Anna's Book Blog

[ARC Review] - Evermine by Hailey Edwards

2012-02-13T00:07:00.002-06:00

Title: Evermine
Author: Hailey Edwards
Series: Daughters of Askara
Genre: Fantasy Romance
Release Date: February 21, 2012

I received this book for review from the author.

Summary: He can be a slave to his past…or allow her love to free him.

There’s such a thing as too much change. Emma’s sister is mated. Revolution is brewing in her home realm. The last straw: her would-be mate is back from the dead and back under her skin—yet when it comes to the last five years, he’s not talking.

Desperate for a chance to start her own life, she answers the queen’s call to ensure equality for all of Askara’s newly freed slaves. It’s the perfect opportunity to escape a heartbreak in the making named Harper.

Harper loses a piece of his fractured soul when Emma walks away. His lies were meant to protect her from torturous years that drove him to the point of madness. Instead, when he comes to her a year later to help avert a crisis in a freed-slave community, the wedge those lies drove between them is firmly in place.

As their new lives collide with old wounds, they race to stop a threat that could not only destroy the queen, but send Harper back to the hell he escaped. Emma must decide if the man she still loves deserves equal rights to her heart.

Warning: This title contains torn pants, ripped gowns, and sand in uncomfortable places. It also includes one overcompensating villain, one gnarly priest, and two battered hearts willing to give this thing called love one last chance.

Thoughts: Fabulous read! Daughter of Askara is a wonderful world to read about with an incredible set of characters. I enjoyed Evermine, which is the second book in the series. Emma & Harper's journey was an interesting one. They are very likable couple but, I found myself frustrated with them. They are a couple with personal issues and relationship issues and both have a stubbornness that will make you want to tear your hair out. Ms. Edwards winged-creatures are dominating, sexy and just plain fun to read about. This series is a must read in my book.

Score: 4 Stars

Author Website: http://haileyedwards.net/

Upcoming Releases:
A Hint of Frost (Araneae Nation #1)- April 17, 2012
Eversworn (Daughters of Askara #3)- June 26, 2012

In My Mailbox [143]

2012-02-12T00:00:00.001-06:00

In My Mailbox is a feature that was started over at The Story Siren. Each week we share what arrived in our mailboxes, bought or found in swaps or at the library. Here is what I got this past week...

Thank you to Michelle G!

My favorite thing to arrive this week was the latest issue of EW. :))

Received:

Darkness Descending- Devyn Quinn

Immortal Beloved- Cate Tiernan

Darkness Falls- Cate Tiernan

Winner: Bond with Me & His Dark Bond

2012-02-11T15:00:00.002-06:00

and the winner is...

Barbara E.

Congrats! Please send your mailing

information here:

annasbookblog@gmail.com

You have 5 days to claim your prizes.

All giveaway winners are chosen through Random.org

Cover Discovery

2012-02-11T08:00:00.001-06:00

Release Date: May 8, 2012

Release Date: June 5, 2012

Release Date: June 26, 2012

Release Date: July 3, 2012

Release Date: August 6, 2012

Interview & Giveaway with Tes Hilaire

2012-02-09T00:07:00.002-06:00

Hi Tes, Welcome to Anna's Book Blog! I'm glad to have you here. To start off can you tell the readers a little about yourself?

TH: Besides that I’m a reclusive writer? ;-) Okay… let’s see. I love animals. In fact, I thought at one point I’d be a vet. Hence the degree in biology. Problem was I didn’t love some of the owners so much so that didn’t quite pan out. I also love the outdoors. Hiking, biking, horseback riding, kayaking, but given the choice between fresh O2 or reading that new novel by so-and-so that just came out? Let’s just say I’m amazed my local Borders went out of business. If I didn’t know better I’d say that the lack of a nearby bookstore is what drove me to return to writing. Yes, return. When I was young I wrote a lot: poems that rhymed, scattered short stories, silly song lyrics. I’m proud to say I grew out of the scattered, silly, rhyming bit, though not the love for a good story!

Deliver Me from Darkness is your newest release, can you tells us a little about it and the series?

TH: Deliver Me from Darkness is actually my debut novel so as you can imagine, I’m very excited. It is about Roland, a vigilante vampire and fallen “angel” Paladin who yearns for, but doesn’t believe in, redemption for his soul—until the day his soul-mate, Karissa, is delivered to his door. She is everything he could ever need or want, but though she is drawn to him, she can’t bring herself to trust someone that she’s been taught is inherently evil. Only she must, because though she does not know it, she’s the last female Paladin. And her heritage and untamed powers have put a bulls-eye upon her from both friend and enemy alike.

What is your writing day like?

TH: First thing is getting my monsters off to school. Hopefully this goes well and then I can relax for a moment with a cup of coffee and regroup. It used to be that I’d just start writing at this point and go until my stomach rumbled or my alarmed dinged, informing me I had something else on my schedule to do. But now that I’m published I have other things to worry about, like promotion. Yikes! I don’t have a perfect system yet, but I try to work in the business things amongst the writing, though I’m finding it’s better to write first, blog/Tweet/Facebook/answer emails later. Anyway, my writing day is a work in progress, just like pretty much everything else I do in this industry!

When you’re not writing, what kind of books do you like to read?

TH: I’m of course a sucker for paranormal romance, though my true love is a good urban fantasy with a light romantic overtone. I am also drawn to some of the young adult novels out there and enjoy a good epic fantasy upon occasion. And then there are the times when I’m feeling down and need a pick-me-up. That’s when I need a good, short contemporary romance, a couch, and a rainy day.

Since becoming published, what has been your favorite part of the process?

TH: I’m still fairly new to all this, but so far I’ve really enjoyed getting to know all the other authors. They’re all very supportive and it’s so fun to get to meet some of these great people whose names have been decorating my bookshelf for years!

What are 3 things that are "must haves" for you when you sit down to write a book?

TH: Well it can vary depending on what my goals for the day are, but for that first “pen to paper” moment, when I’m developing a new story, I need a quiet house (that I can ruin with whatever noise/music I want), my laptop (because I can’t “create” at a desk, though I can edit there), and time (always in short supply).

When you learned Deliver Me from Darkness was going to be published, what was your first reaction?

TH: When I got “the call” I think I had one of those OMG moments where my chest tightened right up and my throat squeezed down on my larynx (hard to tell for sure, it might have just been a time-slows-down moment), but then I ran into another part of the house so I could talk with Leah on the phone—without my in-laws (who were visiting) overhearing my stuttering.

How did you come up with your idea for the Paladin Warriors? Anything particular inspire you while writing?

TH: I’ve always been fascinated with the crusades, the knights, the vast battles and the clash of cultures. It was a horrific time in world history and one filled with causes both noble and evil in intent. There was so much going on during this time—political, economic, and religious power plays alike—that the wealth of possibilities were endless for the basis of my mythos. So I went a searching and stumbled upon The Song of Roland. The song itself is embroiled in political and personal intrigue and doesn’t paint the players as angelic visages or infallible warriors, but it did have something interesting. It’s the first mention of the twelve Paladin, twelve religious warriors: a number representative of King Authors round table, and the number of disciples in Christian scripture. Of course, it still took a bit longer to get all the wrinkles out, but in the end I had my Paladin. :-)

If you could give your lead characters one piece of advice, what would it be?

TH: Roland –Stop beating yourself up. Karissa—trust your gut.

If you can, tell us what is up next for you?

TH: Well, I recently turned in book two of the Paladin warriors. Deliver Me from Temptation picks up soon after the end of Darkness and is Logan’s story. And trust me; it was real fun to watch that man fall in love.

DELIVER ME FROM DARKNESS

BY TES HILAIRE

IN STORES FEBRUARY 2012

A STRANGER IN THE NIGHT...
He had once been a warrior of the Light, one of the revered Paladin. A protector. But now he lives in darkness, and the shadows are his sanctuary. Every day is a struggle to overcome the bloodlust. Especially the day Karissa shows up at his doorstep.

COMES KNOCKING ON THE DOOR…
She is light and bright and everything beautiful—despite her scratches and torn clothes. Every creature of the night is after her. So is every male Paladin. Because Karissa is the last female of their kind. But she is his. He may not have a soul, but he can't deny his heart.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Daphne Award-winning author Tes Hilaire started creating whole new worlds to escape upstate New York’s harsh winters before finally fleeing to sultry North Carolina. Her stories are edgy, exciting, and bring a hint of dark fantasy to paranormal romance. And no one ever has to shovel snow. For more, visit http://www.teshilaire.com/.

GIVEAWAY:

Thanks to Sourcebooks I have (2) copies of Deliver Me From Darkness to giveaway.To enter leave a comment along with your email address. Open to U.S. & Canada. Winners will be announced on February 15th.

[Review] - Paris, My Sweet by Amy Thomas

2012-02-08T13:06:00.002-06:00

Title: Paris, My Sweet: A Year in the City of Light (and Dark Chocolate)
Author: Amy Thomas
Genre: Memoir (travel/food)
Release Date: February 1, 2012

I received this book for review from Sourcebooks.

Summary: Forever a girl obsessed with all things French, sweet freak Amy Thomas landed a gig as rich as the purest dark chocolate: leave Manhattan for Paris to write ad copy for Louis Vuitton. Working on the Champs-Élysées, strolling the charming streets, and exploring the best patisseries and boulangeries, Amy marveled at the magnificence of the City of Light.

But does falling in love with one city mean turning your back on another? As much as Amy adored Paris, there was part of her that felt like a humble chocolate chip cookie in a sea of pristine macarons. PARIS, MY SWEET explores how the search for happiness can be as fleeting as a salted caramel souffle's rise, as intensely satisfying as molten chocolate cake, and about how the life you're meant to live doesn't always taste like the one you envisioned.

Thoughts: Amy Thomas is a writer who lives in New York and owner of the blog Sweet Freak©. Paris, My Sweet is her story about how she got to live her dream. Not only living in Paris for a year, but also working for one of the top designers. And along the way checking out some of the best chocolatiers in the world.

I don't speak French nor have I ever been to Paris, but I have always want to visit. Like Ms. Thomas I'm a bit of a sweet fanatic. So, while this book isn't my normal genre - it was the perfect read for me.

I loved this book! Paris & desserts - what more can you ask for. I pretty much drooled my way through Paris, My Sweet. It was delectably delicious. Ms. Thomas's writing is fresh and fun. I adored the details. The author writes in a way that makes you feel like you are in Paris too. Experiencing everything as she does. This is a must read for foodies and travel fans.

Score: 4 Stars

Author's Blogs:
Sweet Freak©- http://dessertfordinner.blogspot.com/
God, I Love Paris- http://godiloveparis.blogspot.com/

Waiting On Wednesday [36] - Goddess Interrupted

2012-02-08T00:00:00.002-06:00

Waiting on Wednesday is a weekly post started by Breaking the Spine. A feature showcasing upcoming releases that are eagerly anticipated.

The first book Goddess Test was a surprise read for me. I didn't think I was gonna
enjoy as much as did. I can't wait to read more from this world.

Title: Goddess Interrupted

Series: Goddess Test

Author: Aimée Carter

Release Date: March 27, 2012

Book Description:

Kate Winters has won immortality.

But if she wants a life in the Underworld with Henry, she’ll have to fight for it.

Becoming immortal wasn’t supposed to be the easy part. Though Kate is about to be crowned Queen of the Underworld, she’s as isolated as ever. And despite her growing love for Henry, ruler of the Underworld, he’s becoming ever more distant and secretive. Then, in the midst of Kate’s coronation, Henry is abducted by the only being powerful enough to kill him: the King of the Titans.

As the other gods prepare for a war that could end them all, it is up to Kate to save Henry from the depths of Tartarus. But in order to navigate the endless caverns of the Underworld, Kate must enlist the help of the one person who is the greatest threat to her future.

Henry’s first wife, Persephone.

Giveaway: Romancing the Books Blog Hop

2012-02-07T00:01:00.001-06:00

This blog hop is hosted by Delighted Reader & Livre D’ Amour.

Blog hop runs from 12:01 AM February 7th through to 11:59 PM
February 14th, 2012.

This is my first time participating in a blog hop. I've picked a couple of books that I think are perfect for this blog hop and I hope you do too.

I'm giving away a print copy of Soldier and Lady Sophie's Christmas Wish by Grace Burrowes to one lucky winner. Plus, I have a surprise book that I will be adding to the package. To enter leave a comment along with your email address. Open to U.S. residents. The winner will be announced on February 15th.

Don't forget to check out the other participating blogs, listed below.

Top Ten Tuesday: Top Ten Books You'd Hand To Someone Who Says They Don't Like To Read

2012-02-07T00:00:00.001-06:00

Top Ten Tuesday is hosted by The Broke and the Bookish. Each Tuesday features a different topic and you post your top ten list related to the topic.

This weeks topic is Top Ten Books You'd Hand To Someone Who Says They Don't Like To Read.

1. Harry Potter and the Sorcerer's Stone (Harry Potter #1) by J.K. Rowling

I didn't like to read in school. After High School I only read here and there, then Harry Potter came along. I read Sorcerer's Stone and everything changed for me. I couldn't get enough of reading and I haven't looked back since.

2. The Hunger Games (The Hunger Games #1) by Suzanne Collins

For months before reading it I seen The Hunger Games on the bookshelves everywhere. I didn't know anything about or that it was even a YA book. Right before Catching Fire came out I read it and was blown away by the world and how much I liked it. It was my first dystopian and sadly I haven't found a dystopian I've liked as much as The Hunger Games series.

3. Abraham Lincoln, Vampire Hunter by Seth Grahame-Smith

ALVH wasn't my first mash-up, but it's definitely my favorite. I was enthralled with the mixture of fiction and history. If you like paranormal and history this one will be right up your alley.

4. Twilight (The Twilight Saga #1) by Stephanie Meyer

A lot of people love Twilight and just as many hate it. But I'm among the people who love it. I discovered it though a search for vampire books on Amazon. When I finished Twilight I was bummed it ended. But it really pushed me to seek out other YA novels.

5. Secrets of a Summer Night (The Wallflowers #1) by Lisa Kleypas

A friend recommend this one to me and even sent me a copy. At the time I wasn't reading Historical Romance unless it had some paranormal element. I was hesitant, but my friend said it was a must, so I took the leap and was forever lost in this wonderful world that is The Wallflowers. Reading this one book opened me up to the genre.

6. Storm Front (The Dresden Files #1) by Jim Butcher

Storm Front was another book I was hesitant about. Just from the cover you can tell it's dark and at the time I wasn't sure that was for me. But I ended up falling in love with the characters. Especially Harry Dresden himself, with his great sense of humor.

7. Daughter of the Blood (The Black Jewels #1) by Anne Bishop

This book/series was recommended to me by a friend and I went straight out and bought it, but it sat on my shelf for several months. When I did finally read it, it sucked me in from page one. Bishop created such a unique world it's hard not to love it.

8. In the Forest of the Night (The Den of Shadows #1) by Amelia Atwater-Rhodes

I read this one ages ago before I knew such words as "paranormal romance", "urban fantasy" and "ya". Her books are all those things. But it was probably the first YA book I read. I remember when I first read it I was really impressed that the author wrote it at age 14. Atwater-Rhodes has gone on to write several books with different kinds of supernatural creatures that I have enjoyed as well.

9. Nightshade (Witch Wars/Nightshade #1) by Andrea Cremer

Plain and simple this book and the series is a must read. I loved shifter novels so I was instantly drawn to the book. But Ms. Cremer's shifters definitely come with a twist that sets the stories apart from others.

10. The Mane Event (Pride #1) by Shelly Laurenston

I ate this book up along with all the other books in the series. The Pride series, is another shape-shifter series that I just love. Both the characters and stories are seductive and addicting.

Interview & Giveaway with Anne Marsh

2012-02-06T00:04:00.002-06:00

Hi Anne, Welcome back to Anna's Book Blog! I'm glad to have you here. To start off can you tell the readers a little about yourself?

This feels like the part where I'm supposed to reveal the secret fabulousness of the romance writer's life, rather than admitting that I have a day job, a minivan, a husband, two amazing kids, and five cats. I really got started writing romance after I was laid off from my dream job at Pixar; there I was, chewing through a really large bag of M&Ms, and there was the big stack of Women's Day and Good Housekeeping magazines on the bedside table (because when you get laid off in the middle of the week when the mortgage payment is due, I highly recommend crawling straight into bed). One of the magazines was busy exhorting me to "Make lemonade out of lemons!" and "Envision the job you want and it will fall right into your lap!" I was skeptical (although impressed by the brilliance of their copywriters), but I was also out of M&Ms at that point, and I'd always wanted to write a romance novel (in that hypothetical future when "I had more time"), so I just started writing. That was five years ago and I'm still resisting the urge to drive by Pixar and huck a couple of books at the front gate and go "Booyah! See what I did when you didn't need me anymore?"

His Dark Bond is your latest release, can you tells us a little about it and the series?

His Dark Bond is the second book in my Fallen series (although it's absolutely a stand-alone book). The book is sexy and dark, with fallen angels in a near-future, slightly post-apocalyptic Moscow. The hero, Zer, has been leading the Fallen angels for three thousand years-- and he's more than a little soul-weary and cynical. He's quite sure there's no soul mate out there for him and that he will never find redemption.

Kensington wrote some really sexy copy for the back of the book:

HE HUNGERS FOR HER BODY . . .
Zer is no angel—well, not anymore. He’s explored every flavor of sin imaginable, drinking in the pleasures of humanity. But now he must find the woman who carries his salvation in her very blood…a woman like Nessa St. James.

AND HER SOUL
Nessa has considered the bargain the Fallen offer. Anything she wants in exchange for accepting Zer’s bond? No way. Not her. Not when she finds out about the mind-blowing ritual involved, and the marks of surrender that will ink her skin. But with a serial killer to stop and centuries of experience on his side, this is one job Zer’s going to nail.

What is your writing day like?

I typically write from 4 a.m. to 6 a.m. If it's a day that the day job takes me into the City, I also write on the train for about two hours. If I'm telecommuting, I'll also write an hour at lunch time and again in the evening. I'm a huge fan of short, intense spurts of writing. Minutes add up, especially if I can pry myself away from the Internet ;)

When you're not writing, what kind of books do you like to read?

I realized I was in trouble years ago, when I had to institute a collections development policy for my house! There aren't too many books I haven't enjoyed. Some of my go-to authors are J.R. Ward, Lora Leigh, Eloisa James, Anne Bishop, J.K. Rowling, and Anthony Trollope. For English family happiness, nothing beats a good Trollope. There is also an amazing Modern Virago Classics series-- if you can get past the bilious, pea-green covers, you're holding some real ground-breaking women writers in your hands.

Can you tells about your experience with being signed to Kensington/Brava?

I originally signed with Dorchester. Unfortunately, Dorchester has had (cough) a few issues, so, when my editor there (the fabulous Alicia Condon!) left to take over Kate Duffy's role at Kensington, I was thrilled to follow her. Alicia is an amazing editor and the entire team at Kensington has been very supportive. I'm a "Why?" person-- I work as a technical writer for my day job and the whole point of that job is asking "Why? Why? Why?" like a two year-old until you understand precisely how a recalcitrant piece of software works-- and the Kensington team has been very patient about explaining why they would recommend doing something a particular way. I've learned lots from the women of Kensington!

What are 3 things that are "must haves" for you when you sit down to write a book?

The laptop, itunes, and my earbuds. While I sometimes enjoy brainstorming in a notebook, I just can't write longhand. Nothing comes out. No words. Nada. Open up the text editor, however, and I'm off to the races.

How did you come up with your idea for the Fallen series & did you find inspiration in anything or anyone while writing it?

Since I spent far too many years in graduate school earning a really expensive PhD in Russian literature (although I did manage to prove the naysayers wrong when they claimed it was impossible to write a passable dissertation between 5 a.m. and 6 a.m. with two small kids in the house), my paranormal books borrow from Slavic mythology and medieval Russian religious literature. There are some scary, scary creatures lurking in those stories. In Slavic mythology, an angel rebellion in Heaven ended with the rebellious angels being cast out of Heaven. Those angels fell and fell and fell-- some ended up in our world, while others fell right through the Earth's crust and earned themselves a particularly graphic and unpleasant end. Worse, the fallen angels were condemned to live as goblins. I loved the idea of a bad boy who still retains some redeeming qualities-- but needs a heroine to pull those qualities out of him… so my Fallen angels have one shot at redemption. If he can find the one woman who is his soul mate and he loves her, he gets his wings back and earns redemption.

Since becoming published, what has been your favorite part of the process?

Putting together a new proposal. It's like the best of shopping for an evening gown, a vacation, and a new house, all rolled into one. Because I'm now a published author, I write a synopsis and the first three chapters of the new book and send that to my agent, along with a short pitch she can use. It's far too much fun to come up with a whole new book-- there are all sorts of possibilities! I have proposals out right now for two sexy shapeshifter series (because we all need Cajun werewolves, right?) and a team of really hot Navy rescue swimmers who know precisely how to live up to their motto: So others may live.

Did you have any input when it came to designing the cover and has it met your expectations?

Honestly, I had absolutely no input whatsoever. I discovered I had a fabulous new cover when I was poking about on Amazon one day. Fortunately, I loved it and it was a fun surprise. Kensington has some amazing cover artists working for them. One funny story, though: a while before the cover appeared on Amazon, my editor called me to walk me through my revisions and mentioned that there was a problem that was about to become my problem. She'd apparently had the cover artist give the hero a large tattoo of wings on his back and then couldn't remember whether or not that actually matched what happened in the book. Fortunately, it did! Otherwise, I was going to need to write them in as the cover had been finalized.

If you can, tell us what is up next?

I have a novella set in the world of the Fallen that will be published as an ebook in late May 2012. This is Vkhin's story and it's a little darker, but just as sexy as the first two books. I'm also stretching my writerly wings into contemporary; I have a very hot release on 10.30.2012 from Kensington Brava. The hero of BURNING UP is a smoke jumper who parachutes into the heart of wildland fires-- he's the ultimate hero and bad boy of summer and I've had so much fun writing his story. Time Magazine featured the cover shoot in one of their December issues and, it's safe to say, my cover model is one hot, hot man.

__________________________________________________________

HIS DARK BOND

By Anne Marsh

Fallen #2- Out Now!

HE HUNGERS FOR HER BODY . . .

Zer is no angel—well, not anymore. He’s explored every flavor of sin imaginable, drinking in the pleasures of humanity. But now he must find the woman who carries his salvation in her very blood…a woman like Nessa St. James.

AND HER SOUL

Nessa has considered the bargain the Fallen offer. Anything she wants in exchange for accepting Zer’s bond? No way. Not her. Not when she finds out about the mind-blowing ritual involved, and the marks of surrender that will ink her skin. But with a serial killer to stop and centuries of experience on his side, this is one job Zer’s going to nail.

Where to Buy:

Amazon | Barnes & Noble | The Book Depository | IndieBound

GIVEAWAY:
Thanks to Anne I have a copy of Bond With Me & His Dark Bond to giveaway to one lucky winner. To enter leave a comment along with email address. Open to everyone, including International. The winner will be announced on February 11th. Good Luck!

In My Mailbox [142]

2012-02-04T11:14:00.001-06:00

In My Mailbox is a feature that was started over at The Story Siren. Each week we share what arrived in our mailboxes, bought or found in swaps or at the library.

Here is what I got this past week...

Review:
Dating the Undead- Gena Showalter & Jill Monroe

Thank you to Planned Televison Arts.

Received:
American Vampire- Jennifer Armintrout
A Brush of Darkness- Allison Pang
Alpha Instinct- Katie Reus

Thank you Michelle G!

Bought:
Lair of the Lion- Christine Feehan

What did you get this week?

Feel free to leave your IMM link in the comments.

[ARC Review] - Deliver me From Darkness by Tes Hilaire

2012-02-02T01:05:00.002-06:00

Title: Deliver Me From Darkness
Author: Tes Hilaire
Series: Paladin Warriors
Genre: Paranormal Romance
Release Date: February 7, 2012

I received this book for review from Sourcebooks.

Summary: A STRANGER IN THE NIGHT...

He had once been a warrior of the Light, one of the revered Paladin. A protector. But now he lives in darkness, and the shadows are his sanctuary. Every day is a struggle to overcome the blood lust.
Especially the day Karissa shows up at his doorstep.

COMES KNOCKING ON THE DOOR

She is light and bright and everything beautiful—despite her scratches and torn clothes. Every creature of the night is after her. So is every male Paladin. Because Karissa is the last female of their kind. But she is his. He may not have a soul, but he can't deny his heart.

Thoughts: Roland is a former Paladin, a warrior of light. Now he mostly lives in shadows - treasuring his peace. That peace is disturbed when his friend arrives on his doorstep with Karissa - the last female Paladin. She and the temptation will be a test.

A good, satisfying read. This is only my second time reading about Paladins. This premises seems a bit different than the other series I'm familiar with, but that is a big plus. Deliver Me from Darkness was a captivating read. Temptation and redemption play a big role. For me the story moved a long a bit slow. But it's still a worthy read. I thought Karissa and Roland were great characters. Their growing relationship is what kept me reading. Angel and vampire fans should definitely check this one out.

Score: 3 Stars

Author Website: http://teshilaire.com/

[Promo/Giveaway] - Into the Darkness

2012-02-01T08:00:00.001-06:00

Into the Darkness

By V.C. Andrews

Available on: February 28, 2012

Bestselling author V.C. Andrews portrays her most romantic couple since Troy and Heaven in the Casteel series…in this twisting tale of desire and obsession, reality and dreams.

As lovely as one of the precious gems at her parents’ jewelry store, Amber Taylor is shy and introspective—qualities misread by others as being stuck-up and superior. Facing a long, lonely summer working at the family shop, Amber’s world lights up when the Matthews family suddenly moves into the house next door, a property that has stood neglected for the longest time. And when she meets Brayden Matthews, an only child just like her, Amber soon becomes infatuated with this handsome, quirky young man who seems to know her innermost feelings almost before she does, who takes her places she never knew existed in her small town. Their connection is electrifying, unlike anything Amber’s felt before. But as quickly as he appears, Brayden vanishes into the darkness. And finding out the truth about him will push Amber Taylor to the edge of madness….

An atmospheric journey of passion and suspense that builds to a jolting, unforgettable finale, Into the Darkness showcases V.C. Andrews at her best.

Into the Darkness is a standalone novel.

Publishers Book Page:
http://books.simonandschuster.com/Into-the-Darkness/V-C-Andrews/9781451664300

Facebook Page:
http://www.facebook.com/OfficialVCAndrews

Giveaway:

Thanks to Simon & Schuster/Gallery Books I have (1) copy of Into the Darkness to giveaway. To enter leave a comment along with your email address. Open to U.S. residents Only. No P.O. Boxes. The winner will be announced on February 17th. Good Luck!

January 2012 - Reading List

2012-02-01T00:00:00.001-06:00

Deadlocked- Moira Rogers (4/5)
Taken By Midnight- Lara Adrian (4/5)
Bloodrose- Andrea Cremer (5/5)
The Amulet of Samarkand GN- Jonathan Stroud (3/5)
Vampire Knight- Matsuri Hino (3/5)
Deliver Me From Darkness- Tes Hilaire (3/5, review coming soon)
Broods of Fenrir- Coral Moore (4/5)
Hidden- Kelley Armstrong (4/5)
Deeper Than Midnight- Lara Adrian (4/5)
Lothaire- Kresley Cole (5/5)
Lenobia's Vow- P.C. Cast + Kristin Cast (4/5)
Isle of Night- Veronica Wolff (4/5)
Evermine- Hailey Edwards (4/5, review coming soon)
The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo- Steig Larsson (5/5)
Bound In Sin- Cynthia Eden (4/5)

Rating System:

5 Stars- Amazing
4 Stars- Loved It
3 Stars- Liked It (Good Read)
2 Stars- It was Ok
1 Stars- Didn't Like It

Upcoming Events in February:

Giveaway: Into the Darkness by V.C. Andrews

Interview & Giveaway: Anne Marsh

Romancing the Books Blog Hop (taking part)

Interview: Tes Hilaire

Guest Blog: Gena Showalter & Jill Monroe

Guest Blog: Lori Strongin

Guest Blog & Giveaway: Selena Blake

Guest Blog & Giveaway: Hailey Edwards

Random Acts of Kindness - January 2012

2012-01-31T10:57:00.000-06:00

Books I Sent Out:

Winging It by Deborah Cooke to

Amanda @ MannaB On Books

Love Story by Jennifer Echols to

Megan @ Book Brats Reviews

Books I Received:

The Name of the Star by Maureen Star

Touch of Power by Maria V. Snyder

Thank you to Amanda @ MannaB On Books!

Winner - Kiss of the Vampire

2012-01-31T08:30:00.000-06:00

and the winner is...

Carol L.

Congrats! Please send your mailing

information here:

annasbookblog@gmail.com

You have 5 days to claim your prizes.

All giveaway winners are chosen through Random.org

February Book Releases

2012-01-30T00:00:00.000-06:00

1st

Kiss of the Vampire- Cynthia Garner
Claimed By A Vampire- Rachel Lee
A Warrior's Desire- Pamela Palmer

6th

The Rivals- Daisy Whitney

7th

The Dragon Stirs- Lynda Aicher
Claws and Effect- Amanda Arista
Midnight Enchantments- Anya Bast
Stud- Cheryl Brooks
Unbroken- Rachel Caine
Underwater Love- MaryJanice Davidson
Vampires' Consort- Bonnie Dee
Shaded Vision- Yasmine Galenorn
Vengeance Born- Kylie Griffin
Almost Everything- Tate Hallaway
Deliver Me from Darkness- Tes Hilaire
Something About Witches- Joey W. Hill
City of Dragons- Robin Hobb
The Lord of Illusion- Kathryne Kennedy
Apocalypse to Go- Katharine Kerr
Key of Solomon- Cassiel Knight
Night of the Huntress- Crista McHugh
Wicked Empress- Anitra Lynn McLeod
Dead to You- Lisa McMann
Siren's Desire- Devyn Quinn
Alpha Instinct- Katie Reus
Born Wicked- Jessica Spotswood
King of Darkness- Elisabeth Staab
Inked Magic- Jory Strong
Blood and Bullets- James R. Tuck
Eternal Captive- Laura Wright

8th

The Wood Queen- Karen Mahoney

14th

Slayer's Kiss- Cassi Carver
Bewitching- Alex Flinn
The Nightmare Garden- Caitlin Kittredge
Arcadia Awakens- Kai Meyer
The Wolf Gift- Anne Rice

21st

Fever- Lauren DeStefano
Evermine- Hailey Edwards
The Viking's Touch- Joanna Fulford
A Perfect Blood- Kim Harrison
A Beautiful Evil- Kelley Keaton
Tempted By Blood- Laurie London
Faery Tales & Nightmares- Melissa Marr
Ravel Calls- C.E. Murphy
Celebrity In Death- J.D. Robb
Quinn's Quest- N.J. Walters

28th

How to Be Death- Amber Benson
Burn Me Deadly- Alex Bledsoe
On the Flip Side- Nikki Carter
A Touch Morbid- Leah Clifford
Yours, Mine & Ours- MaryJanice Davidson
By A Thread- Jennifer Estep
Jane Vows Vengeance- Michael Thomas Ford
Black Hole Sun- David Macinnis Gill
BZRK- Michael Grant
Unafraid- Michael Griffo
Nice Girls Don't Bite Their Neighbors- Molly Harper
Black Howl- Christina Henry
Torn- Amanda Hocking
My Lord Vampire- Alexandra Ivy
Night Games- Crystal Jordan
Allegiance- Cayla Kluver
Deadly Sins- Lora Leigh
Witchful Thinking- H.P. Mallory
Pandemonium- Lauren Oliver
A Sliver of Shadow- Allison Pang
Getting Familiar with Your Demon- Jodi Redford
The Husband Hunt- Lynsay Sands
Earthseed- Pamela Sarget
The Darkest Seduction- Gena Showalter
Angel's Flight- Nalini Singh
A Distant Tomorrow- Beatrice Small
If You Know Her- Shiloh Walker
Partials- Dan Wells

In My Mailbox [141]

2012-01-28T11:45:00.001-06:00

In My Mailbox is a feature that was started over at The Story Siren. Each week we share what arrived in our mailboxes, bought or found in swaps or at the library. Here is what I got this past week...

Also this week I received a box of books from my book fairy. Thank you again for the wonderful surprise. Some of these books will find a home on my tbr shelf and the others I'll be sending to a friend.

Review:

The Wolf Who Loved Me- Lydia Dare

The Vampire Shrink- Lynda Hilburn

Anne of Hollywood- Carol Wolper

Thank you to Simon & Schuster, Sourcebooks & Sterling Publishing.

Bought:

Darker After Midnight- Lara Adrian

What did you get this week?

Feel free to leave your IMM link in the comments.

[Promo] - Anne of Hollywood

2012-01-27T20:50:00.000-06:00

Re-telling of Anne Boleyn's story,

set in the 21st Century.

Anne of Hollywood

By Carol Wolper

Out Now

Book Description: “I wasn’t prepared for the enemies. Had I been as gorgeous as a supermodel, or as rich as an heiress, or an actress with an Oscar to my credit, people would still not be happy that I had Henry’s attention, but they’d understand. What they resented was the king coupling with a ‘nobody.’”

Skirts may be shorter now, and messages sent by iPhone, but passion, intrigue, and a lust for power don’t change. National bestselling author Carol Wolper spins a mesmerizing tale of a twenty-first-century Anne Boleyn.

Wily, intelligent, and seductive, with a dark beauty that stands out among the curvy California beach blondes, Anne attracts the attention of Henry Tudor, the handsome corporate mogul who reigns in Hollywood. Every starlet, socialite, and shark wants a piece of Henry, but he only wants Anne. The question is: can she keep him?

Welcome to a privileged world where hidden motives abound, everyone has something to sell, and safe havens don’t exist. With her older sister Mary, a pathetic example of a royal has-been, Anne schemes to win her beloved Henry in the only way that gives a promise of forever—marriage. Success will mean contending with backstabbing “friends,” Henry’s furious ex-wife, and the machinations of her own ambitious family, and staying married to a man who has more options than most and less guilt than is good for either of them will take all her skill. Anne will do anything to hold on to the man—and the lifestyle—she adores, however, even if sticking your neck out in Hollywood means risking far worse than a broken heart. With Henry’s closest confidante scheming against her, and another beautiful contender waiting in the wings, Anne is fighting for her life. Can she muster the charm and wit to pull off her very own Hollywood ending?

Author's Facebook
Amazon
Simon & Schuster

Winner - Broods of Fenrir

2012-01-27T02:11:00.000-06:00

and the winner is...

Alicia0605

Congrats! You will be contacted shortly.

You have 5 days to claim your prize.

All giveaway winners are chosen through Random.org

[Audio Review] - Lenobia's Vow by P.C. Cast + Kristin Cast

2012-01-26T00:02:00.003-06:00

Title: Lenobia's Vow
Author: P.C Cast + Kristin Cast
Narrator: Caitlin Davies
Series: House of Night Novellas
Genre: Young Adult
Release Date: January 31, 2012

I received this book for review from Macmillan Audio.

Summary: A great journey…
A new love….
A dark secret revealed.

Evreux, France, 1788: Before she is Zoey’s favorite professor and the House of Night’s powerful horse mistress… Lenobia is just a normal 16-year-old girl – with enough problems to last a lifetime. As the illegitimate daughter of a powerful baron, she has never quite belonged, and instead has to watch her spoiled half-sister, Cecile, get anything she wants. As if that’s not enough, her remarkable beauty draws unwanted attention wherever she goes. For once, she would like to just fit in.

But when fate intervenes, Lenobia suddenly finds herself surrounded by other girls, on a ship bound for New Orleans, where they will be married off to the city’s richest Frenchmen. And they’re not alone…. An evil bishop who is skilled in Dark magic makes the same journey. His appetite for lovely young women makes him dangerous – most of all to Lenobia, who caught his eye back in France. So she remains hidden, making secret visits to the ship’s stables, where a handsome young man and his beautiful Percheron horses soon capture her attention.

Will they make it to land before the bishop discovers her true identity and a powerful evil breaks loose? And will Lenobia follow her heart, even if it puts lives at risk.

Thoughts: Lenobia's story starts in 1788. She is a young girl on the verge of womanhood. On a boat headed to New Orleans. But danger lurks aboard the ship. Soon after making land she is Marked to be a fledgling. Her world opens up to good and bad things.

I was excited to see Lenobia would be the next in the novellas. She is one of the most intriguing characters in the House of Night. I've always thought her class would be a fun one to take part in. This second novella in the series is a great read, so far it's my favorite of the novellas. I loved the connection between Lenobia and Martin. Lenobia's Vow is one of hardship, first loves, loss and new beginnings. A vibrant story that has wonderful description. Mostly it is set aboard the ship that is headed to New Orleans. I was quickly taken with the story.

Lenobia's Vow is read by Caitlin Davies. This is the third time I've listen to Ms. Davies on audio and she does an amazing job each time.

Score: 4 Stars

Author Website:

http://www.pccast.net/
http://www.houseofnightseries.com/

Upcoming Releases:

Neferet's Curse (HON Novella #3)- July 17, 2012
Hidden (House of Night #10)- October 6, 2012

Giveaway: Kiss of the Vampire

2012-01-25T00:18:00.001-06:00

Kiss of the Vampire

By Cynthia Garner

February 1, 2012

Warriors of the Rift

Once a generation, the rift between the paranormal world and the human world opens, allowing supernatural entities to cross. Vampire, demon, or shapeshifter, they can save the world-or send it spiraling into chaos.

Half-demon, half-human, Nix de la Fuente is accepted by neither and mistrusted by both. Determined to prove she's more human than not, she devotes herself to solving crimes between the world's mortals and its most unsavory undead. But her latest case brings her face to face with the one vampire she could never resist . . .

Called in to investigate a string of violent murders, special agent Tobias Caine isn't interested in rekindling his relationship with Nix. Yet one look and the vampire knows his need for her is as strong as ever. Once, their all-consuming passion nearly cost Nix her fragile hold on her humanity. Now, as their hunger for one another intensifies, exposing them to an unimaginable danger, it could cost them both their lives.

GIVEAWAY:

Thanks to Grand Central Publishing I have a copy of Kiss of the Vampire to giveaway. To enter leave a comment along with your email address. Open to U.S. and Canada. The winner will be announced on January 31, 2012.

Top Ten Tuesday: Top Ten Books From My TBR...

2012-01-24T01:14:00.002-06:00

Top Ten Tuesday is hosted by The Broke and the Bookish. Each Tuesday features a different topic and you post your top ten list related to the topic.

This weeks topic is a freebie, so we get to pick are own top ten topic. My topic is:
Top Ten Books from My TBR that I hope to read in 2012

1. The Greyfriar (Vampire Empire #1) by Clay & Susan Griffith

I bought this title last year. It looked totally amazing and the cover caught me too. The art is done by one of my favorites, Chris McGrath.

2. The Graveyard Book by Neil Gaiman

I have been wanting to read Neil Gaiman for a long time. Last year I read one of his story stories and was blown away by it and that pretty much sealed the deal for reading more of his work.

3. The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo (Millennium Trilogy #1) by Steig Larsson

I've seen both the U.S. and Swedish versions of the movie and enjoyed them very much. Lisbeth Salander is a captivating character. I look forward to digging into the series some time in 2012.

4. Inhertiance (Inheritance Cycle #4) by Christopher Paolini

Normally I would have rushed out to buy this one the day it came out. Since it's the last one I have put it off, but I definitely want to read it soon.

5. A Clash of Kings (A Song of Ice and Fire #2) by George R.R. Martin

I'm still reading Game of Thrones, but eager to move on to book 2.

6. Dear Mr. Potter: Letters of Love, Loss & Magic by Lily Zalon

This is one I have already started to read and I'm loving it. If you are a Harry Potter fan this book is a must read!! Here is the buy link. If you are a true HP fan your gonna instantly connect with these fellow fans. Keep tissues near by.

7. No Proper Lady by Isabel Cooper

I picked this one up on the tag line alone. Looks like it will be a fun read. It's Terminator meets My Fair Lady in this fascinating debut of black magic and brilliant ball gowns, martial arts and mysticism.

8. Aftermath (Sirantha Jax #5) by Ann Aguirre

Jax is definitely one of my favorite heroines. The series was such a surprise for me when it came out. I didn't think I'd like it, but end up loving it. Can't wait to read what Jax is up to in this one.

9. Outlander (Outlander #1)by Diana Gabaldon

I've had Outlander on my shelves for a good three years, it's definitely time to jump in and see if all the talk about this series is true.

10. Out of Oz (The Wicked Years #4) by Gregory Maguire

This is a series that works for some and not for others. I happen to love it a lot. After reading Wicked I actually preferred the story over The Wizard of Oz. After Elphaba's story, Dorthy's just seems quite boring. Out of Oz is suppose to be the last book in the series, so I have been putting this one off too.

[ARC Review] - His Dark Bond by Anne Marsh

2012-01-23T08:00:00.002-06:00

Title: His Dark Bond
Author: Anne Marsh
Series: Fallen
Genre: Paranormal Romance
Release Date: January 31, 2012

I received this book for review from the author.

Summary: HE HUNGERS FOR HER BODY . . .

Zer is no angel—well, not anymore. He’s explored every flavor of sin imaginable, drinking in the pleasures of humanity. But now he must find the woman who carries his salvation in her very blood…a woman like Nessa St. James.

AND HER SOUL

Nessa has considered the bargain the Fallen offer. Anything she wants in exchange for accepting Zer’s bond? No way. Not her. Not when she finds out about the mind-blowing ritual involved, and the marks of surrender that will ink her skin. But with a serial killer to stop and centuries of experience on his side, this is one job Zer’s going to nail.

Thoughts: Zer is one of the Fallen. Thrown out of heaven by Michael. Cursed to live the life of a goblin. Unless he can find a women who can love and redeem his soul. His Soul Mate.

Dr. Nessa St. James is on list of potential females that are compatible for the Fallen. She wants nothing more to continue her research and make tenure. But in walks a raging storm by the name of Zer, with his man handling ways and her world is forever changed.

I loved this story. Zer is a force. Intense, dominate and simply yummy. Nessa is his opposite in many ways - but they seem to fit very well together. His Dark Bond is a delectable, engaging read. Fast paced action and enough sexy to keep your wanting more. Ms. Marsh's world-building is excellent. The Fallen has become a fast favorite. If you love fallen angel stories you won't want to miss this one.

Score: 4 Stars

Author Website: http://annemarsh.wordpress.com/

Upcoming Releases:

Savage Bond- January 2012 (Fallen Novella)
Burning Up- October 31, 2012

In My Mailbox [140]

2012-01-21T11:11:00.001-06:00

In My Mailbox is a feature that was started over at The Story Siren. Each week we share what arrived in our mailboxes, bought or found in swaps or at the library.
Here is what I got this past week...

Review:
Lenobia's Vow- P.C. Cast + Kristin Cast
Paris, My Sweet- Amy Thomas

Thank you to Macmillan Audio & Sourcebooks.

Bought:
The Girl With the Dragon Tattoo- Stieg Larsson
The Woman In Black- Susan Hill

What did you get this week?
Feel free to leave your IMM link in the comments.

Guest Blog & Giveaway with Coral Moore

2012-01-20T00:12:00.002-06:00

Where in the world did these werethings come from?
by Coral Moore

Werewolf legends can be traced back to the mythology of ancient Greeks, Egyptians and Scandinavians. One of the first and most widely accessible texts to consolidate much of the folktales was The Book of Were-Wolves, by Sabine Baring-Gould published in 1865. If you’re a lover of all things were, like I am, this is an invaluable reference tool for historical stories and accounts. Early on in the book Baring-Gould gives a brief rundown of a few kinds of shifters:

Among the ancients this kind of insanity went by the names of Lycanthropy, Kuanthropy, or Boanthropy, because those afflicted with it believed themselves to be turned into wolves, dogs, or cows. But in the North of Europe, as we shall see, the shape of a bear, and in Africa that of a hyæna, were often selected in preference. A mere matter of taste!

This is what I want to talk about today, not werewolves specifically but some of the different types of werebeasts and why they hold such an allure for us.

Therianthropy is the more general term for a human that shifts into an animal. The duality of their existence might be part of what makes them so appealing. Where is the line between man and beast drawn? Can humans triumph over their baser instincts? What kind of power can these man/animal hybrids tap into? Their complexity makes them interesting, and maybe that’s why humans turning into animals have been a staple in stories throughout our history.

Though wolves are the most common, there are a huge number of different shifter tales originating all over the world. Werecats can be found in the folklore of many cultures—in the Americas men became jaguars, in Africa they turned into lions, and in Asia people transformed into tigers. Native Americans and Scandinavians both told stories of men that changed into bears. Humans in every corner of the globe have been known to transform into seals (selkie), hyenas (bouda), vultures (chonchon), and foxes (kitsune). Some myths maintained that there were men who could change into any animal at will—skinwalkers in the Americas and rakshasa in India.

This is just a tiny sampling of the many flavors of shapeshifters found in our ancestral cultures. If you want to fuel your imagination with a variety of weres from around the world, there is a list on SeekerWorld that makes for interesting reading.

My own werecreatures are strictly of the wolf variety, although I dove into mythology to put a slightly different spin on them. The werewolves in the world of Broods of Fenrir are of Nordic descent, and as a result have a more primitive feeling than most you’ll read about these days. I also have some ideas for expansion into different types of therianthropes in later books. Do you have a favorite kind of shifter?

***

Stop by and talk with Coral about all things were on her Blog, Goodreads, or Twitter. Find out more about her new Urban Fantasy Broods of Fenrir.

Broods of Fenrir

By Coral Moore

Out Now!

Shapeshifter Brand Geirson was raised to rule the Broods of Fenrir, but he refused his birthright. Instead, he killed their brutal leader–his own father–and walked away.

For hundreds of years he’s avoided brood society, until a werewolf kills an innocent human woman and Brand finds himself dragged back into the violent politics of the shapeshifters. When the two brood women who mean the most to him come under threat, he must take up the throne and risk becoming the kind of vicious bastard his father was, or let the broods descend further into chaos–taking the friend he swore to protect and his lover with them.

Broods of Fenrir is available in paperback and ebook formats.

Where to Buy:

All Romance eBooks | Amazon | Barnes & Noble | The Book Depository

GIVEAWAY:

Thanks to Coral I have a digital copy of Broods of Fenrir to giveaway. To enter leave a comment along with your email address. Open to everyone. The winner will be announced on January 27th. Good Luck!

[Review] - Broods of Fenrir by Coral Moore

2012-01-19T00:12:00.001-06:00

Title: Broods of Fenrir
Author: Coral Moore
Genre: Urban Fantasy
Release Date: November 20, 2011

I received this book for review from the author.

Summary: Shapeshifter Brand Geirson was raised to rule the Broods of Fenrir, but he refused his birthright. Instead, he killed their brutal leader–his own father–and walked away.

For hundreds of years he’s avoided brood society, until a werewolf kills an innocent human woman and Brand finds himself dragged back into the violent politics of the shapeshifters. When the two brood women who mean the most to him come under threat, he must take up the throne and risk becoming the kind of vicious bastard his father was, or let the broods descend further into chaos–taking the friend he swore to protect and his lover with them.

Thoughts: Brand Geirson has been running away from his past and his destiny ever since he killed his brutal father. But with his loved ones in danger, he must come back to his past and the throne - if he expects his world to survive.

A riveting tale. I found lead character Brand to be fascinating. Not your average Alpha - but a delight all the same. The beautiful cover made me eager to read this one and find out more about Brand. Broods of Fenrir is an intense, fast moving story. The shapeshifters here seem to be more vicious than other wolves I've read about. I loved that these wolves are rooted in Norse Mythology. Ms. Moore's writing is smooth and engaging. Wolf and Norse fans alike should give this one a try.

Score: 4 Stars

Author Website: http://www.chaosandinsanity.com/

Upcoming Releases:
Elements of Rebellion- February 2012

Waiting On Wednesday [35] - Jane Vows Vengeance

2012-01-18T02:10:00.000-06:00

Waiting on Wednesday is a weekly post started by Breaking the Spine. A feature showcasing upcoming releases that are eagerly anticipated.

I haven't read too many mash-ups but Michael Thomas Ford's Jane Fairfax series is one of my favorites. This series features Jane Austen as a vampire. Living undead life among humans and from time to time various literary supernaturals pop in. It's really a fun series. I'm not a fan of this cover so much, but I'm eager to see what Jane and friends are up to.

Title: Jane Vows Vengeance

Series: Jane Fairfax

Author: Michael Thomas Ford

Release Date: February 28, 2012

Book Description:

How will Jane Austen break the news to her fiancé that she’s not only undead, but also a two-hundred-plus-year-old literary icon?

In sleepy upstate New York, Jane’s wedding preparations have taken on a bloodsucking intensity. So when Walter suggests they ditch it all and combine their marriage and honeymoon with a house tour of Europe, Jane jumps at the chance to flee Lord Byron and the lingering threat of Charlotte Brontë. But to Jane’s chagrin, more than one secret from her past is about to resurface.

From an Agatha Christie–style murder mystery to a wedding interrupted by the ghosts of the Princes in the Tower to a shocking revelation about Walter’s mother, nothing about this trip is less than pure mayhem. And when a chance encounter puts Jane on the trail of a legendary device reputed to restore a vampire’s human soul, will our beloved heroine finally be able to vow her love and devotion—or will a vampire hunter’s vengeance drive a stake through her eternal life?

Series Reading Order:

Jane Bites Back

Jane Goes Batty

Jane Vows Vengeance

Top Ten Tuesday: Top Ten Books I'd Recommend To Someone Who Doesn't Read Paranormal Romance

2012-01-17T00:01:00.001-06:00

Top Ten Tuesday is hosted by The Broke and the Bookish. Each Tuesday features a different topic and you post your top ten list related to the topic.

This weeks topic is Top Ten Books I'd Recommend To Someone Who Doesn't Read X (our choice of genre) So here are my recs for people who don't read Paranormal Romance.

1. Dead Until Dark by Charlaine Harris

This was the book that introduced me to "paranormal romance", I had never heard the term before. But after this book I was hooked on the genre and the series.

2. Dark Lover by J.R. Ward

I actually ended picking up both Dark Lover and Lover Eternal, they sat on my shelf for several months. If I would have know how addicting the world was gonna be I would have read them a lot sooner.

3. A Hunger Like No Other by Kresley Cole

AHLNO is the first full book in The Immortals After Dark series. I love the series, Cole writes awesome heroes. What is really great about the series is all the different supernatural creatures that are featured. Vampires, Werewolves, Valkyries, Witches, Demons and more.

4. Night Pleasures by Sherrilyn Kenyon

Night Pleasures is the second book in the Dark-Hunters series and one of my favorites in the series. I don't think I'll ever get sick of these stories. This is another addicting series. If you like tortured souls, you'll enjoy this series.

5. Single White Vampire by Lynsay Sands

I picked up SWV thinking it was the first in the series, but its actually the third book. It's my favorite book in the series. Has a great hero and heroine, plus part of the story takes place at the Romantic Times Book Con. Which was just too fun.

6. Pleasure Unbound by Larissa Ione

Pleasure Unbound wasn't a book I planned to pick up, but I kept hearing time and again how great it was. Turns out all those people were spot on. Ms. Ione writes fantastically bad ass males that are hard to resist.

7. Slave to Sensation by Nalini Singh

First book in the Psy/Changeling series, which is paranormal romance, but has a futuristic setting. My friend Amy C got me to read this one. I ended up being blown away by it and went out and bought the rest of the series, it was/is that good.

8. A Girl's Guide to Vampires by Katie MacAlister

Katie MacAlister was another first PNR author I read. A Girl's Guide to Vampires is simply a fun read that introduces the read to the Dark Ones world. I loved it, and it's still one of my favorite books in the series.

9. Kiss of Midnight by Lara Adrian

This was another book that I didn't originally plan to buy. But between the cover and reviews I read, I couldn't resist picking it. Another great series that has yummy vampire heroes.

10. Desire After Dark- Amanda Ashley

Desire After Dark is a pleasure read. A great vampire novel. This probably can be said about many authors, but Amanda Ashley writes vampires amazingly well.

This is my first Top Ten Tuesday and that's my list for this week. It was great fun putting it together. If you aren't familiar with this feature make sure to check the link at the top of the post.

Cover Discovery

2012-01-16T02:04:00.001-06:00

Release Date: May 1, 2012

Release Date: May 8, 2012

Release Date: June 4, 2012

Release Date: July 3, 2012

Release Date: TBA

In My Mailbox [139]

2012-01-14T12:50:00.002-06:00

Bought:
Lothaire- Kresley Cole
Charmfall- Chloe Neill
Isle of Night- Veronica Wolff

What did you get this week?

Feel free to leave your IMM link in the comments.

Freebie for Friday the 13th

2012-01-13T14:05:00.000-06:00

Urban Fantasy Thriller - The Heretic, book one of the Templar Chronicles By Joseph Nassise is a free download for Kindle this weekend starting today. Here is the link:

http://www.amazon.com/Heretic-Templar-Chronicles-ebook/dp/B003CT39PE/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&qid=1326377556&sr=8-2

Book Description:
A former SWAT officer turns modern Templar Knight in this exciting new urban fantasy series for fans of Jim Butcher, Rob Thurman, and Patricia Briggs!

A chance encounter with one of the Hellspawn left Cade Williams with certain unique traits, including the ability to walk between the lands of the living and those of the dead. Now, as commander of the Echo Team, the special operations unit within the Templar hierarchy, he has devoted his life to using his "gifts" to protect mankind from the things that lurk in the darkness.

When a Templar commandery is invaded and its occupants mercilessly slaughtered, Knight Commander Williams is called in to hunt down those responsible. His investigation quickly leads him to a cabal of necromancers known as the Council of Nine.

There's only one problem.

The necromancers are allied with the same supernatural creature that left Cade for dead five years before. A creature so powerful that the Templars know it only as the Adversary.

In order to stop the killing, Cade will be forced to face his own personal demons. Not just those deep inside his heart, but also the one that left him scarred, body and soul.

The same demon that has already beaten him once before...

http://josephnassise.com/

Winner - Switched

2012-01-12T00:57:00.001-06:00

and the winner...

Inspired Kathy

Congrats! Please send your mailing

information here:

annasbookblog@gmail.com

You have 5 days to claim your prizes.

All giveaway winners are chosen through Random.org

WooHoo - Networked Blogs

2012-01-11T20:30:00.001-06:00

So, darn excited I finally got NetworkedBlogs to work with my Facebook page for my blog. If you like to follow me through NetworkedBlogs, you'll find my widget on my side bar towards the bottom.

<-----------

Waiting On Wednesday [34] - A Perfect Blood

2012-01-11T01:59:00.000-06:00

Waiting on Wednesday is a weekly post started by Breaking the Spine. A feature showcasing upcoming releases that are eagerly anticipated.

The Hollows is one of my favorite series and Pale Demon (book #9) definitely brought changes to the series and some very interesting situations. I can't wait to get back to this series to see what will happen next.

Title: A Perfect Blood

Series: The Hollows/Rachel Morgan

Author: Kim Harrison

Release Date: February 21, 2012

Book Description:

Ritually murdered corpses are appearing across Cincinnati, terrifying amalgams of human and other. Pulled in to help investigate by the FIB, former witch turned day-walking demon Rachel Morgan soon realizes a horrifying truth — a would-be creator is determined to make his (or her) own demons. But it can’t be done without Rachel’s blood.

As a bounty hunter, Rachel has battled vampires, witches, werewolves, demons, and more. But humanity itself might be her toughest challenge.

Series Reading Order:

Dead Witch Walking

The Good, the Bad and the Undead

Every Which Way But Dead

A Fistful of Charms

For a Few Demons More

The Outlaw Demon Wails

White Witch, Black Curse

Black Magic Sanction

Pale Demon

The Hollows Insider (series companion)

A Perfect Blood (Book #10- 2/21/12)

Ever After (Book #11- 2013)

[Review] - Bloodrose by Andrea Cremer

2012-01-10T00:18:00.002-06:00

Title: Bloodrose
Author: Andrea Cremer
Series: Nightshade
Genre: Young Adult
Release Date: January 3, 2012

Summary: Calla has always welcomed war. But now that the final battle is upon her, there’s more at stake than fighting. There’s saving Ren, even if it incurs Shay’s wrath. There’s keeping Ansel safe, even if he’s been branded a traitor.

There’s proving herself as the pack’s alpha, facing unnameable horrors, and ridding the world of the Keepers’ magic once and for all. And then there’s deciding what to do when the war ends. If Calla makes it out alive, that is.

Thoughts: Calla knows saving Ren will make Shay very unhappy. But she loves him too and strongly believes he is needed if they are to defeat The Keepers. Now with Ren, the Scion and the Elemental Cross they march into the final battle - with hope that they'll make it out alive and in victory.

Loved this book! Bloodrose was at the top of my list for most anticipated books of 2012 and it has definitely lived up to the waiting and anticipation. One of my favorite things about the story is that we get to see more of Ren and the triangle that he, Calla and Shay create. The story will give you an adrenaline rush, especially in the last 100 pages or so. The action was awesome. There were a few things that I didn't like so well - but they are big spoilers. I will say that I'm sad to see this part of the story coming to an end. Bloodrose is a great end to this trilogy.

Score: 5 Stars

Author Website:

http://www.andreacremer.com/
http://www.nightshadebook.com/

Upcoming Releases:

Rift (Nightshade Prequel)- August 7, 2012
Rise (Nightshade Prequel #2)- 2013
The Invisibility Curse (with David Levithan)- 2013
The Inventor's Secret (with David Levithan )- 2013

Winner - Madame Tussaud Pbk & earrings

2012-01-09T09:00:00.001-06:00

and the winner is:

Kelsey

Congrats! Please send your mailing

information here:

annasbookblog@gmail.com

You have 5 days to claim your prizes.

All giveaway winners are chosen through Random.org

In My Mailbox [138 - Christmas Edition]

2012-01-07T11:09:00.003-06:00

In My Mailbox is a feature that was started over at The Story Siren. Each week we share what arrived in our mailboxes, bought or found in swaps or at the library.

This past Christmas was made up of awesome gift cards and movies. I finally was able to spend my gift cards this week. Below is what I got. Also some books I received in the mail.

R.A.K.

The Name of the Star- Maureen Johnson

Touch of Power- Maria V. Snyder

(Not pictured, I will feature both in my end of the month RAK post.)

Thank you to Amanda B!

Received:

Shaedes of Gray- Amanda Bonilla

Deep Kiss of Winter- Kresley Cole & Gena Showalter

Left Hand Magic- Nancy A. Collins

Virtual Virgin- Carole Nelson Douglas

Blood Drunk Faded Blue- Angela Lovell

Acquainted With The Night- Piper Maitland
Thank you to Michelle G!

Bought:

Hidden- Kelley Armstrong (Kindle)

Bloodrose- Andrea Cremer

The Graveyard Book- Neil Gaiman

Vampire Knight Vol. 13- Matsuri Hino

Unleashed- Nancy Holder & Debbie Viguie

Madame Tussaud- Michelle Moran

Once In A Full Moon- Ellen Schrieber

The Vampire Diaries: Stefan's Diaries Vol. 1: Origins- L.J. Smith

What did you get this week?
Feel free to leave your IMM link in the comments.

January R.A.K. Sign-ups

2012-01-06T15:31:00.003-06:00

Random Acts of Kindness is brought to us by the awesome bloggers at
Book ♥ Soulmates. How big is your RAK?

It's a new month, and a new year! A great way to start it, is by joining in the fun. I can't express enough how fantastic this program is. It's a great way to get some of your most wanted books and to send/share books with other readers. Sign up for January is now open. To learn more jump over to Isalys & Vanessa's blog - Book ♥ Soulmates.

Links you will need:

Sign up for January [HERE]
See who else is participating [HERE]
If you have any questions regarding RAK, please contact us via the following: rakbybooksoulmates @ gmail . com

My Wishlists:
Amazon

Goodreads

January Giveaway

2012-01-05T00:08:00.002-06:00

This month I'm giving away a copy of Amanda Hocking's Switched. I haven't had a chance to read my copy yet, but I've heard nothing but good things about it. To enter leave a comment, along with your email address. Open to U.S. residents. The winner will be announced on January 12th. Good Luck!

Switched

Trylle #1
By Amanda Hocking

When Wendy Everly was six years old, her mother was convinced she was a monster and tried to kill her. It isn't until eleven years later that Wendy discovers her mother might have been right.

With the help of Finn Holmes, Wendy finds herself in a world she never knew existed - a world both beautiful and frightening, and Wendy's not sure she wants to be a part of it.

[Trailer] - Cinder

2012-01-04T02:08:00.001-06:00

Cinder by Marissa Meyer

OUT TODAY!

Cinder: Book One in The Lunar Chronicles by Marissa Meyer

Even in the future, the story begins with Once Upon a Time…. Humans and androids crowd the raucous streets of New Beijing. A deadly plague ravages the population. From space, a ruthless lunar people watch, waiting to make their move. No one knows that Earth's fate hinges on one girl. . . . Cinder, a gifted mechanic, is a cyborg. She's a second-class citizen with a mysterious past, reviled by her stepmother and blamed for her stepsister's illness. But when her life becomes intertwined with the handsome Prince Kai's, she suddenly finds herself at the center of an intergalactic struggle, and a forbidden attraction. Caught between duty and freedom, loyalty and betrayal, she must uncover secrets about her past in order to protect her world's future.

Marissa Meyer's Blog:

http://marissameyer.livejournal.com/

Facebook:

https://www.facebook.com/MarissaMeyerAuthor

Twitter:

https://twitter.com/marissa_meyer

Kim Culbertson's The Liberation of Max McTrue Writing Contest

2012-01-03T00:00:00.000-06:00

The Liberation of Max McTrue Contest

Brought to you by Figment.com and Kim Culbertson

Kim Culbertson is joining Figment for a whirlwind weekend of Flash Fiction to celebrate her new ebook, The Liberation of Max McTrue!

Enter the Max McTrue Flash Fiction Contest!
There will be a Total of three prizes: Each winner gets a free download of The Liberation of Max McTrue as well as a custom-made “beautiful things” journal. The first place winner will also receive a 30 minute manuscript review by Kim Culbertson.

All you have to do is write a super short story under 500 words that follows one of the four prompts below. Submit your entry between 11:00am on February 3rd, 2012 and 11:59pm on February 5th, 2012. The Figment editorial staff will choose the top ten entries as finalists, and Kim will choose the winners from those finalists.

The Prompts:
(1) Write a story set against the backdrop of a scavenger hunt.
(2) Write a story confined to the periods of a school day. The character can be in school or out of school.
(3) Write a story in which a character is deeply afraid of something.
(4) Come up with a totally ordinary character and then set him/her up to have an extraordinary day.

How to enter:
1.    Go to www.figment.com and sign up.
2.    Once you have received your confirmation email, go to your Figment profile page, click “My Writing,” and “Create Something New.”
3.    Before you start writing, read the full rules on the Max McTrue contest page, which you’ll be able to find under the “Contest” tab on Figment on February 3rd, 2012.
4.    Write an original story, under 500 words, that follows one of the four prompts above.
5.    Go to the “Details” tab of your story, and put maxmctrue in the “Tags” section.
6.    Wait the 2 hours it sometimes takes to see your story appear on the contest page.

_____________________________________________________

The Liberation of Max McTrue

By Kim Culbertson
January 2012

Have you ever had an extraordinary day?

Max hadn’t. Until one winter day when he met a girl.

THE LIBERATION OF MAX MCTRUE takes place in a single day. The classic Boy Meets Girl story. Well, sort of: Boy meets homeschooled girl. Boy ditches school. Boy finds his future. And there's an ice cream truck. And archery. It's a bit like what would happen if Ferris Bueller's Day Off and The Alchemist had a kid, well...a kid who was a YA eBook novella. You get the idea.

Max took a day off and found his life.

Who changed your life today?

Top Books- 2011

2012-01-01T00:02:00.000-06:00

Although its hard to believe, another year has come and gone. Reading wise, it was a good year. I hit my goal and surpassed it by a few books. Below is a list of my favorite books in each genre. I also included some of my favorite tv shows and movies of 2011. If you are interested is seeing my complete reading list of 2011, it can be found here.

Book Stats

Books Read: 209

Authors Read: 137

48 of those Authors I read for the first time

Reviews: 82

============================================

Paranormal Romance

Dreams of a Dark Warrior- Kresley Cole
How to Flirt with A Naked Werewolf- Molly Harper
Kiss of Snow- Nalini Singh
Dark Taste of Rapture- Gena Showalter
Lover Unleashed- J.R. Ward

Urban Fantasy

Pale Demon- Kim Harrison
Hounded- Kevin Hearne
Dark Descendant- Jenna Black
The Renfield Syndrom- J.A. Saare
Succubus Revealed- Richelle Mead

Young Adult

Anna Dressed In Blood- Kendare Blake
Demonglass- Rachel Hawkins
The Goddess Test- Aimee Carter
Wildefire- Karsten Knight
Touch of Frost- Jennifer Estep

Historical Romance

It Happened One Bite- Lydia Dare
Just Like Heaven- Julia Quinn
The Heir- Grace Burrowes
The Many Sins of Lord Cameron- Jennifer Ashley

Historical Fiction

Madame Tussaud- Michelle Moran
The Night Circus- Erin Morgenstern
Water For Elephants- Sara Gruen

Erotic Romance

Big Bad Beast- Shelly Laurenston
What A Goddess Wants- Stephanie Julian
How To Worship A Goddess- Stephanie Julian

============================================

Favorite Authors in 2011:

Favorite Series:
The Iron Druid Chronicles by Kevin Hearne
Southern Arcana by Moira Rogers

Surprising Favorites
The Calling- Ashley Lynn Willis
Dark Descendent- Jenna Black
13 Little Envelopes- Maureen Johnson

Favorite Covers in 2011

Anna Dressed In Blood- Kendare Blake

Dark Taste of Rapture- Gena Showalter

Wildefire- Karsten Knight

Hounded- Kevin Hearne

============================================

Other Favorites of 2011:

Favorite TV Shows:

Game of Thrones
Once Upon A Time
Terra Nova
Grimm

Favorite Movies:

The Girl with the Dragon Tattoo

Harry Potter and the Deathly Hollows Part 2

Breaking Dawn Part 1

The Help

Happy 2012! Feel free to leave a link to your end of the year post.

In My Mailbox [137]

2011-12-31T11:33:00.003-06:00

In My Mailbox is a feature that was started over at The Story Siren. Each week we share what arrived in our mailboxes, bought or found in swaps or at the library.

Normally this would be my Christmas Edition of IMM. But I haven't got the chance to spend my gift cards, so that post will be for next week. I did get a few exciting titles this week.

Review:

Broods of Fenrir- Coral Moore

Thank you to Coral Moore.

Paperback Swap Forums:

Jessica Rules the Dark Side- Beth Fantaskey

Born Wicked- Jessica Spotswood

Bought:

Vampire Academy: The Ultimate Guide- Michelle Rowen & Richelle Mead

What did you get this week?
Feel free to leave your IMM link in the comments.
_______________________________________________________

Happy 2012!

I hope everyone has a fun and safe time celebrating the new year.

December 2011 - Reading List

2011-12-30T09:00:00.001-06:00

Water for Elephants- Sara Gruen [5 Stars]
Last Breath- Rachel Caine [4 Stars]
Courting Darkness- Yasmine Galenorn [4 Stars]
A Taste of Darkness- Lara Adrian [4 Stars]
His Dark Bond- Anne Marsh [4 Stars, review coming soon]
The Bite Before Christmas- Lynsay Sands & Jeaniene Frost [3 Stars]
Grave Sight GN Vol. 2- Charlaine Harris [3 Stars]
Storm Born, Issue #4- Richelle Mead [4 Stars]
Shadow of the Moon- Lori Handeland [3 Stars]
Shades of Midnight- Lara Adrian [4 Stars]
The Vampire Diaries: The Awakening- L.J. Smith [3 Stars]

Compared to other months, this one wasn't a good one. At least reading wise. Although I reached my goal of 200 books this year. I found myself going through a terrible reading funk this past month. Not sure what the problem was, but I'm glad it's over with. Especially with some of the good titles coming out in 2012.

Upcoming Events in January

Top 2011 Books
January Giveaway
Feature Kim Culbertson (flash fiction contest)
Guest Blog with Coral Moore

Holiday Giveaway Winners

2011-12-29T09:00:00.001-06:00

and the winner is...

PNR/UF Box: Sara M

YA Box: Carrie at In the Hammock Blog

Congrats! Please send your mailing

information here:

annasbookblog@gmail.com

You have 5 days to claim your prizes.

All giveaway winners are chosen through Random.org

Winner - Moonlight in the Morning

2011-12-29T00:04:00.000-06:00

and the winner is...

Margay

Congrats! Please send your mailing

information here:

annasbookblog@gmail.com

You have 5 days to claim your prizes.

All giveaway winners are chosen through Random.org

January Book Releases

2011-12-28T07:00:00.001-06:00

1st

Midnight Reckoning- Kendra Leigh Castle
Claime the Night- Rachel Lee
The Lure of Song and Magic- Patrice Rice
Hold Me If You Can- Stephanie Rowe
Wolf Whisperer- Karen Whiddon
A Demon Does It Better- Linda Wisdom

3rd

Serengeti Sins- Vivi Andrews (pbk)
Turn It Up- Vivian Arend (pbk)
Immortal Hope- Claire Ashgrove
Wild Cat- Jennifer Ashley
The Daemon Prison- Carol Berg
Flashfire- Deborah Cooke
Bloodrose- Andrea Cremer
At the King's Pleasure- Kate Emerson
All That Bleeds- Kimberly Frost
The Bride Wore Black Leather- Simon R. Green
Dreaming Awake- Gwen Hayes
Between Their Worlds- Barb & J.C. Hendee
Switched- Amanda Hocking
Raven Cursed- Faith Hunter
Gift of Magic- Lynn Kurland
Haunted Warrior- Allie Mackay
King of the Isles- Debbie Mazzuca
The Zero Dog War- Keith Melton (pbk)
Cinder- Marissa Meyer
To Walk the Night- E.S. Moore
Charmfall- Chloe Neill
Born of Ashes- Caris Roane
Hammer Down- Moira Rogers
Under the Never Sky- Veronica Rossi
Sins of the Demon- Diana Rowland
The Departed- Shiloh Walker
Eternal Blood- Laura Wright (enovella)

5th

Dragonswood- Janet Lee Carey

10th

The Gathering Storm- Robin Bridges
Lothaire- Kresley Cole
Jessica Rules the Dark Side- Beth Fantaskey
Dmeon's Caress- Crystal Jordan
Runner- Anitra Lynn McLeod
A Million Suns- Beth Revis

17th

Tempest- Julie Cross
Hallowed- Cynthia Hand
Stolen Away- Alyxandra Harvey
Dark Victory- Michele Lang

24th

Darker After Midnight- Lara Adrian
Mesmerize- Artist Arthur
The Twisted Kiss- Anya Bast
Forbidden- Syrie James & Ryan M. James
Fallen In Love- Lauren Kate
Horizon- Sophie Littlefield
Diabolical- Cynthia Leitich Smith
The Vampire Diaries: Stefan's Diaries #5: The Asylum- Smith, Williams & Plec
Clash- Yolanda Sfetsos
Life Eternal- Yvonne Woon

31st

Firelight- Kristen Callihan
All Things Wicked- Karina Cooper
Lair of the Lion- Christine Feehan (re-issue)
Undone Deeds- Mark Del Franco
Kiss of the Vampire- Cynthia Garner
A Devil Named Desire- Terri Garey
Darkest Highlander- Donna Grant
The Red Queen- Philippa Gregory (mmp)
Brightwater Blood- Shona Husk
Third Grave Dead Ahead- Darynda Jones
Burned- J.F. Lewis
A Little Night Magic- Lucy March
His Dark Bond- Anne Marsh
Incarnate- Jodi Meadows
Wrong Side of Dead- Kelly Meding
Wings of the Wicked- Courtney Allison Moulton
Article 5- Kristen Simmons
An Affair with Mr. Kennedy- Jillian Stone
If You See Her- Shiloh Walker

[ARC Review] - At the King's Pleasure by Kate Emerson

2011-12-27T00:13:00.002-06:00

Title: At the King's Pleasure
Author: Kate Emerson
Series: Secrets of the Tudor Court
Genre: Historical Fiction
Release Date: January 3, 2012

I received this book for review from Simon & Schuster.

Summary: Married to one man. Desiring another. Beautiful Lady Anne Stafford, lady-in-waiting to Queen Catherine of Aragon, is torn between her love for her husband, George, Lord Hastings . . . and the king’s boon companion, the attentive Sir William Compton. But when King Henry VIII, amorous as always, joins the men clustering around her, Anne realizes she has become perilously enmeshed in the intrigues of the court.

Will she be forced to decide between the two men she desires—and the one she doesn’t?Kate Emerson charms again with a heroine who steps out of the pages of history to win our hearts in this sumptuous novel of Tudor scandal and intrigue

Thoughts: Lady Anne Stafford is a lady-in-waiting to Queen Catherine of Aragon. A married women. But she catches the eye of King Henry and his close friend Sir William Compton. Lady Anne learns fast how life at court can turn dangerous.

I thoroughly enjoyed this story. I liked Lady Anne Stafford. She is quite outgoing and charismatic. But I also felt bad for her too. Sadly her brother, the Duke of Buckingham and her husband Lord Hastings take an innocent situation and blow it into a scandal. I have to say there were many times while I was reading that I would have loved to slap up both brother and husband. But all in all At the King's Pleasure is great read. Temptation and court intrigue. Everything I've come to love from Emerson's Tudor books. She has a wonderful writing style that automatically takes me back to that time. I love it.

Score: 4 Stars

Author Website: http://www.kateemersonhistoricals.com/

Upcoming Releases:
The King's Damsel (Secrets of the Tudor Court #5)- 2012

In My Mailbox [136] & Happy Holidays

2011-12-24T13:55:00.002-06:00

Whatever you are celebrating this year, I hope everyone has a wonderful Holiday. :)

In My Mailbox is a feature that was started over at The Story Siren. Each week we share what arrived in our mailboxes, bought or found in swaps or at the library. Here is what I got this past week...

Thank you to Arianne for sending me the Mythos Academy bookmarks!

Bought/Received:
Switched- Amanda Hocking
Night Pleasures- Sherrilyn Kenyon
Lawe's Justice- Lora Leigh

What did you get this week?

Feel free to leave your IMM link in the comments.

Cover Discovery

2011-12-23T12:05:00.000-06:00

Release Date: March 6, 2012

Release Date: April 24, 2012

Release Date: May 29, 2012

Release Date: June 26, 2012

U.K. Cover

U.K. Release Date: July 5, 2012

U.S. Release Date: August 14, 2012

Re-issue for U.S. Release

Release Date: July 31, 2012

[Trailer] - Switched

2011-12-22T14:48:00.001-06:00

Coming January 3, 2012

From Amanda Hocking, million-copy bestselling author and internet sensation comes the Trylle series… it all begins with Switched, available everywhere 1.3.12. As a special gift to readers, Switched contains a new, never-before-published bonus story, “The Vittra Attacks,” set in the magical world of the Trylle.

The Trylle series continues with Torn, on-sale 2.28.12, and concludes on 4.24.12 with Ascend.

SWITCHED… at birth:

When Wendy Everly was six years old, her mother was convinced she was a monster and tried to kill her. Eleven years later, Wendy discovers her mother might have been right. She’s not the person she’s always believed herself to be, and her whole life begins to unravel—all because of Finn Holmes.

Finn is a mysterious guy who always seems to be watching her. Every encounter leaves her deeply shaken…though it has more to do with her fierce attraction to him than she’d ever admit. But it isn’t long before he reveals the truth: Wendy is a changeling who was switched at birth—and he’s come to take her home.

Now Wendy’s about to journey to a magical world she never knew existed, one that’s both beautiful and frightening. And where she must leave her old life behind to discover who she’s meant to become…

http://amandahocking.blogspot.com/

https://www.facebook.com/amandahockingtrylle

[Review] - Storm Born, Issue #4

2011-12-22T00:15:00.002-06:00

Title: Storm Born, Issue #4
Writers: Richelle Mead & Grant Alter
Artists: Dave Hamann
Cover Artists: Dave Hamann & Jennyson Rosero
Series: Dark Swan
Genre: Urban Fantasy
Release Date: August 2011

I received this book for review from Sea Lion Books.

Summary: Yesterday, Eugenie Markham thought her life was complicated. But today, she will learn a secret that shakes her world to its very core. Everything she thought she knew was wrong. And if that wasn't enough, she still has Jasmine Delaney hanging over her head...

Thoughts: All hell breaks loose. Eugenie is betrayed in this issue, making her a very unhappy camper. More secrets come to light that Eugenie doesn't want to believe. Another great issue. I'm loving this series. The colorful art and action keeps the story moving along. Kiyo reappears. Definitely one of the high points to the story. Eugenie so obviously attracted to him, but still trying hard to stay away from him. This issue had a fantastic cliff hanger ending. I look forward to more.

Score: 4 Stars

Where to Buy: Sea Lion Books | Things From Another World

Waiting On Wednesday [33] - Darker After Midnight

2011-12-21T09:00:00.001-06:00

Waiting on Wednesday is a weekly post started by Breaking the Spine. A feature showcasing upcoming releases that are eagerly anticipated.

I'm a bit behind in this series but I can't wait to read this one. Hard to believe we are finally getting Sterling Chase's story.

Title: Darker After Midnight

Series: Midnight Breed

Author: Lara Adrian

Release Date: January 24, 2012

Book Description:

In the dark of night, a blood war escalates within the hidden world of the Breed. After existing in secret for many long centuries, maintaining a fragile peace with the humans who walk beside them unaware, a single act of retaliation has put the entire vampire nation at risk of discovery. It falls to the Order—a cadre of Breed warriors pledged to protect their own and humankind alike—to stop Dragos, the power-mad vampire at the center of the conflict, before his push for domination can explode into catastrophe.

At the center of the Order’s quest is Sterling Chase, once a morally rigid enforcer of Breed law, now a warrior fallen from grace, whose biggest battle is the one he wages against his own savage nature. With addiction beckoning him toward eternal darkness, Chase’s path to redemption has never seemed more out of reach. But when his eyes meet those of Tavia Fairchild, a beautiful witness who identifies him at the scene of a mission gone terribly wrong, Chase finds himself drawn to the woman—and convinced she is something much more than she seems.

Pulled into a vortex of intrigue and danger she can neither resist nor understand, Tavia is uncertain whom to trust. And while everything sane and logical warns her against getting close to Chase, she cannot deny that the handsome, deeply haunted male stirs something primal and ravenous within her. But even as she surrenders to her cravings, nothing can prepare her for the shattering truth of who—and what—she truly is.

As the Order’s enemy mobilizes for the battle of the ages, Dragos and his Minions unleashing a hell on Earth like nothing ever seen before, Chase and Tavia are thrust into the heart of the violence. With time running out and the streets running red with the blood of innocent lives, both Breed and human, together Chase and Tavia must find a way to defeat Dragos once and for all—or die trying.

Midnight Breed series

Kiss of Midnight

Kiss of Crimson

Midnight Awakening

Midnight Rising

Veil of Midnight

Ashes of Midnight

Shades of Midnight

Taken by Midnight

Deeper Than Midnight

A Taste of Midnight (novella)

Darker After Midnight

Giveaway: Moonlight in the Morning

2011-12-20T00:00:00.003-06:00

Thanks to Simon & Schuster I have a copy of Jude Deveraux's upcoming release, Moonlight in the Morning to giveaway. To enter leave a comment along with your email address. Open to U.S. & Canada. The winner will be announced on December 29th. Good Luck!

Moonlight in the Morning

By Jude Deveraux

Edilean #6

Coming on December 27, 2011

Sparks are flying between Jecca Layton and Dr. Tristian Aldredge. At the urging of dear friend Kim, Jecca puts the ruthless New York City art world on hold to spend the summer pursuing her passion for painting while enjoying Edilean's tightly knit artistic community.

For years, Kim's cousin Tris-the town's handsome dedicated doctor-felt a deep connection to Kim's college "sister" Jecca, thought they had met only once before; now, Jecca is swept off her feet by this strong, sensitive man in a summer of sensual delights. But when long shadows announce Jecca's return to "real life" and the big city, the lovers must decide: Can they survive the distance? And who will sacrifice the life they've created for themselves to be together?

Google Friend Connect & Changes to the Blog

2011-12-19T09:00:00.001-06:00

As many of you know, coming in March non-blogger sites/users will not have Google Friend Connect available for their use. If this is one of you there are other ways to follow Anna's Book Blog. Here are the other options.

Email Subscription: (you can also find this form on my sidebar.)

You can also follow me on:

_____________________________________________________________

Changes to the Blog:

The biggest change is that starting this month (December 2011) I'm not accepting Ebooks for review until I get caught up on the ones I have.

The exception to this is... If you are a author I've worked with in the past, feel free to contact me and I will try to work you in to my review schedule.

My full review policy can be found here.

In My Mailbox [135]

2011-12-17T12:05:00.002-06:00

A special Thank you goes out to Michelle G for sending me

such a wonderful Christmas package.

Review:

A SEAL in Wolf's Clothing- Terry Spear

Thank you to Sourcebooks.

Received:

At the King's Pleasure- Kate Emerson

Thank you to Simon & Schuster for sending me a finished copy.

Gifts:

Winging It- Deborah Cooke

Tied with a Bow- Leigh, Kantra, Wilks and Frost

Dreamveil- Lynn Viehl

Frostfire- Lynn Viehl

Nightshine- Lynn Viehl

What did you get this week?
Feel free to leave your IMM link in the comments.

Winners - The Calling

2011-12-17T00:30:00.003-06:00

and the winners are...

Cybercliper

You will be contacted shortly.

You have 5 days to claim your prizes.

All giveaway winners are chosen through Random.org

Guest Blog with Michelle Moran

2011-12-16T00:17:00.001-06:00

Revolutionary or Royalist?

This December 1st marked the 250th anniversary of Marie Grosholtz’s birth. And while that name may not be immediately recognizable, Marie’s married name – Madame Tussaud – is probably one of the most famous in French history. It comes as a surprise to many people that the name behind the famous wax museums actually belonged to a real woman. Born in 1761, Marie grew up in a middle-class family on the Boulevard du Temple in Paris. As the daughter of a prominent wax artist who had friends in every walk of life, her family entertained impoverished young lawyers and hobnobbed with royals like the Duc d’Orléans. It was a rich and incredibly varied existence for Marie on the Boulevard. One day she might be dressed in a towering white pouf for a visit with the queen, while the next she might be working in a dirty artist’s apron. She knew how to curtsy and how to spice venison for stew, and was as comfortable in her uncle’s Tuesday evening salons as she was in his workshop, where she modeled wax figures of the rich and famous (and sometimes infamous) for their museum.

But when discontent began to spread throughout Paris, evidenced by the heated debates which took place in her family’s weekly salons, Marie had a choice to make. Would she side with the revolutionaries who were calling for fair taxation and an end to nobility, or would she support the royal family whose patronage had turned her Parisian museum into a must-see event for both French and foreigners alike?

While writing the book, I tried to imagine what I would have done in Marie’s place. I imagined that I was an acquaintance of Marie Antoinette’s, and that I was good friends with the king’s sister, Madame Elisabeth. As the Revolution gathers support from the masses, I witness firsthand the panic gripping the Palace of Versailles. At first, the king dismisses the uprising as a few discontented rabble-rousers. But as the protests becomes more violent, he begins to realize that this is something serious – something dangerous, in fact. Still, no one around him is telling him the truth. Not about the anger, or the violence, or even the state of his own treasury. Should I risk my place at court to speak up? If so, would he even believe me? And even if he did, what would it change at this late stage? There are also my three brothers to consider, all of whom are employed in the king’s Swiss Guard. Yet for all of my royal ties, I can see the revolutionaries’ point as well. People are starving in the streets, jobs are scarce, yet the rich are exempt from taxation.

So do I wear the black and white cockade to symbolize my support of the Bourbons, or do I wear the red, white and blue for revolution? It turns out that Marie did both. As the Revolution gained steam, anyone dressed in clothing that was deemed too “fancy” was subject to arrest. To be seen in public without a tricolor cockade meant literally risking your life. And at a time when nearly 40,000 people were guillotined (more than 80% were commoners), execution was a very real threat. So while Marie kept her ties with the royal family – even when it was dangerous to do so – she was also a very public (and unintentionally influential) figure in the French Revolution.

I can’t imagine the horrors Madame Tussaud lived through during this time, but I can empathize with the very difficult choices she eventually made in an attempt to survive. I didn’t always agree with them, but Madame Tussaud is - without a doubt - one of the strongest women I will ever write about.

Madame Tussaud

A Novel of the French Revolution

Coming to paperback on December 27, 2011

The world knows Madame Tussaud as a wax artist extraordinaire . . . but who was this woman who became one of the most famous sculptresses of all time? In these pages, her tumultuous and amazing story comes to life as only Michelle Moran can tell it. The year is 1788, and a revolution is about to begin.

Smart and ambitious, Marie Tussaud has learned the secrets of wax sculpting by working alongside her uncle in their celebrated wax museum, the Salon de Cire. From her popular model of the American ambassador, Thomas Jefferson, to her tableau of the royal family at dinner, Marie’s museum provides Parisians with the very latest news on fashion, gossip, and even politics. Her customers hail from every walk of life, yet her greatest dream is to attract the attention of Marie Antoinette and Louis XVI; their stamp of approval on her work could catapult her and her museum to the fame and riches she desires. After months of anticipation, Marie learns that the royal family is willing to come and see their likenesses. When they finally arrive, the king’s sister is so impressed that she requests Marie’s presence at Versailles as a royal tutor in wax sculpting. It is a request Marie knows she cannot refuse—even if it means time away
from her beloved Salon and her increasingly dear friend, Henri Charles.

As Marie gets to know her pupil, Princesse Élisabeth, she also becomes acquainted with the king and queen, who introduce her to the glamorous life at court. From lavish parties with more delicacies than she’s ever seen to rooms filled with candles lit only once before being discarded, Marie steps into a world entirely different from her home on the Boulevard du Temple, where people are selling their teeth in order to put food on the table.

Meanwhile, many resent the vast separation between rich and poor. In salons and cafés across Paris, people like Camille Desmoulins, Jean-Paul Marat, and Maximilien Robespierre are lashing out against the monarchy. Soon, there’s whispered talk of revolution. . . . Will Marie be able to hold on to both the love of her life and her friendship with the royal family as France approaches civil war? And more important, will she be able to fulfill the demands of powerful revolutionaries who ask that she make the death masks of beheaded aristocrats, some of whom she knows?

Spanning five years, from the budding revolution to the Reign of Terror, Madame Tussaud brings us into the world of an incredible heroine whose talent for wax modeling saved her life and preserved the faces of a vanished kingdom.

Where to Buy:

Amazon | Barnes & Noble | The Book Depository | IndieBound

http://michellemoran.com/

http://michellemoran.blogspot.com/

Giveaway: Madame Tussaud

2011-12-15T00:00:00.001-06:00

On December 27, 2011 Madame Tussaud by Michelle Moran will be available in paperback. In celebration Crown Publishing & Michelle Moran are holding a HEADS WILL ROLL photo contest and giveaway. Starts today December 15th, with the winners being announced on January 16th. Click the link above to enter.

GIVEAWAY:
Thanks to Michelle & Crown Publishing I have (1) paperback copy of Madame Tussaud & a set of Marie Antoinette cupcake earrings to giveaway. To enter leave a comment along with your email address. Open to U.S residents. The winner will be announced on January 9th. Good Luck!

The world knows Madame Tussaud as a wax artist extraordinaire…but who was this woman and how did she become one of the most famous sculptresses of all time? In these pages, her tumultuous story comes to life as only Michelle Moran could tell it. The year is 1788, and a revolution is about to begin…

Marie Tussaud has learned the secrets of wax sculpting by working alongside her uncle in their celebrated wax museum, the Salon de Cire. From her popular model of the American Ambassador, Thomas Jefferson, to her tableau of the royal family at dinner, Marie’s museum provides Parisians with the very latest news on fashion, gossip, even politics. Her customers hail from every walk of life, and when word arrives that the royals themselves are coming to see their likenesses, Marie never dreams that the king’s sister will request her presence at Versailles as a royal tutor in wax sculpting. Yet when a letter with a gold seal is delivered to her home, Marie knows she cannot refuse—even if it means time away from her beloved Salon and her increasingly dear friend, Henri Charles.

As Marie becomes acquainted with her pupil, Princess Élisabeth, she is taken to meet both Marie Antoinette and King Louis XVI, who introduce her to the glamorous life at court. From lavish parties with more delicacies than she’s ever seen, to rooms filled with candles lit only once before being discarded, Marie steps into to a world entirely different from her home on the Boulevard du Temple, where people are selling their teeth in order to put food on the table.

Meanwhile, many resent the vast separation between rich and poor. In salons and cafés across Paris, people like Camille Desmoulins, Jean-Paul Marat, and Maximilien Robespierre are lashing out against the monarchy. Soon, there’s whispered talk of revolution…Will Marie be able to hold on to both the love of her life and her friendship with the royal family as France approaches civil war? And more importantly, will she be able to fulfill the demands of powerful revolutionaries who ask that she make the death masks of beheaded aristocrats, some of whom she knows?

Spanning five years from the budding revolution to the Reign of Terror, Madame Tussaud brings us into the world of an incredible heroine whose talent for wax modeling saved her life and preserved the faces of a vanished kingdom.

http://michellemoran.com/

http://michellemoran.blogspot.com/

Waiting On Wednesday [32] - Hidden

2011-12-14T09:00:00.001-06:00

Waiting on Wednesday is a weekly post started by Breaking the Spine. A feature showcasing upcoming releases that are eagerly anticipated.

Clay and Elena are two of my favorites in the Otherworld series,

so I'm pretty eager to get my hands on this one.

Title: Hidden

Series: Women of the Otherworld Novella

Author: Kelley Armstrong

Release Date: December 31, 2011

Book Description:

Hiking through the snow, holiday baking and playing board games by the fire – what’s not to love about an old-fashioned family Christmas?

Werewolves Elena Michaels and Clayton Danvers want to give their four-year-old twins, Kate and Logan, something their parents never had: a nice, normal holiday. No Pack responsibilities, no homicidal half-demons or power-hungry sorcerers to deal with – just the four of them, alone, at a chalet outside Ontario’s Algonquin Park. Then a strange werewolf shows up at their door…while the town is buzzing about a young man, back from college, found half-eaten in the woods. And there’s the missing little girl…

With all the signs pointing to a rogue mutt with a taste for human flesh, Elena and Clay have no choice but to investigate. But are they the hunters – or the hunted?

Book information from the author:

Hidden is a novella from Subterranean Press and will include 6 full colour interior illustrations by Angilram (my graphic artist for “Becoming” and much more). It will be released in two formats: 1000 leather-bound signed & numbered hardcovers, plus unsigned cloth-bound hardcovers (also a limited run to be determined, but not less than 5000 copies)

Please note that this is a 200 page novella, not a full-length novel. There are plans for a Kindle and Nook edition. The e-book version will not contain the artwork.

Scholastic Launches “One Million Bookprints for One Million Books”

2011-12-13T13:05:00.002-06:00

Scholastic Launches “One Million Bookprints for One Million Books” Campaign to Donate New Books to Children in Need

For Every Person who Creates a “Bookprint” at the Online Community, youarewhatyouread.com, a New Children’s Book will be Donated to

New York – December 12, 2011 – A new campaign, ONE MILLION BOOKPRINTS FOR ONE MILLION BOOKS, kicks off today, inviting readers of all ages to create a “Bookprint” at the online community, youarewhatyouread.com. For every Bookprint created, Scholastic Book Clubs will donate a new book to a child in need (up to one million books). Books will be distributed through the national school readiness initiative Reach Out and Read.

What’s a “Bookprint”? The five books that most impact someone’s life comprise their Bookprint. They can be children’s or adult books and Bookprints can change over time. On the “You Are What You Read” website, more than 200 “Names You Know” from entertainers to authors to journalists and even two U.S. presidents have shared their Bookprints. The donation launches with 20,000 books – one book for each of the 20,000 Bookprints created by users already on youarewhatyouread.com.

The One Million Bookprints for One Million Books campaign is part of Scholastic Book Clubs annual ClassroomsCare program which helps teachers engage their students around the importance of reading and giving.

“Creating a Bookprint is a great way for adults and children to talk about the importance of books in our lives and how books introduce us to heroes and role models or take us on exciting journeys to new places,” said Judy Newman, President, Scholastic Book Clubs, a division of Scholastic, the global children’s publishing, education and media company. “Through Scholastic Book Clubs ClassroomsCare initiative, students and teachers can also participate in the Bookprints for Books campaign and help put books into the hands of the children who may otherwise not have the opportunity to own their own books and experience the profound impact books can have on someone’s life.”

The One Million Bookprints for One Million Books Campaign comes at a critical time for children’s literacy organizations such as Reach Out and Read and Reading Is Fundamental. Recent government funding cuts are straining these organizations that provide books to the neediest children and critical advice to parents on how to develop their children’s early literacy skills at home.

“It is crucial for reading to begin at a young age and for all children to have books in their home,” says Earl Martin Phalen, CEO of Reach Out and Read. “The recent loss of government funding has impacted the ability of literacy organizations to continue to get books into the hands of children in need, so we thank everyone who creates a Bookprint in support of this campaign.”

In addition to making a donation of a book to a child, by creating a Bookprint at www.youarewhatyouread.com, participants will:

Join 205+ famous reading role models, including: Whoopi Goldberg, Bill Gates, Paulo Coelho , Oprah Winfrey, Scarlett Johansson, Suzanne Collins, Tony Hawk, Taylor Swift, Daniel Radcliffe, President William Jefferson Clinton, President George H.W. Bush, and many others

Connect with book lovers, similar readers from 140 countries and discover new reads based on books in other Bookprints

Enter a safe social network all about books with two separate communities – one for adults, the other for children under 13 years old

Reach Out and Read is an evidence-based nonprofit organization that promotes early literacy and school readiness in pediatric exam rooms nationwide by giving new books to children and advice to parents about the importance of reading aloud.

Reach Out and Read builds on the unique relationship between parents and medical providers to develop critical early reading skills in children, beginning at 6 months of age. The more than 3.9 million children served annually by Reach Out and Read read together more often, and they enter kindergarten better prepared to succeed, with larger vocabularies, stronger language skills, and a six-month developmental edge over their peers.

Reach Out and Read doctors and nurses distribute more than 6.4 million books to children at 4,779 pediatric practices, hospitals, clinics, and health centers in all 50 states, with a special emphasis on children growing up in low-income communities.

For more information on the Read Every Day campaign, visit http://www.scholastic.com/readeveryday.

Interview & Giveaway with Ashley Lynn Willis

2011-12-12T00:08:00.001-06:00

Hi Ashley, Welcome to Anna's Book Blog! I'm glad to have here. To start off can you tell the readers a little about yourself?
I live in the Midwest with my husband of nine years. I used to be an engineer in general aviation but quite my job in January to be a full time stay-at-home mommy to two preschoolers. When I’m not wiping snotty noses, kissing boo boos, or performing my short-order cook duties, I’m writing. That’s pretty much my life. Oh, and I found out a few weeks ago that there is another little Willis currently taking up residence in my tummy who is due to make an appearance this summer.

The Calling is your latest release, can you tells us a little about it?
The Calling is sort of a mix of both paranormal and contemporary romance. The hero and heroine are normal people who are dealing with everyday problems. Mandy is coming out of a dark place because she’s had a mastectomy due to breast cancer, and to make her life more difficult, her fiancé left her a week before her surgery. She’s learning to cope with a new reality. Justin has been dealing with the separation of his family for almost his whole life. Needless to say, they both have a lot of unresolved issues. All that may sound grim, but a number of people have said there are as many light scenes in the book as dark scenes, and I’d have to agree. Add to that the paranormal aspect, with Justin’s supernatural ability to command the seas, and you have the makings of a strange story. But hopefully in a good way.

What is your writing day like?
Unfortunately, I don’t have writing days; it’s more like writing minutes that I snatch between requests for goldfish crackers and juice. The only large blocks of writing time I have are on the weekends when my wonderful husband entertains the kids for a few hours. God Bless the man.

When you’re not writing what kind of books do you like to read?
Currently I’m reading the Nightwalker Series by Jacquelyn Frank. I’m on book three Elijah. It’s a great paranormal romance series with very hot demons, druids and shifters. I’ve also been in the Christmas mood lately so I’m reading Holly Lane (Destiny, #4) by Toni Blake. If you enjoy contemporary romance, Toni Blake is a great author who writes very realistic love stores that will make you swoon.

What are 3 things that are "must haves" for you when you sit down to write a book?
A strong cup of coffee, internet for research and a thesaurus. That’s about it. Of course, the most important of the three is the coffee. Oh, wait. I forgot to add earplugs. I wear them on the weekends when my hubby is watching the kids. He might keep them out of my office, but they still sound like a tribe of monkeys swinging from the ceiling fans.

When did you realize you wanted to be a writer?
I never thought “I can do this,” until I finished The Calling in the Spring of 2011. I wrote my first book, Killing Abel, in the fall of 2009, then spent a year revising and editing and rewriting and revising some more. I felt like I was never going to make that book worthy of publishing, so I put it away and started The Calling. Seven months later, I handed it off to my editor, and I felt confident about the story. All the lessons I’d learned while writing my first book were applied to The Calling making the process smoother, easier and much more fun. After that experience, I knew I wanted to be an author.

How did you come up with your idea for The Calling? Anything particular inspire you while writing?
This is always the hardest question to answer because my stories generally pop into my head as a character or two. As for Justin, I knew he was the descendant of a water god, and I knew Mandy had had breast cancer. Then, the ending played over and over in my mind like a broken record. By the time I even put pen to paper (or fingers to keyboard), I knew how the story ended, how it began, and who the main characters were, though I had absolutely no idea where the central idea for the story came from. It was probably a combination of brainstorming and moments of blind inspiration. I know that doesn’t answer your question, but hey, it worked for me.

If you could give your lead characters one piece of advice, what would it be?
No matter how much I torture you, no matter how many obstacles you must overcome because of my wicked mind, I will make your wildest dreams come true at the end of the story/series. There will be times when you want to give up, times when you want to curse me for being so mean, but nothing worth having comes easy. So suck it up!

Since becoming published, what has been your favorite part of the process?
I love the whole shebang. I think that’s because I’m self-published and therefore in total control of the final product. Working with my cover artist to come up with a memorable image was a blast. Working with my editor and critique partners is painful but so worth it when I see how much better the story is because of their input. And while it’s scary to send my baby into the world to review bloggers, even that is fun because I love interacting with their followers and receiving their opinions on my story good or bad. If the feedback’s good that validates my writing. If it’s bad, I take it as a lesson learned and try to do better next time.

If you can, tell us what is up next for you?
I’ll sum it up in two words: Killing Abel. That’s my next book, scheduled to release in the Fall of 2012, maybe sooner. It’s an urban fantasy about a band of immortal brothers and the woman who tears their world apart. Killing Abel is the first in a five book series, and it’s actually the first story I ever wrote. In other words, it’s going through extensive edits to fix all the bad habits I had back when I wrote it. I’ve never seen so many adverbs on one page in my life! If you want to know more about it, you can find the blurb and the first chapter here. http://authorashleylynnwillis.blogspot.com/p/killing-abel.html

Thanks for having me, Anna!

THE CALLING

BY ASHLEY LYNN WILLIS

Out Now!

Mandy Hardy lost more than a breast to cancer; she lost her fiancé when he dumped her a week before her mastectomy. Her ego bruised and her self-esteem battered, Mandy’s sure she’ll never fall in love again.

Justin Seward is a headstrong Coast Guard Rescue Swimmer with a heart of gold and the supernatural ability to command the seas. He had to hide his feelings while Mandy was engaged to his best friend. Now that she’s free, he’s vowed to make her his.

Together, they may hold the key to each other’s salvation. But when Justin’s past catches up with him, and Mandy’s ex-fiancé wants vengeance, they realize they might not live long enough for happily ever after. The Calling is a 360 page contemporary romance with a paranormal twist.

Where To Buy:

Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Smashwords

http://authorashleylynnwillis.blogspot.com/

GIVEAWAY:

Thanks to Ashley I have (2) digital copies of The Calling to giveaway. To enter leave a comment along with your email address. Open to everyone, International too. The winners will be announced on December 17th. Good Luck!

In My Mailbox [134]

2011-12-10T12:07:00.001-06:00

Also this week I received some Men of the Otherworld postcards from Yasmine Galenorn & Midnight Breed bookmarks from Lara Adrian. Due to the copyrighted items sent by Ms. Galenorn I didn't post a picture. But you can find more info at the links.

R.A.K.:

Kiss of Frost- Jennifer Estep

Thank you to Rain Maiden (Jen).

Bought:

A Taste of Midnight- Lara Adrian

Shadow of the Moon- Lori Handeland

What did you get this week?
Feel free to leave your IMM link in the comments.

Winner - How To Worship A Goddess

2011-12-10T01:09:00.002-06:00

and the winner is...

elaing8

Congrats! Please send your mailing

information here:

annasbookblog@gmail.com

You have 5 days to claim your prizes.

All giveaway winners are chosen through Random.org

TBR: Recent Additions [9]

2011-12-09T09:00:00.001-06:00

Rift
Nightshade Companion Novel #1
Andrea Cremer
2012

Moonrise
Low Red Moon #2
Ivy Devlin
January 31, 2012

Nightborn
Lords of the Darkyn #1
Lynn Viehl
March 6, 2012

A Game of Thornes: The Graphic Novel Vol. 1
George R.R. Martin, Daniel Abraham
March 27, 2012

The Wolf Who Loved Me
Lydia Dare
April 1, 2012

Lady Maggie's Secret Scandal
The Duke's Daughters #2
Grace Burrowes
May 1, 2012

Dark Frost
Mythos Academy #3
Jennifer Estep
May 29, 2012

Shadow's Claim
Realm of Blood and Mist #1
Kresley Cole
August 21, 2012

Beneath A Rising Moon
Ripple Creek Werewolf #1
Keri Arthur
July 31, 2012

Holiday Giveaway

2011-12-07T00:10:00.002-06:00

Welcome to my Holiday Giveaway! Last year I believe I had several giveaways, but since this year I have a lot of books to get rid of I'm splitting them into 2 boxes. One contains PNR & UF and the other one has YA titles.

To enter leave a comment along with your email address. Also don't forget to mention which box you want to win. Open to U.S. & Canada. The winners will be announced on December 29th. Good Luck!

Paranormal Romance & Urban Fantasy, Box #1

Books included: Angels of Darkness (anthology), Blood Trinity by Sherrilyn Kenyon & Dianna Love, Spiders Bite by Jennifer Estep, Hunter of Shadows by Nancy Gideon, Sexiest Vampire Alive by Kerrelyn Sparks, Adam by Jacquelyn Frank, Darkness Unbound by Keri Arthur and Black Wings by Christina Henry

YA, Box #2

Books included: Dirty Blood by Heather Hildenbrand, Passion by Lauren Kate, Crossed (ARC) by Ally Condie, Matched by Ally Condie, Evernight by Claudia Gray, Rage (ARC) by Jackie Morse Kessler, After Obsession (ARC) by Carrie Jones & Steven E. Wedel & Crusade by Nancy Holder & Debbie Viguie

Happy Holidays!!

Guest Blog & Giveaway with Stephanie Julian

2011-12-05T00:06:00.000-06:00

Stephanie Julian’s Top 10 for 2011

10. Glee on Fox
Yes, I’m a total Gleek. My mother raised me on musical theater with many trips to Broadway (before the Disneyfication of Times Square, which isn’t totally a bad thing) so this should be no surprise. I love the dancing, the singing, the mashups, the Sondheim, the Barbra and, yes, I even love when they do Gaga. Go figure.
9. “American Capitalist” Five Finger Death Punch.
As the mother of two sons, I realized when they hit their teens that I could scream at them to “turn that music down” or I could embrace it. I embraced. Hell, I hugged the crap out of it. While my guys and I share a love of Bullet For My Valentine and Avenged Sevenfold, FFDP is a band that’s solely mine in our house. And I think their newest album is their best yet. Fast, furious, angry, bitter and wonderful.
8. “Begin Again” Hell Or Highwater
Saw these guys at the Mayhem Fest this year. They’re unsigned but the members have been around awhile. When they started to play, my youngest son and I looked at each other and nodded. Oh yeah, we liked. I bought their album and I haven’t stopped listening to it since. Solid, hard rock fronted by former Atreyu drummer-singer Brandon Saller. Give “Gimme Love” a listen and tell me you weren’t singing it all day.
7. Once Upon a Time on ABC
Maybe I’m biased. I do write stories featuring fairies and elves and magic, so this show must have been written just for me. Snow White, Prince Charming, the Evil Queen, Rumpelstiltskin, Jiminy Cricket…still waiting for Belle and the Beast and Ariel, the Little Mermaid, and I’m sure they’ll show up eventually. I’m rooting for Snow and Charming and I’m hissing at the Queen and I’m hanging on every episode.
6. Community on NBC
One of the two funniest shows on TV. Modern Family is the second but while Modern Family draws laughs from the common experiences we share as parents, sons, daughters and lovers, Community draws on pop culture. And I’m a pop culture junkie. The writers don’t go for the easy laugh. Every single joke is hard-won and if you watch the show a second time, you laugh harder at everything you missed the first time around. The characters are quirky and hard to love and yet, you do. And Joel McHale is HOT! Brilliant TV.
5. CHANGES by Jim Butcher
I’ve been a Harry Dresden fan since I bought STORM WARNING for my husband, who read five pages and said, “This isn’t for me.” Turns out it was definitely for me. I’m so in love with Harry. When I read a Harry book, I hear Harry in my head. He as a very distinct voice. CHANGES, for me, was a game changer. I’m not going to discuss the storyline because if you haven’t read it, I don’t want to spoil anything. And if you have, well, then you already know this is one amazing book. I haven’t read GHOST STORY yet, so I’m putting my fingers in my ears if you want to discuss it. I’m actually saving it for a time when I need a sure thing.
4. KISS OF SNOW by Nalini Singh
How do you satisfy readers who’ve been waiting for the culmination of a love story that’s spanned years? Singh manages to pull it off in spectacular fashion. KISS OF SNOW was epic in length and scope and fed my voracious appetite for her world. Hawke and Sienna’s love story is perfect and that’s the highest compliment I can give.
3. Royals Hockey
My husband and I have season tickets for the Reading Royals, a professional ECHL hockey team based in Reading, PA. My husband is a huge hockey fan. I wasn’t until the Royals opening night in 2001. Then I realized just how wonderful the sport of hockey is. And how hot the guys are. Football and baseball players may steal most of the spotlight but for my money, hockey players are hands-down more athletic by far. And make much better heroes…
2. Avenged Sevenfold
I saw them twice this year (if you want to get picky, I saw them three times in 13 months). I’m a huge fan, have been since my sons began listening to them about six years ago. I took my guys to the 2008 Taste of Chaos tour, mainly because I wanted to see Bullet for My Valentine (another band that makes me scream like a teenager). And then A7X took the stage. I was transfixed. I’ve become a total fangirl. When I learned they were going to play the arena in my home town in January, I was one of the first in line for tickets. My favorite song remains “Little Piece of Heaven” and I have a huge crush on lead guitarist Synyster Gates, who is the physical model for Tivr, Etruscan God of the Moon, which leads us to…
1. Writing HOW TO WORSHIP A GODDESS
Seriously, I so enjoyed writing this book that I even enjoyed revising it because it gave me the chance to go through the book and read it again. I love Brandon, a professional hockey player. I did mention earlier I had a thing for hockey players. I love to revisit favorite characters from my series and in HTWAG, I got to spend time with Cal and Tessa from WHAT A GODDESS WANTS, and give more face time to Cat and Ty. I hope readers enjoy it as much as I have.

How To Worship A Goddess

By Stephanie Julian

Out Now!

HE'S EXACTLY WHAT SHE'S ALWAYS WANTED...

Lucy was once the beloved Goddess of the Moon. These days the goddesses of the Etruscan pantheon are all but forgotten. The only rituals she enjoys now are the local hockey games, where one ferociously handsome player inflames her divine blood...

AND SHE UNLEASHES HIM LIKE A FORCE OF NATURE...

Brandon Stevenson is one hundred percent focused on the game, until he looks up and sees a celestial beauty sitting in the third row. A man could fall hard for a distraction like that...

Where to Buy:

Amazon | Barnes & Noble | The Book Depository | IndieBound

http://www.stephaniejulian.com/

GIVEAWAY:

Thanks to Sourcebooks I have (1) copy of How To Worship A Goddess to giveaway. To enter leave a comment along with your email address. Open to U.S & Canada. The winner will be announced on December 10th. Good Luck!

In My Mailbox [133]

2011-12-03T12:02:00.002-06:00

R.A.K./Received:

Tempest- Julie Cross

Thank you to Sara M. @ Sara's Urban Fantasy Blog.

Bought:

Across the Universe- Beth Revis

Deadlock- Moira Rogers

What did you get this week?

Feel free to leave your IMM link in the comments.

November 2011 - Reading List

2011-12-01T07:00:00.002-06:00

Ghost Town- Rachel Caine [3 Stars]
Flesh and Fire- Laura Anne Gilman [3 Stars]
Palace of the Damned- Darren Shan [4 Stars]
How To Worship A Goddess- Stephanie Julian [5 Stars]
The Guardian- Sherrilyn Kenyon [5 Stars]
The Hollows Insider- Kim Harrison [3 Stars]
Adam- Jacquelyn Frank [4 Stars]
Dirty Blood- Heather Hildenbrand [3 Stars]
Sacrifice- Laura J. Burns & Melinda Metz [3 Stars]
Beautiful Chaos- Kami Garcia & Margaret Stohl [5 Stars]
Bleeding Hearts- Alyxandra Harvey [4 Stars]
The Calling- Ashley Lynn Willis [5 Stars]
Bite Club- Rachel Caine [3 Stars]
Bound In Darkness- Cynthia Eden [3 Stars]
Always A Witch- Carolyn MacCullough [3 Stars]
Passion- Lauren Kate [3 Stars]
First Kill- Heather Brewer [3 Stars]
The Pendulum- Anne Elizabeth [3 Stars]
At The King's Pleasure- Kate Emerson [4 Stars]

Upcoming Events:

Guest Blog with Stephanie Julian
Holiday Giveaway
Interview & Giveaway with Ashley Lynn Willis

Random Acts of Kindness- November 2011

2011-11-30T00:11:00.000-06:00

From Book ♥ Soulmates... "Random Acts of Kindness" is just a fun & thoughtful way to share a surprise with fellow bloggers & bookworms by giving them something from their online wishlist 'just because'. Share YOUR wishlist and maybe someone will surprise you! Learn more here.

Books I received: I did get connected for one of my wishlist books, but I hasn't arrived yet. I won't be taking part in RAK in December. So when it does arrive I'll feature it in my IMM. :)

Books I sent out:

Kindling the Moon by Jenn Bennett to Rain Maiden (Jen)
Lost In Time by Melissa De La Cruz to Kelsey @ Kelsey's Book Corner

Cover Discovery

2011-11-29T01:30:00.001-06:00

Release Date: March 6, 2012

Release Date: March 27, 2012

Release Date: May 1, 2012

Release Date: June 5, 2012

Release Date: July 5, 2012

December Book Releases

2011-11-28T11:53:00.000-06:00

1st

Playing with Fire- Michele Hauf
How to Worship a Goddess- Stephanie Julian
Soul Whisperer- Jenna Kernan
The Hedgewitch Queen- Lilith Saintcrow
Lord of the Abyss- Nalini Singh

6th

Devil's Kiss- Zoe Archer
Obsidian- Jennifer L. Armentrout
Demons Like It Hot- Sidney Ayers
Shaedes of Gray- Amanda Bonilla
Spells & Stitches- Barbara Britton
Side Jobs- Jim Butcher (pbk)
Clockwork Prince- Cassandra Clare
Left Hand Magic- Nancy A. Collins
Daybreak- Ellen Connor
Winging It- Deborah Cooke
Blood of Eden- Tami Dane
Night Reigns- Dianne Duvall
Bound By the Vampire Queen- Joey W. Hill
Cat Tales- Faith Hunter (ebook, stories from the world of Jane Yellowrock)
Alien Proliferation- Gini Koch
Lawe's Justice- Lora Leigh
Nautier and Wilder- Lora Leigh & Jaci Burton
It's All Greek to Me- Katie MacAlister
Slade- Sarah McCarthy
Surrender- Lee Nichols
Hearts & Swords- Robin D. Owens
Deadlock- Moira Rogers
That Old Black Magic- Michelle Rowan
Dreaming of the Wolf- Terry Spears

13th

Sisters of Isis Volume 1- Lynne Ewing

15th

The Girl with the Granite Heart- A.J. Menden
Quick Bites- Jennifer Rardin (ebook, short story collection)

20th

On A Dark Wing- Jordan Dane
Enchanted Again- Robin D. Owens
Touch of Power- Maria V. Snyder

22nd

Vampire Academy: The Ultimate Guide- Richelle Mead & Michelle Rowen

27th

Archon- Sabrina Benulis
The Demon Lover- Juliet Dark
Spirit Bound- Christine Feehan
Shadow City- Diana Pharaoh Francis
Bedeviled- Sable Grace
A Hard Day's Knight- Simon R. Green
Changeling Dawn- Dani Harper
All Fall Down- Megan Hart
The Mortal Bone- Marjorie M. Liu
Warrior Redemption- Melissa Mayhue
The Bitter Seed of Magic- Suzanne McLeod
Shadow Heir- Richelle Mead
Living Violet- Jaime Reed
Heir of Danger- Alix Rickloff
Wicked Circle- Linda Robertson
Magic of the Moonlight- Ellen Schrieber
Dating the Undead- Gena Showalter & Jill Monroe
Switchblade Goddess- Lucy A. Snyder
Silver-Tongued Devil- Jaye Wells

31st

Hidden- Kelley Armstrong

In My Mailbox [132]

2011-11-27T00:13:00.001-06:00

In My Mailbox is a feature that was started over at The Story Siren. Each week we share what arrived in our mailboxes, bought or found in swaps or at the library.

I didn't buy any books this week. *gasp* I know so shocking. But I did receive some good titles in the mail. Here is what I got this week:

Also this week I was surprised by my Mom with a Kindle Fire. I'm loving it! The only negative is that its a bit heavier compared to my Kindle Keyboard. I do have a cover, I'm just waiting for it to arrive. [sorry for the crappy pic, my camera was being a pain. :)]

Review:

His Dark Bond- Anne Marsh

Thank you to Anne Marsh!

PaperbackSwap:

Daring the Moon- Sherrill Quinn

Shadowlight- Lynn Viehl

Received:

Thief- Anitra Lynn McLeod

Blood Rights- Kristen Painter

The Shadow Reader- Sandy Williams

Thank you to Michelle G!

What did you get this week?

Feel free to leave your IMM link in the comments.

Blog Tour: The Iron Knight by Julie Kagawa [Review & Excerpt]

2011-11-26T02:10:00.005-06:00

Title: The Iron Knight
Author: Julie Kagawa
Series: The Iron Fey
Genre: Young Adult
Release Date: October 25, 2011

I received this book for review from Meryl L. Moss Media Relations

Summary: My name—my True Name—is Ashallayn'darkmyr Tallyn. I am the last remaining son of Mab, Queen of the Unseelie Court. And I am dead to her. My fall began, as many stories do, with a girl…

To cold faery prince Ash, love was a weakness for mortals and fools. His own love had died a horrible death, killing any gentler feelings the Winter prince might have had. Or so he thought.

Then Meghan Chase—a half human, half fey slip of a girl—smashed through his barricades, binding him to her irrevocably with his oath to be her knight. And when all of Faery nearly fell to the Iron fey, she severed their bond to save his life. Meghan is now the Iron Queen, ruler of a realm where no Winter or Summer fey can survive.

With the unwelcome company of his arch rival, Summer Court prankster Puck, and the infuriating cait sith Grimalkin, Ash begins a journey he is bound to see through to its end—a quest to find a way to honor his vow to stand by Meghan's side.

To survive in the Iron Realm, Ash must have a soul and a mortal body. But the tests he must face to earn these things are impossible. And along the way Ash learns something that changes everything. A truth that challenges his darkest beliefs and shows him that, sometimes, it takes more than courage to make the ultimate sacrifice. [description from publisher site]

Thoughts: Meghan now sits on the throne of the Iron Realm and for his own safety she has exiled Ash from her territory. With Robin Goodfellow as his companion Ash is on a quest to change - to find a way be able to be with his Queen.

While I loved The Iron Queen, I was a bit disappointed with how it ended. So, to find out there was gonna be a 4th book and in Ash's point of view - I was pretty excited to read this one.

Excellent read! Took me a bit to get into the world again, but I love that we got to see the story from Ash's POV. Also having Puck along for the ride was great. Funny, and ever the trickster, he had some great lines. The Iron Knight is magical, and gives the readers the perfect ending that will leave you both satisfied and intrigued. Ms. Kagawa's world is full of wonderment and danger. Both beautiful and terrifying. If you haven't picked up this series, do it now you won't regret it.

Score: 4 Stars

Author Website: http://www.juliekagawa.com/

Upcoming Releases:

Immortal Rules (Blood of Eden #1)- 2012
___________________________________________________
Excerpt from The Iron Knight

“Foolish, if you ask me,” the witch stated, waggling her

knife in my direction. “Does a crow become a salmon simply

because it wishes to? You do not know the first thing about

mortality, prince-who-is-not. Why would you want to become

like them?”

“Because,” Grimalkin answered before I could say anything,

“he is in love.”

“Ahhh.” The witch looked at me and shook her head.

“I see. Poor creature. Then you will not hear a word I have

to say.” I gazed at her coolly, but she only smiled. “Fare ye

well, then, prince-who-is-not. And Goodfellow, if I see you

again, it will be to hang your skin over my door. Now, excuse

me.” She gathered herself up and tromped down the steps,

taking a swipe at Puck as she passed, which he deftly avoided.

I didn’t like the way Grimalkin continued to stare at me,

a hint of laughter in his slitted eyes, and I crossed my arms.

“Do you know a way for a faery to become mortal, or not?”

“I do not,” Grimalkin said simply, and for a moment my

heart sank. “But, there are…rumors. Legends of those who

wanted to become mortal.”

Check out the next excerpt at Chick Lit Teens.

Winner - The Battle Sylph

2011-11-25T16:58:00.001-06:00

and the winner is...

latishajean

Congrats! Please send your mailing

information here:

annasbookblog@gmail.com

You have 5 days to claim your prizes.

All giveaway winners are chosen through Random.org

[Review] - Pariah, Issue #4

2011-11-25T11:19:00.002-06:00

Title: Pariah, Issue #4
Writers: Aron Warner, Philip Gelatt
Artists: Brett Weldele
Cover Artists: Brett Weldele
Series: Pariah
Genre: Young Adult
Release Date: October 2011

I received this book for review from Sea Lion Books.

Summary: Issue #4 gives us the origins of Franklin Hyde. His hopes for vitros and how sad and badly it backfires.

Thoughts: This issue features Franklin Hyde. He has brought all the vitros together, to take them to a place he calls "A place for us to be free". He is a vitros himself, but hasn't complete convinced some of the others this isn't a con. We also learn that Franklin didn't have a very good childhood. Both his parents have powerful positions and have hidden him away from the outside world because of what he is.

Good story! I felt bad for Franklin Hyde. He has lived quite a lonely existence, One of his parents making. They were ignorant and cruel and treated him different because of what he is. Another great character, loved that he took a stand for himself and others like him. Wow! I wasn't expecting that ending at all. Can't wait to read more.

Score: 4 Stars

Book Website: http://www.pariahonline.com/wp/

[ARC Review] - How To Worship A Goddess by Stephanie Julian

2011-11-24T02:00:00.003-06:00

Title: How To Worship A Goddess
Author: Stephanie Julian
Series: Forgotten Goddesses
Genre: Erotic Paranormal Romance
Release Date: December 1, 2011

I received this book for review from Sourcebooks.

Summary: HE'S EXACTLY WHAT SHE'S ALWAYS WANTED
Lucy was once the beloved Goddess of the Moon. These days the goddesses of the Etruscan pantheon are all but forgotten. The only rituals she enjoys now are the local hockey games, where one ferociously handsome player inflames her divine blood…

AND SHE UNLEASHES HIM LIKE A FORCE OF NATURE...
Brandon Stevenson is one hundred percent focused on the game, until he looks up and sees a celestial beauty sitting in the third row. A man could fall hard for a distraction like that…

Thoughts: At one time Lucy Aster was Lusna - the Goddess of the Moon, worshipped by many. Nowadays, not so much. She has lost quite a bit of her power and with it there is a lot of frustration. What she lives for now is the hockey games she attends and a certain sexy hockey player by the name of Brandon Stevenson.

I loved Lucy & Brandon's story. Out of all the Etruscan stories, this one is my favorite. How to Worship A Goddess is deliciously steamy. It down right sizzles. You'll be wishing you were in Lucy's shoes. I love that the hero was written as a hockey player, cause really what is not to like. Ms. Julian's books are a guilty pleasure - you can never read just one.

Score: 5 Stars

Author Website: http://www.stephaniejulian.com/

Upcoming Releases:

Sex, Lies & Surveillance- January 2012
Goddess In The Middle (Forgotten Goddess #3)- Summer 2012

[Review] - Dirty Blood by Heather Hildenbrand

2011-11-23T13:07:00.002-06:00

Title: Dirty Blood
Author: Heather Hildenbrand
Series: Dirty Blood
Genre: Young Adult
Release Date: April 2, 2011

I received this book for review from the author.

Summary: I killed a girl last night. I did it with my bare hands and an old piece of pipe I found lying next to the dumpster. But that’s not the part that got me. The part that scared me, the part I can’t seem to wrap my head around and still has me reeling, was that when she charged me, her body shifted – and then she was a wolf. All snapping teeth and extended claws. But by the time I stood over her lifeless body, she was a girl again. That’s about the time I went into shock… And that was the moment he showed up.

And even now there are two thoughts that are so clear, they feel branded into my mind: One, Werewolves do exist, and two, I was born to kill them.

Thoughts: After calling things off with boyfriend Tara is stranded and decides to walk home. Before she can get too far she finds a girl and unbelievable to Tara she shifts into a wolf. The wolf attacks and minutes later Tara is in shock that she killed the wolf/girl. Her reality instantly changes. She literally bumps into Wes, a guy that seems to have the answers to all the questions.

Good read! This story might seem similar to any other YA stories but, it's well written with interesting characters that make it an enjoyable. I have read many stories with vampire hunters, but I think this is a first for a werewolf hunter. I found Dirty Blood to be fascinating story. With enough action, danger and romance to keep you immersed in the story.

Score: 3 Stars

Author Website: http://heatherhildenbrand.blogspot.com/

Dirty Blood series:

Dirty Blood
Cold Blood

Lothaire

2011-11-23T00:00:00.001-06:00

CAN’T WAIT FOR LOTHAIRE! (ON SALE 1/10/12)

WATCH THE TEASER TRAILER!

LIKE KRESLEY COLE ON FACEBOOK,

CLICK ON THE MEMBERS’ONLY TAB AND ENJOY!

http://www.facebook.com/KresleyCole

http://kresleycole.com/

Interview with Stephanie Dray

2011-11-22T09:41:00.000-06:00

Hi Stephanie, welcome to Anna's Book Blog! I'm glad to have you here. To start off can you tell the readers a little about yourself?

I’m a bit obsessed with strong women in history--many of whom have been vilified. I love bad girls of all varieties and I love to tell their stories. I have three cats, only two of whom like me, and I used to be a great housekeeper until I became a published author, at which point all such things fell to pieces.

Song of the Nile is your newest release, can you tells us a little about it and the series?

Song of the Nile is a story about Cleopatra’s daughter, who was orphaned at the age of nine when her famous parents committed suicide, and marched through the streets of Rome as a chained captive. She managed to convince the emperor Augustus to spare her life and eventually he would make her the most powerful queen in his empire. This novel is about her first years as a young queen in North Africa. While it’s actually the sequel to Lily of the Nile, it stands on its own, so there’s no need to read the first one unless you want to!

What is your writing day like?

It’s a tricky question because before I was promoting published books, I was very good about buckling down each day and finishing my word count. Now that I’ve had four books out in twelve months, it’s been chaotic and I tend to fit writing time in when I can between promotional responsibilities. It’s not exactly a healthy mix, so I should really do something to change it by remembering that I’m a writer first, and a marketer second.

When you’re not writing what kind of books do you like to read?

I love to read historical fiction; I love the sensation of learning something about the past while my emotions are all engaged in a story. I’ve recently discovered Ken Follett and Bernard Cornwell but I also love more female-oriented historical fiction. Sometimes, when I’m in a more lighthearted mood, I opt for a lighthearted Regency Romance.

You write YA and paranormal romance (as Stephanie Draven), do you find one genre easier to write than the other?

Each genre comes with its own challenges. Paranormal romance is difficult because I have to build a new world and I have to meet the confines of the genre. Romances have very specific expectations and it’s often a brainteaser to figure out how to make it work. On the other hand, historical fiction requires a great deal of research and I fret constantly. It certainly gets written slower. I can generally write a romance novel in a month’s time, but Song of the Nile took me an entire year--and it didn’t feel like enough time.

What are 3 things that are "must haves" for you when you sit down to write a book?

Scrivener -- It’s my most important writing tool and I’m not sure I could write without it anymore.
Caffeine -- I like a nice drink of iced tea or coffee to get my mind focused.
Music -- While I can write in silence, I prefer mood music to set the tone!

What made you decide to write a book(s) about Cleopatra's daughter Selene?

This is a woman who had to befriend the very man who all but extincted her family. He was the murderer of her kin, and yet, she had to praise him, flatter him, even honor him as a god for her own survival. She did all this, but she never seemed to forget her dead family; she memorialized them all whenever possible. She was a woman who never forgot, and that truly touched me. While Cleopatra VII of Egypt was known for her famous suicide, her daughter was truly a survivor. I wanted to honor that with my books.

What type of research did you do for the book/series?

I relied heavily upon Duane Roller’s research on Juba II and Kleopatra Selene. I also pored over every biography I could get my hands on regarding Livia, Augustus, Julia and the rest of the imperial family. I also had to build a map for my novel and I’m very proud of it. I got help from the Library of Congress and the Ancient Mapping Center . . . I think it really helps put the world of Cleopatra Selene into perspective.

If you could give your lead characters one piece of advice, what would it be?

I would tell Selene that she gets to live her own life--she’s not obligated to live her life to please her mother. And I would tell her that her mother would be proud of her, though I know Selene wouldn’t believe me . . .

If you can, tell us what is next for you?

I just accepted a contract from Berkley for the third and final book in the series about Cleopatra’s Daughter and I’m so excited to have the chance to tell Selene’s whole story!

Thanks so much for having me.

About Stephanie…

Stephanie graduated with a degree in Government from Smith, a small women’s college in Massachusetts where–to the consternation of her devoted professors–she was unable to master Latin. However, her focus on Middle Eastern Studies gave her a deeper understanding of the consequences of Egypt’s ancient clash with Rome, both in terms of the still-extant tensions between East and West as well as the worldwide decline of female-oriented religion.

Before she wrote novels, Stephanie was a lawyer, a game designer, and a teacher. Now she uses the transformative power of magic realism to illuminate the stories of women in history and inspire the young women of today. She remains fascinated by all things Roman or Egyptian and has–to the consternation of her devoted husband–collected a house full of cats and ancient artifacts.

Website: http://www.stephaniedray.com/

SONG OF THE NILE

By Stephanie Dray

Out Now!

Sorceress. Seductress. Schemer. Cleopatra’s daughter has become the emperor’s most unlikely apprentice and the one woman who can destroy his empire…

Having survived her perilous childhood as a royal captive of Rome, Selene pledged her loyalty to Augustus and swore she would become his very own Cleopatra. Now the young queen faces an uncertain destiny in a foreign land.

Forced to marry a man of the emperor’s choosing, Selene will not allow her new husband to rule in her name. She quickly establishes herself as a capable leader in her own right and as a religious icon. Beginning the hard work of building a new nation, she wins the love of her new subjects and makes herself vital to Rome by bringing forth bountiful harvests.

But it’s the magic of Isis flowing through her veins that makes her indispensable to the emperor. Against a backdrop of imperial politics and religious persecution, Cleopatra’s daughter beguiles her way to the very precipice of power. She has never forgotten her birthright, but will the price of her mother’s throne be more than she’s willing to pay?

Berkley Trade October 2011 (Trade Paperback)
# ISBN-10: 0425243044
# ISBN-13: 9780425243046

Where to Buy:

Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Constellation Books | IndieBound | Powell's Books

[Review] - Song of the Nile by Stephanie Dray

2011-11-22T00:02:00.002-06:00

Title: Song of the Nile
Author: Stephanie Dray
Series: Cleopatra's Daughter
Genre: Historical Fiction
Release Date: October 4, 2011

I received this book for review from the author.

Summary: Sorceress. Seductress. Schemer. Cleopatra's daughter is the one woman with the power to destroy an empire...

Having survived her perilous childhood as a royal captive of Rome, Selene pledged her loyalty to Augustus and swore she would become his very own Cleopatra. Now the young queen faces an uncertain destiny in a foreign land.

The magic of Isis flowing through her veins is what makes her indispensable to the emperor. Against a backdrop of imperial politics and religious persecution, Cleopatra's daughter beguiles her way to the very precipice of power. She has never forgotten her birthright, but will the price of her mother's throne be more than she's willing to pay?

Thoughts: Selena's story is one of survival. Ever since her mother, Cleopatra committed suicide - her life has been on a perilous edge. Selena has been held hostage for 4 years now by Augustus. Today is her wedding day. She has made a bargain with Augustus to marry someone of his choosing and in return he promises that Egypt will be hers one day.

Going into this story I was familiar with Cleopatra's story, but nothing of her daughter Selena. What I learned was that Selena is just has strong and just as intriguing as her mother was.

I was instantly drawn in. Not only is the cover gorgeous, but Selena's story pulls at your heart. She makes a phenomenal heroine. One of the things that bugged me about the story was the obsession Augustus has with Selena. I can see how that could happen, but I just found him annoying. Other than that I enjoyed reading this book. Song of the Nile is a great read, lush and descriptive. Full of intrigue and magic. Ms Dray weaves fiction and history splendidly.

Score: 4 Stars

Author Website: http://www.stephaniedray.com/

Cleopatra's Daughter:

Lily of the Nile
Song of the Nile

Winner - Blood Moon Betrayed

2011-11-21T20:00:00.005-06:00

and the winner is...

justpeachy36

Congrats! You will be contacted via
email shortly.

All giveaway winners are chosen through Random.org

[Series Spotlight + Giveaway] - Slyph

2011-11-21T09:00:00.001-06:00

The November Series Spotlight is Slyph by L.J. McDonald. One that I haven't read yet, but very much looking forward to.

The Battle Sylph

He is one of many: a creature of magic, unrelentingly male. He is lured through the portal by pure female beauty, a virgin sacrifice. She is killed, and he is silenced and enslaved.

Such a dark ritual is necessary. Unlike their elemental cousins—those gentler sylphs of wind and fire—battlers find no joy in everyday labor. Their magic can destroy an army or demolish a castle, and each has but one goal: find his queen, then protect and pleasure her at any cost. What would a maiden do if she were given such a servant? What would befall that kingdom foolish enough to allow a battler to escape? Young Solie and the people of Eferem are about to find out.

The Shattered Sylph

Kidnapped by slavers, Lizzie Petrule was dragged in chains across the Great Sea to the corrupt empire of Meridal. There beneath a floating citadel and an ocean of golden sand, lies a pleasure den for gladiators-and a prison for the maidens forced to slake their carnal thirst.

Despite impossible odds, against imponderable magic, three men have vowed Lizzie’s return: Justin, her suitor; Leon, her father; and Ril, the shape-shifting but war-weary battler. Together, this broken band can save her, but only with a word that must remain unsaid, a foe that is a friend, and a betrayal that is, at heart, an act of love.

A Midwinter Fantasy (anthology)
featuring a Slyph story

For years he has stood guard, cool and perfectly in control. But in the heart of winter, when lives stand in the balance and evil makes its demands, who will rule the mighty Mace?

This collection of stories set around the winter holidays is sure to draw readers into the critically acclaimed worlds of fantasy romance’s three most up-and-coming authors.

Queen of the Slyphs

It was a dream come true. Solie had her own battler, a creature of almost infinite magic who could vaporize legions in the blink of an eye and would willingly suffer a thousand bloody deaths to protect her. She was his love. More simply, she was his queen.

Many others feel the same. The new-built settlement is a haven for all. Erected by sylphs of earth and fire, air and water, the Valley is Solie’s dominion. But, lovers without peer or killers without mercy, the very nature of their battler protectors means peril. It is not in any sylph’s nature to disobey, and while some are hers to command, others are the slaves of Solie’s enemies—the jealous, the cruel. Those who guard her must not fail. Their peasant-born ruler is not yet safe as…

QUEEN OF THE SYLPHS

GIVEAWAY:

Thanks to L.J. McDonald and her assistant Megan I have a copy of The Battle Slyph to giveaway. To enter leave a comment along with your email address. This is open to U.S. & Canada. The winner will be announced on November 25th. Good Luck!

Guest Blog with L.J. McDonald

2011-11-21T00:01:00.001-06:00

The Story of Claw

    Claw first appeared in the pages of The Battle Sylph as one of the battlers sent to destroy Solie and Heyou, along with the community they’d found sanctuary in. Fortunately for the main characters involved, things didn’t turn out that way.
    I created the battle sylphs to be absolutely masculine and powerful, very much the alpha male for all they accede to the women in their lives. Claw was made to take that idea and turn it right back over on its head.
    Claw is a battle sylph. Actually, he’s one of the oldest and therefore the most powerful in the Valley, but his emotional and mental states are very different from his brothers.
    Claw was already troubled when he came through the gate. As with Mace, who came from the same hive, he was old enough to gain the attentions of the queen and hadn’t, but where Mace chanced the gate for the opportunity it offered, Claw did it to escape from his feelings of failure. In essence, he was really trying to escape from himself, which never works.
    It especially doesn’t work when you end up bound to a sadist instead of the girl you intended, and get to see her murdered as well. Most battle sylph masters are cruel, but Claw’s was one of the worst. He set Claw up with a vicious name and a horribly frightening form, and then proceeded to do whatever he could to break him down.
    Claw is my exploration of the idea that immense powers don’t necessarily make one strong inside and that there are injuries which aren’t visible to the eye. I physically hurt the battler Ril in the first book. Claw I crippled in his mind, because mental illnesses do exist and a great many people are frightened by them and feel they make the victim less of a person. In Claw’s case, yes, he does suffer from traumas and doubts that he can’t just shake off and get over, but his brothers don’t care. To them, he’s still a battler and that’s all that matters.
    Claw has suffered more than any of the other sylphs, and I get even meaner to him in the third book, but I do have the strong belief that mental illness isn’t irreparable. It can’t be shaken off, no, but it can be healed with the right care and attention, and that’s what I’d like to see for Claw.
    Whether it gets the opportunity to happen or not is another matter.

Slyph series:

The Battle of Slyph

The Shattered Sylph
A Midwinter Fantasy

Queen of the Sylphs

***Make sure to stop back later day for my Slyph Series Spotlight and giveaway.

L.J. McDonald's

website | blog

In My Mailbox [131]

2011-11-19T12:26:00.001-06:00

Added to my Kindle.

Review:

Evermine- Hailey Edwards

Thank you to Hailey Edwards.

Won:

The Hall of Insides- Anne Elizabeth

The Pendulum- Anne Elizabeth

Thank to you Anne Elizabeth & RT Book Reviews Magazine.

Bought:

Blood Moon Betrayed- Teresa D'Amario

I Want You To Want Me- Kathy Love

Demon Can't Help It- Kathy Love

Truth or Demon- Kathy Love

Motor City Wolf- Cindy Spencer Pape

What did you get this week?
Feel free to leave your IMM link in the comments.

Winners - The Virtuoso

2011-11-19T00:33:00.001-06:00

and the winners are:

Martha Lawson

The Brunette Librarian

Congrats! Please send your mailing

information here:

annasbookblog@gmail.com

You have 5 days to claim your prizes.

All giveaway winners are chosen through Random.org

[Review] - Sacrifice by Laura J. Burns & Melinda Metz

2011-11-18T15:21:00.001-06:00

Title: Sacrifice
Author: Laura J. Burns & Melinda Metz
Series: Crave
Genre: Young Adult
Release Date: September 20, 2011

I received this book for review from the author's.

Summary: The mystery of Shay's long illness has finally been solved: She is half vampire, and her body will fail without Gabriel's blood. There is only place he believes she will be safe --with his vampire family. But when he brings her to them, Gabriel is shocked to find that they consider Shay to be an abomination not belonging in either world, human or vampire. According to Gabriel's family, Shay should be left to die.

Now Gabriel must make the most difficult decision of his long life: defy the people closest to him or save the life of this beloved.

Thoughts: Shay McGuire is no longer ill. It was never an illness at all. Shay learned that she was born a half-vampire. The downside is that she must drink Gabriel's blood or she will die. With this revelation Gabriel decides the safest place to be is with his family. But on arrival they announce Shay is an abomination and must die. Shay is taken to the basement and Gabriel starts wondering if he'll every see her again.

An entertaining read. Not your average vampire story, which is very refreshing. Shay and Gabriel are characters I have enjoyed reading about. I loved that we got to meet Gabriel's family, but with the exception of Millie they were absolutely annoying - almost to the point I didn't want to finish the book. Their reaction to Shay was surprising. I'm glad I stuck with it though, Sacrifice turned out to be an engaging story. A story of family, rejection, hope and love. The ending was very satisfying.

Score: 3 Stars

Author Website: http://melindaandlaura.com/

Winner - Breaking Dawn

2011-11-18T01:02:00.000-06:00

and the winner is...

Dottie

Congrats! Please send your mailing

information here:

annasbookblog@gmail.com

You have 5 days to claim your prizes.

All giveaway winners are chosen through Random.org

Guest Blog & Giveaway with Teresa D'Amario

2011-11-17T00:00:00.000-06:00

It's a pleasure to welcome Teresa D'Amario back to the blog. She's the author of the True Mate & Maxey Wizard series. Please give her a warm welcome.

____________________________________________________

Hi Anna! It's so great to be here. Your blog has grown so much since my last visit, and yet you're still one of my favorites to drop in on. I hope Halloween was good to your blog, because I know you had tons going on. :)

So, What shall we talk about? Oh, wait, I have a new release. And another one coming soon. Yes, Blood Moon Betrayed has hit the virtual shelves and is selling like hot cakes. If you haven't gotten your copy yet, head on over to Freya's Bower or Amazon, or even Allromanceebooks.com to get your copy today, because you won't want to miss it.

Of all my books, I'd have to say Blood Moon Betrayed is a little different than the others. While yes, we have the alpha hero, he isn't challenged in the same manner as the others. His biggest challenge - Himself. In some ways, despite the wolf residing within, he's like humans who've had a difficult time and have lost their way. He hasn't been hung from his toes and skinned alive. No, he's been mentally abused to the point he doesn't trust his own decisions.

Some say that mental abuse is more difficult to overcome than the physical. So what do you think would be the toughest? To overcome the hanging by your toes scenario? Or do you think it would be more difficult to overcome the loss of your wife and children - not because they are dead, but because you have failed them? Leave your answer and be qualified to get your copy of Blood Moon Betrayed free!

***make sure to leave an email address to be entered in the giveaway***

And don't forget to watch for Lone Wolf - if you missed it when it was first release, I plan to re-release it in December with a new sexy cover!

Blood Moon Betrayed

By Teresa D'Amario

Out Now!

Sean left his pack, searching for an inner peace destroyed when his one daughter was shot and the other kidnapped and tortured. Not to mention his mate had left him. He gave up his position as pack leader and headed out to the woods. But when he found a woman being beaten by two humans, he is jolted by the realization she's his True mate.

Caden lives in fear, and at last her terror has caught up with her. Her ex-husband has decided it's time for her to die. Just as she's about to breathe her last, a man tells her everything is going to be okay.

But how can it be, when her ex-husband still wants her dead?
And once Sean brings her back to his home, secrets are revealed, and it seems no one is going to be okay. For as the blood moon rises in the October sky, betrayal is in the wind, and upon it floats the scent of death.

True Mate series:

SheWolf

Dark Succession

Leopard's Key

Blood Moon Betrayed

Maxey Wizards series:

Tigeress by the Tail

Lone Wolf

To learn more check out Teresa's website:

http://teresadamario.com/

[Review] - The Calling by Ashley Lynn Willis

2011-11-16T11:22:00.002-06:00

Title: The Calling
Author: Ashley Lynn Willis
Genre: Contemporary Romance/Paranormal
Release Date: October 28, 2011

I received this book for review from the author.

Summary: Mandy Hardy lost more than a breast to cancer; she lost her fiancé when he dumped her a week before her mastectomy. Her ego bruised and her self-esteem battered, Mandy’s sure she’ll never fall in love again.

Justin Seward is a headstrong Coast Guard Rescue Swimmer with a heart of gold and the supernatural ability to command the seas. He had to hide his feelings while Mandy was engaged to his best friend. Now that she’s free, he’s vowed to make her his.

Together, they may hold the key to each others salvation. But when Justin’s past catches up with him, and Mandy’s ex-fiancé wants vengeance, they realize they might not live long enough for happily ever after.

Thoughts: Mandy is a survivor of breast cancer. But also a survivor of heartbreak. She feels she'll never fall in love again. But if Justin has anything to say about it - he is gonna make her his. He's had a thing for her, for a long while and he's not giving up now that she's single.

Beautiful story and definitely a keeper. I was absolutely engrossed with this book that I ended up finishing in less than a day. Contemporary romance isn't my go to genre but I loved this story and the two lead characters Mandy and Justin. They were engaging and pulled me in fast. The Calling is heartwarming but also suspenseful and filled with danger. The story also has a light paranormal feel that will interest mythology fans. No matter what genre of romance you enjoy, you should check this one out.

Score: 5 Stars

Author Website: http://authorashleylynnwillis.blogspot.com/

Upcoming Releases:
Killing Abel- Fall 2012

Where to Buy:

Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Smashwords

Waiting On Wednesday [31] - Bloodrose

2011-11-16T00:00:00.001-06:00

Waiting on Wednesday is a weekly post started by Breaking the Spine. A feature showcasing upcoming releases that are eagerly anticipated.

Nightshade series is absolutely addicting. While Shay is a great guy and I like him,
I'm Team Ren. I'm eager to see how it's all gonna play out.

Title: Bloodrose

Series: Nightshade

Author: Andrea Cremer

Release Date: January 3, 2012

Book Description:

Calla has always welcomed war. But now that the final battle is upon her, there’s more at stake than fighting. There’s saving Ren, even if it incurs Shay’s wrath. There’s keeping Ansel safe, even if he’s been branded a traitor. There’s proving herself as the pack’s alpha, facing unnameable horrors, and ridding the world of the Keepers’ magic once and for all. And then there’s deciding what to do when the war ends. If Calla makes it out alive, that is.

Nightshade series:

Shadow Days (prequel)
Nightshade

Wolfsbane
Treachery (novella December 13, 2011)

Bloodrose (January 3, 2012)

Rift (companion novel, 2012)

[ARC Review] - Silken Rapture by Beth Kery

2011-11-15T00:13:00.003-06:00

Title: Silken Rapture
Author: Beth Kery
Series: Princes of the Underground
Genre: Erotic Paranormal Romance
Release Date: November 22, 2011

I received this book for review from the author.

Summary: When Blaise Sevliss, Lord Delraven, rescues a young woman from the clutches of his vampiritic clone the sheer amount of soul energy blazing from her unconscious body stuns him…and awakens a primal, parasitic hunger he has fought for centuries to quell.

Determined to keep her safe from the ravenous Scourge horde, Blaise must hide her in his underground stronghold. Where the powerful urge to consume her gnaws at the last shreds of his control.

With a touch, Isabel Lanscourt can divine the darkest of secrets. Her ability is little help, though, when she awakens in a lush world where sensuality rules. Her shining spirit is a beacon to all the powerful immortals in Sanctuary, but only one can touch her. The enigmatic Lord Delraven, whose brusque coldness is belied by the heated need in his eyes.

In a dangerous zone between temptation and memory, desire ignites an explosion of luminescent beauty. And Isabel’s healing touch begins to fill his emptiness with an impossible gift: a soul. But Blaise holds a dangerous secret, one that could extinguish Isabel’s inner light. And cast his lonely world into eternal darkness.

Warning: Step into a sensual world of vampires who love to feed and love to…er…feast, where sexual variety is the spice of their lives. No sweetness and light here, this is one vampire who can put the “B” into “bad guy” without batting an eye.

Thoughts: When Blaise Sevliss saves Isabel Lanscourt from his clone he doesn't realize what affect or impact she'll have on him. Isabel has a soul energy so great that it temps Blaise like no other. With her energy and healing touch she could save Blaise. But she has to crack his cold hard exterior first.

This was my first time reading a book by Beth Kery and found it to be an enjoyable experience. A story that is different and unique, not your average paranormal. The fantasy and futuristic elements were brilliant. Silken Rapture is temptation and passion. Blaise and Isabel's story has an intense energy and a sensuality that will keep you turning the page.

Score: 4 Stars

Author Website: http://www.bethkery.com/

Upcoming Releases:

Claiming Colleen- February 21, 2012

Where to Buy:

Amazon | Barnes & Noble | Samhain Publishing

Make sure to stop by Beth's blog and check out the fantastic Silken Rapture giveaway she has going on. It runs November 7-22.

Interview & Giveaway with Grace Burrowes

2011-11-14T00:11:00.002-06:00

Hi Grace, Welcome to Anna's Book Blog! I'm glad to have you here. To start off can you tell the readers a little about yourself?
GB: Hello, Anna, and I’m pleased to join you. About me: I am a lifelong, voracious romance reader who somewhere along the way picked up a law degree. I practice family law, but only after I spend a few hours every morning with my work in progress… and a few hours every night, and lots of hours over the weekends. I love to write, love to get wrapped up in my characters and their challenges.

The Virtuoso & Lady Sophie's Christmas Wish are your latest releases, can you tells us a little about them?
GB: I am the sixth out of seven children, and know that birth order counts for something. The hero of The Virtuoso is the Duke of Morelands’ youngest son, Lord Valentine. In a family of ten, Valentine has distinguished himself by becoming virtuosically competent at the piano. He doesn’t try to compete with his more academic, social, or military siblings, he instead spends his life making gorgeous music.

Alas for him, one prescription for a terrific romance is to torture the hero. As the book opens, Valentine is warned that he has to stop playing the piano, or a medical condition in his hand may worsen to the point where he can’t play ever again. He is mightily put out with life when this misery befalls him, and slinks off to the shires to lose himself in restoring a tumbledown estate. Fortunately for Lord Val, the estate comes complete with a pretty widow on the adjoining property….

And as for Lady Sophie, in Lady Sophie’s Christmas Wish, (October 2011) all she wants is a few days of peace, quiet and solitude before she must join her boisterous family for the holidays, except she ends up caring for an orphaned baby, without having the first clue what infant care entails. Along comes the handsome and knowledgeable Vim Charpentier, who is only too happy to help Sophie look after the baby, provided he can demonstrate the necessary skills while lingering with Sophie under the mistletoe. Sophie’s brothers show up to complicate things, but of course, Sophie and Vim do get a happily ever after for Christmas.

What is your writing day like?
GB: An ideal writing day means getting up around 4:30 am and writing for a few hours, then shipping out to wrangle the day job. When I get home in the evening, I read over what I wrote that morning, or otherwise work on revisions. Bedtime is when I curl up with a keeper… A keeper book.

Another ideal writing day is sleeping in, then getting up and writing until my imaginative buffer is empty. Thereafter, I wander around on the web and call it research, work on revisions, or start another project because it is intergalactic law that the best time to start the next book is when the current one is balking and bucking and refusing to wrap itself up. I have no writing goals, no word counts, no schedules, no calendars. The time I’d take setting up all that is time I’d rather be writing, though everybody’s process is different.

When you’re not writing, what kind of books do you like to read?
GB: (With a decided predictability, she says….) Romance! There are so many, many talented authors writing these days: Jennifer Ashley, Mary Balogh, Carolyn Jewel, Meredith Duran, Julie Ann Long, JR Ward, Sophia Nash, Joanna Bourne, Loretta Chase and many others, all of whom I wish would write even faster. My all time best ever, no-lend, keeper author is Judith Ivory.

What are 3 things that are "must haves" for you when you sit down to write a book?
GB: A cup of hot jasmine green tea with cream and agave nectar (that’s three things), served in my favorite mug from the Victoria and Albert museum, and kept warm on my Balmoral Castle coaster.

I was absolutely charmed by The Heir and what really impressed me was how long Anna Seaton kept her "secret". Was that intentional or did it just play out that way?
GB: Thanks so much! The focus of a romance novel ought to be the romance. Because the start of the book must be devoted in significant part to introducing the characters, orchestrating the meet, getting chemistry going and so forth, the external conflict sometimes makes a later entry. It’s the pea under the romantic mattress, and as the book progress, it becomes a watermelon. That plot structure—a romance-heavy first half, and a complications-heavy second half—seems to work well for most of my characters.

Did you always plan to tell Windham Sisters stories or is that something that came about after being published?
GB: This is a fun question to answer. There I was about a year ago, quaking in my figurative boots because The Heir was about the hit the shelves when my editor, Deb Werksman at Sourcebooks, called and asked if I’d be interested in writing a Christmas book. I’d started a manuscript for Lady Maggie, the oldest sister, but having to really focus on Sophie’s story was what pulled me into the sororal aspect of the Windham family. I thought the brothers’ books were books of my heart—Westhaven being a lawyer, St. Just a horseman, and Valentine a musician—but I found the sisters’ books are even more authentic to me.

What inspired you/or inspires you most when writing these books?
GB: The Trite Police are going to come around and issue me a citation, but honestly, it’s all about the love. As Eloisa James said at the RWA National conference one year: Love heals the shame. It heals everything, in fact, and makes us new, and dear and brave and the best we can be.

Since becoming published what has been the most surprising thing?
GB: Interesting—fraught—question. I’ve been equally surprised by two things: How generous and kind the romance community is generally. Writing books is very different from lawyering, in a wonderful way. The other surprise though is the extent to which romance fiction also attracts an underbelly of petty, vicious, destructive behavior on the part of a puzzling minority. Even if a book is terribly flawed, criticizing the book is not—should never be—an excuse to attack the writer personally.

What type of research did you do for the book/series?
GB: I’ve read historical romance for forty years, and some authors—Georgette Heyer, for example—are so meticulous with their historical detail their books ought to qualify as reference material. I read as widely as I can in the period I’m writing in, and I pop over to the UK when time and tide permit.

If you can tell us, what is next up for you?
GB: I am endlessly grateful that Percival and Esther Windham raised such a large family, because there are many more Windham sibling books to come as well as spin offs and prequels. I’m also excited that Sourcebooks will be publishing a trilogy of Scottish Victorians for me starting in the summer of 2012.

The Virtuoso

by Grace Burrowes

In Stores November 2011

A genius with a terrible loss…
Gifted pianist Valentine Windham, youngest son of the Duke of Moreland, has little interest in his father’s obsession to see his sons married, and instead pours passion into his music. But when Val loses his music, he flees to the country, alone and tormented by what has been robbed from him.

A widow with a heartbreaking secret…
Grieving Ellen Markham has hidden herself away, looking for safety in solitude. Her curious new neighbor offers a kindred lonely soul whose desperation is matched only by his desire, but Ellen’s devastating secret could be the one thing that destroys them both.

Together they’ll find there’s no rescue from the past, but sometimes losing everything can help you find what you need most.

Lady Sophie’s Christmas Wish

by Grace Burrowes

In Stores NOW!

A luminous holiday tale of romance, passion, and dreams come true from rising star Grace Burrowes, whose award-winning Regency romances are capturing hearts worldwide.

All she wants is peace and anonymity…
Lady Sophie Windham has maneuvered a few days to herself at the ducal mansion in London before she must join her family for Christmas in Kent. Suddenly trapped by a London snowstorm, she finds herself with an abandoned baby and only the assistance of a kind, handsome stranger standing between her and complete disaster.

But Sophie’s holiday is about to heat up…
With his estate in ruins, Vim Charpentier sees little to feel festive about this Christmas. His growing attraction for Sophie Windham is the only thing that warms his spirits—but when Sophie’s brothers whisk her away, Vim’s most painful holiday memories are reawakened.

It seems Sophie’s been keeping secrets, and now it will take much more than a mistletoe kiss to make her deepest wishes come true…

Where to Buy
Amazon: The Virtuoso | Lady Sophie's Christmas Wish
Barnes & Noble: The Virtuoso | Lady Sophie's Christmas Wish
The Book Depository: The Virtuoso | Lady Sophie's Christmas Wish

About the Author
Grace Burrowes is the pen name for a prolific and award-winning author of historical romances. The Heir, received starred reviews from Publishers Weekly and Booklist, and was selected as a Publishers Weekly Best Book of the Year for 2010. Both The Heir and its follow-up, The Solider, are New York Times and USA Today bestsellers. She is a practicing attorney specializing in family law and lives in a restored log cabin in western Maryland without a TV, DVD or radio because she's too busy working on her next books. For more information, please visit http://www.graceburrowes.com/.

GIVEAWAY:

Thanks to Sourcebooks I have (2) copies of The Virtuoso to giveaway. To enter leave a comment along with your email address. Open to U.S. & Canada. The winners will be announced on November 19th. Good Luck!