Shaymless Aymless's Thoughts on Books and Life

Hold Down the Fort at DIK Today

2010-05-10T00:01:00.000-04:00

Yes yes... Its true, I still live and breath. Life is still hectic and work is, well, work. Got a new kitty, but more on that later (promise)!

In the meanwhile....

I'm over at DIK blog. Come stop by and say howdy. ^_^

Thawing out... Almost

2010-03-07T18:41:00.002-05:00

Greeting from a mostly thawed out Shaymless Aymless. Yes, it actually got to be above freezing for a WHOLE week (during the day). And there was even some sunshine. Whee! That cold, crunchy white stuff is all gone. But still nippy outside.

All those crazy people from around here, kept commenting on how "nice" it was going to be this weekend. Granted it was better than it has been for months, but still the HIGH was 50-ish (10-ish for you metric folks)!!! Which in my book is a cold winter day in good old California. *sigh* So instead of snow covered cornfields we have barren, yucky brown wanna be cornfields.

Okay enough about the weather. Got to do the whole court thing for the ticket from January. Not a bad outcome. Got a deferral (basically pay a court fee and promise to be good) and now have to be good (no moving violation) for one whole year (only have 361 days to do, not that I'm counting or anything).

Other than that, life here is fairly boring. Just hanging inside (where its warm) doing some knitting and ready and laundry.

What's up with all of you?

I Eat, I Breathe and now I Blog!

2010-02-07T17:24:00.005-05:00

Sorry about the derth of blogs. So here the Reader's Digest version of my life since Mid-Sept and my arrival in glorious Bloominton, IN.

Started work in mid-September. Met a lot of people and some I still can't remember their name even though most people are required to wear name tags. My department is quietly rebelling and only our manager is wearing the name tag.
And very week more new hirers report to work . I can tell some big growing pains are starting to show up. Lots of people who don't know what to do and how to do whatever it is that they are supposed do to. Very must the "flow them in the pool and see if they can swim" going.

Still experience lots of culture shock.

No recycle bin at home! Don't these people know that resources are limited.
Fresh fruit just doesn't taste the same. No real flavor.
A lot of people haven't bought meat in the grocery store in year! They go out the kill it and keep it in their refrigerator. Without skinning it! *Shivers* I'm continuing with being a grocery store carnivore. Skin it and wrap it up in shrink wrap and I'll think about buying it.
There's a limit on squirrels. You can only kill and keep 8 squirrels a day. I don't even want one!
Ice on my car nearly every morning since mid October. *brrrrr*
Took up knitting since its an indoor activity and it so dam cold around that its wearable too.
Missing my book/blog friend! I keep saying I'll blog be then something else happens.
The adventure with the Indiana Highway patrol was exciting but I can't remember anything about due to migraine, migraine medication and Ambien. To keep the rest of the world safe, the Shaymless Aymless will no longer be taking Ambien. I apparently fall in the small catagory of people who sleep drive when on Ambien. Now I must find a new meds for the insomnia.
I've officially have gotten 3 people hooked on some of my favorites. So I'll have lots people gab about books and a support group 'gotta-have-that-book-now'.
I really miss warn sunlight. I think we had some sunlight was week and it was sooooo cold. Still below freezing.

Anyway.... I'm going to try to blog at lease once a week or so.

Also planning on going to RWA and hang out with some really cool bloggers. I still need to figure out rooming optiond.

Hanging Out with Anthea Lawson

2009-11-12T19:40:00.005-05:00

I've been a bad bad blogger! Sorry I "disappeared" for a bit. The whole moving and starting work thing is taking some adjusting. *sigh*

Anywho...

I'm hanging out with Anthea Lawson, the fabulous new romance writing team of All He Desires over at DIK. Come by for some drinks and a lovely chat with Anthea and Lawson!

Other things...

The sweater was successfully assembled (and wow it really looks like a sweater). Worn it to work (and got lots of compliments, dunno if it was that I warned them ahead of time or not). Anyway, pictures of said sweater below. (I had to borrow a camera as I don't own one... maybe I'll get one... someday after I get that e-reader... A girl has to have her priorities in place)

Next knitting project (now nearly completed): Some cute lacy fingerless gloves! And currently reading Eye of the World by the late Robert Jordan *still upset that he died before he finished the series!* (which a challenge when one is knitting at the same time, the cookbook stand not working so well... must find a better book holding system).

Will check in again soonish...

Oops forgot all about the book club (BAD Shaymless Aymless BAD)... Anyway... how about the discussion for The Madness of Lord Ian Mackenzie at the end of this month (since that'll give me time to actually read it *ducks*? And we'll get LustyReader's book in December!

Busy Busy Busy... Kinda

2009-10-26T21:15:00.004-04:00

Life continues in Indiana. It was "warm" all last week with of a high in the mid 60's (18-ish for you metric folks). That's NOT warm! *sigh* On the plus side, no ice on car ! On the down side, it rained for most of the week.

Haven't been online much or reading much (must read The Madness of Lord Ian Mackenzie *nervously checks calendar* *panics*). Instead I have been knitting and just completed my very first sweater, mostly - still need to assemble it. Pictures will be forthcoming once I actually assemble it. And as I have yet to figure out how to read (a bound book - e-books are easy since you can turn pages with a touch and don't have to keep them open, and now am seriously thinking about buying a e-reader since reading on the computer is a bit awkward) and knit at the same time, the reading hasn't been going well. And the TBR continues to grow!

Some review to be written... soon-ish... really...

A quick run down:

Meljean Brook's Demon Forged was excellent! (Can't believe what she did to poor Michael... wondering how CJ/KB will rescue him so that he can continue to "dust" their cabanas).
Nalini Singh's Blaze of Memory was fabulous. Nalini continues to please! Loved it. Of course I'll need to get an official copy when it get out on the 3rd of Nov. (still giggling over Rom and Jules's jealousy).
Anthea Lawson's All He Desires was good/okay (B-/C+ still trying to grade it). I'm thinking it was a mood thing since I read it after Demon Forged (which had the reading bar set really high and had me thinking of knife wielding, heart devouring heroines *sigh*). She's a new author with promise and her book will hit the stores in November (see here for an excerpt). Come by the Island next month (11-14) to chat with Anthea!

Now, back to my knitting... must make mittens for winter (which they tell me is just around the corner... I'm still making people laugh at my indignation about the weather). On the plus side knitting has made me some new friends at work. Now I'm teaching four people how to knit!

Life in Indiana

2009-10-16T18:37:00.005-04:00

It's been a while since I last posted. So here's an update for all of you (just in case you were wondering what in the heck's been going on in my ever so exciting (not!) life).

First there was the misery that is the flu. I think I was probably one of the first to get it in my neck of the woods. I'm so lucky!

*sigh*

So with the help of my good friend Cindy, I was able to get back on my feet after a week of bed rest (so not fun and I didn't even want to read any of my books!).

Now everyone at work is blaming me for the flu that is spreading like wildfire throughout the building. *sigh* Of course they cannot blame the swine flu on me as I didn't have that particular strain (at least I don't think I did but don't know of sure as I did not go to the doctors).

I discovered that there is a branch of my bank in Indiana (yay!) but it was over an hour away (boo!). I went and deposited by first paycheck and relocation money. Got home and checked the mail and wouldn't you know it there was another check (yay! Money in is always good) in it! *sigh* Now am trying to decide whether or not to open a bank account in one of the local banks so that I can cash checks and use the ATM (for free!).

Woke up early over the weekend and thought I should do the grocery shopping while I still had the energy for it (this flu really sucked). It was a nice brisk morning. I got into my car, started it and discovered that it wasn't dew on the car but ice!

ICE!!!!! In October!!!! *pout*

It so doesn't do that where I came from (at least not until December or January). This whole weather thing sucks. I am not looking forward to "real" winter. Of course everyone around has been getting a great laugh at my whole indignant attitude toward this phenomenon.

September 2009 Reads

2009-10-01T20:03:00.004-04:00

Did pretty well. Of course I bought most of this month as well. *sigh*

1. Storm Glass by Maria V. Snyder
2. Sea Glass by Maria V. Snyder
3. Poison Study by Maria V. Snyder
4. Magic Study by Maria V. Snyder
5. Fire Study by Maria V. Snyder
6. Moon Called by Patricia Briggs
7. Blood Bound by Patricia Briggs
8. Iron Kissed by Patricia Briggs
9. Alpha and Omega novella by Patricia Briggs
10. Blaze of Memory by Nalini Singh
11. Cry Wolf by Patricia Briggs
12. Hunting Ground by Patricia Briggs
13. Bone Crossed by Patricia Briggs
14. One Silent Night by Sherrilyn Kenyon
15. Dream Warrior by Sherrily Keynon

And I'll get around reviewing these...

soon-ish...

still have August reads to review. All this moving and unpacking and starting new job has made me choose between reading and reviewing...

one guess on which I choose ^_^

SARBC Book for October 2009:

2009-10-01T00:01:00.003-04:00

It's Sarai's (of What am I reading?) choice and she's chosen!

The Shaymless Aymless Romance Book Club book for October 2009 is:

Official Blurb for the author site:

The year is 1881. Meet the Mackenzie family--rich, powerful, dangerous, eccentric. A lady couldn't be seen with them without ruin. Rumors surround them--of tragic violence, of their mistresses, of their dark appetites, of scandals that set England and Scotland abuzz.

The youngest brother, Ian, known as the Mad Mackenzie, spent most of his young life in an asylum, and everyone agrees he is decidedly odd. He's also hard and handsome and has a penchant for Ming pottery and beautiful women.

Beth Ackerley, widow, has recently come into a fortune. She has decided that she wants no more drama in her life. She was raised in drama--an alcoholic father who drove them into the workhouse, a frail mother she had to nurse until her death, a fussy old lady she became constant companion to. No, she wants to take her money and find peace, to travel, to learn art, to sit back and fondly remember her brief but happy marriage to her late husband.

And then Ian Mackenzie decides he wants her.

Read excerpt here.

SARBC Discussion: Almost Heaven by Judith McNaught

2009-09-29T11:00:00.004-04:00

Welcome everyone to the Shaymless Aymless Romance Book Club discussion for September 2009.

Kati of Katidom selected Almost Heaven by Judith McNaught.

The Official Blurb:

ELIZABETH CAMERON
The Countess of Havenhurst possessed a rare gentleness and fierce courage to match her exquisite beauty. But her reputation is shattered when she is discovered in the arms of Ian Thornton, a notorious gambler and social outcast.

IAN THORNTON
A dangerously handsome man of secret wealth and mysterious lineage, his voyage to Elizabeth's heart is fraught with intrigue, scandal, and a venomous revenge.

Destined for each other, yet wary of each other's motives, Elizabeth and Ian engage in a dance of suspicion and passion that tests the very soul of their star-crossed love. As a twisting path of secrets takes them from London's drawing rooms to the mysterious Scottish Highlands, Elizabeth must learn the truth: is Ian merely a ruthless fortune hunter at heart?

Read excerpt here.

******************** DISCUSSION AHEAD ********************

1. Was this your first McNaught novel? If so, what about it worked? What didn’t?

2. McNaught’s heroes are famously dominant and have been described as “asshats” before. What did you think of Ian Thornton? Did he work as a hero? If not, what aspect of his personality didn’t work for you?

3. Throughout the book, Elizabeth finds people underestimating her. Did you find her reaction/manipulation of that fact to be funny? Or have a negative reaction to it?

4. One of Judith McNaught’s most famous writing tropes is the B.R.G. (Big Romantic Gesture), Almost Heaven is no exception. Did you find the BRG to be romantic? Give some examples of your favorite BRGs in romance.

5. Almost Heaven has one of my favorite epilogues. Do you enjoy epilogues in romance?

DISCUSS!

Busy Busy Busy

2009-09-28T18:28:00.012-04:00

The first week of work went well as did the first official weekend after starting work. Found another kindred spirit and we visited each others homes to ogle each others books. What fun! And tried an Indian place (not bad but not spicy enough). But wouldn't you know it as soon as I relaxed that evil thing called the "Migraine" struck and incapacitated me for three days. *ugh* I really hate them and still think decapitation would work but its just too permanent a solution to really be feasible. I suppose it was just too much change all at the same time.

Week two was topped off by a lovely surprise from my newest book buddy with a copy of Bone Crossed by Patricia Briggs ((((bookbuddy)))). Which I promptly devoured as soon as the weekend started (and of course I read it all in one sitting). Then on Sunday I went and found the nearest Trader Joe's (about one hour and 15 minutes away). A bit far for everyday stuff but close enough that I can stock up on Nuts about Antioxidants trail mix monthly. *happy dance* So its off to week three.

The much anticipated (by me) Doubleblind by Ann Aguirre is out tomorrow. Now the big question is do I go out and buy it tomorrow and stare at it for the rest of the week as it sits next to the reading chair whispering my name (which also sounds a lot like that little voice telling me that ice cream doesn't have calories) or do I wait until Friday to swing by the bookstore? Oh the agony!

And to think I will have to do this next week as well since Demon Forged by Meljean Brook is out the 6th (another Tuesday). *sigh* (And not to mention Deep Kiss of Winter being out the following week then Queen of Song and Souls two weeks after that... nope not mentioning those books and none of those gotta haves in November either... nope no mention of Blaze of Memory here at all... none!)

Much will power will be involved these two weeks since I know once I open the little devils I'll have to read them all the way through. Perhaps is best that I not buy them until the weekend...

but what if they sell out!?

Well it's a college town and there are many bookstores...

and many more readers...

ARGH!!!

Must buy, then hide until the appropriate time...
must not open books until after work on Friday...
*squints eyes and crosses fingers*

And don't forget to come by on the 30th for the Shaymless Aymless Romance Book Club discussion. We will be discussing Almost Heaven by Judith McNaught!

TBR Challenge 2009: Countdown by Michelle Maddox

2009-09-16T00:01:00.002-04:00

Published: August 2008 by Dorchester

Number of Pages: 293

Genre: Futuristic Romance

Stand Alone/Series: Stand Alone

Why This Book: Eve Kenin (aka Eve Silver) told me to read it at the 2008 RWA book signing because I liked her Shomi releases a lot. I am such a good, obedient little reader.

From the Author Site: THREE
Kira Jordan wakes up in a pitch-black room, handcuffed to a metal wall. She has 60 seconds to figure out how to escape. Thus begins a vicious game where to lose is to die.

TWO
The stranger she’s been partnered with—her only ally in this nightmare—is a convicted murderer. But if he’s so violent, why does he protect her? And worse yet, what is it behind those haunted sea-green eyes that makes her want to protect him?

ONE
No one to trust. Nowhere to run. And the only hope of survival is working together to beat the COUNTDOWN.

Hero: Rogan Ellis is a convicted rapist and serial killer who had completed four years of his 5oo year sentence in a maximum security prison before he became a contestant on a killer, literally, reality show called "The Countdown". Once a playboy with no care in the world but his pleasure and now a harden con with an agenda. But he has to survive the game. As the story unfolds you can't help but root for him and really want him to survive the game and come out on top. Too bad he was tied to Kira is so many ways.

Heroine: Kira Jordon was orphaned at 15 after her family was brutally murdered during a home robbery. She's survived by becoming a shoplifter and pickpocket. Now her only chance for survival is Rogan Ellis, a mass murderer. Whiny and annoying, she wasn't someone I could really get behind. Way too much of the "poor little ole me" going on to make her a really attractive heroine. Rogan was too good for her.

Review: A good story about a reality show gone mad. What happens when you can pay to watch someone else struggle in real life or death situation where there is no good choice and stay anonymous while doing so. You have "The Countdown". All the contestants are the dregs of society, the killers, the rapist, thieves and generally the unwanted. Of course, watching them struggle with morally corrupt choices isn't too horrible.

Michelle Maddox created a fascinating world set in the not so near future (minus the whole space travel thing and other world bits). The reality show was truly horrible but I kept waiting for Kira and Rogan to win and get to "Offworld" where they would battle the true horror. But alas, "Offworld" was apparently the paradise that its was thought to be (or at least that is where the story left off and will most likely stay as the Shomi line died).

The concept of "The Countdown" reality show isn't new. After all horror, blood and violence sells. Make it exclusive and it sells like hot cakes. Throw in some sex and voila you make it irresistible. This storyline really worked for me as I am not a huge fan of reality shows, and in particular those that show people at their worse. This is a ultimate horror in reality show. I don't understand what about them that fascinates people. I like my story carefully scripted with 'real' actors. I suppose its like watching a traffic accident, the helpless horror of being the bystander unable to help.

What I liked best: Rogan. *sigh* What a hunk, even if his is a convicted serial killer/rapist! You like him despite his bad reputation. But then again maybe because of his bad reputation.

What I least liked: The whole existence of "Offworld". First the name is really lame and second this "new world" was discovered just prior to the Great Plague which killed off most of the population. With the sudden decrease in the population, how did people get to "Offworld" and how did travel between the two survive when the rest of the world fell into disarray and chaos and technology taking a nose dive. The whole concept just didn't work for me. Now if was like Shirley Jackson's The Lottery, I would have been much happier but then the whole story would have probably had to change. *sigh*

Keeper?: Yes

Recommendation: If you like the post-apocalyptic romance (yes, I know its very specific) then you'll probably like this one. Its certainly a genre with room to grow. I'm a big fan of the end of the world scenarios and what's better than romance after "the end" has occurred.

Grade: B-

Wanderlust Winner

2009-09-15T17:32:00.004-04:00

The lucky winner of their very own autographed copy of Wanderlust is...

Drum roll please....

Carol!

Congrats. E-mail me your snail mail at 2aymless at gmail dot com and I'll get into the mail.

First Day of Work

2009-09-14T19:13:00.004-04:00

Had a successful first day of work! Didn't get to meet too many people since I spent most of it with the other six new hires. Had a quick little chat with the boss-type-person who promptly told me that I would be taking over some projects from a fellow co-worker "who sits here" (points at empty cube). So I'll be working closely with Mr/Ms Invisible for the next couple of days. I hope my communication skills are up to it. *g*

My cube-neighbors are funny (especially the one on the right-side) so I think working there will be fun. *crosses fingers* I wasn't able to connect with the one person I know so maybe I'll run into her later this week.

Still have one used copy of Lord of the Fading Lands and Lady of Light and Shadow to give away (just e-mail me your snail mail). And there is still time to enter to win a signed copy of Wanderlust by Ann Aguirre (details here).

Reminder!

2009-09-12T16:03:00.005-04:00

Just reminding all you folks out there that you have until end of day Monday (14th of Sept) to enter to win an autographed copy of Wanderlust! See details here.

Finally all unpacked and all the books put away into there appropriate spots. Due to some creative rearranging I have discovered lots of additional space for yet more books without having to go buy another book case (although I have tentatively scoped out a wall for the additional book case).

Boxes unpacked: 80-ish (I packed 65 and what the movers packed - they really really love packing paper, I made 12 13-gallon bags (49 liter) of the stuff.
Time Unpacking: approximately 24 hour (not counting eating and sleeping breaks)
Trips to the store for "things": 8
Trips to the grocery store: 3

During unpacking I discovered that I have four copies of Lord of the Fading Lands and three copies Lady of Light and Shadow. Why do I have so many?! And where were they before I unpacked them! *sigh* Anyway... I'm going to giveaway two copies of Lord of the Fading Lands and one copy of Lady of Light and Shadow. They are well loved (abused, depending on how you think of them). Its first come first serve. E-mail me your address and I'll ship them out on my next trip to the Post Office (sometime next week).

The BIG Drive: Part 5 and 6

2009-09-09T12:07:00.004-04:00

The big drive is now over and I'm reporting to you from Indiana. (Thank goodness I was able to find free wifi at Barnes & Noble - books, coffee and free wifi could it get better?)

Highlights for Part 5:
1. After leaving Salina, KS it was more corn fields and what I later learned was soybeans.
2. Missouri is more interesting to drive through than KS. They have corn, soybeans and the occasional hill to drive up or around.
3. Weather was really lousy. Overcast all day.
4. Got to relatives hows (no wireless *sigh*) and lots of visiting eating and then some card play.

Highlights for Part 6 and THE END:
1. Discovered a used bookstore (A-1 Books) in Overland, MO (just south of St Louis). Acquired an additional 8 books and they were off my TBR list *smiles proudly*.
2. Discovered the leasing office closed at 5:30pm and that I really should have left earlier or skipped the bookstore (like that was going to happen).
3. Discovered the Pepper the Prius will indeed go over 100 mph (161 kph)*blink* and still get a fairly decent mpg averaging out at 41 mpg
4. As far as I have discovered there are no major highways that go through Bloomington.
5. The nice folks at the leasing office stayed open for me for an additional 15 minutes so was able to get keys.

THE END
1. Got lost trying to figure out where in the hell I'm living (apparently one should update their in-car GPS discs because if they are over 5 years old then its quite likely that some roads and places do not exist.)
2. Bought lots of bleach and bleached the hell out of the bathroom because I can stand any mold even if its in the caulk around the tub. Much happier now.
3. Discovered the whole foods grocery store and it's cheaper to eat organic in CA (go figure)
4. The aerobed worked great after figuring out how to keep it from deflating.
5. Movers will be here later today! Two whole days before the best estimated time of delivery!
6. Cable guy comes tomorrow so should have internet at home sometime tomorrow afternoon!
7. Already discovered a fairly decent used bookstore (The Book Rack) (across the street from B&N, sometimes getting lost has its perks).

Now off to buy some bathroom things and more groceries.

So the stats:
Distance: 2383 miles or 3835 km
Driving time (minus stops and detours): 35 hours
Books read: 2
Books acquired: 21

The BIG Drive: Part 3 and 4 and Award

2009-09-06T20:57:00.000-04:00

Didn't have time to access internet yesterday and woke with twitchy,itchy fingers. I think I may have been experiencing internet withdrawal.

Part 3 Highlights:
1. Woke up really, really early because my friend had to go pick up someone in Jackson Hole, Wyoming at 10am to start is fishing vacation. (yeah I wasn't too impressed with his vacation plan either, guess I just don't like fishing that much). And lets face it I really didn't want the responsibility of locking up his house. With my luck I would locked myself out and then would have had to wait for his house sitter to show up so that I could get the rest of my things.
2. Was the longest leg trip at 551 miles (887 km).
3. Lots of hills again (in the mountains, go figure) so mileage was okay (still averaging around 44 gpm)
4. Got to relative's house in the early afternoon. There was lots of visiting and gossiping then eating (wonderful meal with a great glass of wine) then more visiting and gossiping until it was past bedtime. Since was up really really early (before that big bright thing in the sky was even remotely visible).

Part 4 Highlights:
1. Had nice breakfast and was off at 8-ish (that bright thing was up and about)
2. Once out of the mountains it was very, very flat and quite boring. But not nearly as boring as the salt flats.
3. Not much in eastern CO or western KS. Corn and other growing stuff and some hay rolls and bales.
4. The Pruis does not like flat roads with no starting and stopping. Currently getting 42 gpm now.

Now only have one more night before hitting my new hometown. Completed 1725 miles of 2383. Hopefully there will be internet at my next stop but not counting on it. Stay with some more relatives so mostly will stay up yakking again and waking with those dang twitchy, icky finger.

Award *blush*: JennJ of Sapphire Romance Realm gave me a Lemonade Award!

The BIG Drive: Part 2 and an Award

2009-09-04T17:20:00.000-04:00

I have official completed leg 2 of 6. Leg high-lights:

1. The Great Utah salt flats are really boring. Miles and miles of nothing but white stuff (that apparently is not snow *g*) on the ground. And really, really flat.
2. Averaging 44.4 MPG today. Lots of going up into a higher elevation.
3. There is supposedly a giant used bookstore in Salt Lake City. My friend gave me the choice of going to a high school football game or the bookstore. One guess which one I chose? Because everyone knows how much I ~~loathe~~ love football especially that stuff kids play.

And while I wasn't looking the lovely Leontine gave me an award.

"The blogger who receives this award believes in the Tao of the zombie chicken - excellence, grace and persistence in all situations, even in the midst of a zombie apocalypse. These amazing bloggers regularly produce content so remarkable that their readers would brave a raving pack of zombie chickens just to be able to read their inspiring words. As a recipient of this world-renowned award, you now have the task of passing it on to at least 5 other worthy bloggers. Do not risk the wrath of the zombie chickens by choosing unwisely or not choosing at all. "

My nominations go to:
KB of Babbling About Books
Donna of Fantasy Dreamer's Ramblings
Lusty Reader
My Favourite Books
Orannia of Walkabout (although I think she already got this award)

The BIG Drive: Part 1

2009-09-03T21:27:00.000-04:00

On my way out of CA I stopped at my local new & used bookstore (Bounty Books) and said a fond farewell to Darlene and Cindy. Of course I also walked out with eight books. ^_^

I have official completed leg 1 of 6. Leg high-lights:

1. The Sierra Nevada mountains are pretty. Lots of deep blue lakes and green evergreens.
2. Nevada is really boring to drive in. And they are doing so much road construction and have so many speed limit changes cruise control is almost useless.
3. Averaging 47.4 MPG (7.78 km/liter)
4. According to a billboard I saw, I've stop in the place that is "Half Way to Everywhere" Nevada. I'm thinking that its just another way of saying middle of nowhere. But that would describe most of Nevada.

And thanks for all the support. Moving to a new place won't be so hard with all of you out there. If I get lonely I know that all I have to do is go online and be instantly surrounded by my pals.

The BIG Drive

2009-09-02T14:28:00.001-04:00

The car is all packed with all the necessities (books, some clothes, books, lotion collection, books, some munchies, books, computer, and books). My pretty little Prius has never been more than 380 miles (612 km for you metric folks) from where it was bought. And after nearly 5 years it only has 37,000 miles on it. So it a big adventure for the car as well!

Tomorrow I will be leaving my beloved Bay Area to drive almost all the way across the country to my new home in Indiana (2300 miles/ 3700 km).

And as my friend put it, I am going to be living in the middle of nowhere. *sigh*

Having never lived away from the Pacific Ocean I have no way of judging how close to the truth that is. I will be moving to a college town so it can't be that bad (crosses fingers) and I am within driving distance of Chicago, St. Louis and Cincinati which all have large airports with flights to "everywhere" (again previously mentioned friend).

So I'm off to start my new adventure starting tomorrow and who know what will happened. Hopefully only good things! *crosses fingers*

SARBC: Book for September 2009

2009-09-01T03:01:00.002-04:00

It's Kati of Katidom's choice and she's taking us back to the old school with an oldie but gooodie! The Shaymless Aymless Romance Book Club book for September 2009 is:

The official blurb:
ELIZABETH CAMERON
The Countess of Havenhurst possessed a rare gentleness and fierce courage to match her exquisite beauty. But her reputation is shattered when she is discovered in the arms of Ian Thornton, a notorious gambler and social outcast.

IAN THORNTON
A dangerously handsome man of secret wealth and mysterious lineage, his voyage to Elizabeth's heart is fraught with intrigue, scandal, and a venomous revenge.

Destined for each other, yet wary of each other's motives, Elizabeth and Ian engage in a dance of suspicion and passion that tests the very soul of their star-crossed love. As a twisting path of secrets takes them from London's drawing rooms to the mysterious Scottish Highlands, Elizabeth must learn the truth: is Ian merely a ruthless fortune hunter at heart?

Read excerpt here.

Books Read in August

2009-08-31T23:20:00.000-04:00

Hey everyone else is doing it so here's my list of books read in August.

1. Skykeepers by Jessica Andersen (reviewed at KB's): B-
2. Lover Avenged by JR Ward: B
3. Bengal's Heart by Lora Leigh (review at KB's): B-
4. Wanderlust by Ann Aguirre: B+
5. The Fire King by Marjorie M Liu (thanks to My Favourite Books): A
6. Bad Moon Rising by Sherrilyn Kenyon (thanks to Donna): B
7. Goddess of the Hunt by Tessa Dare: A
8. Blue Diablo by Ann Aguirre: B
9. Beyond the Night by Joss Ware (thanks to Joss Ware): B
10: Dark Slayer by Christine Feehan (to be reviewed at KB's): B+
11: Countdown by Michelle Maddox: B
12: Must Love Hellhounds anthology by Charlaine Harris (Britlingens Go to Hell), Nalini Singh (Angels' Judgment), Meljean Brook (Blind Spot) and Ilona Andrews (Magic Mourns) (to be review at KB's): A

And that's it.

SARBC Discussion: Practice Makes Perfect by Julie James

2009-08-30T15:01:00.000-04:00

Welcome everyone to the very first Shaymless Aymless Romance Book Club discussion. The book of the month was:

The official book blurb:
WHEN IT COMES TO THE LAWS OF ATTRACTION . . .

Payton Kendall and J.D. Jameson are lawyers who know the meaning of objection. A feminist to the bone, Payton has fought hard to succeed in a profession dominated by men. Born wealthy, privileged, and cocky, J.D. has fought hard to ignore her. Face to face, they’re perfectly civil. They have to be. For eight years they’ve kept a safe distance and tolerated each other as co-workers for one reason only: to make partner at the firm.

. . . THERE ARE NO RULES.

But all bets are off when they’re asked to join forces on a major case. At first apprehensive, they begin to appreciate each other’s dedication to the law—and the sparks between them quickly turn into attraction. But the increasingly hot connection doesn’t last long when they discover that only one of them will be named partner. Now it’s an all out war. And the battle between the sexes is bound to make these lawyers hot under the collar . . .

Read excerpt here.

******************************SPOILER ALERT*********************************

Now that everyone has had a chance to read this book, let the discussion begin!

1. What made this book work/didn't work for you and why?

2. Did the HEA satisfy you or was there something missing?

3. What aspect of the hero did you find appealing/annoying?

4. What aspect of the heroine did you find appealing/annoying?

5. Revenge or the high road (let it pass)?

6. Office romances, do they work or are they doomed to failure?

7. Being naughty in public, do or don't?

8. How do you deal with unfairness at work? Bring it up or let is pass?

Discuss!

Review: Practice Makes Perfect by Julie James

2009-08-28T03:01:00.000-04:00

Published: March 2009 by Berkeley Sensation

Number of Pages: 304

Genre: Contemporary Romance

Stand Alone/Series: Stand Alone

Why This Book: Dearest KB wouldn't stop raving about it so I had to read it. And so I thought I would make others as well since this is the book I choose to kick off the Shaymless Aymless Romance Book Club (SARBC)

From the Author Site:
WHEN IT COMES TO THE LAWS OF ATTRACTION . . .

Payton Kendall and J.D. Jameson are lawyers who know the meaning of objection. A feminist to the bone, Payton has fought hard to succeed in a profession dominated by men. Born wealthy, privileged, and cocky, J.D. has fought hard to ignore her. Face to face, they’re perfectly civil. They have to be. For eight years they’ve kept a safe distance and tolerated each other as co-workers for one reason only: to make partner at the firm.

. . . THERE ARE NO RULES.

But all bets are off when they’re asked to join forces on a major case. At first apprehensive, they begin to appreciate each other’s dedication to the law—and the sparks between them quickly turn into attraction. But the increasingly hot connection doesn’t last long when they discover that only one of them will be named partner. Now it’s an all out war. And the battle between the sexes is bound to make these lawyers hot under the collar . . .

Read excerpt here.

Hero: JD Jameson comes from wealth and doesn't see the fairness of affirmative action especially when it comes women. He's worked hard to get were he is and didn't take the easy road by accepting a job at his father's old firm. And no one is going take the partnership position from him, not even his nemesis, Payton Kendall, the "I'm not a stubborn, button-pushing, Pruis-driving, chip-on-my-shoulder-holding, 'stay-at-home-mom'-is-the-eighth-dirty-word-thinking feminazi".

Heroine: Payton Kendall was raise by her very liberal mother and, to her mother's greatest disappointment, has become a successful yuppie. To her, JD Jameson is a member of the "Might Penis-Wielders" and "an uptight, ponying-owning, trickle-down-economics-loving, Scotch-on-the-rocks-drinking, my-wife-better-take-my-last-name sexist jerk" who embodies all that is bad and wrong with the establishment.

Review: Julie James has definitely written another great book. Another light and witty book that is perfect when you need something lighthearted and fun to read. And she still proving that steamy doesn't necessarily mean sex, sex and more sex.

After eight years of putting in the extra hours and giving all they had to give in hopes of attaining a covet partnership at the firm, both JD and Payton are down to the last four weeks as associates. After landing a huge client, they are told only one of them will make it. So after nearly eight years of hidden dislikes and skirmishes its open war. Although they both think and agree the approach the firm has taken is wrong only one of them will and both are determined to win it no matter what! An unfortunate accident leads to a contest of one-upsmanship that only leads to disaster.

I never thought the law was funny. Dramatic and maybe even tragic but never funny. Having been a juror, I would describe the experience as being like Law and Order just really, really slow with lots of wardrobe changes and none of the interesting/exciting background investigation stuff. Of course the case I was a part of was very boring and unfortunate not nearly as amusing and interesting as Payton's trial. No bare body parts to be found. I suppose we can all be lucky.

Ms James has written one of the best opposites attract tropes I've read in a long time. She has taken the story of not so friendly rivals who find that their rivalry is based on a deep attraction that they've been hiding not only from each other but also from themselves and turned it into a great romance. Once they realize that their attraction is reciprocated, it can't be business as usual and they must find a way to make it all work. Lots of tension between to two leading characters right up to the end.

What I liked best: The cabbie telling JD that English Breakfast was more robust and better suited for Pride and Prejudice while Earl Grey was more a Sense and Sensibility kind of tea. Okay the court room scene with Payton was funny but tea pairings with books had me snorting my own tea.

What I least liked: The prim and proper Laney. I didn't find her all that necessary to the story. For being Payton's friend, she was way too easily flustered. You would think that after knowing Payton for so long you would get used to her somewhat outrageous ways.

Keeper?: Yes. And this one also has my name all over it thanks to the RWA conference and the lovely Julie James.

Recommendation: Lots of fun to read. And lots to snicker about. A Darjeeling kind of book, one high quality that has subtle and delicate flavor nuances. *g*

Grade: B+

Be sure to come back on 31 August for the SARBC discussion.

Give-Away at DIK

2009-08-27T03:01:00.000-04:00

I'm over at the Island giving away a some free books (I'm making you work for them because I'm evil that way) and hanging out with the ever so fabulous

NALINI SINGH!

Come drop by and have drink and chat up Nalini! ^_^

Goodnight My Sweet Terraine

2009-08-26T19:01:00.000-04:00

For those of you who have been following this blog know that my sweet furry baby, Terraine, was diagnosed with lyphoma earlier this month. She now has stopped eating and drinking so it's time to tell her goodnight and send her off the to the forever sleep.

I will miss her greatly, especially since I am moving cross country and into a whole new territory. It will be hard without my best furry friend. But in a way, perhaps this will help. A completely new environment than what I am used, one without the daily reminders of her sweet little purrs, guarding my towel as I took a bath, telling me off for taking a shower and her greeting me at the door with her eager little meow whether I was gone all day or just stepped out to take out the trash.

Night-Night my sweet baby. May we meet again soon.

Review: Wanderlust by Ann Aguirre and Giveaway

2009-08-26T03:01:00.000-04:00

Published: August 26, 2008 by Ace

Number of Pages: 312

Genre: Science Fiction

Stand Alone/Series: Jax book 2
Book 1: Grimspace

Why This Book: I really enjoyed Grimspace and the character of Jax.

From the Author Site: Sirantha Jax doesn’t take chances… she jumps at them…

Sirantha Jax is a “Jumper,” a woman who possesses the unique genetic makeup needed to navigate faster than light ships through grimspace. Jax has worked for the Farwan Corporation her entire career. But now the word’s out that the Corp deliberately crashed a passenger ship, and their stranglehold on intergalactic commerce has crumbled—which means that Jax is out of a job.

She’s also broke, due to being declared dead a little prematurely. So when the government asks her to head up a vital diplomatic mission, Jax takes it. Her mandate: journey to the planet Ithiss-Tor and convince them to join the Conglomerate.

But Jax’s payday is light years away. First, she’ll have to contend with Syndicate criminals, a stormy relationship with her pilot, man-eating aliens, and her own grimspace-weakened body. She’ll be lucky just to make it to Ithiss-Tor alive…

Read excerpt here.

Heroine: Sirantha Jax doesn't have to go looking for trouble. It finds her. After blowing the lid on Farwan Corporation and sitting through numerous hearings she's offered a job, one that she can't turn down, as an ambassador for the Conglomerate. Her first mission as ambassador is to get the xenophobic Ithtorian of Ithiss-Tor to join the Conglomerate. Only problem is that someone's out to see that she not only fails but also doesn't live to make it to Ithiss-Tor. It all starts with a new ship and some new crewmates that lead to an unscheduled detour that only leads into more trouble than Jax could have possible dreamed of.

Jax's Crew:
Dina: Ship's mechanic and general bad-ass.

March: An unregistered Psi ex-mercenary who has loyalties to the Dahlgren clan on Lachion and who is Jax's pilot and sometimes lover.

Velith Il-Nok aka Vel: Jax's Ithtorian cultural liaison and translator. The bounty hunter who helped Jax blow the lid on the Farwan Corporation and is a Bug aka Slider, shape-shifter.

PA-245: Jax's personal assistant.

Review: Ann Aguirre drives us right back into the wonderful universe that she has created. Wanderlust starts just weeks after the end of Grimspace and seamlessly continues Jax’s story. Once the story starts to unfold, in one page turning chapter after another in which trouble swarms around Jax and her crew, its non-stop action to the very last sentence.

Jax is pushed into the position of ambassador from all sides. The Conglomerate needs the Ithtorians to help cement their power in the galaxy and Jax is the only one Velith Il-Nok will work with. Jax has no money to pay for a ship and supplies to follow her dreams as an explorer. And the Syndicate is holding Ramona Jax’s, Jax’s estranged mother, life hostage and are only willing to exchange it for Jax’s failure on Ithiss-Tor. So with no choice, Jax is on the job.

Jax’s love for March is undeniable but she’s determined to not let him suffer her death, which is coming anytime now (according to her) by being the first to walk away. And although March loves Jax more than she can imagine, he has a duty to the Dahlgren clan that supercedes his need to be with Jax. If you are looking for the great romance in this book, its not there. Hopefully this is an interlude for Jax and March and that their love will overcome all the obstacles their past and present has placed before them.

Ms. Aguirre takes us on another wonderful journey through the galaxy told through the eyes of Sirantha Jax. Jax, with all her hang-ups, especially her fascination with her own death, is a heroine you can really sink your teeth into. She’s gutsy, indomitable and a bid morbid. What's there not to like?

What I liked best: Vel. He’s a jem. His dry wit and humor makes him a scene-stealer.

What I least liked: Jax’s attitude towards March. At times I wanted to give her a big slap upside the head to knock some sense into her.

Keeper?: Yes

Recommendation: This series is best read in order. Although there is enough background given and the story stands well as a stand alone, I think it would be more enjoyable if read in order. A lot of background and character development would be missed if the previous book (Grimspace) is not read.

Grade: B+
Series Grade to Date: A-

The Giveaway portion:
I have a pretty autographed copy of Wanderlust to give away (thank you Ann!). Leave a comment to enter. To make it interesting tell me who your favorite character is and why. All entries must be in by 5PM on September 14. The winner will be drawn at random and will be announced on the 15th!

For additional entries you can do the following:
- Link back to this post from your blog (come back here with the link)
- Tweet about it (and let me know somehow either here).

Another Award.

2009-08-24T17:56:00.000-04:00

Cherry over at Contest and Freebies gave me an award.

The Lemonade Award is a feel good award which shows great attitude or gratitude.

Here are the rules:

* Put the Lemonade Award logo on your blog or post.
* Nominate at least 10 blogs that show great attitude or gratitude.
* Link your nominees within your post.
* Let the nominees know they have received this award by commenting on their blog.
* Share the love and link to the person from whom you received the award.

Here are my nominees:
Ann Agurrie
Katiebabs of Babbling About Books
Desert Island Keepers
AnimeJune of Gossamer Obsessions
Barbara of Happily Ever After
Kati of Katidom
Leontine of Leontine's Book Realm
Kristie of Ramblings on Romance
Mandi of Smexy Books
Orannia of Walkabout

Review: Lover Avenged by JR Ward

2009-08-24T03:01:00.000-04:00

Published: April 2009 by New American Library (hardcover)

Number of Pages: 527

Genre: Paranormal Romance/Urban Fantasy

Stand Alone/Series: Black Dagger Brotherhood 7
1: Dark Lover
2: Lover Eternal
3: Lover Awakened
4: Lover Revealed
5: Lover Unbound
6: Lover Enshrined

Why This Book: It's book crack. Once you start you can't stop.

From the Author Site: Caldwell, NY, has long been the battleground for the battleground for the vampires and their enemies, the Lessening Society. It’s also where Rehvenge has staked out his turf as a drug lord and notorious nightclub that caters to the rich and heavily armed. His shadowy reputation is exactly why he’s approached to kill Wrath, the Blind King, and leader of the Brotherhood. Rehvenge has always kept his distance from the Brotherhood, even though his sister is married to a member. Because he’s a sympath, his identity is a deadly secret- the revelation of which will result in his banishment to a colony for sociopaths. And as plots within and outside the Brotherhood take their toll against Rehvenge, he turns to the only source of light in a darkening world- Elhena, a vampire untouched by the corruption that has its hold on him- and the only thing standing between him and eternal destruction.

Read excerpt here.

Hero: Rehvenge, son of Rempoon, aka the Reverend, is the drug lord of Caldwell, a part of the vampire aristocracy, the gylmera, and a sympath (a sub-species of vampire who feed on and manipulates emotions). Being a sympath makes him unwelcome among the vampires and something he has to keep hidden. If that secret got out he would deported to the sympath colony where he would most likely to be killed for being a half-breed. That's just one secret he has to maintain in order to protect those close to him. In order to keep that most important secret, he pays his blackmailer in both flesh and jewels monthly. Having done this for decades has left him feeling unclean and unworthy. Although he has friends who know and understand as well as sister who loves him, he is lonely. A man simply existing and not living.

Heroine: Ehlena is a nurse at the vampire hospital and is caring for her ailing schizophrenic father. Her family was once a part of the vampire elite but due to some double-crosses and back-stabbing as well as her father's failing health, they have fallen into hard times and a meager existence. Ehlena gives and gives and cares for other while saving nothing for herself until her life is nothing but duty. She's almost too compassionate to be a real person, too sickeningly gentle, kind and giving. But her character is saved by the presence of a temper and prejudice that in keeping with her society.

Review: JR Ward delivers yet another action packed books. But unlike her last two books, this one has a romance that can be understood and appreciated. No suddenly dead heroines turning into ghosts or a completely lackluster romance between two uninteresting characters. The romance could stand on its own, which is an improvement from the last couple of books. Its poignant and a delight to read. But it does not take away from the hard core action we have come to expect from Ms Ward.

The war against the lessers is still raging on and the causalities are mounting. All the deaths and loss of property, not to mention lives (though most of the new gylmera council members don't seem to mind that last part) have undermined Wrath's power base with the elite. And the gylmera see a chance for wresting power away from Wrath by assassinating him. This internal power struggle only adds fuel to the fire.

The Brotherhood is too short on manpower to make any headway in the war which puts Wrath back in the field. Wrath's vision is failing, the lessers have become stronger under Lash's leadership and a drug war is in the making in Caldwell. The relationship between John Matthew and Xhex is morphing into something physically steamy while John's relationship with Tohr is on the decline. Everything seems to be ramping up for some great climax, the final showdown between the lessers and the Brotherhood, the Omega and the Scribe Virgin can almost be glimpsed on the horizon.

What I liked best: George and and Fritz. Where can I find some vacuum-loving doggens?

What I least liked: The use of the word "outtie" by the brothers and Rehv. These are tough men, fighters who instill fear and dread in their enemies. Having them use the word"outtie" diminishes them, makes the sounds like some misbehaving teenagers and is completely out of character and unbelievable.

Also the use of so many acronyms/abbreviations. Sure they are useful but not everyone hangs out with people who constantly use acronyms/abbreviations as a part of every day life. Having to figure what in the heck MMA stands for makes for breaks in the flow of the story being told.

Keeper?: Yes. Although it's a hardcover and throws off all my neat little rows, I'm keeping it because it's autographed.

Recommendation: Read the series in order. There is just too much of the back-story details that are needed to fully enjoy the book.

Grade: B
Series Grade to Date: B

Review: Dawnkeepers by Jessica Andersen

2009-08-21T03:01:00.000-04:00

Published: January 2009 by Signet Eclipse

Number of Pages: 455

Genre: Paranormal Romance

Stand Alone/Series: Book 2 of The Final Prophecy

Why This Book: Read book 1 and enjoyed it. And I have series OCD! *g* Beside I want to know how the world ends.

From the Author Site: The final four-year countdown to the end of days has begun. According to ancient Maya prophecy, demons from the underworld will arise on December 21, 2012. Only the Nightkeepers, mortal descendants of an ancient race of magic-wielding warrior-priests, can prevent the apocalypse by stopping the demons from bringing the old legends to life.

Unlike his fellow Nightkeepers, Nate Blackhawk isn’t about to let the gods determine his destiny- especially when it comes to his feelings for Alexis Gray, his ex-lover and nemesis. But when they’re forced to work together, racing to recover seven antiquities before the demons get their claws on the vital artifacts, Nate and Alexis will have to face their feelings- and their past- in order to defeat a dire and ancient enemy.

Read excerpt here.

Hero: Nate Blackhawk, unlike the rest of the Nightkeepers, grew up without his winikin (guardian and blood bound servant). His winikin died from the wounds he'd gotten during the Solstice massacre and left Nate to grow up without knowing his heritage. So unlike the rest Nate was completely unprepared to become a Nightkeeper and Nate's determined not to let the prophecy determine his fate. Unfortunately for him, Alexis is the very model of his dream girl and both his magic and subconscious has foreordained her as his mate. While he may accept her as his mate, he is determined not to like it one bit.

Heroine: Alexis Gray is the perfect Nightkeeper, at least on the outside. She's become a warrior-princess as well as a mage. But on the inside she still needs the approval of her godmother, Izzie. She's determined to walk the path the gods have written for her, which includes Nate as her mate even if she has to drag him along with her. After repeatedly offering herself up to Nate and getting shot down she finally learns that she has to accept herself as she is and not something that someone expects her to be.

Other Notables:
Izzie: Alexis's winikin and godmother. Alexis needs and lives for her approval.

Carlos: Nate's replacement winikin. Carlos is steady and relentless, like the tide. He wants Nate to accept and take his place within the Nightkeepers.

Review: Jessica Andersen picks up right where she left off. The Nightkeepers are racing to fill the gaps in their knowledge of what to expect in the final years of the countdown. Unfortunately for them, their ancestors sold off key artifacts for funds, which has left them completely uninformed on how to avert certain prophecies. Just as they get lucky in their search, an old enemy of the Nightkeepers resurfaces.

The countdown continues and the number enemies determined to usher in the apocalypse grows. The world is doomed. Got to love that. *g*

What I liked best: The new temple (see Wikipedia entry here). I love when reality is mixed in seamlessly with a story. The use of real people, historical events or ancient places just make a story sing for me. I probably should have majored in history or archeology just so I could be surrounded by old moldy texts and ancient legends.

What I least liked: The whole Anna, her husband and her boss love triangle. Its not that I don't like love triangles but this one seems to be completely pointless. There could have been a way to make the necessary plot points work without the messy and inane triangle.

Keeper?: Yes. And it's autographed to yours truly! *g*

Recommendation: This series should be read in order otherwise there are way too many spoilers. The first book outlines the prophecy, introduces each character and does a lot of the world building. Without it the reader may founder and find many of the plot points confusing.

Grade: B-
Series Grade to date: B

I recently reviewed the third installment of this series over at Babbling About Books. See here for my review of Skykeepers.

Good News and Bad News

2009-08-20T17:29:00.000-04:00

Good New:
For those of you who have been following this blog, you know that I have been out looking for work as its required so that I can have book money! Yes I work for books, a place to put all my books and the occasion meal.

I'm happy to say that I will be officially employed once more by Monday (have to look over the offer letter details and other paper work). And thus I will be relocating to Bloomington, Indiana. The home of IU (uh... I think they are the Hoosiers so uh... Go Hoosiers? I so suck at staying in touch with sports). So now I will need to determine how fast I can move and get settled so that I can start earning that lovely book money.

I gave in. I'm now on Twitter. Am ShaymlessAymles (damn Twitter wouldn't let me add another 's' and Aymless was already taken. *pout*)

Bad News:
My roommate, best furry friend, sanity and furry baby has cancer and doesn't have long to live. Currently she is on pain killers to help her eat but even then she is not eating much. So now I must look at euthanasia options. And probably within the next week. I'm not sure I want to put her through the stress of moving on top of what she's suffering now. Do I move her or let her go now? It's a hard decision.

We've been together nearly 13 years and countless ups and downs. She was a scrawny little kitten/cat (not quite a kitten and not yet full grown) when she wandered into my yard and life. After a couple of weeks of eating on my porch, she moved in and took over my bed and stole my heart. And there she stayed. She's been a great cat and friend. I will miss her greatly, my lovely furry purr ball, my little mountain lion, my Terraine.

TBR Challenge 2009: Nightkeepers by Jessica Andersen

2009-08-19T03:01:00.001-04:00

Published: June 2008 by Signet Eclipse

Number of Pages: 443

Genre: Paranormal Romance

Stand Alone/Series: Book 1 of The Final Prophecy

Why This Book: I find that whole end of the world scenarios fascinating. This endgame scenario has been a particular favorite since I heard/read about it as a teenager.

From the Author Site: According to the Mayan doomsday prophecy, time ends on December 21, 2012. In Nightkeepers, the last king of an ancient race of magi must team up with a sexy Miami-Dade narcotics detective in order to reunite his scattered warriors and fight the gods of the Mayan underworld. Wielding ancestral blood magic, the king must choose between his duty to avert the 2012 apocalypse and his love for the woman who is the gods' destined sacrifice.

Read excerpt here.

Hero: Striking Jaguar, aka Strike, is the last king of the Nightkeepers. A very reluctant king, since the prophecy foretells that the king will have his greatest sacrifice in the final five years of the countdown. For 24 years he thought there were only three Nightkeepers, including himself, and thus his throne and crown were a pretty empty honor and position. But the barrier fell and now he must lead Nightkeepers to victory or see the end of the world. Now he is faced with the unpalatable choice between following his heart and possibly dooming the world to annihilation or following the dictates of his kingship and the prophecy.

Heroine: Leah Daniels is after out for vengeance. Her younger brother was murdered by the Survivor2012 cult and Leah holds its leader, Zipacna, responsible. She'll do anything for the chance to kill Zipacna, which is very bad thing for a Miami-Dade police officer to want. When the very people she is hunting kidnap her, the man of her dreams rescues her. Literally. She'd been having hot, steamy dreams of a black-haired, blue-eyed man only to have him pop into existence near her as she lays on a sacrificial alter.

Other Notables:
Jox: The royal family's winikin (guardian and blood bound servant). For 24 years his has kept the secret of the other Nightkeepers from Strike and Red-Boar, hoping that this knowledge would never be needed. He and the other winikins hid the babies Nightkeepers that survived the Solstice to keep them safe and as a last defense against the demons. Now that the barrier has reactivated, he must make a king out of Strike and see the Nightkeepers' final charge fulfilled.

Red-Boar: The only adult Nightkeeper to have survived the Solstice massacre. He lost his beloved wife and twin sons. For a while after the massacre he disappeared into the jungle only to come out with a son. He is bitter and broken man.

Rabbit: Red-Boar's son. He has only known contempt from his father. He is a teenager who only wants to belong but is rejected at every turn. He means the best but his very biology, and unknown heritage (on his mother's side), works against him.

Review: Jessica Andersen has taken a doomsday prophecy and given it life. According to the Mayan end date calendar, the world is going to end on December 21, 2012 during the Great Conjunction, when the earth, sun and moon align at the exact center of our galaxy. During the Great Conjunction the barrier between the earth and underworld, Banol Kax, falls and demons are free to walk the earth. This occurs every 26,000 year. During the last Great Conjunction Atlantis was sunk before the demons could be pushed back and the barrier reactivates. The Atlantean survivors created the Nightkeepers, warrior mages, and charged them to protect mankind from annihilation when the barrier falls during the next Great Conjunction.

Strike's father destroyed the Nightkeepers in hopes of circumventing the doomsday prophecy. Only three Nightkeepers, Strike, his sister Anna and Read-Boar, survived. For 24 years it looks like the barrier had been sealed but during the summer solstice, just five years before the apocalypse, the barrier is once again active. The countdown is still on and only Strike and a few untrained Nightkeepers is all that stand between all the demons in the underworld and the earth. Time is running out and evil has the upper hand.

Okay so the REM song "Its the end of the world as we know it" keeps playing in my mind and it seem appropriate for this book. For Strike, Leah, Rabbit and all rest of the Nightkeepers, who had thought the Nightkeepers were a bedtime story, it’s true but they don't feel fine. Its more on the lines of "Its the end of the world as we know and you want me to do WHAT?"

This is a good start to what I hope will be a fascinating saga that will only get better as the end date approaches. Ms Andersen as outlined the world and its possibilities as well as its rules, in the form of prophecies, with an excellent amount of detail, which definitely delights my analytical mind. The test will be in keeping them all straight and building it towards its eventually climax of the final battle on December 21, 2012.

What I liked best: Rabbit. I like him. The underdog, under-appreciated, unwanted by his father and a completely screw-up. He's a disaster waiting to happen and what a disaster he makes. He's like a tornado, unstoppable and destroying everything in his path, even when he means the best.

What I least liked: Red-Boar's treatment of his only living son. Okay so he had issues with his son's mother, but did he really have to take it out on the kid. Its not like Rabbit chose to be born with a mixed heritage. And frankly his whole attitude basically sucks.

Keeper?: Yes

Recommendation: If you like doomsday prophecies this is the book for you. Ms Andersen has created a wonderfully rich world within the framework of some known archaeological and historical facts. She has taken a bit of archeology added a bit of magic and a prophecy of the end of the world and created a world of possibilities.

Grade: B+
Series Grade to Date: B+

Review: Branded by Fire by Nalini Singh

2009-08-17T03:01:00.002-04:00

Published: July 2009 by Berkeley Sensation

Number of Pages: 345

Genre: Paranormal Romance

Stand Alone/Series: Psy-Changeling Book 6
1: Slave to Sensation
2: Visions of Heat
3: Caressed by Ice
4: Mine to Possess
5: Hostage to Pleasure

Why This Book: It's Nalini Singh!

From the Author Site: Though DarkRiver sentinel Mercy is feeling the pressure to mate, she savagely resists when Riley Kincaid, a lieutenant from the SnowDancer pack, tries to possess her. The problem is not simply that he pushes her buttons; the problem is that he’s a wolf, she’s a cat, and they’re both used to being on top.

But when a brilliant changeling researcher is kidnapped from DarkRiver territory, Mercy and Riley must work together to track the young man—before his shadowy captors decide he’s no longer useful. Along the way, the two dominants may find that submitting to one another uncovers not just a deadly conspiracy, but a passion so raw that it’ll leave them both branded by fire…

Read excerpt here.

Hero: Riley Kincaid, aka Mr. Mud Stick aka The Wall, is the SnowDancers' top lieutenant. Solid, dependable, unmovable, unemotional and boring may be words that have been used to describe him in the past. But with Mercy he feels the wild side of the his beast and definitely is out to get a piece of the cat that's been tempting him and annoying him for over a year. Riley dreams of mating the nice girl next door, a homemaker and someone who will stay safe and out of the danger. Too bad all he wants is Mercy, who is exactly the opposite of his dream mate.

Heroine: Mercy Smith aka Melisande (but don't call her that or she'll kick your ass), is a DarkRiver Sentinel and a woman who knows what she wants. Its just too bad her beast doesn't want to lay down for just anyone. Especially not some staid, emotionless wolf, even if he is totally hot and dominate enough to be acceptable to her cat.

Review: Nalini Singh just keeps the best-sellers coming. In over six books she's not missed a single beat. Each page turner of a book is perfectly crafted to ensnare the reader in a captivating tale that takes life right before the reader's eyes. And this one starts with a sizzle guaranteed to fog up your glasses.

The DarkRiver/SnowDancer alliance is solid but it takes constant work to keep the alliance from falling apart. Mercy and Riley are the ones responsible for maintaining that daily balance between the packs. In addition to their usual tasks as dominate members of their packs, they have to deal with each other and all the messy details of building and maintaining an alliance. The juveniles are still jocking for position within the mixed pack structure, the Psy are up to something mysteriously violent and the Human Alliance has come out of the woodwork shooting to kill.

Ms Singh tells a wonderful story and each is a delight to read. Really there isn't much more to say. I could sit here and gush on and on about how wonderful writer she is and what delightful characters she has created, but I'm not going to do that. I have only one thing to say. Go buy/borrow her books and read them for yourselves. You'll not be disappointed.

What I liked best: Mercy's ploy to get rid of her brother's girlfriend. Even though the scene is less than half a page, it had me giggling until I was in tears. The "tool" was just the final bit of perfection that made the whole scene irresistible.

What I least liked: I can't really think of the single scene that I didn't like. All the characters stay true to themselves, no great leaps of belief required and the Psy world is going to hell in a hand basket. Who could ask for more?

Okay I need more. More Kaleb, more Vasic, more Hawke and Sienna, just give me more story and a grandmother who will send me hotties (^_^)!

Keeper?: Most definitely

Recommendation: The series has progressed to the point where it must be read in order. Although it is probably still very enjoyable there is just too much of the back story to cover, even briefly, to bring the reader up-to-date.

Grade: A+
Series Grade to Date: A

Work Update

2009-08-14T19:47:00.000-04:00

One rejection (the although you are impressive we have gone with another candidate who better fits our needs). Oh well.

One... dunno what to call it. I'm off to do the drug screen portion so it must be going well. Please keep you fingers cross because the alternative, frankly, sucks . I love my parents but have no desire to live with them again!!!!

Review: Hidden Currents by Christine Feehan

2009-08-14T03:01:00.000-04:00

Published: July 2009 by Jove

Number of Pages: 441

Genre: Paranormal Romance

Stand Alone/Series: Drake Sisters 7
1: Magic in the Wind
2: Twilight Before Christmas
3: Oceans of Fire
4: Dangerous Tides
5: Safe Habor
6: Turbulent Sea

Why This Book: Because I has series OCD and I have Christine Feehan OCD. Just can't stop myself.

From the Author Site: From afar, Sheriff Jackson Deveau has always loved Elle Drake, the youngest telepath of seven sisters. After a long time away she’s finally returning home to the small coastal village of Sea Haven. But someone has been following Elle, someone who doesn’t want her to make it back. And when Elle fails to arrive, her disappearance strikes fear in the hearts of everyone who loves her. Now it’s left to Jackson to uncover the mystery of Elle’s vanishing, and rescue her from an unseen danger. But Sea Haven is no longer safe for anyone, and it’ll take the powers of all the Drake sisters and their men to survive the coming storm.

Read excerpt here:

Hero: Jackson Deveau is an ex-Ranger who has settled down in Sea Haven which was home to his only friends, Jonas Harrington and Matt Granite. He is gifted with physic powers of his own and doesn't want that heritage for his children since he fears his gifts. But Elle saved him when he was in an hopeless situation and now he must accept his gifts and Elle and hope for the best.

Heroine: Elle Drake is the seventh daughter of the seventh daughter and charged with passing on the Drake family gifts to the next generation. But the man who seems to be destined for her doesn't want her heritage. So she takes on one last undercover job which goes wrong. After being tortured she's not sure she can be who Jackson need and doesn't know if she should pass on her gifts.

Review: What to say. It was okay. Certainly not Christine Feehan's best work but it was still better than most of the series. Why does Ms. Feehan take heroines that could be so kick-ass and turn them into little weepy, clingy creatures? Elle Drake had a lot of potential but after a brief inprisonment and some torture she's suddenly unable rely on her gifts and her own strength.

I get that torture changes a person. But if that person was strong to begin with wouldn't she still be strong in the end as long as her will wasn't broken? Even then can't she fight to remake her life? This confuses me greatly.

Jackson's wishy-washy feeling also doesn't make for a good story either. Up until Elle disappears he seems quite happy to keep her at a distance. But when she suddenly goes missing, he arranging a rescue party and risky life and limb to get her out. Then he decides that they are meant to be and everything turns out as he wishes. Alpha heroes are good but they should always get their way. Makes them to damn domineering and unbearably bossy as well as makes for a boring story.

What I liked best: That is the end of a series! Yay! One less to keep track of and one less I HAVE to pick up.

What I least liked: There's a lot. In particular I didn't the beginning of the book. Elle being kidnapped and held for breeding by an evil physic. Blah!

Keeper?: Still thinking about it.

Recommendation: The series was okay. Not the best by a long shot and probably not the worse. But it did have a clear beginning and a end which makes me happy.

Grade: C
Series Grade: C-

Review: Coyote's Mate by Lora Leigh

2009-08-12T03:01:00.000-04:00

Published: February 2009 by Berkeley Sensation

Number of Pages: 341

Genre: Paranormal Romance

Stand Alone/Series: Breed #17
See here for complete list and order.

Why This Book: I have series OCD and I like Lora Leigh and her steamy sex scenes.

From the Author Site: For six years Anya Korbin worked with Del-Rey Delgado—the genetically altered rebel known as the Coyote Ghost—to free a group of coyote women kept in her father’s lab. As Anya matured into a woman, she and Del-Rey grew close…but then he broke his promise and killed her father. Now she must deal with her animalistic desire for the one who betrayed her.

Read excerpt here.

Hero: Del-Rey Delgado, aka Ghost, is leader of the Coyote Pack, Coyote Prime. For years he watched and waited for Anya to grow old enough for him to take as a lover. When she was old enough he freed her friends and took her captive not knowing she was his Mate. After on fateful sexual encounter they are locked together by fate and now he must regain the trust he callously threw away.

Heroine: Anya Kobrin was a young 16-year-old security guard when she first contacted Ghost in hopes of freeing her friends from the Genetic Council. For six years she helped him plot their escape only to be betrayed then taken captive. When she finds out that she is bound to him by a cruel fate she has to make a new life. One that will include Del-Ray. As mate to the Coyote Prime she holds the title of Coya.

Review: Another wonderfully crafted story by Lora Leigh. Lots and lots of steamy sex and angst along with a nice devilish plot in which everyones life is in jeopardy.

Del-Rey knew that he was going to betray and kidnap Anya he just never told her his complete plan. He knew that he would have to would her family so that the Genetic Council would not kill them for failing to stop to rescue. Anya was very innocent to believe everything he promised. This set up had the tension going right from the start. He had done her wrong and now he had to win her favor once more. Added to sexual tension of being Mated, this made for a great beginning.

Again there is nothing deep or dark about this story. Lots of fun and tension with a happy ending. But when I pick up a Lora Leigh book that is what I am expecting so I was a happy little reader.

What I liked best: Lots and lots of steamy sex! But then that's what I've come to expect from Lora Leigh. And Anya's bodyguards are so cute. Deadly but cute.

What I least liked: Del-Ray was a complete jerk. But it didn't keep me from enjoying the book. Anya does get him back and he does reform so its not all bad.

Keeper?: Yes

Recommendation: I like Lora Leigh. I usually pick up one of her books when I'm in the mood for steamy. Although they are a series, I think you could probably read these in any order you like.

Grade: B+
Series Grade to Date: B

New URL Address and an Update

2009-08-10T21:50:00.000-04:00

Shaymless Aymless now coming to you from:

SHAYMLESSAYMLESS.BLOGSPOT.COM

It was an excellent book week. Scored three books.

Thanks to Joss Ware

Thanks to Julie James

Thanks to the folks over at My Favourite Books

Read three books. But also discovered a free e-book download site (thanks to Karen Marie Moning's author site here). See Suvudu here. Not that I have an e-book reader (yet). So books IN once again greater than books OUT. No wonder I keep adding bookcases.

Now that phone call about getting the job would be great... any minute now... REALLY... any minute now...

Review: Darkness Calls by Marjorie M Liu

2009-08-10T03:01:00.000-04:00

*********************** SPOILER ALERT ***********************************

For those who haven't started this series, be warned that there are spoilers ahead. As always I will try to keep them to a minimum, but this is a series that builds on the information given in previous books.

Published: July 2009 by Ace

Number of Pages: 303

Genre: Urban Fantasy

Stand Alone/Series: Book 2 of Hunter Kiss series
Prequel: Hunter Kiss novella in Wild Thing anthology or e-book
Book 1: Iron Hunt

Why This Book: Iron Hunt was one of my best of 2008 so this was a must read for me. And I really enjoy reading Marjorie M Liu stories.

From the Author Site:

They are the obsidian shadows of my flesh - tattoos with minds, hearts, and dreams. By day, they protect me. But when night calls to them, they leave my body, dissolving into their true form - as demons…

Nomad born and bred, demon hunter Maxine Kiss has always relied upon herself to fight the darkness that surrounds her, the predators-human, zombie, and otherwise - who threaten the earth. But one man has penetrated her lonely life: Grant, the last of his kind. With music he is able to control any living creature…including demons. And now his life is in danger.

Haunted by the past, determined to change the future, Maxine soon understands that to save Grant, she has only one choice-to lose control, and release her own powers of darkness…

Read excerpt here.

Heroine: Maxine Hunt is the last of the Wardens and the Veil that keeps the demons from entering this dimension is failing. But the Veil isn't Maxine's only problem, there is yet another rogue Avatar on the loose causing all sorts of havoc and mayhem, killing and destroying and must be stopped. If that isn't enough, there is also a darkness growing within her and one that threatens to destroy all that she is as well as hasten the end of the world. And the end of the world is coming, that is inevitable. But as to what end, it will be up to Maxine to decide.

Hero: Grant Cooperon is a Lightbringer. But he must find out what that is and who it will make him. He always thought he knew his history but now he past is covered in mysteries. It's no longer just Maxine's war but his as well. He must face the darkness, both in her and his murky past, and hope to come out sane and safe on the other end. Grant truly loves Maxine and knows that she probably won't grow to be an old woman but will die in her prime. So he writes a letter to the daughter they may one day have. One that he might not know. You can read it here.

Other Notables:
Jack Meddle aka the Meddling Man aka Old Wolf: Maxine's grandfather and an Avatar. Maxine's lineage was always from mother to daughter for countless generations with no mentions of fathers. Now that has changed in part due to Jack being an Avatar. The Avatars created Maxine's lineage and they fear what they had created. But by mixing her bloodline with that of an Avatar, he created something else. What and who is still a mystery and something to be feared.

The Boys (Zee, Raw, Aaz, Dek and Mal) aka Hounds: Maxine's eternal family. The family handed down from mother to daughter since the beginning of Maxine's line. By day, they reside on Maxine's skin as tattoos, making her invulnerable. By night, they are her guardians and aid her in her battle. But they have secrets, secrets about Maxine's past as well as the secrets of her complete bloodline. Very dangerous secrets.

Review: Another wonderful story by Marjorie M Liu. This is not like the her Dirk and Steele series. This is urban fantasy at its best! Dark and gritty with insurmountable odds and a no win situation. The end of the world as we know it coming, and it is inevitable. The how soon and who will do the destroying is what Maxine controls. There is no happy ending. Just more darkness ahead.

The story picks up pretty much right after the end of Iron Hunt. Maxine is still living with Grant Cooperon in Seattle. And still wondering about whether this was a good decision. She truly cares of Grant but being a nomad was bred into her. Being in one places still makes her itch. Her newly found grandfather, Jack, is missing. And strange events are pushing her and Grant into what they know is a trap but they must go anyway. The darkness grows and the end is coming closer.

The story continues in its first person narrative but this installment is action packed from beginning to end. The novella and first book did much more of the world building and character development. Those who did not enjoy the first book should really give this series another chance. The narrative style of this book is more action related and less of Maxine's internal turmoils.

I thoroughly enjoyed this book and it is definitely going on my best of 2009 list. I liked how there was a no win situation. Its darkness and grittiness was refreshing as well as dealing with the issue of knowing that you have to do what you have to do and deal with the consequences later and that everything has a price. I can't wait for the next installment. The novella Armor of Roses will be included in the anthology Inked coming out in January 2010.

What I liked best: I love them boys! Even though they are countless centuries old, they are still children. They look to Maxine for love and support while still protecting her anyway they can. They add just the right touch of lightness to the story to keep it from being too overwhelmingly dark. Their baseball fascination as well as their love of Bon Jovi and teddy bears keeps you smiling even through the darkest parts of the book.

What I least liked: Nothing. Loved every word of it. Appropriately hated the villains as well as cheered for the good guys even when they weren't so good.

Keeper?: Yes

Recommendation: This series is best read in order. Although some have read this book without reading Iron Hunt or the novella Hunter Kiss and still enjoyed this story. For those who didn't enjoy the first book, truly consider giving this series a second chance.

Grade: A+
Series Grade to Date: A

Lookie here!

2009-08-09T03:01:00.000-04:00

Whee! Tracy over at Tracy's Place gave me an award!

Its the Excellent Blog Award. *blushes wildly*

I'm going to pass this on to some of my ~~evil~~ nice book ~~pimps~~ promoters and some new blog friends:
Orannia of Walkabout
AnimeJune of Gossamer Obsessions
Katiebabs of Babbling About Books
Barbara of Happily Ever After
KristieJ of Rambling on Romance
Mandi of Smexy Books
Wendy the Super Librarian

Review: Just The Sexiest Man Alive by Julie James

2009-08-07T03:01:00.000-04:00

Published: October 2008 by Berkeley Sensation

Number of Pages: 296

Genre: Contemporary Romance

Stand Alone/Series: Stand Alone

Why This Book: KB made me! *g* And the lovely Julie James autographed it for me this year at RWA.

From the Author Site:

COOL. CALM. COLLECTED.

Nothing fazes Taylor Donovan. In the courtroom she never lets the opposition see her sweat. In her personal life, she never lets any man rattle her–not even her cheating ex-fiancé. So when she’s assigned to coach People’s “Sexiest Man Alive” for his role in his next big legal thriller, she refuses to fall for the Hollywood heartthrob’s charms. Even if he is the Jason Andrews.

CONFIDENT. FAMOUS. IRRESISTIBLE.

Jason Andrews is used to having women fall at his feet. When Taylor Donovan gives him the cold shoulder, he’s thrown for a loop. She’s unlike any other woman he’s ever met: uninterested in the limelight, seemingly immune to his advances, and shockingly capable of saying no to him. She’s the perfect challenge. And the more she rejects him, the more he begins to realize that she may just be his perfect match. . . Read excerpt here.

Hero: Jason Andrews, THE movie star, Mr. Sexiest Man Alive. He starts out as an arrogant ass. Fame had definitely gone to his head, but then it would probably have happened to just about anyone put in a situation like his. But as the book progresses, the onion that is his shield and image is slowly peeled away to reveal the heart of a lonely man. A lonely man who didn't know that he was lonely and waiting for that perfect someone. That someone with whom he could just be with and not have to be THE Jason Andrews, someone he didn't have to put on an act for, someone who saw his flaws and still loved him anyway.

Heroine: Taylor Donovan, sex harassment attorney and an associate at a large law firm. She mouthy and is no holds barred. Definitely the kind of attorney you would want to represent you in a big case. I love that she doesn't fall for Jason because he's a star even if he is the Sexiest Man Alive. The fact that she uses his fame and arrogance against him only made the book more enjoyable. She's sassy but vulnerable, having just dealt with an unfaithful ex-fiancé and now faced with a man who is even more irresistible and has a longer list of exes. She had put all her personal wants aside, buried the hurt and made her career the most important thing in her world. Now out of nowhere she's given an chance at happiness with the Sexiest Man Alive, but is it worth the risk?

Review: Julie James's debut book about a lawyer roped into helping the hottest man in Hollywood. It was a lighthearted and delightful read. The book was fast-paced, witty and charming, the perfect book for a lazy summer's day (or a very long and uneventful plane ride). And Ms James proves that a steamy romance doesn't have to have lots of hot steamy sex to make it sizzle!

Taylor Donovan is a lawyer and the law is her passion. Her dream is to make it as a partner in her firm and its what she has been aiming for since she was child. She was sent to LA to litigate a high profile sexual harassment case when out of nowhere she's been ordered to help THE Jason Andrews, actor and every woman's fantasy, prepare for his next role in a legal thriller. This is not to her liking and soon he becomes the bane of her very existence as he first stands her up, then lies to her and then refuses to work with any other lawyer. And what Jason Andrews wants Jason Andrews gets.

Ms James has taken the orderly world of law and mixed it with the chaotic world of a Hollywood superstar to create this wonderful tale of unexpected romance. Neither were looking for romance, all Taylor wanted was to win her case and all Jason wanted was in her pants. But as unexpected as it was, romance between these two unlikely people bloomed. Taylor begins to see Jason the man and not the star. And Jason realizes that fame and fortune isn't everything in life.

What I liked best: The part that made me laugh the hardest was Taylor's fake sexually harassment case! The way she described Jason's supposed behavior with his employees in front of her boss and Jason was just too funny. Talk about the perfect revenge. It hurt no one but made the point hit home right where it mattered most, his reputation in his own eyes.

What I least liked: The quick resolution at the end. Not quite realistic but then its a romance and the HEA is required and those moments of "ah-ha" are necessary to move the story to its eventual end.

Keeper?: Yes. It has my name all over it! Thanks Julie!

Recommendation: It was a great read. A perfect airplane book. Something easy to pick back up after shuffling planes and getting interrupted by flight attendance about drinks and snacks. (As well as the neighbors asking what made me snort! )

Grade: A-

Review: Burning Wild by Christine Feehan

2009-08-05T03:01:00.000-04:00

Published: April 2009 by Jove

Number of Pages: 443

Genre: Paranormal Romance

Stand Alone/Series: Book 3 of the Leopards but can be read as a stand alone
Book 1: Novella The Awakening in the Fantasy Anthology or Fever Anthology
Book 2: Wild Rain or in Fever Anthology

Why This Book: Because its Christine Feehan and I have this horrible series OCD that makes me keep reading a series I started. *sigh*

From the Author Site: Born into a world of twisted monsters, Jake Bannaconni is shaped and molded into a cold, revenge driven man. Honed in the fires of hell, he controls his world and rules with an iron hand. He has everything and anything money can buy. He’s ruthless, merciless and considered a man to leave alone. His hidden legacy, that of a shapeshifter, makes him doubly dangerous in the corporate world.

Emma Reynolds is a woman who knows how to love and love well. When their two worlds collide, Jake’s plans for a complete take over, may just come tumbling down.

Read except here.

Hero: Jake Bannaconni was bred. His parents want to control a shapeshifter and they thought they could make one. When he was a disappointment to them, they tortured him and tried to use him to breed a shapeshifter. Jake always knew there was another being inside him and when he was finally free of his parent he was able to let that side out. Although he has everything money can buy, he needs those thing that cannot be bought: true freedom from his parents and the love of a good woman.

Heroine: Emma Reynolds has a mysterious past. On the surface she is a pregnant widow who had been a newly wed. But there is something that is irresistible about her that draws Jake's leopard to the surface.

Review: I quite enjoyed this book. I really like Wild Rain when it came out and kept wondering if Christine Feehan was going to write more. I was a bit disappointed that it didn't take place in the jungle as the other had but was appeased with the appearance to support characters from the Jungle.

It was what I've come to expect from Ms. Feehan but with a nice edgier heroine. A wounded hero meets heroine who has that undefinable something that makes her irresistble to the hero. The heroine then "heals" the hero. Meanwhile evil someones are attacking/chasing them and it climaxes to a big huge fight where the bad guys all die horribly and the hero and heroine are free to live their lives happily ever after, sort of.

Her recent heroines haven't been much to my liking but Emma has a nice edge to her and isn't one to lay down and let people walk over her, even though she does seem to let the hero get away with way too much.

Ms. Feehan write good stories but they just don't have the edge or excitement that many of the newer authors have. I don't know what is missing but there is something that makes her stories just miss the mark. They are enjoyable but not rave-worthy. But I will no doubt keep reading her as long as she keeps writing them.

What I liked best: Jake's employees. Although Jake has a very ruthless reputation in the business world, all his employees are "damaged" in some way and he seems to be collecting all these "wounded birds" and giving them a chance to succeed. The softer side that doesn't otherwise show through.

What I least liked: The heroine's matter of fact attitude towards finding out Jake is a shapeshifter and her whole mysterious past. It seemed to pop out of no where. But it did work with the overall storyline.

Keeper?: Yes

Recommendation: If you enjoyed Wild Rain, you will probably enjoy this one as well.

Grade: B-
Series Grade to Date: B-

New Cover: Shalador's Lady by Anne Bishop

2009-08-04T18:46:00.000-04:00

Look at Anne Bishop's new cover!

Blurb: Thanks to Orannia for the heads up!

Return to the “intense...erotic...and imaginative”* world of the national bestselling Black Jewels novels with this sequel to The Shadow Queen. In Anne Bishop’s “vividly painted”** realm, witches and warlocks channel their power through magical jewels—and one Queen has emerged from the shadows to bring hope to an impoverished people…

For years the Shalador people suffered the cruelties of the corrupt Queens who ruled them, forbidding their traditions, punishing those who dared show defiance, and forcing many more into hiding. And even though the refugees found sanctuary in Dena Nehele, they have never been able to call it home.

Now that Dena Nehele has been cleansed of tainted Blood, the Rose-Jeweled Queen, Lady Cassidy, makes it her duty to restore the land and prove her ability to rule. She knows that undertaking this task will require all her heart and courage as she summons the untested power within her, a power capable of consuming her if she cannot control it.

And even if Lady Cassidy survives her trial by fire, other dangers await. For the Black Widows see visions within their tangled webs that something is coming that will change the land—and Lady Cassidy—forever…

Due out in March 2010!

Review: The Mage by Jean Johnson

2009-08-03T03:01:00.000-04:00

***SPOILER WARNING AHEAD***
If you haven't read any of the Sons of Destiny series there may be some spoilers, so be warned! As always I have tried to keep the spoilers to a minimum so that I do not distract from your enjoyment of the book.

Published: April 2009 by Berkeley Sensation

Number of Pages: 374

Genre: Fantasy Romance

Stand Alone/Series: Book 8 and end of the Sons of Destiny Series *yay*
Book 1: The Sword
Book 2: The Wolf
Book 3: The Master
Book 4: The Song
Book 5: The Cat
Book 6: The Storm
Book 7: The Flame

Why This Book: It's the last book in the Sons of Destiny series and since I read the ones before that dang book OCD made to read this one too!

From the Author Site: Hope, Morganen's foretold bride, has finally arrived on the island. She hasn't been telling the full truth about herself, and the consequences will stretch further than even she anticipates. Just as Morg gets used to Hope's revelation, new enemies arrive on the Isle, seeking to steal away the brothers' chances at creating a new nation. During the attack, an old foe resurfaces and strikes amid the confusion, kidnapping the final bride-to-be.

Either Morg will rescue Hope and help his family complete the Prophecies of the Seer Draganna and the last Duchess of Nightfall, carving a new kingdom in the process...or their enemies will be free to slaughter them all....

Hero: Morganen is the Mage and the youngest of the Brothers Corvis who were exiled to Nightfall Island by Empire of Katan in hopes of diverting an unfavorable prophecy. Now that the lines of prophecy regarding his older brothers have been fulfilled and after having played matchmaker for the rest of his brothers, its finally his turn to fulfill his part of the prophecy and for his happily ever after. But there is a hitch to his plans. The woman, Hope O'Neill, he had been courting as his bride to be isn't exactly who he thought she was.

Heroine: Hope O'Neill was the Duchess Haupanea of Nightfall and Seer of Nightfall who foresaw the Shattering of Aiar and the destabilization of the Portals. While trying to save all those around her when the energy caused by Aiar Shattering poured through the Nightfall Portal, she was transported to Earth in the current time, about 200 years after the Shattering, and had to resume the identity of Hope O'Neill since the real Hope O'Neill was missing and most likely dead due to a tornado. Once she returned to Nightfall she had to tell everyone one the truth and try to win Morganen trust once more.

Review: Jean Johnson did a lovely job of wrapping up her series. All the loose plot lines were connected and brought to their happy or justly ends. Each book pushed the expectation of the next book little higher until you reached this climactic end.

Morg was tasked to be the matchmaker for his brothers in the prophecy and always seemed to know more than he let the others know. In fact he kept much of his skill and power hidden, even from his brothers. Here we were able to see the full range and scope of his power as well as his feelings of responsibility to bring the prophecy into reality. Hope was nicely matched with him in power.

Hope aka Haupanea has no desire to rule although she was and still rightly the Duchess of Nightfall. But all she wants to do is to become the first chocolatier in world. She purposely brought cocoa plants and took chocolate making classes while on Earth to help in making her dream a reality. In addition she wishes to once more connect with her Goddess, Nauvea the Goddess of Dreaming.

Although with the prophecy and the aid of many help and quite useful, at times just to dang convenient, characters everything comes off without a hitch. A twist in the plot or greater difficulty in fulfilling the prophecy would have made the book and series more interesting. As it is, the story and series flow along without much impediments making for the light and enjoyable read. Nothing very exciting and then again nothing that asks too much of the reader is suspending their belief.

The series as a whole was quite enjoyable. Very nice fluffy reading. Nothing too deep or too difficult to accept. Ms Johnson kept the storylines moving forward in each book and brought everything to this climactic end. Nothing was left open so there was the nice feel of closure at the end of this book and the series. Although I didn't care much for the middle of the series (The Song and The Cat), they did move certain portions of the storyline forward and each brought a required piece needed to complete the final task and free Nightfall from the Empire of Katan.

What I liked best: That its the end! Finally a series that has a clear cut beginning and ending. How each book built on the previous and moved the storyline along at a nice pace until it reached this end. Nothing too difficult to swallow and everything fitting in nice and smoothly

What I least liked: The Hope is Haupenea thing. Sure it worked for the story and did help tie up some of the loose ends but it would have been a much more interesting story with Hope staying as Hope.

Keeper?: Yes

Recommendation: This series is best read in order. Each book follows one of the brothers in their quest to win a bride and to the fulfillment of a prophecy.

Grade: B-
Series Grade: B-

Book & Movie Review: NONE

2009-08-01T22:17:00.000-04:00

Argh! Didn't have time to prepare one! *sigh* Sorry everyone! Tune in next month. I'll have one really I will!

But for your listening and viewing pleasure I give my following tribute to airports and hotels! Look here.

While I was gone...

2009-08-01T15:02:00.001-04:00

I've survived my week of airports, airplanes and hotels mostly sane but very tired. After having slept most of the last day and half, I started to catch-up on the whole blog reading thing (had about 150 to catch up on!!! O_o).

Anyway... the update:
1. The interviews went well (I think) but now it's wait and wait and keeping those fingers crossed.

2. I hate airport and flying! Looking back at the last month, I realized I'd made SIX cross country flights. I have to JetBlue was the best out of the three carriers I flew on (Southwest and US Airways being the other two). And the stewardesses on US Airways are baggage nazis! Never seen so many airline representatives so concerned about carry-ons. Really my little 6-inch x 12-inch x 2-inch purse (which I use as a lumbar support) shouldn't count as an "extra carry-on"!

3. Dress up shoes suck! Now that my heels (the ones on my feet) are rubbed raw, I think I'll toss the shoes into the goodwill so that they can eat up someone else's feet.

4. Got 4 and 1/2 books read! Yeah!

5. LeeAnn gave me an award. See further down.

6. CL Wilson finally put up an excerpt for Queen of Song and Souls! Whee. Read excerpt here.

MY AWARD

LeeAnn gave me an award! As usually I'm speechless. I'm not so good at getting compliments since I usually don't think I'm all that good at the blogging-thing (or whatever it is I'm getting complimented on). So... THANKS LeeAnn

The Kreativ rules state that:
Once you receive this award you are to list seven of your favorite things and then nominate seven other blogs.

Some of my favorite things:

1. Burt's Bees lip balm. The original minty flavored one. I can 't get enough of it. I think I have 5 or 6 sticks of the stuff floating around my house and various purses.

2. Books. I don't think you can have enough. Though at this point I think my house is a fire hazard with all its various piles of books everywhere. I think it's time to get yet another book case. Just have to figure out which wall to cover up.

3. My Mac. The security blanket of all security blankets. Thank goodness its a laptop so that I can lug it everywhere I go!

4. Handmade soap. I've got to one of the world biggest sucker for handmade soap! Thank goodness for being short on money since it has made me have to choose between getting more soap or books. I think the soap drawer is now down to just one drawer and not the two or three it was before.

5. Teas. Can't get enough of them. I have at least 20 different blends currently hiding in my cupboard. Mostly herbal since I'm already high-strung I don't need anything else to make me hyper.

6. Fresh fruit especially berries. I love summer since that's when most of the fresh fruits and berries are the cheapest and I don't have scrape the bottom of the purse to feed this habit.

7. Pajamas. I think you should be allowed to wear them everywhere. They are soooo comfy and go so well with bedhead! *g*

And the nominees are...

Orannia of Walkabout
Mho Fho of Babbling About Books
Mandi of Smexy Books
Carolyn Crane of The Thrillionth Page
Nalini Singh
Ana and Thea, The Book Smugglers
Judge a Book by the Cover

Broken Wing by Judith James

2009-07-28T03:01:00.000-04:00

As some of you may remember that Orannia of Walkabout decided that we all needed to Broken Wing by Judith James since we all bought it last year after KristieJ of Ramblings on Romance, Etc. recommended it highly. Thus the Broken Wing Challenge was started. See here for the details.

So those of us who took up the challenge had until the end of July to read and review this book. With only a few days to spare, I've completed the challenge. The following is my review.

Published: November 2008 by Medallion Press

Number of Pages: 440

Genre: Historical

Stand Alone/Series: Stand Alone (for now)

Why This Book: Orannia made me do it! And because we all live in fear of the wrath of Kristie(J) *g*

From the Author Site: Abandoned as a child and raised in a brothel, Gabriel St. Croix has never known tenderness, friendship or affection. Although fluent in sex, he knows nothing of love. Lost and alone inside a nightmare world, all he’s ever wanted was companionship and a place to belong. Hiding physical and emotional scars behind an icy façade, his only relationship is with a young boy he has spent the last five years protecting from the brutal reality of their environment. But all that is about to change. The boy’s family has found him, and they are coming to take him home.

Sarah Munroe blames herself for her brother’s disappearance. When he’s located, safe and unharmed despite where he as been living. Sarah vows to help the man who rescued and protected him in any way she can. With loving patience she helps Gabriel face his demons and teaches him to trust in friendship and love. But when the past catches up with him, Gabriel must face it on his own.

Becoming a mercenary, pirate and a professional gambler, Gabriel travels to London, France, and the Barbary Coast in a desperate attempt to find Sarah again and all he knows of love. On the way, however, he will discover the most dangerous journey, and the greatest gamble of all, is within the darkest reaches of his own heart.

Hero: Gabriel St Croix is the very essence of a tortured hero. Abandon on the streets as a child, sold into slave to a pleasure house in Paris were he was used and abused in every way possible both as a child and as a man. But he had a deep core of strength, honor and gentleness that could not be destroyed. He was quick to anger and quick to assume the worse of everyone but with Sarah's abiding gentleness and encouragement he is able to fulfill some of his potential.

Heroine: Sarah, Lady Munroe aka the Gypsy Countess and a bit of a rebel. Sarah endured a disastrous marriage shortly after her parents death and had the gumption to leave her horrible husband shortly after their marriage. And he very obligingly died shortly there after. She was able to keep her gentleness and unwavering kindness although she had a very rough couple of years after her parents death. Even after all the turmoil of those difficult years are behind her she continues her independent way, walking about in trousers and living her life the way she chooses and not by the conventions of polite society.

Review: This was a great debut book from Judith James and I look forward to her future releases. The story is set during the Napoleonic era in England, France and the Barbary Coast. The book is excellently researched and gave just enough detail to make the places and characters really come to life. And beautifully written so that you really felt for the characters involved.

The story opens with Sarah and her half brother Ross, the Earl of Huntington, coming to rescue their long lost brother James. Somehow James was lost five years ago and has since spent his time in a Parisian brothel where he has been protected by Gabriel, the gem of the brothel. Much to the chagrin of Ross, both Sarah and James are determined to save Gabriel from the brothel. Gabriel's struggle to fit into his new life outside the brothel is exquisitely told and the reader truly feels the joys of his triumphs and despair of his relapses and the pain of his self loathing for a past that cannot be erased.

Although the story is beautifully written and was a real joy to read, I found the leading characters of Sarah and Gabriel a bit bothersome half way through the book. Sarah was just too dang sweet and nice. She gave me a toothache with all her syrupy niceness. I think I am like those kick-ass heroines a bit too much. I kept waiting for her to take a swing at Gabriel during his moping periods. And I wanted to knock Gabriel in the head for the last part of the book. His continued self disgust, though completely understandable with his background, became just too much at times for me to really enjoy his character. Even after he finds out that Sarah is waiting for him he simple keeps with the moping and "I'm not good enough" routine. Bah!

The secondary characters of Gyspy Davey, Ross, the Earl of Huntington and Jacques Valmont were wonderful. All are very different men and each has his own problems to overcome. I hope Ms James plans on writing their stories. And if she does, I will certain read them.

What I liked best: Gypsy Davey. I really enjoyed the character of Gypsy Davey. He was a cousin of sort to Sarah and her family. A flamboyant privateer with questionable allegiances. But then I do have a weakness for those bad boys.

What I least liked: Gabriel's reluctance in returning to Sarah after he regained his freedom. Still scratching my head over that subplot. I get that he is tortured but enough is enough. He spends way too much time wallowing in his past.

Keeper?: Yes

Recommendation: It was a very good read and I enjoyed it greatly. I even had a few little sniffles while reading this book (much to the bewilderment of the people sitting next to me on the plane). I still like Derek Craven from Dreaming of You by Lisa Kleypas better than Gabriel St. Croix. (sorry Kristie)

Grade: B+

Interview Time!

2009-07-27T03:01:00.001-04:00

I have two interview this week! Yay! Because this week will be very busy, I won't be online much. I have all my stuffy interview clothes ready to go. (Never mind the fact I had to go buy some new one since I've gotten too fat to fit into my old suit. Also wool suit in summer, no matter how stylish, just isn't comfortable).

I'll be up very early Monday to get to the airport to get to interview number one. Tuesday is the big day for interview number one then back on the plane home.

Then it up very, very, early on Wednesday to get to the airport to get to interview number two. Thursday morning is interview number two then back on the plane home.

Friday will be catch up on all the blogs I was able to read because of all the traveling. I think by the end of this week I'll have spent enough time in airports and airplanes for quite some time to come.

Wish me tons of luck on my interview so that I will once again be gainfully employed. I really do like that money stuff. It makes life so much easier.

Joss Ware ARC giveaway

2009-07-25T00:02:00.000-04:00

A new author hit my radar just now and luck would have it she is giving away ARCs for her new book!

Josh Ware has a new series coming out in January 2010 as a part of the 3 book deal with AVON.

Here's the blurb:

A man with no future...
When Dr. Elliott Drake wakes from a mysterious fifty-year sleep, the world as he knew it is gone. Cities are now desolate, and civilization is controlled by deadly immortals. Stranger still is Elliott's extraordinary new "gift" – he has the power to heal, but it comes with fatal consequences.

A woman with a past
Jade barely escaped the immortals and is now hell-bent on revenge. She trusts no one... until Elliott. His piercing gaze and tempting touch shatter her defenses, but the handsome doctor seems to have dangerous secrets of his own. Is it safe to trust him with her heart?

If they are to survive in this dark new world, Jade and Elliott must work together to fight the forces that takes them beyond danger.

Beyond desire.
Beyond the night.

Doesn't it sound fantastic. Drop by her blog to enter! Good Luck!

SAR Book Club Book for August

2009-07-24T12:16:00.000-04:00

I'm starting the ball rolling and choose:

Because I met the lovely Julie James at RWA this year and her books keep getting great recommendations. Besides I have this lovely book waiting for on my TBR.

Next Month: Kati's choice!

Shaymless Aymless Romance Book Club

2009-07-23T17:07:00.000-04:00

After the great success of the Broken Wing Challenge. I thought we could start an online book club.

I don't about you but I've joined book clubs so that I can actually talk to someone about books. But it never fails when its my turn to pick a book for the upcoming month I usually pick a romance and then I get voted down or looked down upon since romance novels aren't "real literature" or at least that is what they tell me.

Well, pooh-pooh on them. Who needs their stinking, high brow "real literature"! They can keep their literature and I'm going with the romance, the happily ever after and those steamy sex scenes! Let us all be SHAMELESS and flaunt our bodice rippers and heaving bosoms. Who's with me?!

The particulars:
- One book per month. Must be a romance! ^_^
- A member of the club will choose the book for the month (order of choosing will be in the order of membership).
- Person choosing the book will host the discussion at the end of the month on their blog or this blog.
- Open to anyone who wants to join in for the fun and love of romance novels.
- Can do month to month membership (up to you whether or not you want to read the book. You can choose to skip the book of the month if its one that does not interested you.).

To join e-mail me the following information:
1. Screen name (what do you go by on the Blog-o-sphere)
2. Blog url (if you have one, if you don't it doesn't matter) so I link your blog.

e-mail: 2aymless at gmail dot com

New Blog Title

2009-07-22T05:16:00.001-04:00

I've been playing with my Blog title. I'm thinking this may be the final name...

At least for now. *g*

RWA in Reflection

2009-07-21T16:30:00.000-04:00

I wanted to do daily updates while at the conference but there was no free Wi-Fi anywhere in the hotel (although they implied it on their website *grumble*) and I am too cheap and not addicted enough to actually pay for an internet connection.

So here's MY conference experience:

Wednesday's Events:
- Arrived very early (7am) and couldn't check in. But was able to check my suitcase with the bellhops. Then did the whole registration thing then volunteered to help with registration (so that I had something to do since there was no Wi-Fi *pout* and to generally keep myself out of trouble). Once my conference roomie (KatieBabs), the party really began.
- Drinks and a few little munchies with Jill Myles and Kasey Mackenzie and Kati of Katidom. And briefly met Mandi of Smexy Books.
- Checked into room and shower!
- "Readers for Life" Literacy Signing. Met the love Charlotte of The Lusty Reader.
- Dinner with Lisabea, Rosie, Kati and KB at Medaterra. The food was superb and $3 margaritas cannot be beaten..
- Slumber Party hosted by Ann Aguire and Carrie Lofty. KristieJ, Megan Frampton, Anthea Lawson and Sarah Frantz as well as many others were present. Up until hotel security called told us to shut up (though more politely).

Thursday's Events:
- Opening Session by Janet Evanovich.
- Raided the Goody Room (mostly books marks and such)
- Keynote Luncheon with Linda Howard. She was great. Sometime I too feel like I am the "Keeper of the Nuts" in my family.
- Avon Book Signing (Free Books! Wheee!) And while I was waiting in line I got Silvia Day (aka SJ Day) to sign my Marked Books.
- Smart Bitches book signing. Met the crazy and lovable AztecLady (and was shocked to find out that she really does have a name! *g* ^_~)
- Dinner with Rosie, KristieJ, Barbara and AztecLady.
- Midnight Madness Bizaar. Where I bought soap. I am such a sucker for handmade soap.

Friday's Event:
- Breakfast were I met the lovely Alyssa Day (and got an autographed book) and AnimeJune.
- "Mastering Your Domain" workshop hosted by Alyssa Day, Stephanie Julian and Melissa Mayhue. It all boiled down to this. Do your research and use the oldest text you can find if you are dealing with a myth/legend. But in the end You Make This Stuff Up!
- "Paranormals: Writing Outside the Box" workshop hosted by Kelley Armstrong, Jeaniene Frost, Melissa Marr and Erika Tsang
- Harlequin and Pocket book signings!
- Awards Luncheon where Eloisa James gave a very moving speech on writing with emotion.
- Berkeley and Grand Central book signings! Had a complete giggly *blush* fangirl moment in front of Jim Butcher who was signing next to his wife Shannon K Butcher. But then he was a complete surprise for me since he doesn't write romance.
- Samhain Publishing's open house.
- Dinner with the Kati(s). There was a great turn out (22 people) and the food at the Lebanese Taverna was fabulous. Met the lovely Meredith Duran and now I must run off and find her books.
- Drinks at the bar where I had a lovely conversation with Charlotte and Mari Freeman.

Saturday Events:
- NAL and Ballantine/Bantam Dell book signings.
- Lunch with KB, Sarah Parr, Sally Mackenzie, and Katie the Young Librarian.
- Shipped and BIG box of books home since there was no way I was fitting it all in my suitcase and carry-on.
- "No Holds Barred" workshop with Jessica Andersen and JR Ward. Enlightening as it was funny.
- St. Martin's Press and Sourcebooks book signings.
- "High Octane Kisses" workshop hosted by Ann Agguire, Carrie Lofty, Laura Bradford and Cynthia Eden. Lots of great tips on how to keep the action in romance scene and how to keep the romance in the action scenes.
- Had drinks at the bar with Samantha Kane, Mari Freeman, Lisabea and KB while the RITA ceremony was going on. Met some very interesting Marines. Why is it people are really nice and charming but after a few beers they have a personality change. *sigh*
- Dinner with KB
- Post RITA drinks with Julie James and Colleen Gleason.
- Blogger Party. It was a quiet gathering. But it was nice to chat with fellow bloggers. Candy was as funny as ever.

Sunday Events:
- Breakfast with KB and some people I can remember their names *hang head in shame*. By this time I had long passed my brain's capacity for new names and faces.

Best of Conference:
- Rooming with KB! She's the best! Not only did she let me tag along after her (because EVERYone knows her) but she also got us the room. A lovely person all around. And Mho is a complete PLAYER and he certainly got around. See KB's for details.
- Everyone at the conference was super nice. I have never been around so many happy, friendly people.
- Talking with a lot of my favorite authors. Silvia Day totally rocks. Not only is she a great writer but she is also a lovely person. Ann Aguirre and Carrie Lofty were great!

Worst of Conference:
- No Wi-Fi in the hotel! How were we supposed to stay in touch with the outside world?
- Someone stole a crate load of books that authors were going to sign during the books signings. Melissa Marr and Kelly Armstrong were among those who lost their books. Why must people take things that aren't theirs!

Anyway.... Now I have many many many books (UPS man is supposed to deliver the rest of my loot on Monday, hope he is wear protective garments! *g*). And now I must prepare myself for my upcoming interviews!

RWA Day 1+

2009-07-16T14:11:00.000-04:00

Left late night Tuesday and plane was 1 hour late but somehow we still arrived on-time (6:15 am)! Caught SuperShuttle to the Marriott with another conference attendee only to find out we were also on the same plane (Cyndy) and made a new friend!

After arriving and attempting to check in and failing because the hotel was overbooked and another conference was wrapping up (American Federation of Teachers), but managed to get the luggage checked. With lots of time on my hands, I decided to volunteer and worked registration for R-Z. Met loads and loads of people. Biggest highlite was that I got to check Nora Roberts and CL Wilson into the conference! And met SJ Day!!!

Once KatieBabs and Mho Fho, my RWA roomies, arrived we went and met Jill Myles and friends at the pub in the hotel and later Kati of Katidom joined us.

At 4:00pm we were finally able to check into our room and I was finally able to shower!!! Then met up with Rosie, Lisabea and Wendy the Super Librarian. Then it was off to the Literacy Signing! Chatted with many many many authors (Ann Aguirre, Kresley Cole, SJ Day and CL Wilson to name a few). As I hate having my picture taken I do not own a camera so for pictures fo the signing see KB, Kati, Lusty Reader, Mandi, KristieJ, Wendy , Rosie and Lisabea for pictures and more about Day 1.

Day 2: Opening speech given by Janet Evanovich was great. Keynote speaker, Linda Howard, was hilarious. And I'm off to get some more BOOKS! More later.

TBR Challenge 2009: Sherrilyn Kenyon

2009-07-15T03:01:00.000-04:00

I'm off to the RWA conference in DC. Will tell you all about and hopeful escape without any photographic proof that I was there since I am allergic to pictures of myself. But for your reading pleasure I give you the following reviews:

I was bad and didn't write up my review for the TBR challenge last month so here's three books by Sherrilyn Kenyon to make up for it.

Title: Upon a Midnight Clear

Published: October 2007 by St. Martin's

Number of Pages: 282

Genre: Paranormal Romance

Stand Alone/Series: Book 20. See here for reading list and reading order.

Why This Book: Because I'm a series junkie and that stupid OCD thing keeps making me buy and read this seemingly endless series.

From the Author Site: Ever think Scrooge had it right before the ghosts ruined his life and left him vulnerable?

At one time Aidan O’Conner was a world renowned celebrity who gave of himself and his money without wanting anything in return. Until those around him took without asking. Bitter betrayal came at him from all directions. Even those closest to him. Now he’s a man who wants nothing of the world or anyone who’s a part of it.

Until the night he finds a stranger on his doorstep that he’s seen before... in his dreams.

Born on Olympus as a goddess, Leta knows nothing of the human world. But a ruthless enemy has driven her from the world of dreams, into the home of the only man she knows. Her immortal powers are derived from human emotions and Aidan’s anger and hostility are just the fuel she needs to defend herself.

One cold winter’s night that will change both their lives

Trapped together by a storm, the two of them must do the one thing they swore they never would. Trust.

Hero: Aidan O'Conner a bitter A-list movie star whom everyone has turned against because his cousin Donnie paid/convinced them that Aidan was not a nice person.

Heroine: Leta a dream hunter who's nemesis is Dolor, the god of pain. When they last tangled she trapped him. Now he is loose and she must corral him once more.

Review: This really should have been a short story in a Christmas anthology. There just wasn't enough of the story to make it a full length book. The publisher certainly tried. Although the length of the book in relation to the number of pages seems sufficient, the reality is that they used a really LARGE print to make it look like a full sized book.

As to the story, it would have made a great short story with a little editing. This is a short story that was fluffed into a bad almost full length novel. A bit of cutting and pruning would have done wonders for the story.

What I liked best: Nothing. There was nothing I enjoyed about this book. *sigh*

What I least liked: Too many to list. Probably would have been better off not reading this story. It didn't add much to the overall storyline.

Keeper?: Probably not. But I'm a junkie so I may keep it for awhile.

Recommendation: Skip it. Nothing needed to move the overall storyline forward. The only useful fact is that the curse Zeus put on the Oneroi to not feel seems to be fading. But this was also covered in The Dream-Hunter, book 18 of the series.

Grade: D

Title: Dream Chaser

Published: February 2008 by St. Martin's

Number of Pages: 359

Genre: Paranormal Romance

Stand Alone/Series: Book 21. See here for reading list and reading order.

Why This Book: Because I'm a series junkie and that stupid OCD thing keeps making me buy and read this seemingly endless series.

From the Author Site: Dreaming was never so deadly or exciting...

Hades doesn't often give second chances.

Xypher has one month on Earth as a human to redeem himself through one good deed or be condemned to eternal torture in Tartarus.

Simone Dubois is a woman with a secret even she doesn't know. She's never understood why the dead haunt her, especially her sidekick who will never leave her alone. But over the years she's learned to cope. At least until an intriguing and lethal stranger walks into her life.

Now the fate of the world hangs in their hands...

It was bad enough when just the dead relied in her. Now there's Xypher who needs Simone to open a portal to hell.

And you thought you had bad days...

Hero: Xypher is a Skoti, a dream-hunter gone bad. For centuries, he has been in Tartarus, atoning for his crimes. But he made a deal which forces Hades to give Xypher a chance at a second chance. Xypher really doesn't want a second chance. He wants a chance at vengeance. Kill the person responsible for him being in Tartarus, the one who made him a Skoti. Got love this bad boy. He all gruff and rude as hell but on the inside he's really a nice guy.

Heroine: Simone Dubois seems to be your average "I see dead people" physic. But there is more to her than what is on the surface. As a medical examiner she sees a lot of dead people and sometime she see their ghosts and is able to provide them closure of a sort. She has been alone except for her constant companion, Jesse, a teenage ghost who died in the late 1980s.

Review: I liked Xypher from the point he first showed up in the series (The Devil May Cry). He definitely had "bad boy with a streak of goodness" written all over him. Just the fact that he was willing to help for a chance at vengeance, though he hid his reasons for holding up his end of the bargain. He's a straight shooter and doesn't hide what he is and what he wants. He reminded me very much like Zarek. I would have wanted a better heroine for him than Simone.

Simone is a goody-goody and seems to spend much of her time helping others, and in Xypher's case, even if they don't want it. Maybe because she has all those annoying ghost floating in and out of her life. Or maybe its do to the twist that Ms Kenyon made about 3/4 of the way through the book. But whatever it was, she's just annoying.

Ms Kenyon lately has had a lot of WTF going on with her storyline. It seems like every book since Unleash the Night (book 13) had something strange, unaccepted and just plain weird going on. Who knows what she's going to do next. It has made the series a bit disjointed and hard to keep up with since she keeps asking the reader to make all these leaps with her and accept all this new ideas/concepts into the world she has created.

What I liked best: The relationship between Jesse and Simone. Okay so if I were stuck with a 1980s teenager I probably would have tried to have him exorcised. But Simone and Jesse are family. A bit of a strange one, but they keep each other sane and love each other no matter what.

What I least liked: The mystery of Jaden. Is he human or is he demon? And if he isn't either, what in the hell is he? And exactly who is holding his chain. Ms. Kenyon does a wonderful job with bad boys gone good so Jaden's story should be interesting. And you know I'll probably still be buying her books. Just perhaps not new.

Keeper?: Yes

Recommendation: Could be read as a stand alone but there are tie-ins to the great story and much of the terminology of the world would need some explaining so it would be better to read as a part of the series. It picks up a loose end from the Devil May Cry (book 19 of series) and ties it up in a pretty little bow.

Grade: B-

Title: Acheron

Published: August 2008 by St. Martin's

Number of Pages: 816 (mass market paperback)

Genre: Paranormal Romance

Stand Alone/Series: Book 22. See here for reading list and reading order.

Why This Book: Because I'm a series junkie and that stupid OCD thing keeps making me buy and read this seemingly endless series. And this is Acheron's story and I've been waiting for it since book 2!

From the Author Site: Even though he was the youngest when he died, Acheron was the first Dark-Hunter ever appointed. He is also the writer of the Dark-Hunter Creed and of the Code we abide by.

Because of his Dark-Hunter age and the fact that he fought the Daimons alone for thousands of years, he is more phantom than real. He interacts with the other Dark-Hunters on a whim, and his sage advice is often sought.

Eccentric and idiosyncratic to the extreme, he is a legend among legends. The Dark-Hunters never know what to expect when Acheron enters a scene. He runs the full gamut from friendly to intimidating to downright scary.

It is said of him that there has never been a mortal born who could equal his physical perfection. He possesses a raw, rare kind of charisma.

To look at him is to want him. To see him is to ache to touch him.

Hero: Acheron, aka Ash, the leader of the Dark-Hunters. He is the oldest Dark-Hunter, having had this job since Apollo cursed the Apollites and Daimons were born. Although he did not get this calling from Artemis, who created all the other Dark-Hunters, she controls him because she controls the Dark-Hunter. He is a god and his word is law and he controls the final fate of the world.

Heroine: Soteria Kafieri, aka Tory, is a professor of archeology and has spent her life trying prove that Atlantis existed and reclaim her family's honor in the eyes of the academic community.

Review: Acheron has been a walking mystery up until Sins of the Night (book 11). We knew he was the last of his kind. At first is was the fact that he was Atlantean. But in Sins we find out he's a God, the last of the Atlantean pantheon still free to walk the earth. His mother, Apollymi the Great Destroyer, is the only other Atlantean god left but trapped and if freed will destroy the world.

The first half of the book deals with Acheron's mortal life and the beginning of the Dark-Hunters The short, the Beginning, is included vertatim, at the appropriate place in the storyline. I would have thought Ms Kenyon would have reworked it so that it would be fresh or left it out completely, but unfortunately it was a retelling of the same story. Acheron is definitely in the running for the most tortured hero. He certainly had hell on earth and then it followed him into his immortal existence thanks to Artemis.

The second half of the book is the love story between Acheron and Tory with Artemis and Stryker as the villians. It wasn't the best but it also wasn't the worst. I'm not sure that it was worth all the hype and waiting. An interesting story with only a couple of WTFs to take in. It was nice to see some of the others from earlier in the series but it also left some loose ends to tie up. But thats to be expected as this seems to be the never-ending series.

What I liked best: Simi. What's there not to like about Simi. Barbeque sauce toting, eat everything in sight and loves Acheron unconditionally. Need I say more. I like that she is so literal. She'll do exactly as Ash tell her to do. No more, no less. And there misunderstandings about her instructions make for great fun.

What I least liked: Artemis and Apollo. They have no redeeming qualities. I don't understand why they can't be killed off. Sure she's the goddess of the moon and he's the god of the sun but why can't someone take over for them. And really with all the different pantheons running around this series, why isn't there another god/goddess of the moon and sun around to take over that way Simi could have herself a great ol' feast. And that would be really fun to watch/read.

Keeper?: Yes

Recommendation: Well worth reading. It has much of the flavor of the older books, which in my opinion were better, and less of WTF of the newer books. But the series is just getting too long. Especially if Acheron is the middle of the series as Ms Kenyon had once indicated. I don't know if I can make it another 20 or so books. She should just wrap it up and start something new. I wished she would write more the the Lords of Avalon series. She only wrote two and there is much to enjoy about them and there seems to be so much more to tell.

Grade: B
Series Grade to Date: C

Review: Eve of Chaos by SJ Day

2009-07-13T03:01:00.000-04:00

WARNING!!! If you haven't started this series beware of SPOILERS as each books builds on what happened before. As always I try to keep the spoilers to a minimum but it is particularly hard with this series.

Published: June 2009 by Tor

Number of Pages: 362

Genre: Urban Fantasy

Stand Alone/Series: Marked #3
Book 1: Eve of Darkness
Book 2: Eve of Destruction

Why This Book: I really enjoyed the first two books and needed to get my fix of the Eve-Cain-Abel triangle.

From the Author Site: How do you tell Satan that you ran over his hellhound?

Evangeline Hollis has no idea and she doesn't want to find out. Living with the Mark of Cain—and the two sexy brothers who come with it—is trouble enough. She doesn't need to borrow more. Too bad Satan is too pissed to oblige her.

Incensed at the loss of his pet, Satan has put a bounty on Eve's head, and Hell's denizens are converging en masse. The proliferation of Infernals is complicating Eve's hunts and creating chaos in her once orderly life. They've also brought her to the attention of an overzealous reverend who is certain she's Jezebel reincarnate.

How can a Mark drafted by God strike a bargain with the Devil? Eve's about to find out... Excerpt here.

Heroine: Evangeline Hollis killed Satan's last hellhound and Satan is pissed off to say the least. So with a Get-Out-Of-Hell card up for grabs its open season on Eve. Thus Southern California becomes the destination of choice for demons everywhere and that makes life very difficult for Eve and company. Not that she needs more. Eve is still trying to have a "normal" life while being a supernatural bounty hunter for God. But outing with her mother turn into death duels with demons. And her love life is in tangles. Since she's a one man woman, her bed is empty and dating both Cain and Abel is a challenge.

Other Notables:
Alex Cain: Cain is having trouble with his new position. He's not what he was and no one know quite what to expect since his situation is a first.

Reed Abel: Abel is both thrilled and disappointed with Cain's new role. Thrilled because it has provided an opening for him to be with Eve. Disappointed because he wants what Cain has managed to obtain.

Review: Another fantastic page turning story. Now that Eve has managed to graduate from her Mark training course alive she is being assigned demons to hunt down and eliminate. But there is trouble. Her mentor has other duties that take away from helping her cope with her new job. Her handler wants in her pants. And detectives that she thought she had seen the last of with the death of her neighbor are starting to find her a "person of interest" which makes her demon hunting activities that much more complicated.

Ms Day has once again turned up the heat and added a bit more spice to catch and keep our little mental taste buds tingling. She takes us on a journey to discover more about the whys of archangels and the firms as well as a taste of Cain and Abel's original home life with their parents, Adam and Eve. The love triangle of Eve-Cain-Abel gets a few more twists which only makes the story better.

A side note: The cover art for the first three books has been fantastic. Unlike some covers these accurately portrays story that is being told. Each portrays Eve in an outfit that she is described to be wearing wielding the appropriate weapon. The artist really took Ms Day's Eve and brought her to life.

What I liked best: The ever so entangled love triangle of Eve-Cain-Abel. I didn't like Abel so much in the other two books but I have to say that he is definitely growing on me.

What I least liked: The ending! I announce that Ms Day is an evil evil woman. How can she leave us hanging like this!!!??? Now I'll have to wait and wait until the next book to figure out WHO it was. Those of you who have read it will understand this pain and will most likely commiserate with me. And those of you who haven't read it, get to it so you can suffer just like me (pain does love company). So anyone know when book 4 will be released? Anyone? Hmmm.... maybe I need to go grovelling to the author. Will see her at RWA in a couple of days so perhaps I can get some additional info or at least another teaser to keep me on the edge of my seat.

Keeper?: Yes

Recommendation: This is not a series that you should pick up in the middle. Each book build on the one before it. Each build the world a bit more and creates additional depth and if read out of order many things may not make a lot of sense.

Grade: A
Series Grade to Date: A-

It's off to the RWA Conference!!!

2009-07-11T03:01:00.000-04:00

Yay! I decided I needed a break from my "real" world and go off and play. Perhaps look at a career change. Who knows maybe there's writer in me waiting to be set free. Or maybe there's story floating around in my head wanting to take form. Who knows.

Anyway... thanks to those lovely folks with JetBlue and SuperShuttle, I will arrive at the Marriott very very very early Wednesday morning. Will have to find folks to hang out with while I wait for check in time and for my RWA roomie (Mho Fho) to magically appear (KB says that she'll bring him IF he behaves). Then its fun fun fun and learning learning learning and books books books until I drop from exhaustion.

Review: Eve of Destruction by SJ Day

2009-07-09T15:08:00.000-04:00

Published: June 2009 by Tor

Number of Pages: 414

Genre: Urban Fantasy

Stand Alone/Series: Marked Book 2
Book 1: Eve of Darkness

Why This Book: I read book one and it left off with a cliffhanger so I had to read book 2.

From the Author Site: When you're learning to hunt demons, homework can be hell...

Class is in, but Evangeline Hollis is far from being the star pupil. She's struggling to get through the required training to be a full-fledged Mark -- one of thousands of sinners forced to hunt demons for God. When her class goes on a week-long field trip to an abandoned military base, passing the course suddenly isn't just a matter of pride... it's a matter of life and death. There's a demon hidden among them, killing off Eve's classmates one by one.

As the body count rises, a ragtag team of ghost hunters from a cable TV program unwittingly stumbles into the carnage. Now keeping the Mark system secret competes with the need to keep the "paranormal researchers" alive. With Cain on assignment and Abel investigating a new, terrifying class of demon, Eve must fly solo on her hunt to stop a killer before he strikes again. Excerpt here.

Heroine: Evangeline Hollis was "recruited" to be one of God's bounty hunters aka Marks and now has to attend her required training courses. Although she is a new Mark she has already has been on a hunt and has done some demon-ass kicking due to her having Cain as a mentor. Since Cain is God's number 1 Mark, all the other newbies are very jealous of her. Not to mention that her handler is Abel which also does not get her points with her classmates. Also going against her is being Archangel Raguel's teacher's pet (not her choice) and getting to keep her family ties. Therefore she's in the spotlight for many reasons and to many people which is mostly not good.

Other Notables:
Alex Cain aka Cain of Infamy: Eve's mentor and current boyfriend. Cain has the ambition of wanting to head his own firm of Marks and is pretty much willing to do anything to attain this goal except give up Eve. In addition to being Eve's mentor he is still "on-call" for the special hunts assigned to him by God himself.

Reed Abel: Eve's handler and want-to-be boyfriend. Abel also want to head his own firm and is also willing to anything to attain this goal even perhaps giving up Eve. Since he doesn't actually have her yet makes giving her up less painful. But as he spends time with her, the more he wants her. First he has to figure out how to get Cain out of the picture.

Review: The story picks up right where book 1 end. That being with a very toasty Eve. And Eve is still a tasty treat to be fought over in the oldest case of sibling rivalry, Cain vs. Abel. Cain has moved in to the empty condo next door but is spending most of his time at Eve's. Meanwhile, Abel is checking in on Eve at a regular basis. Both are leaving laundry and dirty dishes in her condo (isn't it just like a guy).

Eve's training as a Mark has begun in earnest with Archangel Raguel teaching the class just as Raguel intended. Eve is the most despised person in her class. Not only does she have Cain as a mentor (most think she has slept her way into this situation, which she did but not in the way her classmates think), she has Abel as her handler when all the other have not yet been assigned to a handler and on top of all that Raguel has made her his star pupil. Talk about a rough start.

The story is both fast paced and full of action and keeps you flipping those pages just so you can see what happens next. About half-way through the book there is a great plot twist which changes the Eve-Cain-Abel triangle in so many different ways that adds an extra layer depth and complication to their relationship. Ms. Day has certainly spiced up the age old tale of Cain and Abel to make it red hot and has added many more spices to keeps us all drooling and begging for more.

What I liked best: Eve's nicknames for her fellow classmates. But my absolute favorite is the demon Giselle's reaction to a certain incident with Cain. Since I am trying very hard not to give a spoiler, I'll end with that.

What I least liked: There isn't one thing in specific that I didn't like but the general feeling that God is stacking the deck against Eve in many different ways. As it is mentioned several times that there are no coincidences so it really does seem like someone wants to give Eve very hard time and its not all coming from the dark side.

Keeper?: Yes

Recommendation: This is book 2 in a the series and they should be read in order. Book 1 describes how Eve got into her current situation. Book 2 picks up exactly where Book 1 left off. They really could have been one really long book.

Grade: A-
Series Grade to Date: A-

Fourth of July

2009-07-04T03:01:00.000-04:00

Everyone in the US was so happy to have me come to the country they celebrate it every year with fireworks, parades and special picnics (never mind that whole independence day thing). Golly! *blush*

You know as a thank you I think everyone should take a day off work with pay (thankfully I have a lot of support from businesses)!!! *g*

Happy Fourth everyone! Go forth and gorge on all that lovely barbeque, watermelon and ice cream! Then sit back and watch those lovely fireworks.

Eeerrrr.... Note to self. Really must start Broken Wing *looks around nervously* Have less than 26 days to finish.

Book & Movie Review: The Princess Bride

2009-07-02T19:23:00.000-04:00

Author: William Goldman

Published: 1973

Number of Pages: 283

Genre: Fairytale

Movie Rating: PG

Movie Released: 1987

Stand Alone/Series: Stand Alone

Why This Book/Movie: It's a classic! It says so on the book cover! ^_^ "Hot Fairy-Tale Classic" to be exact.

Book Blurb: What happens when the most beautiful girl in the world marries the handsomest prince in the world and he turns out to be a son of a bitch? (How can you NOT read a book with a blurb like that!?)

Hero: Westley. He's dashing, heroic and great at everything. What more do we want in a hero?

Heroine: Buttercup. As a heroine she really is too stupid to live and really there's not much to say about her other than she's the most beautiful girl in the world at the time our story opens. But its a fairytale and we have to have the beautiful princess in for this story to work. She's basically the window dressing to the for the story.

Review: A great read. The book is written as if it were an adaptation or abridgment of a much older (and more boring) fairy-tale/history written by one Simon Morgenstern. It has many funny asides by the author/editor of the story about the boring parts that are left out as well as some parts that his publisher thought were not relevant or thing that could cause trouble with the historians of the original book. I love his reminiscences of when his father read him this book.

Its a story of true love and revenge. On the true love side we have Buttercup and Westley as lovers torn apart by fate and now find a way to be together. On the revenge side we have Inigo Montoya's search of the six fingered man who killed his father so that he can have his vengeance. It has kidnappings, pirates, death duels, and miracles. Everything you could possibly want in a fairytale.

What I liked best: There are so many good parts it's really quite hard to choose. But I think I would have to go with Fezzik, the kind-hearted giant and his love of rhyming. He's strong enough to kill a man with a single blow bare handed but he would much rather spend his life in peace making rhymes. And really Prince Humperdinck! What a name!

What I least liked: The part where the man in black slaps Buttercup. Thankfully that didn't make it into the movie.

Keeper?: Yes

Movie Trailer: Here

Review: The movie a perfect adaptation of the book. But that is to be expected as William Goldman is also a screen writer. Much of the dialog is verbatim and even the breaks in the book where the author reminiscences about when his father read the book to him made it into the movie.

The movie is perfectly cast. Mandy Patinkin as Inigo Montoya and Andre the Giant as Fezzik are great. But Cary Elwes as Westley is perfect. His dry wit and wonderful comedic timing is great fun. And he's resemblance to the dashing Errol Flynn doesn't hurt either.

The movie is fast pace and keeps you entertained right up to the end. Its wonderfully funny and heart warming. Its the perfect pick-me-up whenever you are down for whatever the reason.

What I liked best: All whole chase between the kidnappers (Inigo, Fezzik and Vizzini) and the Man in Black. Though in particular I love the sword fight at the top of the Cliffs of Insanity (that name alone has me in giggles) and Inigo's impatience to get the fight started. And the Wedding is too funny to miss!

What I least liked: Oh there is nothing about the movie I don't like. The casting and the chemistry of the cast is perfect.

Recommendation: Everyone should see the movie! The book is great but movie is absolutely perfect!

Book Rating: A
Movie Rating: A+++++ It's the best movie ever!

Kate and Curran Dinner?

2009-06-28T00:11:00.000-04:00

I was just pointed to a new excerpt from Ilona Andrews!

******************** KATE DANIELS SPOILER ********************

It's the promised "naked" dinner Kate has to cook for Curran! Enjoy here!

Where Was I????

2009-06-24T00:20:00.000-04:00

I've been a very bad blogger. *sigh*

Been spending my time looking for work and trying to keep calm about the finances so I've been doing a lot of reading (the best escape there is!) and trying very hard not to be depressed about the whole jobless and no money thing. I figure it can only go up from here.

Anyone have any great ideas about finding work? At this point I need to get some influx of cash so am pretty much willing to do anything (well... probably not asking "doing you want fries with that?")

Still on non-voluntary vacation and now going on to month number 6! Ugh! But on the bright side, I have two phone interviews tomorrow. So let's keep those fingers crossed (and eyes and toes and whatevers). I'm hoping to then be able to move on to the next step... the face-to-face interview and have employment by the end of July! Wish me tons of luck.

Anyone have any ideas on how to increase luck? I've fung shei'ed my home, and my friend gave me a good luck candle to burn and some lucky money to place in my wealth corner. I think the more the merrier (and likely to work better)!

Movie Review: Up

2009-06-07T03:01:00.000-04:00

Movie: Up

Genre: Animated Fantasy

Rating: PG

Movie Blurb: Carl Fredricksen, a 78 year-old curmudgeonly balloon salesman, in not your average hero. When he ties thousands of balloons to his house and flies away to the wilds of South America, he finally fulfills his life long dream of adventure. But after discovering an 8-year-old stowaway named Russell, this unlikely duo soon find themselves on a hilarious journey in a lost world filled with danger and surprises. See trailer here.

Why This Movie: I love Pixar movies. They are just so much fun. Really brings out my inner child.

Review: I don't know how those Pixar folks do it but this is definitely another outstanding movie. And the storyline is once again very unique. It tells the story and adventure of one Carl Fredricksen. From childhood Carl has wanted to go to Paradise Falls in South America to follow the dream of his beloved Ellie and in the footsteps of their childhood hero, the famed explorer Charles Muntz. As he starts his adenture Carl finds a stowaway, Russell, a young Wilderness Explorer trying to earn his "Assisting the Elderly" badge, the only one he needs in order to become a Senior Explorer.

This is also a movie about growth and moving forward in life. Carl has lost his beloved Ellie and he sets out to fulfill their lifelong dream as a final tribute to her. And this had become his goal in life. But as he spends time with Russell, he finds others reasons to live and how to make new advertures in his golden years. As for Russell, he wants to become a Senior Explorer so that his dad will spend time with him. We see his sadness and determination to make this happen. But in the end he finds a new friend and father figure in Carl.

The story is lively with lots of laughs as Carl and Russell, and later Dug, struggle to fulfill their dreams. The action is fast paced and the animation was perfect. The wonderfully drawn characters to the extraordinary adventure, it has everything that we have come to expect from Pixar. And as always we get to see a bit of local Bay Area color that Pixar loves to but in their films. In this case it is Fenton's, a local ice cream palor which serves the best sundaes in the area. Come visit and we'll go to Fenton's for a sundae! *g*

What I liked best: Dug the dog. LOL! Those Pixar folks definitely had a dog's personality down pat. The enthusiasm, the fascination with rodents, the thrill of the chase, and the loyalty and love of one's master. Dug was perfect and very, very funny.

What I least liked: There wasn't anything I didn't like about the film. It was lots of wonderful fun from the beginning to the end.

Rating: A

Book & Movie Review: Stardust

2009-06-01T03:01:00.000-04:00

Title: Stardust

Author: Neil Gaiman

Book Published: 1999

Number of Pages: 333

Genre: Fantasy

Stand Alone/Series: Stand Alone

Movie Rating: PG-13

Movie Released: August 2007

Why This Book/Movie: I went and saw the movie and really enjoyed it. Later discovered it was also a book so naturally I had to read it.

From the Author Site: In the tranquil fields and meadows of long-ago England, there is a small hamlet that has stood on a jut of granite for 600 years. Just to the east stands a high stone wall, for which the village is named. Here, in the hamlet of Wall, young Tristran Thorn has lost his heart to the hauntingly beautiful Victoria Forester. And here, one crisp October eve, Tristran makes his love a promise -- an impetuous vow that will send him through the only breach in the wall, across the pasture... and into the most exhilarating adventure of his life.

Hero: Tristran Thorn grew up in the village of Wall in England thinking he was a ordinary resident of Wall but that was not true. Once every nine years a festival and market is held on the other side of the wall and it is the only time people from our side of the wall are on the other side of the wall. During one such festival, Tristran's father met and spent time with a woman and Tristran was delivered to his father nine months later. Tristran never knew he was different until he crossed the wall to bring back a fallen star to win the hand of fair Victoria, the village's reigning beauty. During his journey, he discover sides to himself that he never knew he had and also of his other heritage, that which came from his birth mother.

Review: I enjoyed this fanciful tale of young love, adventure and self discovery. Tristran starts out as a fairly average village boy, loving the fair Victoria and wanting to make her his own. He doesn't really know her very well but since she's the "best" girl in town, he naturally sees her as a bit of a status symbol. One that would proclaim that he was truly a man. But during his travels to fetch the fallen star, he learns to be a man and finds that maybe settling down with a "good" woman wasn't everything in life.

His journey is one of self discovery as well as a physical journey. Tristran begins his quest as a naive young man who sees a quick way to obtain his desires and disregarding the feelings and desires of others. He only sees the what he wants and needs and not what others may want and need. But as he journeys with Yvaine, the fallen star, he begins to see that not everything is about him and his needs.

The secondary plot revolves around Yvaine and the jewel that knocked her from the sky. The jewel is important since it will determine the next king of Stormhold. All the remaining princes of Stormhold are after this prize as well as plotting the death of all his brothers and the competition. Yvaine, herself, is pursued and her life is in danger since the heart of a star will grant youth. This is well woven into the first storyline and adds some great characters as well as nice depth to a wonder crafted tale.

This fairytale-style story was fast paced with a delightfully whimsical air. Full of fantastical creatures: witches, unicorns, giants, flying ships and princes on a quest. It has many elements that make for a great fairytale. The hero has a unknown and mysterious background and goes on a quest to win the hand of a fair maiden. He must over come many obstacles, a perilous journey, overcome his evil foes and triumphantly return with his prize. And there is also the story of a throne to be won and an evil witch to be defeated.

All the elements of a great fairytale are there but it seemed to fall a little short. The happily ever after wasn't what I was hoping for. Maybe it was because I saw the movie first, which had a lovely happily ever after where everyone has a happy ending, so I was hoping for a wonderful big fairytale ending only to be disappointed by a rather different ending. And there were storylines introduced that didn't seem to go anywhere like that of the fellowship of the castle in which the captain of the flying ship and the strange little man are members.

What I liked best: The names of the princes of Stormhold. They are just a hoot. Primus, Secundus, Tertius, Quartus, Quintus, Sextus and Septimus. Its so much more fun and interesting than naming all one's children alphabetically or beginning their names with the same letter. Loved the whole naming by birth order, it's simple and elegant as well as amusing.

What I least liked: The strange little man. I am not quite sure what he is supposed to be and how he figures into the story other than as a prop to help Tristan in his journey. He's a mostly uninteresting character but keeps popping up throughout the story. A bit of a nuisance in my very humble opinion.

Keeper?: Yes

Movie Trailer: Here

Review: The book translated well into a movie. Naturally some changes were made but overall I would say that it was a wonderful adeptation. The changes that were made, made for a better movie with a more dramatic ending with a big confrontation between all the characters involved in the story. All the main characters were there, minus the annoying little man (a good thing in my opinion), and very well cast. Robert De Niro made a wonderful captain of the flying ship that rescues Tristran and Yvaine from sky. Michelle Pfeiffer as Lamia was delightfully wicked and fun to hate. Claire Danes as Yvaine, the fallen star, was perfect. Her distain for Tristran and his quest was on the spot.

The basic story of Tristran and his reason to crossing the wall are the same as well as that of the princes of Stormhold and the pursuit of Yvaine by the witches. Tristran's change and growth are highlited more visually, as expected. His physical transformation, helped by the wonderful Captain Shakespeare, highlites his more internal transformation and growth from awkward little shop boy to hero extraordinaire.

What I liked best: Captain Shakespeare played by Robert De Niro. He was a wonderful character, more lively and entertaining than his counter part in the book, Captain Alberic. In the book, he is simply a captain of a flying merchant ship. In the movie, he is a lightening trader with a fearsome reputation that he doesn't quite live up to in person. Only his stalwart crew, led by Dexter Fletcher, keeps his reputation in place.

What I least liked: There wasn't much that I didn't like about the movie. It was entertaining and light-hearted fun where all the characters were well cast and delightfully portrayed.

Recommendation: It is rare that I would pick a movie over a book but in this case the movie was so wonderfully fun and characters were portrayed so well that the movie out shines the book. Maybe it was because I saw the movie before I read the book or that I like the completely happily ever after. But whatever the reason, I truly enjoyed the movie more than the book. Hard to believe but there you have it.

Book Grade: B
Movie Rating: A

Which Character Are You?

2009-05-29T13:03:00.000-04:00

So I've been in hiding again for the last couple of days (and experiencing technical difficulties... reading too much is that right?). Anyway... I was wondering around all my usual spots and lookie what I found at Lisabea's (Nose in a Book)! So of course I had to do it and here is my Star Trek character:

Your results:
You are Jean-Luc Picard

Jean-Luc Picard		95%
Spock		64%
Data		62%
Beverly Crusher		60%
Geordi LaForge		55%
Will Riker		55%
Leonard McCoy (Bones)		45%
An Expendable Character (Redshirt)		45%
Chekov		40%
Worf		40%
Deanna Troi		40%
James T. Kirk (Captain)		35%
Mr. Scott		30%
Mr. Sulu		20%
Uhura		15%

A lover of Shakespeare and other
fine literature. You have a decisive mind
and a firm hand in dealing with others.

Click here to take the Star Trek Personality Quiz

HA! I knew I was captain material (just not that overly dramatic one!) . Not digging that I'm 45% Expendable. I am SO not fodder!

Who are you?

Its My Birthday

2009-05-21T03:01:00.000-04:00

It's my birthday!!!

Oh Happy Birthday to ME
Happy Birthday to ME
Happy Birthday dear ME
Happy Birthday to ME!

I am now celebrating my... uh... Twenty-fifth (yup that's right!) Anniversary of my birthday!!! Here's to blowing out the candles and wishing for some luck.

TBR Challenge 2009: The Down Home Zombie Blues & An Accidental Goddess

2009-05-20T03:01:00.000-04:00

Since I was a slacker last month, I'm doing two review this month to make up for it.

So first up is...
Title: The Down Home Zombie Blues

Author: Linnea Sinclair

Published: 2007 by Bantam Books

Number of Pages: 516

Genre: Sci Fi Romance

Stand Alone/Series: Stand Alone

Why This Book: It was the only Linnea Sinclair book I hadn't devoured yet.

From the Author Site:In this steamy, suspenseful new thriller from RITA award-winning author Linnea Sinclair, a dangerously sexy space commander and an irresistibly earthy Florida police detective pair up to save the civilized galaxy…but can they save themselves from each other?

Bahia Vista homicide detective Theo Petrakos thought he’d seen it all. Then a mummified corpse and a room full of futuristic hardware sends Guardian Force commander Jorie Mikkalah into his life. Before the night’s through, he’s become her unofficial partner—and official prisoner—in a race to save the Earth. And that’s only the start of his troubles.

Jorie’s mission is to stop a deadly infestation of bio-mechanical organisms from using Earth as its breeding ground. If she succeeds, she could save a world and win a captaincy. But she’ll need Theo’s help, even if their unlikely partnership does threaten to set off an intergalactic incident.

Because if she fails, she’ll lose not just a planet and a promotion, but a man who’s become far more important than she cares to admit.

Cast:
Sergeant Theo Petrakos: A recently divorced homicide detective for Bahia Vista Police Department in Florida. He is trying to get his life back together while avoiding all the helpful people intent on getting him a date. While investigating an unusual homicide, he get involved with the Guardian Force, who were also investigating the same homicide. Since "nils" - people from low tech worlds - aren't supposed to know about the Guardian Force, he is kidnapped and is placed on the transfer list to Paroo (a paradise planet). Theo doesn't want to leave earth, and his friends and family, so he makes a deal that allows him to help out in the current investigation.

Commander Jorie Mikkalah: Being a Guardian is all she wants to be and she enjoys her work. She has been promised a promotion to captain if she successfully solves this Zombie problem. With the death of her contact on the ground, she turns to Theo to get the information on about local.

Review: I've really enjoyed all of Linnea Sinclair's stories, so I had high hopes for this one. Even though the plot devise is not one I generally enjoy. The whole advanced aliens from out space come the earth and fall in love with an earthling. And it didn't work for me here either, I'm sad to say. Most of the time there is some translation do-hicky or something that allows everyone to understand (minus the idioms of course) but in this version, one of the numerous alien languages is almost like english to allow communication between the Guardians and the locals.

The worlding building was okay. There are two factions in space, one that naturally wants to obliterate the other. Zombies were created as border guards. But someone from the enemy faction stole the operating codes and now are breeding a superior Zombie breed as a first line of attact. And they've chosen the love state of Florida in which to do their breeding tests. Because it's an out of the way world with the perfect temperature for breeding Zombies and has very litte interglactic travel.

The Zombies aren't the fleshing-eating-living-dead zombies that most would automatically think about. Instead these zombies suck all the juice of their victims leaving mummies with moist eyeballs. And a person cannot be converted into a zombie. Since the zombie is a genetically engineered being. All zombies are a part of a herd, each herd is control able the C-Prime zombie. Reprogramming or killing the C-Prime zombie is the best way to kill the herd.

What I liked best: There really wasn't much I like about the story. It was well thought out but none of the characters really clicked for me. I think it asked me to suspend my belief and bit too far for it to be truly enjoyable.

What I least liked: The over use of the word "bliss". Couldn't the aliens learn the word nice, good, delicious, and happy so that "bliss" didn't have to take the place of those words. *sigh*

Keeper?: No

Recommendation: I would recommend Linnea Sinclair to all readers, just not this book!

Grade: D

Next...
Title: An Accidental Goddess

Author: Linnea Sinclair

Published: 2006 by Bantam Books

Number of Pages: 434

Genre: Futuristic Romance

Stand Alone/Series: Stand Alone

Why This Book: I picked the book up originally due to a review I read on The BookSmugglers blog.

From the Author Site: Being divine has never been more dangerous...

Raheiran Special Forces Captain Gillaine Davré has just woken up in some unknown space station, wondering where the last three hundred years have gone. The last thing she remembers is her ship being attacked. Now it seems that while she was time-traveling, she was ordained a Goddess…

Gillaine’s only hope of survival rests with dangerously seductive Admiral “Mack” Makarian, who suspects her of being a smuggler—or worse. But he can’t begin to imagine the full extent of it. For Gillaine is now Lady Kiasidira, holy icon to countless believers, including Mack—a man who inspires feelings in her that are far from saintly…feelings she knows are mutual. But when their flirtation is interrupted by a treacherous enemy from the past, Gillaine’s secret—and secret desires—could destroy them both….

Cast:
Gillaine, Kiasidira, Ciran Rothalla Davre: She wakes up in the sick bay of Cirrus One after her ship had suffered some damages during her last battle with the Fav'lhir which inadvertantly threw her 342 years to the future. Where she discovers, much to her dismay, that she has been elevated to goddesshood, with temples, worshipers and the like. And all she had ever wanted to be was "just Gillie" who likes Devil Breath neat with a twist and a good game of billards at the local pub. But she is a Kiasidira, a high ranked Raheiran sorceress, which comes with a lot of responsibilities. One of which led her into that faithful battle. Now that no one know who she truly is, she tries to build a life as "just Gillie Davre", feighter captain. But fate is not done with her, just when things seem to be settling down and working for Gillie, old enemies appear that puts Gillie in a difficult position.

Sentient Integrated MObile Nanoessence aka Simon: Gillie's sentient ship, teacher and friend.

Admiral Rynan "Mack" Makarian aka "Make it Right" Makarian: Admiral of the Khalaran Fifth Fleet and responsible for converting Cirrus One from a civilian station into a military station. Nothing is going well for Mack. First the civilian run operations are making it difficult as possible for him and his team to make the necessary upgrades, he has parrots flying all over his atrium, he's been giving an office that doesn't allow him to interface with any of the stations systems and he has a mysterious (a beautiful, even though he does want to think about it) woman in his sick bay that may be a pirate. On top of that, he has to deal with the Temple of the Lady Kiasidira which seems to have it agenda.

Lieutenant Tobias Finch: Mack's right hand man and a devoted worshiper of the Lady Kiasidira.

Review: Linnea Sinclair has once again created and wonderfully colorful world and engrossing story where a not so average woman ambassador, who just wants to have fun and share technological knowledge, saves the galaxy as they know it by sacrificing herself and her ship. But she didn't die. She's thrown into the future where to her great disgust and dismay, she is now a Goddess. Lucky for her they didn't get her name right. Unlucky for her there is someone on the station that can identify her and it seems that the enemy was not complete defeated.

The world building is done seamlessly. Althrough there was a lot information to portray, nothing got lost in the translation. All the historical bits were well woven through the "present" day facts. All the lovely world making details are there so there is no need to fill in the gaps. This world has a bit of magic thrown in with all the usual space exploring technologies. A bit of Sword and Sorcerer mets Star Trek.

What I liked best: Simon. He's smart and a bit of a smarty-pants too. All those teasing remarks, the humming of the wedding song in the background. The banter between Gillie and Simon are a crack up.

What I least liked: The really strange teenage fashions. But then I don't care for them much in the real world either.

Keeper?: Yes

Recommendation: If you've enjoyed other Linnea Sinclair books, you will definitely enjoy this one. It a lite and witty story about

Grade: A

DIK Hero Draft!!!

2009-05-18T16:19:00.000-04:00

Hi all!

You all probably remember (or not, for original draft check here) the silliness that was the Hero Draft hosted by seven ~~jailers~~ hostesses. This in turn became the springboard for the Desert Island Keepers' blog. So in fond remembrance, a new draft has started (we're adding more cabana boys!). Come check out the funniness that is the Hero Draft!

Blogversary!!!

2009-05-16T03:01:00.000-04:00

It's my first Blogversary!

It all started last year due to the Desert Island Keepers heroes draft which led to the founding of the Heroes Liberation Organization. The HLO is now a part of DIK (we have our own little corner of the DIK island) and all is well in the land of heroes.

For me, it's been a strange year spotted with work and many months of non-volutary vacation. Here's to hoping for a better personal year!

2009-05-14T23:49:00.000-04:00

Yay! Had phone interview. Should know next week if I'm moving along to a face-to-face interview. *fingers crossed* *toes crossed* *eyes crossed* *heck cross everything* *good thoughts*

Movie Review: Star Trek

2009-05-13T03:01:00.000-04:00

Movie: Star Trek

Genre: Science Fiction

Rating: PG-13

Movie Summary: The greatest adventure of all time begins with “Star Trek,” the incredible story of a young crew’s maiden voyage onboard the most advanced starship ever created: the U.S.S. Enterprise. In the midst of an incredible journey full of optimism, intrigue, comedy and cosmic peril, the new recruits must find a way to stop an evil being whose mission of vengeance threatens all of mankind.

The fate of the galaxy rests in the hands of bitter rivals born worlds apart. One, James Tiberius Kirk (Chris Pine), a delinquent, thrill-seeking Iowa farm boy, a natural-born leader in search of a cause. The other, Spock (Zachary Quinto), grows up on the planet Vulcan, an outcast due to his half-human background, which makes him susceptible to the volatile emotions that Vulcans have long lived without, and yet an ingenious, determined student, who will become the first of his kind accepted into the Starfleet Academy.

Kirk and Spock could not be more different. Yet, in their quest to figure out who they really are and what they have to give to the world, they soon become competitive cadets-in-training. With their drastically opposite styles, one driven by fiery passion, the other by rigorous logic, they also become defiant, contentious adversaries, each equally unimpressed with the other, each going all out to be among the special few chosen to join the crew of the most advanced starship ever created, the U.S.S. Enterprise.

The crew is headed by Captain Christopher Pike (Bruce Greenwood). Joining him are the ship’s Medical Officer Leonard “Bones” McCoy (Karl Urban); the man who will become the ship’s Chief Engineer, Montgomery “Scotty” Scott (Simon Pegg); Communications Officer Uhura (Zoë Saldana); experienced Helmsman Sulu (John Cho); and the 17-year-old whiz kid Chekov (Anton Yelchin). All will face a harrowing first test that will set in motion the loyalty, camaraderie, daring and good humor that will bind them forever.
In the midst of it all, Kirk and Spock will come face-to-face with an undeniable destiny: a need to forge an unlikely but powerful partnership, enabling them to lead their crew to boldly go where no one has gone before.

From left to right: Pavel Chekov (Anton Yelchin), James T. Kirk (Chris Pine), Montgomery 'Scotty' Scott (Simon Pegg), Dr Leonard 'Bones' McCoy (Karl Urban), Hikaru Sulu (John Cho), and Nyota Uhura (Zoe Saldana).

See trailers here.

Review: J.J. Abrams did a wonderful job in bringing the old flavor of the original Star Trek while updating it for a new generation. The ship, the cast and even the costuming was flawless (there is even a scene of Kirk sans shirt!). Everything that made Star Trek the phenomenon it is was maintained. The humor, the adventure, the villain and the ship (Majel Barrett Rodenberry was still the voice of the ship's computer), it was all there.

The cast was did a spectacular job in bringing to life and maintaining the mannerisms and quirks of the original cast. Many times when an actor reprises a role that was played by another, there is something missing. But here there were no mistake. The one that shines brightest is Zachary Quinto. He had Nimoy's Spock down perfectly right down to the the raise eye brow in query and the inflection of "fascinating". But the character I loved most was Chekov. Yelchin did a superb job of bringing Koenig's Chekof to life. The heavily accented english, the difficulty in dealing with the computer because of it and his enthusiasm in figuring out the puzzle at hand.

What I liked best: The cast. They did a superb job in bringing the original crew back to life.

What I least liked: There was nothing that I didn't like about the movie.

Rating: A+, Must see for all trekkies!

Review: Burning Alive by Shannon K Butcher

2009-05-11T03:01:00.000-04:00

Title: Burning Alive

Author: Shannon K. Butcher

Published: May 2009, Onyx (Penguin)

Number of Pages: 358

Genre: Paranormal Romance

Stand Alone/Series: The Sentinel Wars #1

Why This Book: Read the excerpt (here) because I saw the pretty cover on Kmont's blog and next thing I know I'm buying it! *dang kmont*

From the Author Site: They are the Sentinels. Three races descended from ancient guardians of mankind, each possessing unique abilities in their battle to protect humanity against their eternal foes--the Synestryn. Now, one warrior must fight his own desire if he is to discover the power that lies within his one true love...

For too long, Helen Day has been haunted by visions of her own death, surrounded by flames as a dark-haired man watches her burn. So when she sees the man of her nightmares staring at her across a diner, she attempts to flee--and ends up in the man's arms. There, she awakens a force more powerful and enticing than she could ever imagine.

The instant the Theronai warrior Drake touches Helen, the anguish he has borne for years fades away. He is determined to know why this beautiful, fearful woman has such power over him. The answer lies in his very blood--and in Helen's as well. For together, they may become more than lovers--they may become a weapon of light that could tip the balance of the war--and save Drake's people...

The Cast:
Theronai: One of the Sentinel races. All Theronai men absorb magical energy but cannot channel it. A Theonai woman can channel the power from their bonded man. The build up of power slowly kills the men's souls over several centuries and when their souls die they loose the ability to tell right from wrong. The rate of soul death in different for each man. The men are also are born with a lifemark, a giant tree tattoo, which a visual gauge of their souls health, the more leaves the tree has the better the soul's health. Two centuries ago most of the Theronai women were killed and the men became sterile. Zach, Thomas, Nicholas, Paul, Angus are some of the Theronai warriors. Jacob Rayd is their leader. Gilda aka Lady Grey is a Theronai woman.

Sanguinar: One of the Sentinel races. They blood drinkers and cannot be in sunlight. They are also the most powerful healers among the Sentinel races. They have been starving for centuries because the strength of the blood they have had access to is not strong enough to satisfy their needs. They are working on a mysterious project called Lullaby. Logan is one of the Sanguinar. Tynan is their leader.

Gerai: Not sure if they are the third Sentinel race or not. They are basically descendants of humans and Athanasians. Athanasia is the world the Sentinels are protecting and earth is the only gateway to Anthanasia.

Synestryn: Monsters, demons, whatever you want to call them. They are the bad guys that want to conquer Anthanasia. They come in many different forms. Each has its own strength and weakness. They can only come out after sunset and usually den in caves, abandon mines, etc.

Helen Day: All her life she has had a vision of her death. That of being burned alive while a man watches her with a smile. One day she meets him in a diner and is promptly kidnapped by him and his friends.

Lexi: Waitress at diner and Helen's friend with a mysterious past.

Miss Mabel: An unfortunate senior citizen. Helen's friend and fellow abductee.

Drake Asher: A Theronai warrior. While on a hunt he meets Helen and when he touches her the all his pain disappears. When he stops touching her all his pain returns. He doesn't know why this happens so he kidnaps her.

Review: The story grabs you at the beginning with the chance meeting of Helen and the man who Helen thinks will be her murder, Drake, in a diner. But rest of the book just didn't seem to be as engaging. As far as plots go, it was okay. Hero meet heroine who is his "savior". Hero abducts heroine because he needs her. Heroine learns she is "gifted" and "saves" hero. And as far as the greater plot, it isn't all that original either: supernatural warriors, with problems, must keep supernatural monsters from invading/taking whatever they are protecting. But all that taken into account, the story was still interesting enough to keep me entertained.

The world building was okay. There is a lot of information to convey. But the way it was presented was a bit confusing since we get bits and pieces from each character and that made it a bit disjointed. I felt like I was missing something. There is a lot going on and there are definite mysteries that I hope will be explained in the future. Given all that, I'm not sure how it could have been better presented. Maybe if the story hadn't skipped around to so many different points of view it would have been easier to absorb.

What I liked best: I think its the Lexi subplot. Lexi is one cool customer. A petite package of dynamite waiting for her fuse to be lit. She has a mysterious past and it involves the Sentinels somehow. I hope we see more of her in the future.

What I least liked: Sibyl the foreseer. I really hate the whole child prophet route. I also hate the mysterious prophet too.

Keeper?: Yes

Recommendation: An interesting read once you get your head around all the information presented. I'm looking forward to the Zach/Lexi story.

Grade: B

Challenged!!

2009-05-08T14:37:00.000-04:00

Orannia has thrown down the gauntlet.

Like many, I picked up Broken Wing by Judith James due to Kristie's glowing recommendation. And now its been a year and it is still languishing in my TBR. For some reason or another I just haven't read it yet.

While discussing what to do about TBRs and reading order over at Orannia's (Traffic Jam) it came to light that many have yet to read Broken Wing. Due to our ~~fear~~ respect for ~~the wrath of~~ Kristie, no one wanted to confess to this omission (much hiding). But Orannia has challenged us to read it before the end of June/July (still discussing the due date). We are still discussing the particulars (where to review/discuss).

Join us if you dare! (sign up at Orannia's).

Review: Eve of Darkness by SJ Day

2009-05-06T03:01:00.000-04:00

Title: Eve of Darkness

Author: SJ Day

Published: April 2009

Number of Pages: 344

Genre: Urban Fantasy

Stand Alone/Series: Marked #1

Why This Book: Heard lots of good things about from one of my favorite book dealers *whispers "KB"*.

From the Author Site: Cursed by God, hunted by demons, desired by Cain and Abel... All in a day's work.

For Evangeline Hollis, a long-ago fling with a bad boy from the wrong side of the tracks just became a disaster of biblical proportions. One night with a leather-clad man of mystery has led to a divine punishment: the Mark of Cain.

Thrust into a world where sinners are drafted to kill demons, Eve knows her learning curve must be short. A longtime agnostic, she begrudgingly maneuvers through a celestial bureaucracy where she is a valuable but ill-treated pawn. She's also become the latest point of contention in the oldest case of sibling rivalry in history...

But she'll worry about all that later. Right now she's more concerned with learning to kill while staying alive. And saving the soul she'd never quite believed she had.

The Cast:
Alec Cain aka Cain: The bible's first murderer. Marked and doomed to roam the earth because he killed his brother, Abel. He was God's first bounty hunter, or Mark, who hunts rouge demons or Infernals. Now he is bounty hunter number #1 who takes order only from God himself unlike the other Marks, who take their orders from the archangels. Cain doesn't like rules and has been on his own for a really long time and he had no weakness until he met and fell in love with Eve, gave into the temptation and slept with her. He has made a deal that has him assigned as Eve's mentor.

Reed Abel aka Abel: The, not so innocent, victim of the first murder. Now an angel working under an archangel and is Eve's handler, one responsible for her training and assignments. Abel loves the rules, has always toed the line and followed orders. A company man through and through. Enter Eve. Here's something bad brother Cain wants so natural Abel has decided that he has to take her away from Cain. But now he too is finding Eve a temptation and wants her for other reasons than to annoy Cain.

Raguel Gadara aka Archangel Raguel: Runs the firm that controls all the Marks in North America. Abel's boss and therefore Eve's boss. He has motives of his own and he needs Cain in order to achieve them, so he must have and keep Eve under his control.

Evangeline Hollis aka Eve: She slept with Cain when she was eighteen (and, well, stupid) and this altered her destiny forever. Talk about really bad first dates. Cain takes her virginity, ruined her for any other man, because the sex was out of this world good, then disappeared from her life. Enter Abel ten years later, he lures her into a stairwell, screws her blind, brands her and basically ruins her life. Talk about bad luck. Here she was minding her own business and is quite successful as an interior designer when her number gets called and she is branded with the Mark of Cain and is now one of God's bounty hunters. Except that she's special because Cain is in love with her. This makes her a target for just about everyone.

Review: SJ Day's first book in her Marked series. She has taken the biblical story of Cain and Abel and gave it a new twist. Abel doesn't really "die" and Cain's punishment isn't the end for him either. Cain can earn his redemption by slaying rouge demons (Infernals). But, as he's not so good at following the rules, he's sins keeps pace with his earned indulgences (atonement for his sins). While Abel, the good brother, is an angel, he isn't "good" and Cain, the muderer, isn't "bad".

Day's world building is good. Nothing too wild. Everything fits neatly into the story. And all the nifty little details are there and everything is consistent. She has worked the biblical story and histories nicely into her world. I like that she's taken into consideration that the Bible was written by men thus not everything in it is the full truth and that it is mostly allegorical. Day's archangels are highly competitive and are in constant competetion with each other and man, God's greatest creation. Sure they love God and are devoted servants and curry God's favor, but they each want to be first in God's eye. And God... well he is all-knowing and all-seeing but he doesn't always pay attention. *g*

In Day's world's history, the number of rouge Infernals out pace Cain's ability to control, God creates the Marked system. Some sinners are marked with the mark of Cain becoming Marks and allowed earn indulgences by working for the archangels. Each Mark is assigned a role depending his or her skill set. This system has increased until to the current state where Marks work for firms run by archangels. There are seven firms and each headed by a different archangel. Each firm is located on one of the continents. Cain doesn't belong to any firm, since he is doom to roam he has no "home" base. Abel works for the North American firm.

What I liked best: Cain. What a sweetie. Yeah he's bad ass but he really loves Eve and only wants to be with her. And he's willing to do anything to stay with her, even follow orders and deal with Abel, whom he despises even after all these years.

What I least liked: After the first chapter (you can read it here), everything is a flashback. It starts with circumstances of Eve's marking up to the events in Upland that was mentioned in first chapter with more flashbacks of Eve's initial encounter with Cain. So the book basically leaves you hanging and wondering what the hell happens after chapter one. We know how she ended up in that situation but nothing after. Total cliff hanger! Ick! The good news is that Book 2 is out in early June so we hope there will be some resolution.

Keeper?: Yes

Recommendation: Yes. A good read. Would probably recommend that you wait until Book 2, Eve of Destruction, is out to read this if you are like me and don't like loose ends at the end of your story.

Grade: B

Review: Magic Strikes by Ilona Andrews

2009-05-04T03:01:00.000-04:00

Title: Magic Strikes

Author: Ilona Andrews

Published: March 2007

Number of Pages: 310

Genre: Urban Fantasy

Stand Alone/Series: Kate Daniels #3
Book 1: Magic Bites
Book 2: Magic Burns

Why This Book: It's Kate Daniels!!! How can you pass it up?!

From the Author Site: Drafted into working for the Order of Merciful Aid, mercenary Kate Daniels has more paranormal problems than she knows what to do with these days. And in Atlanta, where magic comes and goes like the tide, that’s saying a lot.

But when Kate’s werewolf friend Derek is discovered nearly dead, she must confront her greatest challenge yet. As her investigation leads her to the Midnight Games - an invitation only, no holds barred, ultimate preternatural fighting tournament - she and Curran, the Lord of the Beasts, uncover a dark plot that may forever alter the face of Atlanta’s shapeshifting community…

Heroine: Kate Daniels is still the sword wielding manic that we have all come to love! She's still mouthy and has problems with authority figures (mostly Curran), but she is certainly learning all those codes and regulations. I guess that happens when you are a civil servant and lets face it working for the Order of Merciful Aid is definitely working in law enforcement. You know: bad pay, horrible hours, and doing things that no one in there right mind would actually volunteer to do. And on top of all that she's still the Order representative for all things mercenary or Pack related. AND she has to deal with Saiman! Poor thing! (*grins with glee*)

Review: This is another action packed page turner!! Ilona Andrews takes us back into Kate's world, the post-magic wave Atlanta, where all thing are not well. This story opens a few months after the events of Magic Burns. The post flare months were a bit slow, but with magic back in the swing of things, everything picking up. Once again, Kate's having to stick her neck, and sword, out to protect her friends and the world at large.

Once the action starts there is no stopping right up to the last page. The story is fast pace, the dialog is witty (still snickering at some of Kate exchanges with Jim and Curran) and well thought out. All those lovely details required for the story are filled out just enough to make every understandable and enjoyable. The world building in relation to Roland continues smoothly and it makes me eager to see the "final" battle/show down between Kate and Roland! This is what the whole series is building towards and I really love that about a series. An overall "goal" or outcome that the story it building towards. It helps keep all the stories in continuity with each other and makes for a great series.

Kate with her brash, no nonsense, kick ass attitude makes it a fun read. Since all is told from her perspective, we get all her inside thoughts and feeling. Which still a hoot! I just love the way her mind works (or doesn't at times). Though Kate doesn't want friends or responsibilities she's got them and she goes the extra mile and then some for them. She is definitely a great friend to have, especially if you need to kick some ass!

I honestly couldn't put it down. In fact I read it then pulled out books 1 and 2 and read right on through book 3 again! It was great! All that's missing is MORE! More Kate and her wicked sword skills, more Kate and Curran, more Roland, more, more, more! Ilona Andrews leaves us with tantalizing teaser which just makes me snicker then yell for MORE.

On Kate's relationship with Curran: I just love their banter! Their whole relationship has me laughing myself silly every time I thing about them. So let's sum up their relationship to date.

Magic Bites: At their very first meeting, she greets him with:

Here, kitty, kitty, kitty.

And he's response, after trying to wrap his head around her greeting, is:

What kind of woman greets the Beast Lord with 'here, kitty, kitty'?

Magic Burns: As their relationship starts to be more than just work, at least in Curran's eyes. Kate's whole take on it is:

If we were the last two people on Earth, I'd find myself a moving island so I could get the hell away from you.

To which he responds with:

We'll see

Magic Strikes: Curran is still is pursuit and Kate is, well, being Kate and is still evading and denying that anything at all exists. Kate:

I think you're confused as to the nature of our relationship ship. You and I don't get along. You're a psychopathic control freak. You order me around and I want to kill you. I'm pigheaded insubordinate ass. I drive you mad and you want to strangle me."

And Curran:

Once! I did it once!

LOL... I can't wait to see what happens. Especially with that tantalizing note at the end of the book!

What I liked Best: I have to say it's Curran's little note to Kate at the very end of the book. In fact it on the very last page of the book. It so totally makes me drool for the next book! And it's not out until March 2010!!! *sigh* And the best line in the whole book:

Er. I was sitting atop the Beast Lord in my underwear, holding a knife to his throat. What the hell was my next move?

What I found Most Annoying: Nothing! I love it. I think the only thing that bothers me is that I need MORE Kate! And now I have to wait until March 2010!! Good thing that whole Mayan end of the world thing isn't until December 2010 so there should be no trouble in getting the book! *grin*

Keeper?: YES!!! Must have!

Recommendation: I highly recommend this series. Although each book stands well on its own, in order to fully enjoy all of Kate's on-going relationship you should read the series in order.

Grade: A+
Series Grade to Date: A+

Magic Bites Winner(s)

2009-05-01T03:02:00.000-04:00

Since we had so few enter to win I've decided to give Magic Bites (Kate Daniels #1) to both people who want a copy! That would be...

ORANNIA

CHERRY

Congrats guys and I know you will enjoy it! One is brand new and one is like new (used but only has penciled in discount price first page, otherwise looks new, if you have a strong preference let me know otherwise I'll do a coin toss to see who gets what!)

Please e-mail me with where to send your books at:

totally2aymless at yahoo dot com

Book & Movie Review: Twilight

2009-05-01T03:01:00.000-04:00

I thought I would do something new. A combined book and movie review. I'm going to try to do this on the first of each month, we'll see how it goes... So for the very first Book and Movie review...

Title: Twilight

Author: Stephanie Meyer

Published: October 2005

Genre: Young Adult

Stand Alone/Series: Twilight #1

From Amazon: Bella Swan's move to Forks, a small, perpetually rainy town in Washington, could have been the most boring move she ever made. But once she meets the mysterious and alluring Edward Cullen, Bella's life takes a thrilling and terrifying turn. Up until now, Edward has managed to keep his vampire identity a secret in the small community he lives in, but now nobody is safe, especially Bella, the person Edward holds most dear.

Hero: Edward Cullen is a gem. Complete hero material, an old fashion hero with gentlemanly manners from a time long ago. As a vampire, he thinks of himself as a monster and tries to repel Bella every way he can, from leaving town to being rude and telling her that they shouldn't be friends. But he can't help but be drawn to Bella, not only is she irresistible to him as prey but she is also a mystery since she has the only mind he can't read. Once he gives into temptation, he is quite funny and delightful.

Heroine: Bella Swan is typical teenager with many common teen angst but with unusually sensitivity. She moves from sunny Arizona, where she was mostly satisfied with her life to Washington, where her life suddenly becomes the opposite of what she is used to, from being one in the crowd to being in the spotlight. She is not used to being popular and doesn't quite know how to handle her sudden popularity and Edward's unusual responses. At first she can't believe that someone could dislike her so much to being determined to solve the mystery that is Edward.

Book Review: This is a great love story. Very Romeo and Juliet, where the hero and heroine are naturally incompatible but are helplessly attracted to each other. He's a predator and she's his natural prey. It's also a story of true love and has all the angst involved with being the first love as well. All told in the first person, Bella's, and it highlights all her teen insecurities. At times her continuing insecurities and continued descriptions of Edward's flawless exterior are annoying but I didn't find it too much of a distraction from the overall story.

While some have compared this series with Harry Potter, I find it to be a comparison of apples to oranges. I think Harry Potter probably has a greater base audience than this series, I really find it hard to believe this series would be of interest to adolescent boys while I would think it would be wildly attractive to the average adolescent girl. Perhaps that's stereotyping, but it's like imagining my brother reading Sweet Valley High books, quite mind boggling. This is truly a teen fantasy romance with all the drama of first love and those difficult years in between childhood and adulthood.

Movie Rating: PG-13

Movie Trailer: Here.

Movie Review: The movie followed the book for the most part and there weren't any great diversions from the overall plot. But as with most books turned movies, there are some leaps/short cuts that have to be taken.

For the most part it was quite enjoyable but I had issues with the casting. Jasper in particular, I thought he was particularly wimpy and sissy looking. I thought the actor who played James would have been a better fit for Jasper. James was delightful. Both wickedly evil but absolutely scrumptious. But I have to say Charlie was my favorite. His portrayal was dead on for me. The whole small town sheriff who's used to living alone who is suddenly the primary parent of a teenage girl and doesn't quite know how to deal with this strange species.

Keeper?: The book is definitely worth re-reading and a keeper. As for the movie, its worthwhile to rent for those who really enjoyed the book but not a must buy. Director Catherine Hardwicke did a good job of bringing the book to the big screen but there were some hick-ups in the storyline that I found distracting.

Recommendation: An excellent read. Anyone who enjoys a well crafted story will enjoy this book. The movie is good and worth seeing but, as always, I enjoyed the book infinitely more than the movie.

Book Rating: A-
Movie Rating: B-

'Cause Everyone's Doing it!

2009-04-30T03:01:00.000-04:00

For new posts... scroll down. I'm leaving this on top until the contest is closed!

So I crawled out from under my rock from in my dark cave for a peek at the world (still not quite sure about coming out of my cave yet!). When I was wandering around to my favorite sites, I got this wonderful idea from Orannia. And since Kate Daniels book 3 just came out and I am so in love with the series and Ilona Andrews, I doing an....

MAGIC BITES GIVEAWAY!!!

From the Author site: Atlanta would be a nice place to live, if it weren't for magic...

One moment magic dominates, and cars stall and guns fail. The next, technology takes over and the defensive spells no longer protect your house from monsters. Here skyscrapers topple under onslaught of magic; werebears and werehyenas prowl through the ruined streets; and the Masters of the Dead, necromancers driven by their thirst of knowledge and wealth, pilot blood-crazed vampires with their minds.

In this world lives Kate Daniels. Kate likes her sword a little too much and has a hard time controlling her mouth. The magic in her blood makes her a target, and she spent most of her life hiding in plain sight. But when Kate's guardian is murdered, she must choose to do nothing and remain safe or to pursue his preternatural killer. Hiding is easy, but the right choice is rarely easy...

In this first book we get introduced to Kate and her mysterious past and bloodline as well as meet Derek, Kate's teenage werewolf sidekick-to-be, and the ever so yummy Curran, the Beast Lord of Atlanta. So I'll happily get someone else just as addicted as I am. And as a teaser so that you'll have run out and get the rest of the series.... In Magic Strikes, book 3, there is much sizzle between our beloved Kate and his Furry Majesty (as Kate likes to call him, among many other things)!

I'll send it wherever those wonderful people in brown (UPS) will deliver, so contest is open to everyone! Leave a comment and tell me about a book/series I should take a look at.

Contest will close at the end of the month (30 April) and I'll announce a winner on MAY DAY!

Villains' Day

2009-04-15T03:01:00.000-04:00

In honor of the IRS (those evil villains in the American Government - at least to those of us who live in the USA) and TAX DAY, I declare today, 15 of April, NATIONAL VILLAIN'S DAY (or international if others think its a good idea)! Let here it for the villains! Booooooooooo! It's really not a great story without a really great villain!

The Disney Villains: They are such fun to hate. They make the backbone of the great Disney Classics. The stories just won't be the same without evil uncle Scar, Shere Khan, Ursula and the rest. Some have a redeemable quality such as the love of one's pets but most are just plain evil fun! My personal favorite has to be Maleficent, the Mistress of All Evil! Gotta love that title. I mean really how much more can you ask of the title! Of All Evil! That covers so much!

Voldemort: Harry Potter would have been another nobody had it not been for the great evil Wizard Voldemort. He made Harry Potter what it was so if there was no Voldemort than there couldn't have been a Harry Potter. And on the evil scale... He's gotta be right near the top on the great evil chart!

Vadim Maur: Talk about a completely nasty evil guy! Anything goes when it comes to his pursuit of everlasting life and ultimate magical power. He breeds people like animal to get the most gifted offspring so that he can breed them until he has the ultimate magical spawn so that he can take over their bodies and conquer the world! But really don't you have to admire his perseverance and dedication towards his goal.

Who are your favorites? Who do you think is the most wonderful/evil villain?

Where Did Aymless Go?

2009-04-07T14:25:00.000-04:00

It's been awhile since I posted so here's the update:

1. I really haven't gone anywhere. Mostly just hiding from the world in general.

2. Am depressed because can't find work and the money is running out so that puts me at

3. Am very anxious because the money is running out an there is no work to be had as of yet!

4. Got lots of books read (will post reviews eventually) but a lot of them where re-reads (had to refresh my memory on all of Sherrilyn Kenyon books so that I could read Acheron). Works well for the getting away but not really away bit.

5. Now entering my most disliked season! Bird-Poop. Yup at my place we have Wet and Bird-Poop seasons (with a mix of the two between the seasons). I really, really hate Bird-Poop season. My nice car gets covered in that icky stuff every day so there doesn't seem to be a point in washing it off. But then you end up driving Poop-car (which I find icky) until you get around to washing it off. Why can't they find someone else's car to poop all over!

6. Procrastinating on buying all those seeds for the garden. Will get around to it sometime.

7. Procrastinating on doing TurboTax (all you Americans know what that is). Have to do it this week sometime... but really it's only Tuesday so that at least another two days I can put it off. *g*

So that's what I've been doing. How about all of you?

TRB Challenge 2009: Games of Command

2009-03-18T03:01:00.000-04:00

Title: Games of Command

Author: Linnea Sinclair

Published: February 2007

Genre: Science Fiction Romance

Stand Alone/Series: Stand Alone

From the Author Site: Can she trust a man who is half-machine?

The universe isn’t what it used to be. With the new alliance between the Triad and the United Coalition, Captain Tasha “Sass” Sebastian finds herself serving under her former nemesis, bio-cybe Admiral Branden Kel-Paten—and doing her best to hide a deadly past. But when an injured mercenary falls into their ship’s hands, her efforts may be wasted …

Wanted rebel Jace Serafino has information that could expose all of Sass’ secrets, tear the fragile Alliance apart—and end Sass’s career if Kel-Paten discovers them. But the bio-cybe has something to hide as well, something once thought impossible for his kind to possess: feelings...for Sass. Soon it’s clear that their prisoner could bring down everything they once believed was worth dying for—and everything they now have to live for…

Hero: Biocybernetic Admiral Branden Kel-Paten, aka Tin Soldier, of the Triad. As a biocybernetic being, he is programmed not to feel and to be completely ruled by logic. But he goes against his programing and falls in love with Tasha Sebastian. But having these feelings can have him completely reprogrammed or destroyed if anyone finds out. So he has to hide them from everyone else while trying to get Tasha to see him as a real person who loves her. It doesn't help that Tasha's best friend is an empath and is currently serving as his Chief Medical Officer.

Heroine: Captain Tasha Sebastian, aka Lady Sass, of the United Coalition. An United Coalition captain with a shady past that she must keep hidden, especially from Kel-Paten. She has been transferred to Kel-Paten's flagship, the Vaxxar, as a part of the peace agreement to unite the Triad and the United Coalition against a mutual threat. What she doesn't know is that Kel-Paten has other reasons for her being on his ship. With the appearance of Jace Serafino on board the Vaxxar, Tasha's shady past is catching up to her.

Review: Another brilliant read from Linnea Sinclair. Tasha and Kel-Paten are an unlikely pair that create a perfect romance. Tasha with her intuitive style and Kel-Paten with his logic. Together they are unbeatable. You can feel Kel-Paten's longing for Tasha as he follows her around his ship just so that he can be in her company as well as his frustration at trying to be emotional while with Tasha and unemotional the rest of the time to avoid getting caught and reprogrammed or destroyed. Meanwhile, you can see Tasha's confusion as to why Kel-Paten is "spying". Kel-Paten's straight military bearing is a perfect foil for Tasha's more relaxed and rougish style. You have to love her "My name's No, No, Bad Captain! What's yours?" T-shirt and Kel-Paten's reaction to it as well as their "Sabastian", pause, "Kel-Paten" routine.

Linnea Sinclair has given us a second love story to enjoy in book. The love story of the rascally outlaw Jace Serafino and Vaxxar's CMO, Eden Fynn. Their story is a bit more intertwined with the storyline and is hard to discuss without giving away the plot. So I'll just say that it is fun to see Jace the outlaw try to steal Dr. Fynn's heart but ends up reforming to earn her love.

And let's not forget the lovable furzels, Reilly and Tank (although he is just a fidget)! All would have been destroyed had it not have been for these two furry, lovable and loyal champions. I want a furzel of my very own (I know my furry baby definitely has the furzel quality of loving her food and always wanting her food). The book just wouldn't have been the same without them and their furry commentary.

Keeper?: Most definitely.

Recommendation: I loved it. A great story with wonderful, memorable characters. I can't think of anything that would make this better. It's perfect as it is written.

Rating: A+

Review: Finders Keepers

2009-03-16T03:01:00.000-04:00

Title: Finders Keepers

Author: Linnea Sinclair

Published: April 2005

Genre: Science Fiction Romance

Stand Alone/Series: Stand Alone

From the Author Site: Now that they found each other, the universe won't know what hit it...

Blending hard SF with sizzling romantic suspense, Linnea Sinclair brings readers this red-hot adventure of two space outcasts on a collision course with destiny. Now that this star-crossed couple have found each other, the universe won't know what hit it...

Trilby Elliot is a barely legal independent trader. Rhis Vanur is the arrogant Zafharin military officer she rescued from a crash landing. It would have been a miracle if they survived each other's company on Trilby's slapdash starfreighter even under the best of circumstances. And these are far from the best of circumstances. For Trilby's best friend is missing and the warlike 'Sko are hunting both Trilby and Rhis. Suddenly they're in it together, for better, for worse--or until death blasts them to oblivion...

There are very minor spoilers ahead. To read with the spoilers, highlight the text.

Hero: Lieutenant Rhis Vanur aka Senior Captain Khyrhis Tivahr of the Zarfharin hunter ship Razalka aka Tivahr the Terrible. Rhis is having a really bad week. First he was captured by the 'Sko, then he escaped only to crash land on a middle of nowhere inhospitable planet. But to his luck begins to change when he is rescued by Tribly Elliot and her envoy droid Dezi. In his hurry to return to the Razalka, he gets on the bad side of Tribly by trying hijack her ship only to find the ship inoperable and in the middle of repairs. He quickly sees that the only way he can get back to Zarfharin space is to fix Tribly's outdated ship. The only things he hadn't counted on was to fall "ass over teakettle" for Tribly. He's Zarfharin military arrogance slowly melts away to show a lonely man in dire need of love and understanding.

Heroine: Tribly Elliot, Captain of the Careless Venture, and an independent Conclave trader who is down on her luck. With her only crew, and best friend, Desi - an old DZ-9 envoy droid - she is attempting to fix/upgrade her ship on the sly because she can't pay port fees. So she has set up a temporary shop on a uninhabited and mostly unwanted plant. Part way through her repairs, a 'Sko fighter crash lands practically on her door step. Unable to pass up a good salvage opportunity, Tribly and her faithful Desi head to the crash site and get more than they wanted. Tribly is a gutsy trader who just wants to make an honest and decent living, but time and money are not on her side. Tribly is attracted to Rhis but is afraid to risk her heart since it was recently dealt a harsh blow. Her character reminded me of Beka Valentine from the TV series Andromeda.

Review: Another wonderful story from Linnea Sinclair. She has managed to create a very believable world and situation. Just enough detail is given to give this universe life and delightful food for our imaginations.

In this universe, the war between the Conclave and Zarharin Empire has just ended and peace between the two is still fragile. Tribly is a citizen of the Conclave, but they are more of an annoyance to her rather than anything else. While Rhis is a member of the Zarharin Imperial Fleet and is used to rules and regulations. So difference between the two makes for delightful times as Tribly pokes fun at Rhis's imperial arrogance and Rhis being constantly caught off guard with the unexpected, such as having to hit or wack a tool to make it function or start.

Although the Zarharin Empire and Conclave are peace, there is something shady going on with the Ycsko, an aggressive non-human group that share this part of the galaxy with the Zarharin Empire and the Conclave. This increasing tension between all the factions makes a very exciting story.

Once again Linnea Sinclair has delivered an action packed story with two very delightful lead characters. Strong, independent, loyal Tribly and arrogant, lonely, sexy Rhis. As well as a slew of others.
My favorite secondary character is Desi. He just like C3PO from Star Wars. Always willing to help but overly verbose on whatever topic is being discussed. Poor guy is doing a job outside his original programming but does it without complaint. And at times very literal, I suppose that is the way of droids and in particular, envoy/protocol droids.

One two this seem bother me about this book. First is the first love scene. It just seemed to jump out of no where. Sure they liked and were attracted to each other, Rhis had already tried kissed Tribly, but Tribly had rebuffed him. Then out of the blue she jumps him and they go on to have steamy sex. Sure she found him attractive and quite yummy to look at, but there didn't seem to be any build up to that scene. The second is that the book ended without answering some questions that were presented in the book. Although the book was written as a stand alone, I felt like it was set up for a sequel. One that would explain or wrap up all those annoying little sub-plot lines that were still hanging around as loose threads.

Keeper?: Yes

Recommendation: An excellent read. This a stand alone novel that is screaming for a sequel!

Rating: B+

Come Visit with Linnea Sinclair

2009-03-13T03:01:00.000-04:00

Come over to DIK and chat with award winning author Linnea Sinclair!

You don't know what your missing if you haven't read any of her books. They are a must read for me. Go check them out!
Gabriel's Ghost (book 1) See my review here
Shades of Dark (book 2) See my review here
Hope's Folly (book 3) See my review here
Games of Command (my review will be up next week)
Finders Keepers (review also coming soon)
Accidental Goddess
Down Home Zombie Blues

Riding on Instinct contest

2009-03-12T20:28:00.000-04:00

Jaci Burton is running a contest over at her blog for the release of her latest book:

Riding on Instinct!

Check it out!

Play Host Over at DIK

2009-03-12T03:01:00.000-04:00

Hiya folks. I'm the blogger-in-charge over at DIK for the next three days.

A mystery guest will be joining us today. A mystery prize (provided by our mystery guest) will be given to the first person to correctly identify our guest. Tomorrow there will be a Q&A session with our guest. Come over and play!

Review: The Shadow Queen

2009-03-09T03:01:00.000-04:00

Title: The Shadow Queen

Author: Anne Bishop

Published: March 2009

Genre: Fantasy

Stand Alone/Series: Black Jewels #6
Book 1: Daughter of the Blood
Book 2: Heir to Shadows
Book 3: Queen of the Darkness
Book 4: Dreams Made Flesh
Book 5: Tangled Webs

From the Book Jacket: Dena Nehele is a land decimated by its past. Once it was ruled by corrupt Queens, who were wiped out when the land was cleansed of tainted Blood. Now only one hundred Warlord Princes stand... without a leader and without hope.

Theran Grayhaven is the last of his line, desperate to find the key that reveals a treasure great enough to restore Dena Nehele. But first he needs to find a Queen who knows Protocol, remembers the Blood's code of honor, and lives by the old ways.

Languishing in the Shadow Realm, Lady Cassidy is a Queen without a court, a castoff. She is not beautiful. She thinks she is not strong. But when she is chosen to rule Dena Nehele, she must convince bitter men to serve once again.

Theran's cousin Gray is a Warlord Prince who is damaged in mind and body by the vicious Queens who once ruled Dena Nehele. Yet something about Cassidy makes him want to serve - and makes him believe he can be made whole again.

And only Cassidy can prove to Gray - and to herself - that wounds can heal and even the whisper of a promise can be fulfilled...

The Cast of Characters:
Theran Grayhaven, Green-Jeweled Warlord Prince and last of the Grayhaven line, the last that can claim Jared and Lia as ancestor. As the strongest living Warlord Prince and the last of the Grayhaven line, it is his duty and dream to see Dena Nehele restored. Having grown up in a warrior's camp, he has few manners and is bitter that only Queen he has is a Rose-Jeweled and, in his eyes, unattractive one to try to rebuild Dena Nehele with and not a powerful and stunning Queen that would impress and attract others to his cause.

Jared Blaed "Gray" Grayhaven, Purple Dusk-Jeweled Warlord Prince and cousin of Theran (on his motherside and not truly of the Grayhaven line). When he was fifteen he was captured and tortured by the evil Queens because he was mistaken for Theran. The torture has left both mental and physical scars that done have been able to heal. In his mind the Grayhaven estate is a prison and Queens are those that only cause pain. Even though Cassidy is a Queen living in Grayhaven, Gray can't stay away from her and slowly finds that he wants and needs to be more than he is, to be more than a broken Warlord Prince. To become someone that Cassidy would want as a friend and lover.

Cassidy, Rose-Jeweled Queen from Dharo in Kaeleer, the Shadow Realm. Her court had just abandoned her because she did not come from aristocratic family, does not wear a powerful Jewel and is not pretty. She is gentle coerced by Jaenelle into accepting the "temporary" position as Queen of Dena Nehele in Terreille. As Queen of Dena Nehele, she faces challenge after challenge. The first is to set up her court, which she must do if she is to rule and there are only bitter men who have only known war and pain all their lives to choose from. Then to try to rule using Protocol and the old ways of the Blood that has been completely forgotten in Dena Nehele and is constantly running into roadblocks placed in her way by Theran.

Review: Another fabulous book by Anne Bishop set in the Black Jewel world. This story takes place approximately two-years after Queen of the Darkness and focuses on the territory of Dena Nehele. The main storyline, of the struggle to rebuild Dena Nehele, is woven with the continuing storyline of Daemon Sadi, Jaenelle, Lucivar and Saetan. Although it was interesting to see how they were all doing, it took away from the main story and at times was distracting.

The story in Dena Nehele, falls into two story lines. The first is the rebuilding of Dena Nehele as a territory and Theran's desire to lead this restoration. In order to do this, Theran needs a good Queen. And he gets Cassidy, an unattractive and not very powerful Rose-Jeweled Queen, of which he is embarassed. So he spends his time trying to hide her from the rest of Dena Nehele. Thus hampering Cassidy's ability to rule the territory. The interaction between Cassidy and her new court is spare at best. I wish there had been more there. The struggle of these men to learn Protocol and the old ways is completely lacking as is Cassidy's attempts to teach them. I felt that this storyline was not taken to completion. Only the surface has been touched and there is definitely more that needs to be told.

The second storyline is that of Cassidy and Gray. Gray has been so wounded that he has stayed an adolescent in order to protect himself. To hide from the past instead of facing it and learning to live with it. With the appearance of Cassidy, Gray finds himself wanting to be more than he is so that Cassidy will want to be with him, first as a friend and later as a lover. His struggles and triumphs come through clearly and you find yourself cheering for him. Cassidy has taken a bitter blow and has been basically told that she is both undesirable as a Queen and as a woman. It does not help that Theran's reinforcing these beliefs. But she runs into Gray and knows that he is hers to protect and perhaps more. With each of Gray's triumphs, Cassidy finds herself struggling with new and exciting feelings for Gray. It a love story of acceptance from both sides. This story, while satisfying, wasn't taken to its completion. There is definitely more there to explore.

The Kaeleer storyline, that of Saetan, Daemon and Jaenelle, was interesting but it probably would have made a better short story on its own rather than as a thread in this book. These interludes about characters we've come to love did not add anything to the main storyline, they were a distraction. Bumps in an otherwise smoothly flowing story of Dena Nehele's restoration and a budding romance.

Overall it was a great read. It was nice to catch up with our old friends and see how they are faring. And it was nice to meet some new friends and learn about their stories. I just wish they hadn't interferred with each other. In addition, I hope that Anne Bishop will pick up where she left off because there is definitely more to these stories than what is presented in this book.

Keeper?: Yes

Recommendation: Although this is book 6 in the on-going Black Jewels world, it can be read as a stand alone. But I think to fully appreciate the whole of the storyline the reader should read the first three books (Daughter of the Blood, Heir to Shadows and Queen of the Darkness) prior to reading this one. In addition, The Invisible Ring (Jared and Lia's story) could be read for additional background information but isn't necessary to fully enjoy this book.

Rating: B+