />
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<span class="readable reviewText"><span id="freeTextreview402726277">Very strong entry in the
Alex Craft series by Kalayna Price. Lots of movement for several
characters and in Alex's career. I feel like my Alex is growing up...and
learning the hard knock way. I looove any scene with Alex and her
father. I feel like that man is sitting on a mountain of secrets and one
day...there will be an avalanche. <br /><br />As any good romantic triangle
will teach us, frustration is a real thing. Oh yes. I have to be honest
and say that although I enjoy a well written triangle, and Ms Price is a
very good writer, I'm a bit over the triangle aspect. Which surprises
me. I'm not a huge fan of the fey in stories and I was intrigued by
Death from the beginning so the fact that Ms Price has me firmly
enjoying the world of the fey she created and rooting for Falin is
worthy of note. LOL. I do enjoy that we get more of Death in this one
but I feel as if Alex is too conveniently wishy washy and bouncing
between the two men mentally just a bit too often. I get they both have
had huge impacts on her life, but it's hard to enjoy her time with
either one if she's constantly thinking about the one she's not with. I
know she's torn, now I'd like to get what her feelings are for each
without constant mental interruptions. <br /><br />Other than my own
personal issue of being a bit over romantic triangles and this one in
particular, the story is well written, action packed and as always, I
can't wait to see what lies ahead in the next one. Ms Price gives the
reader just enough answers to satisfy while tantalizing her audience
with newer and bigger questions that left me wanting to read the next
book and find out just what is going on. <br /><br />I give this one an A- or 4 1/2 stars.</span></span>The Queen Bhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08085144266758113392noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3266179754027752613.post-77667728209123977772012-02-12T14:34:00.000-08:002012-02-12T14:34:44.984-08:00<iframe width="560" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/-mTUmczVdik" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe><br />
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Because today feels like a Three Amigos kinda day.The Queen Bhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08085144266758113392noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3266179754027752613.post-80089147972067444032012-02-12T14:20:00.000-08:002012-02-12T14:20:53.510-08:00Well, well, what have we here?So, shock of shocks, I am posting. LOL.<br />
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As you no doubt have noticed, I've been on a bit of a blogging hiatus. Frankly, real life drama, computer issues and a reading slump all conspired to keep me from having any meaningful content as of late (or even a way to post it if I had it at times). I became so burned out in my reading slump that I didn't feel I was able to give the books I was attempting to review a fair shake and thought it best if I just waited for the ennui to pass before attempting to pass judgement on the plethora of books out there (Note: I <3 El Guapo). <br />
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Now that I'm starting to shake the slump I think I'll start updating the blog with some posts about the things that have interested me (and sometimes saved my sanity) during this gloomy faze as well as updates about what I'll be reading and reviewing in the future. I'll probably start slow, but hey, it's a start, right? :P<br />
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So, what have you peeps been reading, watching, listening to lately? Fill me in, I feel like I've been out of the gossip loop waaaaay too long. LOL.<br />
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xoxoThe Queen Bhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08085144266758113392noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3266179754027752613.post-23810878462069234352011-12-05T12:18:00.000-08:002011-12-05T12:18:17.945-08:00This is funny, when it probably shouldn't be...<iframe width="500" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/N8IGDIujijQ" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe>The Queen Bhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08085144266758113392noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3266179754027752613.post-39447390613243937852011-12-02T23:29:00.000-08:002011-12-02T23:29:42.579-08:00I'm in love with Evanescence all over again...<iframe width="500" height="315" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/UAf1_6KglIM" frameborder="0" allowfullscreen></iframe><br />
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There's more goodness on the album, but you get the drift and it's an awesome one at that.<br />
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And because I'm totally missing her (and Amy Lee is totally channeling her with that beehive she's rockin') here's a little Amy Winehouse. <br />
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Thanks for tuning into the Queen B's Music Hour ;)The Queen Bhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08085144266758113392noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3266179754027752613.post-87516682034321687762011-07-11T12:34:00.000-07:002011-07-11T12:34:17.261-07:00Winner of Dead Iron by Devon MonkWe have a winner of a copy of Dead Iron by Devon Monk and it is....<b>van_pham</b>!!<br />
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I have sent out an email and look forward to hearing from you. Congrats!!<br />
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Thanks to all who entered!The Queen Bhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08085144266758113392noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3266179754027752613.post-38448410396448196462011-07-10T16:28:00.001-07:002011-07-10T16:28:55.387-07:00Winner of Dirty Kiss by Rhys Fordis Nixie!!!<br />
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Congrats, Nixie! I have emailed you and look forward to hearing back so we can get you your prize.<br />
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Thanks to all who participated.The Queen Bhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08085144266758113392noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3266179754027752613.post-29446550025637364882011-07-08T16:07:00.000-07:002011-07-08T16:09:32.671-07:00I have no content so I bring you...Meeeeee!!! At a Britney Spears concert. Don't hate. I lurve me some Brit Brit. There was the cutest gay couple in the section bordering the stage (you know, the one you sell your kidney for?). They almost made me believe in love...except I'm married which is kinda like being inoculated for it. I kid. Mostly.<br />
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Anyhoo....<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6eP3SXI5tpa4FQLkNf3Nu-HssdkfxbO8I2xnz1EzG-6JqMPHBmZ0fkUIk2t90LJZAMGHaBtXYMh1KodNKFhGfry2vygpfX7GlzWzWoHyW0StJtLbEJDVtEVF750u_jhOyNFyu0CMC-Mtj/s1600/Jen%2527s+phone+030.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="400" width="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi6eP3SXI5tpa4FQLkNf3Nu-HssdkfxbO8I2xnz1EzG-6JqMPHBmZ0fkUIk2t90LJZAMGHaBtXYMh1KodNKFhGfry2vygpfX7GlzWzWoHyW0StJtLbEJDVtEVF750u_jhOyNFyu0CMC-Mtj/s400/Jen%2527s+phone+030.JPG" /></a></div><br />
Here I am in Vegas (for the fist time) for my last bday with one of my sistahs in the law and an awesome and totally random Mad Hatter. (A lil' Vegas advise for noobs: Pace yoself. Trust me on this.)<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbYCCYbt87w4dhHqxenVip4psta6L0xjGteTGle62aJWZzfFXOw59Tj1DrGW1To-mH46ghZRfhoKtRhg75scDLPgZmtSybB12H9MO6EkBD9GEYTMDRDU0wj8iG2imXbHkVPF7945ELkGzK/s1600/photo%25285%2529.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="299" width="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgbYCCYbt87w4dhHqxenVip4psta6L0xjGteTGle62aJWZzfFXOw59Tj1DrGW1To-mH46ghZRfhoKtRhg75scDLPgZmtSybB12H9MO6EkBD9GEYTMDRDU0wj8iG2imXbHkVPF7945ELkGzK/s400/photo%25285%2529.JPG" /></a></div><br />
And lastly, me and my sis, Jen, Who also <a href="http://missbooklover.blogspot.com/">blogs</a>. We are serving time at in-law Christmas. God bless my MIL, she has a well stocked wine room.<br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPVvzWWcEw8P8Ivx1Ty3WTGjqDNyv0IPz-8pj2sEmuabOEntVwPRgzFwvVog4xVRCvU2y-efMGwsEwJeA1grKpE_BrzNk48_XfHi9H7A0Ya1IOBFIUgELOhL4LuyQfIFXXU1XWz22Fuhbf/s1600/Dec+%252710+025.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="300" width="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjPVvzWWcEw8P8Ivx1Ty3WTGjqDNyv0IPz-8pj2sEmuabOEntVwPRgzFwvVog4xVRCvU2y-efMGwsEwJeA1grKpE_BrzNk48_XfHi9H7A0Ya1IOBFIUgELOhL4LuyQfIFXXU1XWz22Fuhbf/s400/Dec+%252710+025.JPG" /></a></div>The Queen Bhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08085144266758113392noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3266179754027752613.post-18469743289229118172011-07-06T11:09:00.000-07:002011-07-06T11:09:45.374-07:00Winner of Grave Witch and Grave Dance by Kalayna PriceAnd the winner is marybelle!! I will be emailing you shortly. Congrats!!<br />
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Thanks to all who entered.The Queen Bhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08085144266758113392noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3266179754027752613.post-69608963500867919212011-07-06T01:02:00.000-07:002011-07-06T01:02:29.856-07:00Queen B's hubby reviews: A Shot in the Dark by K.A. Stewart (Jesse James Dawson #2)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtFLXNq9bh5NMsTSgtsZR4aG66aEsW4NnVVVE5PbXNWUt4tFaw8XIOp7sMgp4-Uw13Ll2uq2fyQOcVIaNcK_31dGYUu5JUxpoHFrSpNA33VgspOPfi_kVEfAeO3scfjvd8nEYQcdEZ-cNr/s1600/shotinthedark.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="400" width="248" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtFLXNq9bh5NMsTSgtsZR4aG66aEsW4NnVVVE5PbXNWUt4tFaw8XIOp7sMgp4-Uw13Ll2uq2fyQOcVIaNcK_31dGYUu5JUxpoHFrSpNA33VgspOPfi_kVEfAeO3scfjvd8nEYQcdEZ-cNr/s400/shotinthedark.JPG" /></a></div><br />
<i>Jesse James Dawson's vacation is interrupted by a pack of hell-spawned creatures. To save friends, family and himself, Jesse will have to put his trust in his most dangerous enemy-his personal demon.</i><br />
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Note: I received a copy for review from the publisher.<br />
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Buy links: <a target="_blank" href="http://www.amazon.com/Shot-Dark-Jesse-James-Dawson/dp/0451464109?ie=UTF8&tag=thsq-20&link_code=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969">A Shot in the Dark: A Jesse James Dawson Novel (Jesse Dawson)</a><img src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=thsq-20&l=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969&o=1&a=0451464109" width="1" height="1" border="0" alt="" style="border:none !important; margin:0px !important; padding: 0px !important" /><br />
<a href="http://www.bookdepository.com/Shot-Dark-Stewart/9780451464101">book depository</a><br />
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<b>My dearest and my darling reviewed the first in this series for me <a href="http://royallybitchy.blogspot.com/2010/07/queen-bs-hubby-reviews-devil-in-details.html">last year</a>. Now, he is back with his usual charm and panache (back off, bitches, he's mine...and he totally snores) to review the newest offering in the Jesse James Dawson series by K.A. Stewart. Please show him the love...</b><br />
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After reading the first book in this series I was a little skeptical, as the first book had interesting concepts with imperfect but adequate storytelling. I am pleased to announce that this outing is extremely solid. Now that the characters and world have been established this book concentrates on a well done combination of action and tense anxiety. The story follows protagonist Jesse James Dawson, who eviscerates demons with cheery abandon. When someone makes the mistake of selling their soul to shady characters, they call in a champion like Jesse to fight in their stead. Now that Jesse has a few notches adding up on his belt, the underworld is conspiring to end his winning streak. Things quiet down after the ending events of A Devil in the Details, and (against his better judgement) Jesse proceeds to go on the annual paintball vacation with all of his best friends. The boys all head out to a cabin in the Colorado Rockies, where an ambush is flagrantly waiting for them. The situation quickly devolves into a seige of the tiny cottage. This was the highlight of the book, as all the action was punctuated by tense scenes of scrambling to mount defenses, as well as blaming eachother for the situation. Fighting eachother as well as demonic entities makes for a nice bit of drama. The atmosphere had a palpable sense of foreboding for almost the entire story, and really added to my entertainment. <br />
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There was some heavy handed foreshadowing that made the story extremely predictable, but this did not hinder my enjoyment of their fight for survival. The action scenes are well written and had me on the edge of my seat. Overall I enjoyed part two much more than the first. Indeed, this book seems like a major departure from all of the mundane activity of the previous story. Well done Ms. Stewart, you have gotten me to care about what happens next in the series. The only other issue I had was whenever Jesse had an inner monologue it came across a little like a womans' voice. I had this same criticism of A Devil in the Details, but honestly it is not as bad this time around. However, at some points it almost seemed like the author was deliberately trying to sound like a man, which kinda made it worse. At any rate these moments were few and did not affect the flow of the story that badly, but they were noticeable. Despite my gripes I did enjoy the story, and the characters were developed nicely (everytime Axel, the demon, shows up he steals the show). So if you've read the first book you really should pick this one up and see what's new in Mr. Dawson's world. <br />
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Final Grade: BThe Queen Bhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08085144266758113392noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3266179754027752613.post-91016052676047446882011-07-05T00:01:00.000-07:002011-07-05T00:01:09.247-07:00Giveaway of Dead Iron by Devon Monk<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-pIqKU1UXjEmXrNUw32wwlomfS_JzkJiER_iBLXP-OP0op8l_qCLk4WBRZ8dlrgbcU55q9hdhHj1EQJmuecvTycuK6ZWKGWMVQly3-rOd2MTVfI2wscaOx7h6348rJcPYnAkaTO8DP4Id/s1600/deadiron.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="400" width="267" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-pIqKU1UXjEmXrNUw32wwlomfS_JzkJiER_iBLXP-OP0op8l_qCLk4WBRZ8dlrgbcU55q9hdhHj1EQJmuecvTycuK6ZWKGWMVQly3-rOd2MTVfI2wscaOx7h6348rJcPYnAkaTO8DP4Id/s400/deadiron.JPG" /></a></div><br />
Today is the release day of the fabulous Dead Iron by Devon Monk, and to celebrate the publisher has generously offered to give one lucky person a copy of the book. Open to continental U.S. only. All you have to do is leave a comment on this post. Giveaway will run from now until Sunday, July 10, 2011 at 11:59 pm PST.<br />
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For more info about this book and Devon Monk's new series as well as an excerpt, go <a href="http://www.devonmonk.com/books/age-of-steam/dead-iron/">here</a>.<br />
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Stay tuned for my review of Dead Iron, coming soon!The Queen Bhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08085144266758113392noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3266179754027752613.post-68707794203629770922011-07-01T12:55:00.000-07:002011-07-01T12:55:32.318-07:00Review: Dirty Kiss by Rhys Ford (And Giveaway!!)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtRHCbv64qBcI5pGL7jeepxM8ug-36Xv7HI7A_EO_ibTLysNt1ipFO7WH01GJltaHcwgN0V_xBi6y1nTrzLnjhIs0FoCz3rb7J5XegyWZ_YHFIHJb6_1isGBU8Pu5WSqwZ0cUzXSRKxnjs/s1600/DirtyKiss_pr2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="400" width="265" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhtRHCbv64qBcI5pGL7jeepxM8ug-36Xv7HI7A_EO_ibTLysNt1ipFO7WH01GJltaHcwgN0V_xBi6y1nTrzLnjhIs0FoCz3rb7J5XegyWZ_YHFIHJb6_1isGBU8Pu5WSqwZ0cUzXSRKxnjs/s400/DirtyKiss_pr2.jpg" /></a></div><br />
<i>Cole Kenjiro McGinnis, ex-cop and PI, is trying to get over the shooting death of his lover when a supposedly routine investigation lands in his lap. Investigating the apparent suicide of a prominent Korean businessman’s son proves to be anything but ordinary, especially when it introduces Cole to the dead man’s handsome cousin, Kim Jae-Min. <br />
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Jae-Min’s cousin had a dirty little secret, the kind that Cole has been familiar with all his life and that Jae-Min is still hiding from his family. The investigation leads Cole from tasteful mansions to seedy lover’s trysts to Dirty Kiss, the place where the rich and discreet go to indulge in desires their traditional-minded families would rather know nothing about. <br />
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It also leads Cole McGinnis into Jae-Min’s arms, and that could be a problem. Jae-Min’s cousin’s death is looking less and less like a suicide, and Jae-Min is looking more and more like a target. Cole has already lost one lover to violence—he’s not about to lose Jae-Min too.</i><br />
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Note: I received a copy for review from the author<br />
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Buy link: <a href="http://www.dreamspinnerpress.com/store/product_info.php?products_id=2407&osCsid=m8fecapkfch2pu9smcinr1ojt6">e-book</a><br />
<a href="http://www.dreamspinnerpress.com/store/product_info.php?products_id=2408">paperback</a><br />
<a href="http://rhysford.wordpress.com/">Author's Website</a><br />
<a href="http://twitter.com/rhys_ford">Rhys on twitter</a><br />
Pub Date: July 1, 2011<br />
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Dirty Kiss is a well written mystery/romance featuring two very different men that have to face familial and cultural obstacles along with a fanatical killer just to be together. <br />
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The story is told through the eyes of Cole, a Japanese/Irish former cop who is now a private investigator. Cole has faced hate and loss in his life and although he hides behind a great sense of humor and a few close friendships, he's basically cut himself off from any hopes at romantic feelings again. I really liked Cole. He's a guy that I can see having a drink with down at the bar and he's also the guy you call when your back's against the wall and you need a loyal friend to turn to. For all the betrayal and lack of understanding he's faced in his life, he's not a bitter or hateful person. He lives his life as he pleases and he knows that not everyone is going to like it, so he accepts if they choose not to be in his life. He's damaged, haunted and wounded but he's so worth fighting for.<br />
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The man that finally reaches through the protective shell that Cole has encased his heart and even his sex drive behind is the enigmatic and beautiful, Jae. Jae has also faced hatred, betrayal and very hard times, but unlike Cole, Jae is a captive to his cultural and familial obligations and knows that he will never have the luxury of saying "eff you" to the world and living as he pleases. This is frustrating to Cole, but over time he begins to understand what it means to have such a strong sense of family and culture, all the beauty and ugliness of such ties and how they make their members both stronger and weaker.<br />
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The romance is sweet with two wary and wounded men that come from two different worlds trying to learn to trust and discovering if what they have is worth fighting for. The supporting cast is vivid and full of dynamic and varied characters. My personal favorite being the incomparable Scarlet. The mystery is intriguing and the threat of violence hanging over Cole and Jae give an urgency to the relationship. The ending is satisfying and leaves the door open for more growth and adventures while giving the reader, and I believe the characters, hope for the future. <br />
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The book is thought provoking, sexy and at times graphic. <br />
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I recommend this book to fans of mystery, suspense and gay romance.<br />
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Final Grade: B+<br />
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Now, thanks to the lovely author, I have one copy of Dirty Kiss for a lucky commenter to win. Just comment on this post and leave your email address. The contest will run from now until Friday, July 8, 2011 at 11:59 pm PST. Contest is open internationally. (Much thanks to Rhys!)<br />
<br />
Good luck!!The Queen Bhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08085144266758113392noreply@blogger.com10tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3266179754027752613.post-86869829801204767842011-06-29T01:38:00.000-07:002011-06-29T01:38:29.672-07:00Winner for signed copy of Kindling the MoonAnd the winner is..... Jennifer with the comment:<br />
<br />
Please enter me.<br />
<br />
Congrats, Jennifer!! I have your email addy and will be contacting you shortly for your shipping address. <br />
<br />
Thanks all for playing and even if you didn't win, there are more contests coming and this book is awesome enough that y'all need to go buy it. It has the Queen B Stamp of Approval ;)The Queen Bhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08085144266758113392noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3266179754027752613.post-340347534445053712011-06-27T11:34:00.000-07:002011-06-27T11:34:30.862-07:00Smokin' Seventeen by Janet Evanovich<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEid4bzNG40EFeUvsboysdoTW3I-DWyCOXnG3x5hADM7DmY2GdINAz2IocOHhWQeA1d4-Afbn5bGtrrSIJ7f54IyrURKdBgD32yQ2cM-gyffqQxtrgQnJ1oeMrLgxSBdF71Mst8sYlXRhxx1/s1600/smokinseventeen.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="400" width="263" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEid4bzNG40EFeUvsboysdoTW3I-DWyCOXnG3x5hADM7DmY2GdINAz2IocOHhWQeA1d4-Afbn5bGtrrSIJ7f54IyrURKdBgD32yQ2cM-gyffqQxtrgQnJ1oeMrLgxSBdF71Mst8sYlXRhxx1/s400/smokinseventeen.JPG" /></a></div><br />
<i>Where there's smoke there's fire, and no one knows this better than New Jersey bounty hunter, Stephanie Plum. The bail bonds office has burned to the ground, and bodies are turning up in the empty construction lot. To make matters worse, Stephanie is working out of a motor home she shares with a dancing bear, and Joe Morelli's old world grandmother has declared a vendetta against her. And just when Stephanie decides it might be time to choose between the two men in her life, Morelli and Ranger, a third man from Stephanie's past moves back to Trenton...<br />
<br />
Break out a cold drink and slap on some sunscreen, this summer is sure to be a scorcher with Smokin' Seventeen.</i><br />
<br />
<br />
The last few books from 13 on have really lost all charm and appeal for me. Recycled lines, plots, jokes, sexual tension that's not even a ping on the radar and less than no character development. I honestly felt like after 12, Ms Evanovich reached a point where she might actually have to go forward with the characters and series, so she backed off. Unfortunately, she took it so far that she basically put it in reverse. <br />
<br />
These books are not supposed to be taken overly seriously. They're supposed to be ridiculous and funny and larger than life and zany with some action, suspense and smexy times thrown in. Unfortunately since 12 she hasn't delivered on most of that. <br />
However, this book was worlds better than the last 4. I actually laughed hysterically at a few parts and she definitely stepped up the steaminess which felt like overdrive considering the absolute desert we'd been wading through for several books, but you won't hear me complain. At this point I felt like I needed it as bad as Steph did. <br />
I do believe that there will be something happening with the relationship choice soon, unfortunately because of the awful way it's been written this far, if it isn't handled right in the next couple books, either way she goes is just going to feel off for me. <br />
I honestly feel that at this point the relationship with Morelli has been so very destroyed, plus the character of Morelli has been cut up pretty bad, that she really needs to make a clean break with that relationship at least for a few books while she and Ranger try to make an honest go of it. If, in the end, the Ranger thing doesn't work she can run back into Joe and they can start fresh with her and Ranger as friends and allies. Or, she and Ranger might really shock themselves and work and she and Joe can be good friends and she'll have an in at the police station. Either way, something that makes sense needs to happen at some point, but that's just my two cents. <br />
<br />
All in all a much stronger and sexier and funnier addition (though the mystery and the third love interest was basically nonstarters)that will leave fans hopeful that we're getting our Stephanie Plum back. <br />
<br />
Final Grade: B<br />
<br />
As an aside, a big gripe I have is that in order for dumb luck to save Steph and not Ranger, she constantly runs to Morelli with all her concerns and possible leads which he never is able to do anything about instead of going to Ranger who is the only one to ever be effective at protecting her, and then she gets almost killed. Every time. Just saying.The Queen Bhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08085144266758113392noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3266179754027752613.post-12232654709530890322011-06-24T03:00:00.000-07:002011-06-24T03:00:14.529-07:00Review: Sabine and The Beast by Moira Rogers (and the beast #1)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhapfG_6B0qEM52vMJ4SeIF3fQ3taHuD8UoIwz5yd5zgaC2bkIHuW_bIJOywghKhuzyP0k9xgdPt5OA_pC3202QwRbSlPkoy99d3HIJAiF22OHNV-KHmkhP8XR9OS1E0WuZ8Bohii1IYJkD/s1600/sabine.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="400" width="267" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhapfG_6B0qEM52vMJ4SeIF3fQ3taHuD8UoIwz5yd5zgaC2bkIHuW_bIJOywghKhuzyP0k9xgdPt5OA_pC3202QwRbSlPkoy99d3HIJAiF22OHNV-KHmkhP8XR9OS1E0WuZ8Bohii1IYJkD/s400/sabine.jpg" /></a></div><br />
<i>A curse can erase her from his mind, but never from his heart. <br />
<br />
…and the Beast, Book 1 <br />
<br />
After three years at war, the High Lord of the Forest returns to his lands, a victorious wolf leader intent on claiming his mate. Instead Ciar finds an empty bed and a court with no recollection of the woman he loved. Following her long-cold trail proves far easier than facing what awaits him at the end. <br />
<br />
Sabine’s first instinct is to beg her beloved to leave. The High Lord’s mother hired a witch to curse Sabine, desperate to wipe the lowborn wolf from her son’s mind. But the spell worked too well, and Sabine has vanished from the thoughts of everyone who sees her. Including her own family. <br />
<br />
The edges of his memory already blurring, Ciar and Sabine must race to find a way to reverse the spell. Yet every searing moment together is not enough to stop the curse’s inexorable progress. His only chance is to bind Sabine to him too tightly to be forgotten, before she disappears once and for all. <br />
<br />
Product Warnings <br />
This story contains cruel betrayal, destined love, vile curses, smoldering reunions, wicked deeds between wanton shapeshifters and a happily-ever-after worthy of any fairy tale.</i><br />
<br />
Buy link: <a target="_blank" href="http://www.amazon.com/Sabine-ebook/dp/B004Q7CQFA?ie=UTF8&tag=thsq-20&link_code=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969">Sabine</a><img src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=thsq-20&l=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969&o=1&a=B004Q7CQFA" width="1" height="1" border="0" alt="" style="border:none !important; margin:0px !important; padding: 0px !important" /><br />
<a href="http://moirarogers.com/">Author's Website</a><br />
<br />
Sabine and The Beast was a very enjoyable read. There is definitely a fairy tale feel, but updated and made sexier. The romance between Ciar and Sabine is very sweet. Right from the beginning, the reader knows they have a strong history and their commitment to each other and desire to be together forever is never in doubt. The story was very poignant as Ciar struggles not to forget the woman he loves and Sabine wonders if she has the strength to carry on if he does. Even her own mother forgot her and this last forgetting may be too much for her to bear. <br />
<br />
There is sex and it is hot, but it's always more tender and emotional which suited the story and the characters well. <br />
<br />
Speaking of characters, the reader isn't introduced to too many since this is a shorter story and it's dedicated to Sabine and Ciar and their plight, but the few that are met are very interesting. I loved the bit with the First Warlord and how gruff, but loyal and fair he is. The world is shown well and it's easy to feel that you're there and watching the drama and romance unfold. <br />
<br />
My one gripe with the story was that I personally felt Ciar didn't deal strongly enough with hs mother. I know she's his mom and all, but she showed no remorse when all was said and done. I mean, she could have been like, "Dude, I wanted my son to forget you, but I didn't realize EVERYONE would. That was a bit harsh and I'm kinda sorry about that." Instead, she was like, she's not noble, whatev, don't care. In that case, I think I would have sentenced her to three years living with the common people. Take that, snotty wench. But that's just me...<br />
<br />
We hear a lot about the lions in this one and so it's a good thing that the second book is featuring them. I'll be off to get that one next. <br />
<br />
All in all, a sweet, sexy and emotionally satisfying read that leaves you wanting to visit this world again.<br />
<br />
Final Grade: BThe Queen Bhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08085144266758113392noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3266179754027752613.post-10014366401637566392011-06-23T03:00:00.000-07:002011-06-23T03:00:01.994-07:00Quick and Dirty Review: Something Secret This Way Comes by Sierra Dean<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg17zok6X3mW0NoUHXzQZM9oeTPRCup9qKeD4ASg69aam2PJQuvFauhNZt23IRK42xNGPbSRqGYbookBEMqRpfE3cMbZWzcM-heJUpCZYWQKGewJ6z_cKJern0pD6jBISxjSoZJIe9m3HgN/s1600/secret.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="400" width="267" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg17zok6X3mW0NoUHXzQZM9oeTPRCup9qKeD4ASg69aam2PJQuvFauhNZt23IRK42xNGPbSRqGYbookBEMqRpfE3cMbZWzcM-heJUpCZYWQKGewJ6z_cKJern0pD6jBISxjSoZJIe9m3HgN/s400/secret.jpg" /></a></div><br />
<i>Some secrets are dangerous. This Secret is deadly.<br />
<br />
Secret McQueen, Book 1<br />
<br />
For Secret McQueen, her life feels like the punch line for a terrible joke. Abandoned at birth by her werewolf mother, hired as a teen by the vampire council of New York City to kill rogues, Secret is a part of both worlds, but belongs to neither. At twenty-two, she has carved out as close to a normal life as a bounty hunter can.<br />
<br />
When an enemy from her past returns with her death on his mind, she is forced to call on every ounce of her mixed heritage to save herself—and everyone else in the city she calls home. As if the fate of the world wasn’t enough to deal with, there’s Lucas Rain, King of the East Coast werewolves, who seems to believe he and Secret are fated to be together. Too bad Secret also feels a connection with Desmond, Lucas’s second-in-command…<br />
<br />
Warning: This book contains a sarcastic, kick-ass bounty hunter; a metaphysical love triangle with two sexy werewolves; a demanding vampire council; and a spicy seasoning of sex and violence.</i><br />
<br />
<a target="_blank" href="http://www.amazon.com/Something-Secret-This-Comes-ebook/dp/B004QQ3MGI?ie=UTF8&tag=thsq-20&link_code=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969">Something Secret This Way Comes</a><img src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=thsq-20&l=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969&o=1&a=B004QQ3MGI" width="1" height="1" border="0" alt="" style="border:none !important; margin:0px !important; padding: 0px !important" /><br />
<a href="http://www.sierradean.com/">Author's Website</a><br />
<br />
This book didn't make sense to me. The protag is supposed to be tough and smart and feared and independent. Then she meets this random stranger who's all, "We're meant to be" and she just kinda goes with it. She doesn't really question things she should and nothing gets explained to her very well. I absolutely did not feel the romance between her and Lucas and Desmond. Of the two, I thought she had a better emotional connection with Lucas, which was tenuous at best, and yet the only sex she ever had was with Desmond. <br />
Here she is contemplating a life with one or both of these men and she never finds out if she can actually have both or if she has to choose, she lets them parade a well guarded secret out in public which made no sense, she won't tell them what she really is which kind of negated the whole possible true love angle for me and she became utterly weak around them. Also, when she was with one, she kinda forgot all her gooey feelings for the other. <br />
The vampire part was honestly the most interesting and it was made so very obvious that she'll have at least one love interest from that quarter which would be welcome for me if she could even handle the love interests she has now. <br />
The story was an interesting premise and it has a lot of potential for future stories to grow on, but I felt like the author tried to jam too much in to too short of a space and so everything suffered. The plot, the action, the romance, the character development. <br />
I would read more from this author and I'm sure I'll try the next one in the series, but if the romance and characters don't get explored better in the next, I won't be reading any more in this particular series.<br />
<br />
Final Grade: DThe Queen Bhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08085144266758113392noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3266179754027752613.post-74140793986601097802011-06-22T03:00:00.000-07:002011-07-06T11:08:03.196-07:00Early Review of Grave Dance by Kalayna Price (Alex Craft #2) and a giveaway!!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiIZOKY22gmXSRF9hEJNmMLzrEebqI9qY26Y-f8WWq7jERXtf0bcAGR1epNBx9RixF4Ni8eQVfUCNt_ONvS-SjBnoqGsBp3VIDE-gLmSDQjrHeGIGtTKfcKDcV5cHkQejqXUEEJu9lBA-j/s1600/grave+dance.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="400" width="248" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiIZOKY22gmXSRF9hEJNmMLzrEebqI9qY26Y-f8WWq7jERXtf0bcAGR1epNBx9RixF4Ni8eQVfUCNt_ONvS-SjBnoqGsBp3VIDE-gLmSDQjrHeGIGtTKfcKDcV5cHkQejqXUEEJu9lBA-j/s400/grave+dance.jpg" /></a></div><br />
<i>After a month of down time, Grave Witch Alex Craft is ready to get back to solving murders by raising the dead. With her love life in turmoil, Alex is eager for the distractions of work. But when her new case forces her to overuse her magic, it might be the last mystery the Grave Witch ever gets to solve...</i><br />
<br />
Buy links<br />
<a href="http://www.bookdepository.com/Grave-Dance-Kalayna-Price/9780451464095">book depository</a><br />
<a href="http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/grave-dance-kalayna-price/1031406339?ean=9780451464095&itm=1&usri=grave%2bdance">barnes and noble</a><br />
<a target="_blank" href="http://www.amazon.com/Grave-Dance-Alex-Craft-Novel/dp/0451464095?ie=UTF8&tag=thsq-20&link_code=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969">Grave Dance: An Alex Craft Novel</a><img src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=thsq-20&l=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969&o=1&a=0451464095" width="1" height="1" border="0" alt="" style="border:none !important; margin:0px !important; padding: 0px !important" /><br />
<a href="http://kalaynaprice.com/">Author's Website</a><br />
<br />
<b>Contest is now closed.</b><br />
<br />
I fell in love with this author and this series with the first book, Grave Witch, and I've been anxious to jump back into this world in the second book, Grave Dance. You can check out my review for Grave Witch right <a href="http://royallybitchy.blogspot.com/2010/10/arc-review-grave-witch-by-kalayna-price.html">here</a>. So, you may well imagine my delight when my copy arrived. There may or may not have been a happy dance. My motto: If it doesn't show up on YouTube, it didn't actually happen. <br />
<br />
In Grave Dance, Alex is facing a new threat as well as still dealing with the repercussions of the events that took place in Grave Witch. I like that this book, while standing alone in plot, builds very well on the story arc that was introduced in the first book. There's a great feeling of continuity and it is very easy to sink back into the world and to reconnect with the characters. Now we find that Alex is dealing with her growing fey powers and also weaknesses that are affecting her life. Business has taken off since the events in Grave Witch and the enigmatic Death has stepped up the heat in their flirtatious relationship. However, one person is noticeably absent: Falin, the man that shoved his way into her life and made her care and then disappeared without so much as a word or warning. <br />
<br />
I love that Alex has no problem loving her friends, but when it comes to romantic relationships, she's like a fish out of water. She doesn't want to care for Falin and she knows that a real relationship with Death, a soul collector, is less than realistic, but these two dynamic and secretive men have gotten under her skin and they have no intention of stepping aside and making it easy for her. <br />
<br />
I like Death. I love the parts with him and the other soul collectors and I'm enjoying what we've been slowly learning about them. Having said that, for me it's Falin all the way. He's such a fascinating mix of strong and dangerous alpha male and yet he's vulnerable and not ashamed or afraid to submit to a powerful female. He's so tough and dominant in his interactions with other people, but from very early on in the first book he has worn his heart on his sleeve when it comes to Alex. The explanation for his absence as well as the complications from his divided loyalties really brings a great and realistic conflict to the story. I know there's no easy fix, but I couldn't help rooting for Falin and Alex to find a way.<br />
<br />
I have to confess that I'm not a huge fan of the fey and I usually don't enjoy stories that take place in whole or part in faery, with a few notable exceptions. This series is one of those exceptions. I really enjoy the fey in this world and the glimpses of faery that we get are fascinating and well developed. The author conveys well the fact that faery is both beautiful and deadly and filled with a magic all its own. I was very happy that we get to see more of it in Grave Dance and I can't wait to see what happens with the discoveries that Alex made there.<br />
<br />
We meet some new characters in this installment and my mind is already abuzz with where these introductions will lead in later books, but I also enjoyed the interactions with already established characters. I enjoy Alex's relationship with her three best friends and it was great (and terrible) to see how the events that take place in her life really affect the lives of those closest to her. Something that made me very happy was seeing Alex's dad again. I can't wait to learn more about this man and see what's really going on with him. He's a mystery, wrapped in an enigma, wrapped in bacon...or well, he's fun to read about and I want to know all his secrets. <br />
<br />
In the end, I think Grave Dance is a solid entry that continues the development of the story and characters very nicely. I didn't love it as madly as I did Grave Witch, but the truth is I am so very in love with this series because of the wonderful world building and fabulous characters that I'm hooked and there's no turning back for me.<br />
<br />
<b>Final Grade: A</b><br />
<br />
Now, because I'm awesome and because I enjoy these books so much, I want to share the love with all of you. Therefore, I am giving away a copy of both Grave Witch and Grave Dance to one lucky winner. I am shipping out of Book Depository so this giveaway will be international as long as you are in a country that they ship to. You can check for your country <a href="http://www.bookdepository.com/help/topic/HelpId/27/Countries-we-ship-to#helpContent">here</a>.<br />
<br />
All you have to do is leave a comment on this post with your email addy to enter. Contest will run from now until July 5, 2011 at 11:59 pm PST. I will announce the winner on the blog and I will contact him/her by email. If I do not hear back from the winner by Friday, July 8, I will redraw for a new winner. <br />
<br />
Thanks for stopping by and good luck!!The Queen Bhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08085144266758113392noreply@blogger.com29tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3266179754027752613.post-10426784812920580022011-06-21T04:00:00.000-07:002011-06-29T01:44:55.924-07:00Review and Giveaway: Kindling the Moon by Jenn Bennett (Arcadia Bell #1)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-L2ow0JLPRLv8Xza6ET0ZllHTjJUvyejtw-gnnf_4KOb88RG0Oz0VJM9B796FerIUWXhNjsaU7rX5vVCGd7Jg8ZH8oE3GisAVDk2L5Orv6eTVFbz3UGM0VuNUwz32Ef2QSjzT7ChoELMm/s1600/kindling+the+moon.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="400" width="249" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-L2ow0JLPRLv8Xza6ET0ZllHTjJUvyejtw-gnnf_4KOb88RG0Oz0VJM9B796FerIUWXhNjsaU7rX5vVCGd7Jg8ZH8oE3GisAVDk2L5Orv6eTVFbz3UGM0VuNUwz32Ef2QSjzT7ChoELMm/s400/kindling+the+moon.JPG" /></a></div><i>Being the spawn of two infamous occultists (and alleged murderers) isn’t easy, but freewheeling magician Arcadia “Cady” Bell knows how to make the best of a crummy situation. After hiding out for seven years, she’s carved an incognito niche for herself slinging drinks at the demon-friendly Tambuku Tiki Lounge.<br />
<br />
But she receives an ultimatum when unexpected surveillance footage of her notorious parents surfaces: either prove their innocence or surrender herself. Unfortunately, the only witness to the crimes was an elusive Æthyric demon, and Cady has no idea how to find it. She teams up with Lon Butler, an enigmatic demonologist with a special talent for sexual spells and an arcane library of priceless stolen grimoires. Their research soon escalates into a storm of conflict involving missing police evidence, the decadent Hellfire Club, a ruthless bounty hunter, and a powerful occult society that operates way outside the law. If Cady can’t clear her family name soon, she’ll be forced to sacrifice her own life . . . and no amount of running will save her this time.</i><br />
<br />
Note: I received a copy from the author for review<br />
<br />
Pub Date: June 28, 2011<br />
Publisher: Pocket Books/Simon $ Schuster <br />
Format: Available as e-book as well as paperback <br />
<br />
Buy links<br />
Amazon: <a target="_blank" href="http://www.amazon.com/Kindling-Moon-Arcadia-Bell-Novel/dp/1451620527?ie=UTF8&tag=thsq-20&link_code=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969">Kindling the Moon: An Arcadia Bell Novel</a><img src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=thsq-20&l=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969&o=1&a=1451620527" width="1" height="1" border="0" alt="" style="border:none !important; margin:0px !important; padding: 0px !important" /><br />
<a href="http://www.bookdepository.com/Kindling-Moon-Jenn-Bennett/9781451620528">book depository</a><br />
<a href="http://www.jennbennett.net/">Author's Website</a><br />
<br />
<b><i>Edited to add: Contest is now closed and winner notified.</i></b><br />
<br />
Kindling the Moon is a wonderful debut novel by author Jenn Bennett. I really enjoyed her take on demons and magicians and the mythos of the world she has created. The characters were fascinating and dynamic and very relatable considering that they tend to be anything but ordinary humans. We have a good mix of mystery, action, love, lust, betrayal and family dynamics to keep the reader turning the pages to see what happens next.<br />
<br />
Arcadia is a good protagonist. She's powerful, smart, sassy and honest with herself about her strengths and weaknesses and she owns when she screws up. She tries to be a good person and has compassion for others, but she's also not afraid to do what has to be done to survive and to protect the people she cares about. I like that in a main character. I don't enjoy wishy-washy characters and their forced angst because you know that in most cases, it's just so the reader doesn't feel that the MC is a sociopath. For me, if you show just cause and you're billing the character as tough and a badass, I don't need a bunch of faux angst and rehashing things while we cruise the guilt trip highway. I'm good, thanks. <br />
<br />
I really enjoyed the supporting cast of characters as well. Father Carrow was one of my faves. In my opinion, he's a great example of a subtly layered character that doesn't fit in a box and I give the author props for not trying to put him in one. All the characters had layers and depth. They all had strengths and weaknesses and flaws and so they were very intriguing to read about. At one point I wanted to smack Lon, our enigmatic love interest and father to the exuberant and lovable Jupe, but I had to give the author and Lon credit because it was worked out promptly in the next chapter where he called himself on his crap and apologized. I liked that it didn't drag into "the thing that keeps them apart until the next book" scenario. It made it more believable. Parents aren't always rational when it comes to their kids' safety and if they already blame themselves for past parental mistakes, they are likely to lash out, but at least he didn't paint himself firmly into unreasonable asshole corner by not being able to admit that he was being a bit hypocritical. I had to learn to go with the flow in this story because the characters would do something that irritated me and I was so used to those types of things not being addressed in other books/series that I wasn't expecting it to happen here. Well, for the most part I was wrong. I really enjoyed that a lot of questions that popped in my head were admitted to and possibly answered by the characters as well.<br />
<br />
My one honest issue with this story was that for a generally smart cookie, Arcadia (or Cady) came off as almost deliberately obtuse about a few of the most obvious things in the book. If you follow my reviews at all, you'll know that that is a big pet peeve of mine. There was one part where something that I felt Cady should obviously be concerned about or at least attempt to research she was completely blase about and naturally that came back to bite her in a big way. Instances of this popped up here and there in the story, but it wasn't enough to make me want to stop reading and the characters were likable enough that I wanted to see where the story led them.<br />
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Something else that I enjoyed about Ms. Bennett's writing style is her descriptions of characters and setting. I often times have a hard time visualizing these things, but the descriptions were so concise and clear that I had absolutely no trouble getting great mental images that really enhanced the reading experience for me.<br />
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I recommend this book to fans of UF and even Paranormal Romance. A fun, fast and highly entertaining read that left me more than willing to take another ride with Arcadia in whatever new adventure awaits her.<br />
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<b>Final Grade: B+</b><br />
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Now, thanks to the very gracious author I am able to offer up one signed copy of Kindling the Moon for one lucky winner. Contest is only open to the Continental United States and is going to be open until Tuesday, June 28 at 11:59 pm PST. All you have to do to enter is leave a comment on this post. That's it!<br />
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Thanks for reading and good luck!<br />
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ETA: I will announce the winner here on the blog on June 29. If I don't hear from the winner by July 2, I will redraw for a new winner.The Queen Bhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08085144266758113392noreply@blogger.com19tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3266179754027752613.post-11651063849399789052011-06-20T12:23:00.000-07:002011-06-20T12:23:10.881-07:00Review: Visions of Magic by Regan Hastings<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDR0nmjYFeq8xX8nChj1QaOWxWEWE7JWW46eFFp3O-waXzwRewQcyz-SwWrplB9UuMvV_clFdtZswiENSbNkzU1brH5Ce_ig_t4Wn6sv2jvNbi-9Sju2s5X829JyagTaytIB6XOtyrVrXq/s1600/vom.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="400" width="247" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDR0nmjYFeq8xX8nChj1QaOWxWEWE7JWW46eFFp3O-waXzwRewQcyz-SwWrplB9UuMvV_clFdtZswiENSbNkzU1brH5Ce_ig_t4Wn6sv2jvNbi-9Sju2s5X829JyagTaytIB6XOtyrVrXq/s400/vom.jpg" /></a></div><br />
<i>In the ten years since magic has reemerged in the world, witches have become feared and hunted. For weeks Shea Jameson has been haunted by visions of fire. When she unintentionally performs a spell in public, she becomes one of the hunted. Her only hope is Torin, a dangerously sensual man who claims to be her eternal mate.</i><br />
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So, I'm going to borrow a bit from my goodreads review of this one and say this: The premise of the book could be interesting. Maybe. The writing was not good. It certainly wasn't the worst writing I've ever read, but it was by no means the best. It was slightly below average. The whole book was slightly below average. It never pissed me off enough to want to throw it across the room, it never incited any extreme emotion in me at all, it was just...meh. The author tried so hard to be mysterious, but it just turned into annoying and unnecessary vagueness that caused very predictable conflict and eye rolling moments. Also, there were holes in the story that I don't remember being explained well enough.<br />
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I enjoyed the idea of the romance: this guy who has stood by his woman for generations and countless incarnations. He takes the whole "for better or worse" thing to a new level. He loves her sweet and sassy and he loves her bitchy, cruel and power hungry. That's sweet and should have hit all my turn on buttons, but while I was able to appreciate it, it never really did much for me. <br />
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I liked the concept of women of power banding together to right their own wrongs and this brotherhood of powerful men that have to stick together not just to protect their women but because to deal with these chicks the men need a whole emotional support system. Ha! Awesome.<br />
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Honestly, Visions of Magic had promise, and while it was at times enjoyable, it was ultimately very forgettable. <br />
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Final Grade: D+The Queen Bhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08085144266758113392noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3266179754027752613.post-55277412637715608762011-06-16T14:47:00.000-07:002011-06-16T14:47:33.497-07:00Review: Negligee Behavior by Shelli Stevens<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiK09S_xyT_DFEGxm_0-REF3aKkG-ZUfw3yRMtUSEpHllInsIzwThmxlnbAXZaGjNnZARhyphenhyphenuszyFVYUCBjaZ8tyx4yZgosOVVwXPXxemNDSREr9dUe82V5-wY6D0Vv2rgMk2ev4D2mWaigR/s1600/ntake2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="400" width="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiK09S_xyT_DFEGxm_0-REF3aKkG-ZUfw3yRMtUSEpHllInsIzwThmxlnbAXZaGjNnZARhyphenhyphenuszyFVYUCBjaZ8tyx4yZgosOVVwXPXxemNDSREr9dUe82V5-wY6D0Vv2rgMk2ev4D2mWaigR/s400/ntake2.jpg" /></a></div><br />
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<i>When lingerie heiress Brandy Summer gets cold feet and runs out on her Vegas wedding, she has nowhere to turnso she hijacks a hunky biker waiting for a red light and begs him for help. What she doesn’ t know is that her instincts are right: the groom has a hidden agenda. He needs her money to pay off his gambling debts and she’ s his ticket to the good life.<br />
Marco Vargas isn’ t sure what he’ s getting himself into when he rescues Brandy, but figures he’ ll do the chivalrous thing. He offers her a job in his bar and the chance to sort out her feelings. But it seems that keeping Brandy hidden is easier than keeping his hands off herand what will happen when Brandy discovers that Marco has secrets of his own?</i><br />
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<br />
Note: I received a copy for review from Netgalley<br />
Buy link: <a target="_blank" href="http://www.amazon.com/Negligee-Behavior-ebook/dp/B004T4LQE2?ie=UTF8&tag=thsq-20&link_code=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969">Negligee Behavior</a><img src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=thsq-20&l=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969&o=1&a=B004T4LQE2" width="1" height="1" border="0" alt="" style="border:none !important; margin:0px !important; padding: 0px !important" /><br />
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Negligee Behavior was a disappointing read for me. There were awesome supporting characters so I know the author is capable of writing nonirritating players. Unfortunately, I found the lead pair to be very cliched and very often aggravating. However, when they (especially the heroine) were not being ridiculous, the story was an entertaining one.<br />
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Our heroine, Brandy, is such a goody girl that it drove me kinda crazy at times, especially since she made a lot of judgments about others. As the story progress, though, and she was in the company of a wider range of personalities, she began to relax and become more enjoyable. <br />
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The hero, Marco, was sexy and hot, but his "dark secret" was a bit lame. He was a very nice character most of the time, but occasionally he would make absolutely ridiculous assumptions that had me rolling my eyes. I really did enjoy watching Brandy push his buttons, though. It was one of the most entertaining parts of the book.<br />
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The sexual tension was combustible and the love scenes were steamy and the ending was satisfying. Overall, I have to say my favorite characters were Sebastian and Val and not the lead pair. Brandy's parents were pretty cool, too. I wish my mom was that fun and supportive. Ha!<br />
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Final Grade: C-The Queen Bhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08085144266758113392noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3266179754027752613.post-57610974562889686702011-06-14T01:23:00.000-07:002011-06-14T01:23:41.598-07:00Review: The Rake and The Recluse by Jenn LeBlanc<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQxgp6OPkjGcNBHaUGY8jP46sZcCwAS982CcsbfCIGW22LNkI6mQejv0bIlLmSZ8xtiBzuVj_smgDcQYjAdwoKALFfbEuvV6vg9H67G2CjOyEmLLoEVf8gR0l4PtoGIhlvlX2lH0wavv2B/s1600/rake+and+recluse.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="400" width="267" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjQxgp6OPkjGcNBHaUGY8jP46sZcCwAS982CcsbfCIGW22LNkI6mQejv0bIlLmSZ8xtiBzuVj_smgDcQYjAdwoKALFfbEuvV6vg9H67G2CjOyEmLLoEVf8gR0l4PtoGIhlvlX2lH0wavv2B/s400/rake+and+recluse.jpg" /></a></div><br />
<i>Francine Larrabee woke up on the wrong side of the century. She was fairly certain she went to sleep in her own comfy bed, but she doesn’t quite seem to be there now. Only adding to her problems is that she has no voice, is constantly being glowered at by a large, stunning man who is obsessed with propriety, and she is apparently betrothed to another horrid little man, determined to ruin her, and any other girls that get in his way. <br />
How does she find herself in the past, when she couldn’t even find herself in her present? How does a self sufficient businesswoman survive in a time when women were still considered property for the whole of their lives and what is she going to do with this man who draws her to him so fiercely.</i><br />
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Note: I received a copy from the author for review.<br />
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Buy links:<br />
Available as Nookbook from <a href="http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/the-rake-and-the-recluse-jenn-leblanc/1029512142?ean=9780981672038&itm=1&usri=the%2brake%2band%2bthe%2brecluse">Barnes and Noble</a><br />
<a target="_blank" href="http://www.amazon.com/Rake-Recluse-Jenn-LeBlanc/dp/0981672051?ie=UTF8&tag=thsq-20&link_code=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969">The Rake and the Recluse</a><img src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=thsq-20&l=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969&o=1&a=0981672051" width="1" height="1" border="0" alt="" style="border:none !important; margin:0px !important; padding: 0px !important" /><br />
<a target="_blank" href="http://www.amazon.com/Rake-Recluse-ebook/dp/B004KABASW?ie=UTF8&tag=thsq-20&link_code=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969">The Rake and the Recluse</a><img src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=thsq-20&l=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969&o=1&a=B004KABASW" width="1" height="1" border="0" alt="" style="border:none !important; margin:0px !important; padding: 0px !important" /><br />
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<a href="http://jennleblanc.com/">Author's Website</a><br />
<a href="http://twitter.com/jennleblanc">Author's twitter</a><br />
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The Rake and the Recluse was a bit of a different experience for me because I've never read an illustrated romance before. I found that because of Ms. LeBlanc's skill at photography that I actually really enjoyed it.<br />
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The story itself is a time travel: modern woman lands in the 1800s plot. So, it's a contemporary woman stuck in a historical romance. I do have to give the author credit for coming up with a more unique way to explain how the heroine, Francine, ends up in the past, but it also led to other inevitable questions and concerns that were better off shoved to the back of my mind, otherwise I wasn't going to enjoy the story.<br />
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I will say that I was a bit surprised by the length of the book. It's a good solid story with lovely pictures, but I admit that it felt as if it could have still been a good story and been a bit shorter. For me, a romance really needs a reason to be that long.<br />
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As far as the characters go, I really vacillated in my feelings for Francine. I get that she had damage from being an orphan and obviously waking up in an entirely different time would freak anyone out, but she's supposed to be this modern woman and she seemed to only have two gears, meek and mild and clingy for fear of being tossed on her rump or a shrieking and inappropriately unreasonable hoyden in the name of being an independent female. It grated a bit. And quite honestly, the only reason she won any measure of independence was because her doting husband and his equally doting brother allowed her to be eccentric. This is not feminism, it's lucking out with not having complete assholes as family. However, I did enjoy her interaction with the characters around her and when she wasn't being ridiculous, she was actually quite enjoyable.<br />
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Now our hero, Gideon, was delightful. He started off so starched and stuffy and damaged and reserved, but once he gave over to love, he held nothing back. He seemed to love as fearlessly as any warrior fights a battle. His interactions with his little brother were just fabulous to read. I loved them both. They may bicker and not see eye to eye but they are always a united front against the world and they always have each other's best interests at heart. It was so much fun to watch Gideon be felled as well as healed and strengthened by love. He really came alive right before my eyes. His brother's story is supposed to be next and it looks very intriguing. It would be so much fun to watch that silver tongued devil succumb to the power of love and fidelity. Nothing like a reformed rake...<br />
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Overall this was an entertaining read filled with vibrant characters and a sweet romance. The photos are lovely and suit the story very well. I could tell that a lot of thought and work went into the making of this finished product.<br />
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This book is available as an e-book or as a physical book. Buy links for both are provided at the beginning of the post.<br />
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Final Grade: C+The Queen Bhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08085144266758113392noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3266179754027752613.post-20090560870327626722011-06-13T03:00:00.000-07:002011-06-13T03:00:10.305-07:00Quick and Dirty Review: Shimmerlight by Jill Myles<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivkOuLrqcbm2FWC3Sf75G2PQjQZXQKaoqzN8U7fX6-bXL12eo8iWK4UTGb2T5W5guFa_HoWtscPRnZAzRl0xfW6dLo_wDbkzZ7dTMZ8g4IGae0GibcXXWjL6BH70lEILl63NeEEEzTubOG/s1600/shimmerlightpic.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="400" width="238" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEivkOuLrqcbm2FWC3Sf75G2PQjQZXQKaoqzN8U7fX6-bXL12eo8iWK4UTGb2T5W5guFa_HoWtscPRnZAzRl0xfW6dLo_wDbkzZ7dTMZ8g4IGae0GibcXXWjL6BH70lEILl63NeEEEzTubOG/s400/shimmerlightpic.jpg" /></a></div><br />
<i>Chloe Sorenson's just started a brand new job at Ms. Muffet's art gallery. However, no one told her that the latest auction piece - a sculpture of a handsome Roman soldier - comes to life. Think it's hard to explain to your boss why you're fondling a statue? Try explaining to the statue why you're holding his, uh, fig leaf. Chloe never thought that touching the statue would turn him into a sexy, aroused man, but she's not saying no to this delicious Roman soldier. The curse requires that she touch him at all times? Such a hardship...<br />
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But there's a problem in their lust-fueled relationship; she's falling dangerously in love with a guy that cursed to be hard as a rock - literally - unless she can somehow free him. And the statue of Titus just went up for auction. If she doesn't do something, he's going to be out of her life and trapped for all eternity...<br />
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This novella (16,000 words - about 70 pages) contains explicit scenes, including some backdoor play.</i><br />
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Buy link<br />
<a target="_blank" href="http://www.amazon.com/Shimmerlight-Erotic-Travel-Romance-ebook/dp/B0054E6V3W?ie=UTF8&tag=thsq-20&link_code=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969">Shimmerlight (An Erotic Time Travel Romance)</a><img src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=thsq-20&l=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969&o=1&a=B0054E6V3W" width="1" height="1" border="0" alt="" style="border:none !important; margin:0px !important; padding: 0px !important" /><br />
<a href="http://jillmyles.com/">Author's Website</a><br />
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Shimmerlight is a short erotic story that is sweet and sexy. We have our heroine Chloe who is a young widow that is just finished with school and entering the workforce. This is her first real job in her chosen career and she's very nervous about doing a good job and pleasing her employer, Ms. Muffet (yes, that's her name). She's lonely and in need of some TLC.<br />
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Enter the hero, Titus. He, too, is lonely and in need of TLC. He's been trapped as a statue for centuries and for a virile young warrior, that's a tough punishment. The two of them come together well. They bring new life and joy to each other in a very sexy and fun way. The hitch in the happy proceedings is that Titus' statue self is going to be sold soon and they have little hope of being able to free him in time. How can these two star-crossed lovers find their Happily Ever After?<br />
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This is a very short and fast read. It has lots of sex for the length (ha!) and is able to pack in emotion and a plot at the same time, which is no easy feat in a short story, in my humble opinion. <br />
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Final Grade: B-The Queen Bhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08085144266758113392noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3266179754027752613.post-38951409348403608722011-06-09T11:01:00.000-07:002011-06-09T11:01:09.649-07:00Wherein Life is MessySo, I had some great content (or at least in my own my mind it seemed great) planned for this week, but then BAM! family emergency strikes. Le sigh. Everyone is ok, but here it is Thursday already and I feel like it should be Tuesday and I'm so behind, I think I'm backwards, and I'm still dealing with the family fall out. Good times. <br />
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I am planning (knock on wood, cross fingers, whatever) on resuming my posting on Monday. If I can, I'll try to pop in with something short and sweet before then, but no promises.<br />
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I apologize for the delay and hope to catch y'all next week.<br />
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Hope you all are having a much less drama filled week than mine. :PThe Queen Bhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08085144266758113392noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3266179754027752613.post-60487463967790399062011-06-03T03:00:00.000-07:002011-06-03T03:00:11.454-07:00The Restorer (Graveyard Queen #1) by Amanda Stevens<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMSe1RMU-iG93zuLAkBpZnILHTR2dU1cW4zRSnqvLSxaJkWIaUKriQ_TsIRkN5hWEnM_dJdWF-nnc8SPcz9_MwZn5P6WaaDzLNwFzngkWcLVBXs1PxNSSH2LpXVKjx6wY6qnLqzCzTf5rJ/s1600/restorer.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="400" width="249" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgMSe1RMU-iG93zuLAkBpZnILHTR2dU1cW4zRSnqvLSxaJkWIaUKriQ_TsIRkN5hWEnM_dJdWF-nnc8SPcz9_MwZn5P6WaaDzLNwFzngkWcLVBXs1PxNSSH2LpXVKjx6wY6qnLqzCzTf5rJ/s400/restorer.JPG" /></a></div><br />
<i>My name is Amelia Gray. I’m a cemetery restorer who sees ghosts. In order to protect myself from the parasitic nature of the dead, I’ve always held fast to the rules passed down from my father. But now a haunted police detective has entered my world and everything is changing, including the rules that have always kept me safe.<br />
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It started with the discovery of a young woman’s brutalized body in an old Charleston graveyard I’ve been hired to restore. The clues to the killer—and to his other victims— lie in the headstone symbolism that only I can interpret. Devlin needs my help, but his ghosts shadow his every move, feeding off his warmth, sustaining their presence with his energy. To warn him would be to invite them into my life. I’ve vowed to keep my distance, but the pull of his magnetism grows ever stronger even as the symbols lead me closer to the killer and to the gossamer veil that separates this world from the next.</i><br />
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Disclaimer: I received a copy for review from Netgalley<br />
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Genre: Paranormal Romance, Mystery<br />
Pub Date: 4/19/11<br />
Buy link: <a target="_blank" href="http://www.amazon.com/Restorer-Graveyard-Queen-Amanda-Stevens/dp/077832981X?ie=UTF8&tag=thsq-20&link_code=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969">The Restorer (Graveyard Queen)</a><img src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=thsq-20&l=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969&o=1&a=077832981X" width="1" height="1" border="0" alt="" style="border:none !important; margin:0px !important; padding: 0px !important" /><br />
<a href="http://amandastevens.com/">Author's Website</a><br />
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The Restorer took me by surprise. This was a much darker, sexier and sinister read than I had been expecting. At first I had some trouble with the mythos of this world. I didn't completely understand why things were the way they were, but as the story unfolded it became a bit clearer. Quite honestly, the dark, eerie and sexy quality of the story put me into a place where I didn't really care if it all made sense or it all my questions were answered. It was like a warm, sultry Southern night where you wake the next morning and wonder if it was all dreams or....if it was real and you're not sure which answer you'd prefer.<br />
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There was so much going on in this story, so many undercurrents. We had Devlin and his ghosts (both real and emotional) and we had the mystery surrounding him, we had the mystery of the murders and several characters that may or may not be tied to it, then we have the mystery of the supernatural and what is going on with that world and ours and why the rules that Amelia have lived by for so long no longer seem to be enough to protect her. Amelia's family seems to have their own secrets as well and Amelia needs to know the truth. It was like she was wading through a world of dreams and nightmares of lies and half-truths and I was hooked wanting to know just what was going on. In some ways this story could seem convoluted and confusing, but it was written well enough and the threads were all woven together to make it a cohesive and rather fascinating story.<br />
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The Restorer really didn't read like a romance to me, in that there was very little romantic interaction between Devlin and Amelia, but the interaction they did have was so full of tension and yearning that mixed with an all around intriguing story, I was hooked. The ending left me on pins and needles to find out what is going to happen next. I can't wait to revisit this world and these characters and discover all of their secrets.<br />
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Final Grade: B+The Queen Bhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08085144266758113392noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3266179754027752613.post-39766297970562964932011-06-02T00:49:00.000-07:002011-06-02T00:49:24.951-07:00Review: Dragon Bound by Thea Harrison<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-mrMXTssGa1wiGWayvPSjUJYDOE3zb3rApL_NzlGMVXt0-EJpEKzm-hawYTkat8XeybqAvK8McHeEQTNFL5M74-dZumttwHR0elVca3SyCbnXWNiDxiWS8CY5ooYZT-QKcQ2ObI46twe-/s1600/dragon+bound.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left:1em; margin-right:1em"><img border="0" height="400" width="248" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-mrMXTssGa1wiGWayvPSjUJYDOE3zb3rApL_NzlGMVXt0-EJpEKzm-hawYTkat8XeybqAvK8McHeEQTNFL5M74-dZumttwHR0elVca3SyCbnXWNiDxiWS8CY5ooYZT-QKcQ2ObI46twe-/s400/dragon+bound.JPG" /></a></div><br />
<i>Half-human and half-wyr, Pia Giovanni spent her life keeping a low profile among the wyrkind and avoiding the continuing conflict between them and their dark Fae enemies. But after being blackmailed into stealing a coin from the hoard of a dragon, Pia finds herself targeted by one of the most powerful-and passionate-of the Elder races.</i><br />
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<b>Genre: Paranormal Romance<br />
Publisher: Penguin Group (USA)<br />
Pub Date: May 2011</b><br />
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Buy links:<br />
<a target="_blank" href="http://www.amazon.com/Dragon-Bound-Novel-Elder-Races/dp/0425241505?ie=UTF8&tag=thsq-20&link_code=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969">Dragon Bound (A Novel of the Elder Races)</a><img src="http://www.assoc-amazon.com/e/ir?t=thsq-20&l=btl&camp=213689&creative=392969&o=1&a=0425241505" width="1" height="1" border="0" alt="" style="border:none !important; margin:0px !important; padding: 0px !important" /><br />
<a href="http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/dragon-bound-thea-harrison/1030416127?ean=9780425241509&itm=1&usri=thea%2bharrison">Barnes and Noble</a><br />
<a href="http://www.bookdepository.com/Dragon-Bound-Thea-Harrison/9780425241509">book depository</a><br />
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Dragon Bound is a great start to a new series by Thea Harrison, whom you can find on twitter <a href="http://twitter.com/TheaHarrison">here</a>. She's loads of fun and really nice which doubles my fangirl love.<br />
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Dragon Bound was a really fun read. The world is so well established that I had no trouble picturing it and all its inhabitants. The story was easy to follow and the characters were very likable.<br />
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Dragos is a typical alpha male in a lot of ways. What I did love is that he is unapologetic about it. He tries to compromise a bit, in deference to Pia's feelings and to show her that her thoughts and feelings do matter, but he also admits that his instincts are strong and he can only bend so far. That was nice. I like strong characters that stay strong. Yes, I think there should be compromise and give as well as evolution of the character, but I hate to see a Protag completely neutered or assassinated to make them more palatable. It also doesn't hurt that Dragos is a hottie with all the fiery passion one would expect of an eons old dragon. I loved that Dragos was both raw and rough but also civilized and intelligent. Nice juxtaposition of the two.<br />
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Pia is also typical for a heroine in some ways. She's nurturing and giving and all about life and love and softness. However, what made her stand out and made me really like her is that she's all of those things, but she's also tough, logical, willing to do what she has to do to survive or protect the ones she loves and she's not bad in a fight. This made her a bit more layered and kept her from being so perfect that she was unrelatable. She stands up to Dragos and at times is frightened by him, but she knows when to stand firm and when to be cajoling and yielding. She's not manipulative, but she knows her guy and how to keep him in line and behaved. Which I would imagine would be a necessity if you were mated to a friggin' dragon. <br />
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Overall, there's action and romance, humor and great characters that I can't wait to read more about. Which is very convenient since there are several more books planned in the series. For excerpts of the second book, due out in August and titled Storm's Heart, and information about the series, please visit the author's website <a href="http://www.theaharrison.com/">here</a>.<br />
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Final Grade: BThe Queen Bhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/08085144266758113392noreply@blogger.com4