Book Review and Giveaway: Heroes Die Young by T. M. Hunter

This is a fun, fast sci fi read.

Heroes Die Young
by T.M. Hunter

• Paperback: 132 pages
• Publisher: Champagne Books (September 1, 2008)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 1897445784
• ISBN-13: 978-1897445785

Genre: Science Fiction

My Rating: 4.25 of 5.0

Book Description
Publication Date: September 1, 2008
A derelict freighter abandoned in outer space is too much for space pirate Aston West to pass up and he can't fight the urge to pilfer its valuable cache of illegal weapons. However, the ship's one last occupant has other ideas and fights to maintain her hold on the weaponry. After attack craft return to finish the ship off, Aston has no choice but to save her from certain destruction. Who is she? What are the weapons for? Why was the freighter destroyed? For every answer he finds, he discovers more questions, and his life is put in jeopardy every time he stops to catch his breath. Aston's life motto of never getting involved is put to the test, and he must decide whether to become a hero for a people in need, or continue on his path of self-preservation.

Review:

This was a fun, fast sci fi read.
Aston West is a space pirate who sometimes takes legitimate freight jobs. He is delivering a cargo when he comes across an abandoned freighter with a valuable cargo of illegal weapons. When he boards the ship to pick up the weapons he also picks up a living occupant, Rione. After first attacking him Rione ends up hitching a ride when local space craft move out to blow up the freighter. 

Aston’s set to dump his passenger, unload his legit cargo and take off to sell his booty. As a bonus he picks up a new delivery and all looks good until he gets arrested. The authorities can’t prove he has illegal cargo thanks to the camouflaging capabilities of his constant companion and aid: Jeanie, his ship’s computer. She is the closest you might get to a genie in a bottle.  But Rione is pointing the finger at him and in order to get released Aston has to make a deal.

Aston has no desire to take sides between two planet governments, nor rebels on either planet. He doesn’t want to be anyone’s hero. He just wants to enjoy the profits of his ‘salvage’ and live his life quietly and safely alone.  Fate and Rione have other plans as she manipulates him into helping her rebellion.

I really enjoyed Aston’s laissez-faire character and the light, ironic tone of this adventure. The plot involves hidden agendas and betrayals but it is complete in this story.  The writing is easy to read and there is plenty of action to keep it fast paced.

I'm glad I got to read this and would be glad to read more. This is just one episode in Aston’s career but I could see it being part of more adventures. And in fact... I just checked and there are other Aston adventures available. If you enjoy easy sci fi, I think this would make a great ‘series’ or related story group to pick up for light, fast reading.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Aston speaking to his computer, Jeanie:

    “What would I do without you?” I stood from my chair.
    “Live your life as a hollow shell of a man.” Page 22.

Setting out for another deliver:

    I’d been shot at, threatened, imprisoned, verbally abused, and nearly sentenced to death. This definitely not my finest hour.  Page 55.

Aston's thoughts when being permitted to bring his friend along on a summons to visit with the President:

    It was a good sign. If I were in trouble, they would have shot down my demand. Still, I wasn’t sure what was going on, and though that seemed to be a common occurrence anymore, it bothered me. Page 99.

This book was from my TBR as I won it quite some time ago from the author at a Champagne Books chat. 

I will add this book to my New Author and TBR challenge lists.

TO ENTER THIS GIVEAWAY for the Review Copy:
1. Visit the author's website and tell me something you find of interest. This is required for entry.

2.  For an extra entry, become a follower on any media (GFC, Twitter @MSEREADS, Facebook fanpage: http://www.facebook.com/ReviewsByMarthasBookshelf , Goodreads or Linky - links on right sidebar) or tell me if you are already a follower.

It isn't necessary to use separate entries unless you want them in different chronological order.
(Two total entries possible.)

* This contest is only open to residents of US and Canada.
* This contest will close 10 PM (Central) on July 27, 2012.
The winner will be randomly selected from all entries.
WINNER WILL BE ANNOUNCED on July 28.
Winners will have 72 hours to respond by email or the winners form linked in the announcement.  

Book Review and ARC Giveaway: Lucky in Love by Jill Shalvis

Ms. Shalvis delivers romance with charming characters, fun humor and real life emotions.
Lucky in Love (A Lucky Harbor Novel)

by Jill Shalvis 

• Mass Market Paperback: 400 pages
• Publisher: Forever (May 22, 2012)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 145550372X
• ISBN-13: 978-1455503728

Available in ebook and soon in Audio.
Genre: Contemporary Romance
My Rating: 4.25 of 5.0

Book Description

Publication Date: May 22, 2012 | Series: A Lucky Harbor Novel (Book 4)

Mallory Quinn has had enough of playing it safe. As a nurse and devoted daughter, she takes care of everyone but herself. And as the local good girl, she's expected to date Mr. Right. But for once, she'd like to take a risk on Mr. Wrong. And who could be more wrong than Ty Garrison? The mysterious new guy in town has made it clear that he's only passing through, which suits Mallory just fine. Besides, his lean, hard body and sexy smile will give her plenty to remember once he's gone . . .

For the first time in his life, Ty can't bear to leave. Helping this sexy seductress-in-training walk on the wild side is making him desire things he shouldn?t?including leaving the military for good. As their just-for-fun fling becomes something more, Mallory and Ty wonder if they could really be this lucky in love. After all . . . anything can happen in a town called Lucky Harbor.

Review:
Mallory has always been the “good girl.”  Even more so since she was 16 and her 18 year old sister went off track and died of an overdose. Mallory sees failure to save as her fault as she continues to try to save everyone around her.  Her “chocoholic”  friends, Amy and Grace, encourage Mallory to break out and take a walk on the wild side. They begin with a list of Mr. Wrongs and end up with a prime candidate in the“mysterious cute guy” as identified on the town’s facebook page.

Ty Garrison is a former Seal, private sector, dangerous missions guy. Of course no one in town knows that background except for the Doctor who is monitoring his recovery from the injuries that have Ty out of action. The town folks see him as mysterious and a seriously fine auto mechanic.

Mallory wheedles a date out of Ty while he is suffering a concussion from a storm. Mallory is in charge of the hospital auction designed to raise money for a community clinic that she is set on getting funding and approval for. She figures Ty has stood her up until he shows up and realizes he is late for a date he didn’t remember. That’s okay... he is willing to help out as long as Mallory is willing to accept it’s a one night deal with “no regrets.”  Mallory agrees but they soon find that a one night fling isn’t enough for either of them.

Mallory knows she shouldn’t fall for the guy who is just waiting to leave town. Ty doesn’t want to hurt her but he can’t seem to pull himself away, even when he finally gets cleared to return to work. By then Ty is invested in Mallory and the town. But that isn’t his thing...he needs to get back to the adrenaline of his dangerous job. Or is that where he really belongs now that Mallory has broken through his shell and shown him changes that could be?

These two are really great characters. Everyone in town, including her mom, her bosses and the angry, elderly, sour biddy (albeit secretly), loves Mallory. They are all concerned about her feelings and “relationship” with the “mysterious cute guy.” And of course there are few secrets in a town like Lucky Harbor.  Ty is actually a very nice guy hiding in a “bad boy” persona. It is part of his sexy, mysterious aura.

The romance plot isn't exactly new but it is delivered with charm, lots of humor and plenty of anticipation waiting to discover when and how the couple will get together. The cheerful writing flows quickly and I loved the chocolate quotes at the beginning of each chapter. This is a warm, fun start to a new trilogy by Ms. Shalvis and can easily be read as a standalone if you have not read the first trilogy. I admit that I was a bit disappointed that the earlier characters were only mere mentions as I would have liked to see more of them. It seems to me if you want a charming, fun and sexy (but not graphic) read you can’t go wrong with a Lucky Harbor Novel.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Some fine, fun quotes to ponder:

    Somehow in spite of himself and his reclusiveness, he'd managed to find celebrity status in this crazy-ass, one-horse town, and even worse, there was Mallory, wanting him to take her for a walk on the wild side. Page 89.

    At some point, when he'd been busy resenting like hell this slow-paced, sleepy little town and everyone in it, something had happened.

    He'd made ties, strings on the heart he wasn't even sure he had. Page 261.

Thank you to Forever Romance at Hachette for providing this book for fun reading and review.

This is set in Washington State for my Where Are You Reading Challenge. I will also add it to my ARC challenge list.

TO ENTER THIS GIVEAWAY for the Review Copy:
1. Tell me what you like about romances set it small towns. This is required for entry.

2.  For an extra entry, become a follower on any media (GFC, Twitter @MSEREADS, Facebook fanpage: http://www.facebook.com/ReviewsByMarthasBookshelf , Goodreads or Linky - links on right sidebar) or tell me if you are already a follower.

It isn't necessary to use separate entries unless you want them in different chronological order.
(Two total entries possible.)

* This contest is only open to residents of US and Canada.

* This contest will close 10 PM (Central) on June 1, 2012.
The winner will be randomly selected from all entries.
WINNER WILL BE ANNOUNCED on June 2. 
Winners will have 72 hours to respond by email or the winners form linked in the announcement.

Book Review: Much Ado About Marshals by Jacquie Rogers

This is a delightfully fun, sweet read.

Much Ado About Marshals

by Jacquie Rogers

• Paperback: 306 pages
• Publisher: CreateSpace (October 24, 2011)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 146639952X
• ISBN-13: 978-1466399525

Genre:  Historical Romance

My Rating: 4.25 of 5.0

Book Description

Publication Date: October 24, 2011

Buy a copy and see for yourself what everyone is talking about. Once you read just one of Ms. Roger's books, I can assure you that you'll be a fan... Diana Coyle, NOR Reviewer

*** CTRR Award ***

Jacquie Rogers creates a witty, delightful, and downright amusing book with impressive charming players. Cherokee, Coffee Time Romance and More Reviewer

Like romance? Love stories about the old west? Want a dreamy cowboy to cuddle up and read about? Then this is the book for you.

~~My Eclectic Bookshelf, 5 dragonflies

Daisy Gardner wants to be a detective just like dime novel heroine Honey Beaulieu.  To her delight, her sister shot a bank robber and he got away, so now she even has a crime to solve. But her parents insist she marry a man whose farm is miles from town.  She can't solve crimes stuck out there. What better solution than to marry the new marshal!

Rancher Cole Richards saves his friend from robbing a bank, but is shot for his efforts, and now is a wanted man.  His friend takes him to Oreana to see the doc, where Cole's mistaken for the new marshal.  Now he faces a dilemma few men have to face--tell the truth and hang, or live a lie and end up married. Either way could cost him his freedom.

Review:
Daisy is a feisty and curious young lady of the America 1885 West.  Her parents own the local general store and want her to settle down with a save, successful farmer. But Daisy has a mind and will of her own and she has decided that she will marry the new marshal.  She plans to be a female detective working right by his side.

Cole Richards is mostly unconscious when his faithful, but somewhat bungling friend, Bosco, brings him to the Doctor in Oreana. Daisy helps the Doctor tend to the injured stranger who they think is the new marshal since he fits the description and they got a wire that the Marshal would be arriving late due to an attack and leg injury. Daisy immediately sets her sights on winning “the Marshal.”

The problem is that Cole knows he is not only not the Marshal but he believes that Daisy’s sister can identify him as one of the men who bungled a bank robbery a week or so before.  Cole thinks  he isn’t good enough for the sweet, stubborn lady who is bent on getting fingerprints to proof the identity of the bank robbers.  The Marshal’s resistance is frustrating to Daisy but she will do whatever it takes, even if it means she has to stoop to feminine seduction.

In addition to the fun push and pull between Daisy and “the Marshal” there are several other delightful, quirky characters. Daisy’s best friend, Sarah, is looking for a handsome man too. The reputable farmer is nice but not alluring. On the other hand the latest stranger in town, the rugged, smart, 'Sam Jones', does catch her attention.  And Jones has the best trained and smartest mule, Katie, who might just steal the show even over the troublesome mutt, Winky, who knocks over an occupied privy!

Ms. Rogers has presented some really likeable characters in a fun, ‘mistaken identity’ plot. There is sweet sensual interest with a zing of sassy innuendo. The flow of the story is easy and light as you chuckle through the frustrations of the characters. I recommend this to anyone who likes romantic comedy and historical western romance. When you want something fun to read - pick this up and enjoy!

~~~~~~~~~~~~~

A few fun quotes:

Cole's thoughts on his cowhand buddy:

Few men had bigger hearts than Bosco, even if the poor fellow was one ox short of a team. Location 335.

The Judge has Daisy lock in the cell with Cole:

[Daisy:] "You have no charge against me..."
"The charge is the refusal to listen to the evidence."
"I have not refused to listen to any evidence. I know the facts."
Judge Glover chuckled. "Case in point."  Location 5813.
 

I am glad I won this book and appreciate Jacquie agreeing to an interview and Giveaway - see the next post.

I will add this to Idaho for my Where are You Reading Challenge. It will also go on my TBR and New Author Challenge lists.

Book Review and Giveaway: The Book of Madness and Cures by Regina O'Melveny

This is beautifully written and full of wonderful historical tidbits.

The Book of Madness and Cures

by Regina O'Melveny

• Paperback: 336 pages
• Publisher: John Murray Publishers (April 1, 2012)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 1848547064
• ISBN-13: 978-1848547063

Genre: Historical Fiction

My Rating: 4.25 of 5.0

Book Description

Publication Date: April 10, 2012

Dr. Gabriella Mondini, a strong-willed, young Venetian woman, has followed her father in the path of medicine. She possesses a singleminded passion for the art of physick, even though, in 1590, the male-dominated establishment is reluctant to accept a woman doctor. So when her father disappears on a mysterious journey, Gabriella's own status in the Venetian medical society is threatened. Her father has left clues--beautiful, thoughtful, sometimes torrid, and often enigmatic letters from his travels as he researches his vast encyclopedia, The Book of Diseases.

After ten years of missing his kindness, insight, and guidance, Gabriella decides to set off on a quest to find him--a daunting journey that will take her through great university cities, centers of medicine, and remote villages across Europe. Despite setbacks, wary strangers, and the menaces of the road, the young doctor bravely follows the clues to her lost father, all while taking notes on maladies and treating the ill to supplement her own work.

Gorgeous and brilliantly written, and filled with details about science, medicine, food, and madness, THE BOOK OF MADNESS AND CURES is an unforgettable debut.

Review:
Gabriella has always been inquisitive and a seeker of knowledge. She loved following her father during his doctoring rounds and listening to his comments on ailments and cures.  She had been his helper to gather and compile information for the Book of Diseases that he would someday publish. Gabriella was distressed when her father left to travel and learn more diseases for his book. She didn’t understand why she could not go along and was left with her nagging and negative mother who only wants Gabriella to settle into a proper young lady and find a husband.

Gabriella remained home for ten years, keeping her own notes and caring for women with their singular diseases, including frailties of the mind. But the male dominated society of doctors of Venetia in 1590 do not wish to acknowledge a female doctor. Since her father was no longer around to sponsor her she is banned from the society and university.  Gabriella decides to search out her father by following his trail across the continent.

Gabriella sets off with her faithful servant/companions, Olmina, more of a mother than Gabriella’s true mother, and Olmina's husband, Lorenzo, who has been a protector to Gabriella in place of her father.  As she pursues "the bread crumbs" of her father’s path, Gabriella meets other Doctors, some friendly and encouraging and some obviously jealous, suspicious and condemning. Gabriella learns hints about her father’s behavior that she doesn’t want to believe.

There is danger along the way as traveling is not safe, especially for a young attractive lady. Gabriella almost finds a place and a man to settle with but another clue pulls her back to her search.  What condition will her father be in if she can even find him alive?  Will finding him help Gabriella find herself?

Ms. O’Melveny has created a wonderful image of life as it may have been for a spirited woman whose dreams of being more than a chatelaine, mate and mother brought jeers and antagonism. Gabriella’s striving to be a female Doctor helping women was difficult enough but the risks were increased in a repressed society where even herbal cures were often considered witchcraft.  The story is told in third person POV and the author uses journal entries of diseases to reveal the level of information - or sometimes lack thereof - existing at the time.

Gabriella is a strong minded and interesting character. The plot is suitably interesting and the story is richly and beautifully portrayed. The descriptions of Venice, Edenburg and Marooco, as well as travels between are alternately breathtaking and fearsome. If you enjoy historical fiction that portrays an strong, engaging protagonist in a difficult but true to times setting I think you would enjoy this work.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Gabriella’s relationship with her mother:

..."Why not marry a good doctor? Why must you be one?" ....this time I simply stared at her, fierce and speechless with hurt. We were on opposite sides of a deep channel, no bridge between us. The sea ran on in the dark. Page 21.

Beginning the travels:

... I watched the Zattere retreat, then San Marco appear beyond the other bell towers, steeples, canted roofs, the other quarters shabby, mossy, glorious, gleaming, prayerful, lively, sorrowful, muted, exuberant, fleshy, fabulous, then diminished–made one by distance, faint, flat, bluish white, thin as gauze I might use to wrap a wound. Page 32.

A distinction between Lorenzo and Gabriella’s father:

My fist closed over the box and I pressed my head against Olmina, crying. Lorenzo had carried my teeth like seed pearls as he watched me grow into a woman. And still I wanted to travel to the ends of the earth – to Marocco now – for the father who’d abandoned me. Page 261.

A Big Thank You to Anna at Little Brown & Co., Division of Hachette, for providing this book for review and copies for giveaway!

This book will be added to my ARC and New Author challenge lists.

TO ENTER THIS GIVEAWAY:
1. Visit the author's website and tell me something of interest you find there.
2. For an extra entry, become a follower or tell me if you are already a follower.
(Two total entries possible.)

THERE WILL BE TWO WINNERS!

* This contest is only open to residents of US and Canada.

* No P.O. Boxes Please - for shipping reasons.

* Limit one win per household.

* This contest will close 10 PM (Central) on May 18, 2012.
The winners will be randomly selected from all entries and announced on May 19 with 72 hours to complete the winners form.
 

Book Review: Untouched by Sara Humphreys

I absolutely love the warmth and charm of the Amoveo shifters...at least the good guys.  The bad guy  “Purists” are suitably twisted and evil!
  

Untouched 

by Sara Humphreys

Mass Market Paperback: 320 pages

Publisher: Sourcebooks Casablanca; Original edition (April 3, 2012)

Language: English

ISBN-10: 1402258461

ISBN-13: 978-1402258466

Also available in Kindle and other ebook formats.
Genre: Paranormal Romance
My Rating:  4.25 of 5.0

Book Description

Publication Date: April 3, 2012 | Series: The Amoveo Legend

SHE SHOULD BE SEEN, BUT NEVER TOUCHED...

Kerry Smithson's modeling career ensures that she will be admired from afar, which is essential since mere human touch sparks blinding pain and terrifying visions.

EVERY GOOD MODEL NEEDS A HEAVENLLY BODYGUARD...

Dante Coltari is hired to protect Kerry from those who know who she is—or more importantly what she is—and want her dead because of it. Nothing could have prepared him for the challenge of keeping her safe. But, strangely, his lightest touch brings her exquisite pleasure rather than pain, and Dante and Kerry have an otherwordly connection that might just pull them through.

Praise for the Amoveo Legend series:

"Sizzling sexual chemistry that is sure to please."—Yankee Romance Reviews

"A moving tale that captures both the sweetness and passion of romance."—Romance Junkies, 5 Blue Ribbons

"Fascinating...the characters haunted my dreams...I'm dying for the sequel."—Long and Short Reviews Best Book

Review:

Kerry has been an outcast all her life because touching others brings her pain and overload of negative sensation.  Even her adopted parents learned not to share affection with her. The only person she could safely touch is Samantha and whenever they touch Kerry sees a large gray wolf. Now, surprisingly, Kerry discovers that when her persistent and sexy bodyguard, Dante, touches her she feels all sorts of wonderful tingles!

Dante knew from the first time he saw Kerry (see Book 1 - Samantha and Malcolm’s story) that she was his mate, even if she is a hybrid, like Sam, half human and half Amoveo.  Dante isn’t really trying to crowd her but he is anxious to convince her that he wants only her happiness and he needs to protect her from the Amoveo natural human enemies, the Cadeo.  He knows she is also in danger from attack by the “Purists” who object to any human mingling in the clan lines.

Dante (a red fox) knows he can trust Malcolm (an eagle) and Sam (a wolf) but they are trying to celebrate a little honeymoon time.  He is pretty sure he can trust his friends, easy going Steven (a coyote) and stoic William (a gyrfalcon). Beyond that group they are not sure who can be trusted, even those in the Amoveo Council, since Dante’s own father, a Council member was one of the Purists who attacked Sam and Kerry before.

The rolling banter between lonely but confident model Kerry and eager Dante is great fun. He calls her “Princess” and she calls him neanderthal or “Tarzan.”  The setting of her lingerie fashion shoot is a run down plantation in the Bayous of Louisiana. The place is creepy and nearby in New Orleans are Voodoo shops and the purveyors of spells and witchcraft.

The story moves along well with the fun sensual banter, the repeated threats against “the traitors” and finally with the action of the attack and rescue.  There are twists revealing characters as friends and foes.  There are a few bad words but I’m willing to read over those for the sheer joy of the strong love reflected in this series. If you like shifters who are not only hot but romantic, and a romance spiced with danger, this is a perfect series for you! I’m definitely looking forward to William's story and more excitement in the next installment.

~~~~~~~~~~~

Feel the warm glow:

She'd never been the focus of such love, devotion and fierce protection. As a model she'd had total strangers fantasize about her ... but no one--no man -- had every really loved her. Page 226.

Samantha kept saying he was the missing piece to Kerry's puzzle, but the truth was that Kerry was his. They fit. He wouldn't lose her. Not now. Not ever. Page 257.

Thank you to Sourcebooks for providing this book to read and review. Sourcebooks is also sponsoring a Giveaway of TWO Copies which I have included with the author interview. And don't miss the interview answers from Dante too!

A good part of this story is set in or near New Orleans, LA for my Where Are You Reading Challenge. I will also include this book on my ARC challenge.
 

Audible Book Review: Crusade: Destoryermen, Book 2 by Taylor Anderson

This story is full of action and character struggles!

Crusade: Destroyermen, Book 2

• UNABRIDGED
• by Taylor Anderson
• Narrated by William Dufris 
• Series: Destroyermen, Book 2

Also available in print and ebook formats.
Genre: Science Fiction
My Rating: 4.5 of 5.0

Publisher's Summary
Lieutenant Commander Matthew Reddy, along with the men and women of the USS Walker, have chosen sides in a war not of their making. They have allied with the Lemurians - a mammalian race whose peaceful existence is under attack from the warlike, reptilian Grik.

The Lemurians are vastly outnumbered and ignorant of warfare, and even the guns and technology of Walker cannot turn the tide of battle. Luckily, they are not alone. Reddy finally finds Mahan, the other destroyer that passed through the rift. Together, the two American ships will teach the Lemurians to fight and stand against the bloodthirsty Grik - or so they think.

For there is another vessel that does not belong on these strange seas - the massive Japanese battle cruiser Amagi, the very ship that Walker was fleeing from when the rift took them. Like Mahan, it followed them through. And now Amagi is in the hands of the Grik.

Battle stations! Listen to more in the Destroyermen series.

Review:
This is book two of the Destroyerman series. In book one, Into the Storm, Destroyermen, two American destroyers, Walker and Mahan, are limping away from a powerful Japanese war ship, the Amagi, during World War II when a Pacific storm whisks them into a parallel universe. They are separated and the first story focuses on Walker and her crew as they encounter new species: the friendly cat-like Lemurians, who are farmers and fishermen and the ugly, reptilian (dinosaur-like) Grik, who are clearly a barbaric foe. 

This second book expands on the personalities and relationships of the Americans and their Lemurian allies who they are training to fight and resist the attacks of the Grik. There are several cities and factions of the Lemurians to cope with. Young but fiercely brave Queen Moran of the Bibadans is one of the first to recognize the leadership of Captain Reddy and the need to take an aggressive stand. Unfortunately the neighboring tribe city of Arial is led by a cowardly King and a sniveling Prince who would betray a temporary alliance.  This causes civil war with the mature head of the army, Lord Rollack, joining forces with Queen Moran and the Americans to force back a Grik attack.

There are plenty of personal stories and drama to engage the reader in the characters. Sinji is a Japanese Lieutenant who has become part of the crew on Walker, as has a young Jac, who sees himself as a Destoryerman now, no longer a Lemurian sailor. The teams, American and Lemurian, have discovered that their vessels are more than just ships; they have become homes to the officers and crews. The story is rich with actions of individuals, some brave and some despicable. There is racial prejudice and discipline to deal with. There are strategy plans, vibrant battles, betrayal, dishonor and sacrifice. Well into this story it is discovered that the more powerful Japanese ship, the Amagi, has also been pulled into this alternate world. Its crazed Captain is seeking revenge against the Americans and has allied with the Grik. The Captain has no regard for innocents to the dismay of his second in command.

I am invested in the characters and am apt to hold my breath at times of betrayal and danger. If you like a story full of personal interaction, some military strategy and plenty of action I highly recommend this series.

Audio Notes: William Dufris does an excellent job keeping up the pace, presenting the characters and conveying the tension to bring the story alive. I am definitely looking forward to listening to the rest of the series!

~~~~~~~~~~~

Captain Reddy discusses the reason for war with Adar, a Lemurian leader and philosopher:

Captain Reddy:  "Why we fight - it's fight or die. You might die if you fight, but you will die if you don't."
Adar: "Looking at it like that, the war isn't an excuse; it's a blessing. A chance for survival."

I purchased this some months ago and listened to it from my Audible TBR shelf. 
This was my April Just for fun/from the TBR shelf book and I will add it to my Audio Challenge list.

Book Review and Giveaways: Promise Me by Dee Julian

This is a lovely historical romance that kept me eagerly reading.

Promise Me

by Dee Julian

• Paperback: 248 pages
• Publisher: CreateSpace (February 19, 2012)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 1475047975
• ISBN-13: 978-1475047974

Also available in Kindle and other ebook formats
     Genre: Historical Romance
     My Rating: 4.5 of 5.0

Book Description

Publication Date: February 19, 2012

After a hasty promise to her dying fiancé jeopardizes the future of his illegitimate child, Lady Leah Sheridan vows to make amends for the gentleman’s lack of honor by personally seeing to his son’s financial needs. When the boy’s heartless mother abandons him, Leah finds herself nearing a disastrous scandal. To make matters worse, her fiancé’s older brother returns to England demanding answers she swore never to divulge.

As soon as the Duke of Chase meets the woman his deceased brother had intended to wed, he is unexpectedly captivated by the lady’s beauty, but he quickly suspects she is hiding a secret, making him more determined than ever to discover the truth behind his brother’s fatal accident.

Will Leah break her promise and confide in the only man who can keep her safe?

Review:

Leah’s fiance died in an accident immediately after revealing he had an illegitimate son. Leah promised that she wouldn't tell his grandmother.  Leah has been paying the greedy mistress to take care of the child even though Leah’s clandestine selling of jewels and trips out of town are providing fodder for the local scandalmonger, Irma Crandle.

The Duke, Nicolas, returns to the stunning news of his brother’s death. He overhears rumors making him suspicious of Ms. Sheridan’s role in the ‘accident’.  He rushes to meet a beautiful woman stepping out of the ballroom but his attitude becomes hostile as soon as he learns it is the mysterious Ms. Sheridan.

Leah is summoned to meet with the mistress but arrives to find the sick child has been abandoned. In spite of her promise, Leah decides it is time to take the child to her fiance’s family.  Too bad she follows the poor advise of her best friend, Anne, the Duke’s cousin, who encourages Leah to wait a few days before revealing the truth.

Nicolas follows Leah while another cheeky fellow, Trinity, is spying on her for Ms. Crandle. The Duke continually jumps to negative conclusions and struggles with his strong attraction to Leah.

This story is driven by the characters as they weave their way through rumors, half truths and misconceptions. Leah is a likeable character as a lovely, kind young woman with an air of sadness due to her lose of love and twisted rumors. She longs for love and a home but sees Nicolas as a man who likes his life: “Uncluttered. Unemotional. Unattached.” Nicolas is arrogant and impulsive in his judgments, but he has undeniable loyalty and tenderness with his family. The eccentric gossip hound and the roguish Trinity are two quirky characters who add humor to the story.  Nicolas’ grandmother and Leah’s sister, Kat, are also likeable characters with some meddling tendencies. There is a bit of intrigue with the mistress’s conniving and the threats of gossip that could ruin Leah’s reputation.

Ms. Julian writes an engaging story with a nice, easy flow. The romance is sweet but there is strong conflict and sensual tension that keeps the story interesting. I also enjoyed Ms. Julian’s first novel, The MacGregor’s Daughter (see my review here). I recommend both stories to those who enjoy historical romance with sweet romantic tension and a quick pace.

~~~~~~~

Anne helps Leah admit her feelings for Nicolas:

"Does your heart beat faster whenever Nicolas is near?"
"Yes."
"And when his dart eyes watch you?"
"I feel as though I'm the only woman in the room."
"He speaks and...?"
"His voice creates shivers that slowly dance down my spine until they reach my toes."
"His touch?"
"Takes my breath away."
Location 2439.

Thank you to the author, Dee Julian, for providing this lovely book to read and review.

I will add this to my ARC challenge list.

Ms. Julian is providing several prizes for giveaway!

First Place gets choice of Print or ebook copy of Promise Me.

Second Place will win an ebook copy of The MacGregor's Daughter and a mouse pad.

TO ENTER THIS GIVEAWAY FOR A CHANCE TO WIN ONE OF THESE PRIZES:

1. Visit the Author's website and tell me something you found interesting OR comment on my review.

2.  For two extra entries, check out my previous interview series with Dee Julian and come back here to make a comment on something you learned in the interview.

3.  For an extra entry, become a follower or tell me if you are already a follower.

4.  For two extra entries, blog, facebook, tweet (any of those networks!) about this giveaway and tell me where you did.

It isn't necessary to use separate entries unless you want them in different chronological order.
(Six total entries possible.)

THERE WILL BE TWO GRAND WINNERS.

* This contest is only open WORLDWIDE entries. 

* Limit one win per household.

* This contest will close 10 PM (Central) on April 20, 2012.
The winner will be randomly selected from all entries and announced on April 21 with 72 hours to complete the winners' form.

Audio Book Review and GIVEAWAY: Jacob's Return by Annette Blair

This is a twisted tale of betrayal, sorrow, sin and stolen joy. It is engaging but goes a bit beyond what one might expect in an Amish story. 

Jacob's Return
by Annette Blair

Narrator: Ariana Westfield

• Audible Audio Edition
• Listening Length: 10 hours and 11 minutes
• Program Type: Audiobook
• Version: Unabridged
• Publisher: AudioLark Audio Books
• Audible.com Release Date: March 27, 2012
• Language: English
• ASIN: B007P5NBM2

Genre: Historical Romance, Amish
(Caveat -
I note this as it is unexpected in an Amish story:
there is a passionate scene in an adulterous relationship.)
My Rating: 4.25 of 5.0

 Product Description

Jacob Sauder abandons his Amish heritage when the woman he loves, Rachel Zook, agrees to marry his brother, Simon. Though he adapts to the ways of the “English” — even fathering twins — he remains an outsider. When the mother of his twins dies, Jacob knows only one way to raise his children — the Amish way. He brings them home to the community he vowed to leave forever. For his children he can do anything, even be strong when he sees Rachel, his love, married to his brother.

Years ago, Simon lied to ensure a future with Rachel Zook as his wife. Now Rachel is barren, a disappointment to him. Unaware of the lie Simon told to drive Jacob away, Rachel believes Jacob abandoned her when he left the Amish community. Shocked when he returns with two-year-old twins, Rachel knows there can be nothing between them, for marriage is a life-long commitment among the Amish. But the twins need a mother and Rachel loves children. As she cares for Jacob’s children as if they were her own, her feelings for him deepen into a love that cannot be.

Jacob’s Return is the story of a prodigal son, a forbidden love, and a fanatical preacher. As shocking as it is compelling, Jacob’s Return is both uplifting and unforgettable. A wonderful read, this is a universal story about love and faith in impossible circumstances.

Review:
When Jacob learns that he has twins and their mother has died he determines that he must take them home to be raised Amish. He knows it will be hard to see Rachel, his life long sweetheart, who married his brother, Simon, but he believes that the Amish life will be best for his children.

Jacob’s welcome isn’t assured but Rachel immediately welcomes him and the children. She is thrilled to help out with the twins especially since she has no children of her own. Simon is not glad to see his brother whose return interrupts his service of celebration becoming a Deacon. Simon clearly resents the welcome the prodigal son gets from their father, Rachel and others in the community.

Jacob soon learns that Simon has abused Rachel, shoving her around and verbally destroying her self- image.  When Jacob seeks to protect and comfort Rachel the comforting slides into passion.   Although their love is a joy, they know there is no future for them and they determine to try to do right and live as friends.  Jacob agrees to help Rachel purchase an old printing press so she can continue the neighborly newspaper she started as a teacher. Simon vehemently objects and brings Rachel before the elders on accusations of breaking family duties and church regulations.

As the warm bond between Jacob and Rachel deepens, Simon’s hate and bitterness grows. Rachel’s father, who is the church Bishop, finally lectures Simon and admonishes him to change his ways. It appears that perhaps Simon has had a change of heart until a new event triggers the most violent response yet.

If their sins are discovered it is likely either Jacob or Rachel, if not both, will be shunned. If Jacob takes the brunt of the punishment how can he stay near yet never being able to claim Rachel? If Jacob goes away how can Rachel raise the children without his love and support? If they both leave how will their fathers and friends feel about the lose?

The twists in this story raised a lot of thoughts to ponder. The passion in the romance didn’t disturb me, except that it was in an adulterous relationship which I usually choose not to read.  I was very surprised to read these behaviors as they are not generally associated with an Amish story. The natural emotions and sin  did make me think that Amish are human with the same extremes of emotions as any of us.  Although their disciplines may help to keep them from temptations, they too can stray into sin or there may be those who become twisted and evil.

I found the discussions regarding the newspaper, and some other practical issues, very interesting. I was saddened by the expectation of Jacob being forced away from his children and the woman he loves. I have always respected the Amish community but I wasn’t happy with the injustice of shunning one and yet allowing another forgiveness. I would have argued for a limited time of shunning if there is such a thing. Fortunately, Ms, Blair provided a satisfactory solution.

The writing flows nicely. I enjoyed the smooth narration and particularly liked some of the Amish words. The reading moved pretty seamlessly since I was engaged by the story and not the style. The narrator does a lovely job bringing the characters to life.  There were rather long silences between the chapter breaks which I found unusual, but once I knew what that was they didn’t detract from the emotional intensity of the story.

Thank you to AudioLark Audio Books for providing this book to listen to and review. I have enjoyed some other AudioLark productions and look forward to more.  Also thank you for providing an audio download copy for giveaway.

This story is set in Pennsylvania. I will add this to my ARC, New Author and Audio challenge lists.

TO ENTER THIS GIVEAWAY for AN AUDIO DOWNLOAD copy: 
 1. Visit the AudioLark website and tell me something that interests you there; something about the site or another book that you'd like in audio. This is required for entry.

2.  For an extra entry, become a follower or tell me if you are already a follower.

3. For two more entries, blog, facebook, tweet (any of those networks!) about this giveaway and tell me where you did.

It isn't necessary to use separate entries unless you want them in different chronological order.
(Four total entries possible.)

THERE WILL BE ONE WINNER.

* This contest is only open WORLDWIDE to anyone who can download an audio file.

* Limit one win per household.

* This contest will close 10 PM (Central) on April 13, 2012.
The winner will be randomly selected from all entries and announced on April 14 with 72 hours to complete the winners' form.
 

Book Review and ARC Giveaway: Believe it or Not by Tawna Fenske

This story is really great fun!

Believe It or Not
by Tawna Fenske

• Mass Market Paperback: 384 pages
• Publisher: Sourcebooks Casablanca; Original edition (March 6, 2012)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 140225718X
• ISBN-13: 978-1402257186 

      Genre:  Romantic Comedy
      My Rating: 4.25 of 5.0

Product Description
Do you believe in...accounting?
Numbers never lie, so Violet McGinn found safe haven in the most boring profession she could find. Until her renowned psychic mother lands in the hospital and Violet has to run her business. Now you can have your taxes filed and your aura read, in one convenient location.
Do you believe in...music?
Drew Watson is the jaded owner of the local hot spot next door, and doesn't need a single thing except a good crowd to dance to what he's spinning on Saturday night.
Do you believe in...love?
The only thing Violet and Drew seem to have in common is that neither believes in that psychic hoo—hah. Except Drew seems to play exactly the right song at exactly the right time. And truth be told, it makes Violet's heart dance just a little ...

Review:
Violet has returned from Portland, Maine to Portland, Oregon to help her mother, Moonbeam. Violet selected a career in accounting and moved far away to distance herself from her rather eccentric mother who is a new age, hippy type psychic.  Moonbeam fell and is in the hospital so Violet has to manage her psychic business. The problem is that Violet doesn’t really believe in psychics.  The only way she is managing the psychic appointments is with fitting clues provided by the music she hears from the neighboring bar.

Drew owns the bar that shares building space with Moonbeam’s shop/parlor.  He doesn’t believe in Moonbeam’s abilities and she complains because he has male strippers at the bar and he makes a habit of dating bimbos.  Drew is impressed with Violet’s vibrant, violet eyes but he thinks he’ll keep his distance since she seems like such a business professional; too much like his lawyer ex-wife.  And he isn’t too happy that she is going to be faking to carry on her mother’s business. For fun though he gives her a magic 8 ball to help out.

Violet thinks Drew lives an alternative lifestyle considering he runs a bar with male strippers and his main helper is “Sam.”  She is rather disappointed since she finds him very attractive!  It’s a good thing that Moonbeam’s doctor is interested in Violet and he is wholesome, healthy, single and “normal.”

The exchange between Violet and Drew is deliciously fun. She asks four questions in a row and he gives the answers in a row... which is much more fun than that sounds. They would be all over each other if they weren’t fighting the attraction so hard.

Violet has done a reading that has angered the landlord and he’s threatening to sell the building.   She’s also influenced one of Drew’s employees upsetting him and she has another reading that might effect his business. Meanwhile Moonbeam continues making mischief from her hospital room.

The writing is light and the momentum snappy.  Ms. Fenske shares a lot of humor with her quirky characters and unique plot circumstances.  My only disappointment was the ending because I wanted more multiple questions with multiple answers and more background music for psychic answers. :-)  I recommend this fun, easy story, and Ms. Fenske's first novel, Making Waves, as perfect reading to bring smiles and chuckles.



The first meeting question and answer routine (at page 9):
     He saw her blink in the dim light as she gripped the statue in one hand. “Who’s that? Are you looking for money? How did you get in here? What do you want?"
     He cocked his head to one side. “Drew. No. Key. Mice.”

A later question and answer routine (at page 289):
     Drew covered the distance to the end of the bar in just a few steps, his heart racing stupidly. “Is everything okay? Are you hurt? Drunk? Why are you here?”
     She grinned at him .... “Yes. No. No. To seduce you.” 

Thank you to Sourcebooks for this book to read and review.

This is set in Portland, Oregon for my Where Are You Reading Challenge.  I will also add it to my ARC Challenge.

TO ENTER THIS GIVEAWAY for the ARC copy: 
 1. Visit the author's website and tell me something that interests you there. This is required for entry.

2.  For an extra entry, become a follower or tell me if you are already a follower.

3. For two more entries, blog, facebook, tweet (any of those networks!) about this giveaway and tell me where you did.

It isn't necessary to use separate entries unless you want them in different chronological order.
(Four total entries possible.)

THERE WILL BE ONE WINNER.

* This contest is only open to residents of US and Canada.

* No P.O. Boxes Please - for shipping reasons.

* Limit one win per household.

* This contest will close 10 PM (Central) on April 6, 2012.
The winner will be randomly selected from all entries and announced on April 7 with 72 hours to complete the winners form.

Book Review: Assassins in Love by Kris DeLake

Can two assassins meet or work together without killing each other?

Assassins in Love

by Kris DeLake

• Mass Market Paperback: 352 pages
• Publisher: Sourcebooks Casablanca; Original edition (March 6, 2012)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 1402262825
• ISBN-13: 978-1402262821

Genre: Science Fiction Romance

My Rating: 4.25 of 5.0

Product Description
A fast, edgy, and passionate story."
—Mary Jo Putney, New York Times bestselling author

When one killer falls for another

Agent: Misha
Profile: Highly trained in every method the assassins guild has to offer. Always goes by the book.
Agent: Rikki
Profile: Rogue assassin who kills only to rid the world of hardened criminals. Hates organizations. Always does it her way.

Love becomes a matter of life and death

Misha's mission is to get Rikki to join the guild or give up her guns. He completely underestimated the effect she would have on him...and what heat and chaos they could bring to each other...

Review:

This is fun and, in my opinion, better than Mr. & Mrs Smith, which had too much anger and bitterness. This story has gentleness, mishaps and decisions to trust or not to trust.
.
Rikki is a careful and successful assassin who is picky about the jobs she accepts. She doesn’t like organizational rules but she does have her own rules to follow. She only kills hardened criminals who deserve killing and she is particular to plan and execute the assassination in zones that won’t put her in trouble.

Misha is a highly skilled assassin who has been trained by the Assassins Guild and always follows the rules.  He has been questioned about several of Rikki’s recent kills so he seeks her out to determine what is going on.  Although Rikki doesn’t remember him, he remembers her from when she was a frightened child. Misha is drawn to the vulnerability he knows exists in Rikki and he tries to convince her to come into the guild as he thinks she can be better trained and safer there.

As Rikki wrangles an escape and a run from under Misha’s nose he begins to realize that she is much more clever than he first thought. Still he manages to follow her as he is pulled by their undeniable passion. Misha shows gentleness towards Rikki and growing respect for her skills. Can they really learn to trust each other? And why is someone seeking to hire Rikki for a job that could threaten both of them?

I was surprised that the betrayal isn’t revealed until the last thirty pages of the book. But there is plenty of action and anticipation that drew me along, eager to uncover the villain.  The alien world of space crafts, robots and futuristic gadgets is well developed and interesting.  The chemistry and passion between Rikki and Misha is intense and often, but not unpleasantly graphic. The villain seemed rather obvious, although there are a couple of possible suspects. Ms. DeLake does a good job setting up twists so that it is hard for Rikki and Misha to really trust each other. I especially liked the easy and fast flow of the story. If you are in the mood for a quick, light, fun, sexy read, this is a good choice!

Thank you to Sourcebooks for this book to read and review.

Comment on the author's guest post for a chance to win a copy of this book!

Book Review and Giveaway: Steamrolled by Pauline Baird Jones

Go for a rolling ride in another delightful, action packed novel in the Project Enterprise Series.

Steamrolled

by Pauline Baird Jones

• Paperback: 454 pages
• Publisher: L & L Dreamspell (April 11, 2011)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 1603184074
• ISBN-13: 978-1603184076

Genre:  Science Fiction Romance
My Rating 5.0 of 5.0

Book Description

Publication Date: April 11, 2011

With all of time at risk, it's a bad time to fall in love...unless it's the only time... Robert Clementyne is going on a transmogrification machine hunt. He fears finding the machine will be as difficult as pronouncing the name. How can the steam-powered device perform as advertised, and how useful can any information be, coming from a steampunk themed bowling alley/museum? It's pretty crazy, but he's been there, done that, and thinks he can handle it. And then he meets the proprietor/curator...Emily Babcock. Emily grew up in crazy, still lives in it-hey, it's her freaking zip code. So no worries when Robert and his team walk into her bowling alley. The first visitors ever to her museum. But neither of them is prepared for what happens when they open the door to the past...and the future. With a side trip through Roswell...and a face-to-face meeting with an evil genius/wannabe-who is on his way to becoming evil overlord-of-everything...

Review:

This book highlights Robert Clementyne, the brother of Doc from Girl Gone Nova. Robert had been in a mental health facility on earth until Doc pulled him out and introduced some nanites to help his brain organize all the genius that he had been unable to control and express before.  Here we get to enjoy the mental conversational additions of nanites Wynken, Blynken and Nod. :-) Robert and a team from Kikk have been sent to earth to locate the transmogrification machine (from Tangled in Time.)  The team includes characters from prior books in the series: Fyn (The Key) and Carey (Tangled in Time).

We are also introduced to new characters, Ashe and Emily.  Ashe, with her sentient nanite, Lurch (once a nanite with Doc aka Morticia, resulting in Lurch’s name), is a fairly new cadet with the Time Service, designed to keep time ‘on track.’  Ashe and Lurch return from a time trip to discover the base and time seriously out of whack. Ashe is the primary hero of the final book, Kicking Ashe.

Emily is a very unusual young woman, a persona of “modified Goth mixed with Steampunk.”  She is the isolated proprietor of the museum designed around the transmogrification machine inventor’s workshop.  As a descendant of the inventor’s sister, Emily has steadfastly taken care of the museum even though there have been no visitors... until now.

But Robert’s team isn’t the only one after the machine. Dr. Smith, on orders of his ‘master’, has been sent to find the machine too. As they battle over the machine, Ashe and Lurch have their own struggles with fluctuating time.

This is another wonderful story with lots of action, intrigue, and a really evil overlord fighting with patrols of robotic-like automatrons. The author has created an imaginative, unique world and wonderfully warm, quirky characters. Once again the dialog is fun and it is delightful how Emily starts mentally thinking of Robert as “oh my darling!” (Check his last name if you don’t get this right away.)  The plot moves around a lot - past, future and time streams in between. Although this could be read alone, I think it would be much easier to follow (and more to enjoy) if you have read the prior books.

Some quotes to enjoy:

Emily had questions, but questions led to answers. Answers were a mixed bag–a baggie better kept zipped when your family inheritance could be boiled down to one word: crazy. P 41

She twisted in his hold–though not out of it he was thankful to note–bringing her mouth into a better position for kissing. ... And then she kissed him, splattering his thoughts, rather like the anomaly had tried to splatter them, but with a much better outcome. P 370.

Thank you to the author for providing another great read!

TO ENTER THIS GIVEAWAY for the signed Review copy: 

1. I sent you to visit the author's website for the giveaway of THE KEY. So for this giveaway tell me why you think you would like to read this book and or series. :-) This is required for entry.

2.  For an extra entry, become a follower (GFC, Twitter, FB, email) or tell me if you are already a follower.

3. For two more entries, blog, facebook, tweet (any of those networks!) about this giveaway and tell me where you did.

It isn't necessary to use separate entries unless you want them in different chronological order.
(Four total entries possible.)

THERE WILL BE ONE WINNER.

* This contest is only open to residents of US and Canada.

* No P.O. Boxes Please - for shipping reasons.

* This contest will close 10 PM (Central) on March 23, 2012.
The winner will be randomly selected from all entries and announced on March 24 with 72 hours to complete the winners form.
 

Book Review and Giveaway: The Key by Pauline Baird Jones

This is one of my FAVORITE series!! I am highlighting the series this week with reviews, giveaways and an author interview. If you love action, snarky humor and clean romance, don't miss the Enterprise Project series! (My followers know that I don't gush...so this is me gushing in case you don't recognize it.)

THE KEY

by Pauline Baird Jones

• Perfect Paperback: 476 pages
• Publisher: L & L Dreamspell; 1st edition (August 14, 2007)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 1603180109
• ISBN-13: 978-1603180108

Genre: "A science fiction/action adventure romance novel"
My Rating: 5.0.

Book Description
Publication Date: July 15, 2009
When Sara Donovan joins Project Enterprise she finds out that what doesn't kill her makes her stronger. An Air Force pilot - the best of the best to be assigned to this mission - Sara isn't afraid to travel far beyond the Milky Way on an assignment that takes her into a galaxy torn apart by a long and bitter warfare between the Dusan and the Gadi. After she's shot down and manages to land safely on an inhospitable planet, Sara encounters Kiernan Fyn - a seriously hot alien with a few secrets of his own - he's a member of a resistance group called the Ojemba, lead by the mysterious and ruthless Kalian. Together they must avoid capture, but can they avoid their growing attraction to each other? A mysterious, hidden city on the planet brings Sara closer to the answers she seeks - about her baffling abilities and her mother's past. She has no idea she's being pulled into the same danger her mother fled - the key to a secret left behind by a lost civilization, the Garradians. The Dusan and the Gadi want the key. So do the Ojemba. They think Sara has it. They are willing to do anything to get it. Sara will have to do anything to stop them.

Review:

Captain Sara Donovan is a top military pilot with the secret Enterprise Project.  She is sent on special assignment to a warfare battle in another galaxy. The opposing armies are searching for a “key” to a lost civilization. Sara ends up in the middle of the action when it becomes apparent that she holds some secret to the key. 

Sara is shot down on an alien planet, Kikk, where she is rescued by Fyn, a big, muscled alien, wearing leather armament and with a full head of dreads. Fyn (dubbed "Chewie" for his size - he's not that hairy) is strong and fierce but kind and ultimately protective when it comes to Sara. Sara’s team picks them up and Fyn’s apparent warrior skills are soon put to use.  As they begin to get to know each other, though keeping secrets, the battles rage around them.

Sara’s craft is pulled by a strange force into a hidden city on the Kikk planet. As she explores the buildings she touches a panel and receives some “hitchhiker” nanites. They are little sentient, computer companions to their hosts and add other (fun) characters to the stories.

I was drawn into and invested emotionally in Sara’s character. As such I was impressed with Fyn as a hero, dreads and all.  Pauline does a great job with the action scenes so you feel you are right there facing the enemies or dodging the shots around you.  She also provides humorous, snarky dialogue. There are fun military euphemisms that take the place of most of the swearing.  Sara’s usual expletive is “Dang!”

I read this two years ago but never did my review. I have to say I enjoyed remembering the story as I skimmed through to prepare this review. I think reading the series closer together would help the reader keep track of the personalities, the time stream and the enemy force. This is a series that is a keeper for me and I will enjoy reading them all again.

I did get The Key on Audible.  I wasn't crazy about the narrator at first but she grew on me.  Or better... the story became so engrossing I didn't notice any more!  That is a sign of a really good story! This is a great series for anyone who likes sci fi action, like Star Trek or Galaxy Quest (funny movie!), with a clean, warm, intergalactic romance.

Examples of fun dialogue:
Colonel Carey:
“Looks like we have another furball, playmates,” Carey said.  “Fangs out and form up on me. Let’s teach these gomers their second lesson in intergalactic etiquette.” P 83.

Sara and Fyn:
“It didn’t seem right being there without you on my six.”
.....
“I do...like your...six,” he said, his voice husky. P 387.

 Thank you to the Author for the book to enjoy and share!  

I had to add these notes from the author's website as it will give you a taste of her humor!

Author's note: Following the release of The Key realized that some readers didn't know that my series is set in the present day, in a kind of alternate reality, I guess. Unless there IS a secret project taking our people to the stars on beyond. If that's the case, it is accidentally true.

Tags: space opera; science fiction romance; alternate universe; no sex; sexual tension; mild swearing

TO ENTER THIS GIVEAWAY for the signed Review copy: 

1. Visit the author's website and tell me something that interests you there. This is required for entry.

2.  For an extra entry, become a follower (GFC, Twitter, FB, email) or tell me if you are already a follower.

3. For two more entries, blog, facebook, tweet (any of those networks!) about this giveaway and tell me where you did.

It isn't necessary to use separate entries unless you want them in different chronological order.
(Four total entries possible.)

THERE WILL BE ONE WINNER.

* This contest is only open to residents of US and Canada.

* No P.O. Boxes Please - for shipping reasons.

* This contest will close 10 PM (Central) on March 16, 2012.
The winners will be randomly selected from all entries and announced on March 17 with 72 hours to complete the winners form.
 

Audio Book Review: Grant Me Timely Grace by Timothy Woods

This is full of intrigue and peeks into what might have been happening in Washington during the Civil War days leading up to Gettysburg.

Grant Me Timely Grace

• UNABRIDGED
• by Timothy Woods
• Narrated by Andy Mack

LENGTH 16 hrs and 38 mins
AUDIBLE RELEASE DATE 09-09-11
Genre: Historical Fiction
My Rating: 4.25 of 5.0

Product Description

Washington, D.C., June 1863. It is the week before Gettysburg, and the nation's fate hangs in the balance.

A Union officer was not court-martialed after disobeying a direct order during battle. Why?

Major Russell Johns is being played by puppet-master, Gerard Chantier. Transplanted New Orleans businessman and toast of the town. Chantier hosts the city’s most lavish entertainments attended by members of Lincoln’s cabinet and Washington’s elite.

Little do they know Gerard is coordinating an attack with Confederate general JEB Stuart's cavalry to take over the city, kidnap Lincoln and bring victory to the South.

When Russell’s probing brings him in contact with Chantier's daughter, Thérèse, he has to face his most difficult moral choice: manipulating her to get to her father or honoring the one thing that has sustained him through years of battle and loss—his own integrity.

Review:
The Civil War history is woven into this fictional drama so skillfully that I had to wonder which parts were completely real and which were all fiction. I thoroughly enjoyed the historical aspects.

Major Russell Johns has been sent out of battle, which is his passion, back to desk work. Someone exposed his letters to his father in which he ranted against the inferior weapons the Union leaders were providing to the troops. His father has been forced out of Washington and Major Johns is trying to overcome the disgrace of his near court-martial.

Johns gets caught up with his friend Paul and the wealthy Chantier family. Johns doesn’t belong in this elite and privileged social set but the young and impetuous daughter, Therese, has taken a clear liking to him. Johns begins to investigate improper weapons accounting and soon suspects there is much more than just normal government mismanagement. The more he searches the more he finds that much of the rumors and business dealings revolve around the wealthy Gerald Chantier. What he doesn’t realize at first is the extent of secrets and spies that surround him.

Chantier acts the benevolent patron of the Union while he secretly plots to bring down the capital city itself. Meanwhile, James, his life long friend and a former slave, is working to train a black militia to help defend the city. James is also struggling under the weight of guilt for a past betrayal that he can’t decide if he should confess.

While all of the political and military moves are going on, Therese has decided to assert her freedom of will.  She breaks off her arranged engagement to a British operative who is another spy tied up with her father. She is seeking more information from James about her mother’s past and she goes so far as to sell jewelry so she will have money not controlled by her father. What Therese doesn’t realize though is that her rather nasty friend, Rachel, is the biggest spy monger and will use anyone to further her own ends. Rachel is a character you can quickly dislike.

There is plenty of intrigue that kept me interested in the story. I was invested in Johns’ behavior, wanting things to go well for him and wanting him to capture the bad guys and save the day. Things don’t always work out perfectly but it is a believable and realistic ending.

The narration reading is a little dry and the beginning was just a bit slow. However the more the story moved on the more engrossed I became.  The narrator does a good job with many of the voices although I thought the female accents were a bit inconsistent, weak and whiny. Then again... that was part of Therese’s personality.  All in all, this is an engaging story and well worth listening to especially if you love Civil War settings, like I do.  I will watch for more books from this author.

I received this book from Crossroad Press through the Review Program at Audiobook Jukebox.

Book Review and ARC Giveaway: The Rook by Daniel O'Malley

This book is suspenseful, strange and engaging!

The Rook 
by Daniel O'Malley

• Hardcover: 496 pages
• Publisher: Little, Brown and Company (January 11, 2012)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0316098795
• ISBN-13: 978-0316098793

Genre:  Fantasy, Thriller
My Rating:  4.25 of 5.0

Book Description
Publication Date: January 11, 2012
"The body you are wearing used to be mine." So begins the letter Myfanwy Thomas is holding when she awakes in a London park surrounded by bodies all wearing latex gloves. With no recollection of who she is, Myfanwy must follow the instructions her former self left behind to discover her identity and track down the agents who want to destroy her.

She soon learns that she is a Rook, a high-ranking member of a secret organization called the Chequy that battles the many supernatural forces at work in Britain. She also discovers that she possesses a rare, potentially deadly supernatural ability of her own.

In her quest to uncover which member of the Chequy betrayed her and why, Myfanwy encounters a person with four bodies, an aristocratic woman who can enter her dreams, a secret training facility where children are transformed into deadly fighters, and a conspiracy more vast than she ever could have imagined.

Filled with characters both fascinating and fantastical, THE ROOK is a richly inventive, suspenseful, and often wry thriller that marks an ambitious debut from a promising young writer.

Review:

This is a good thriller with very unique and strange characters.

Myfanwy Thomas wakes up and doesn’t know who she is until she finds a letter in her pocket. The letter starts “The body you are wearing used to be mine.” Thus begins a learning process for Myfanwy to learn about her former life and job. This is no easy task since “Thomas”, as she dubs her former self, is a Rook and the administrator for a very secretive government agency that hides supernatural creatures and events from the public and battles supernatural forces. Each team operative has their own supernatural ability to aid the organization.

Myfanwy quickly becomes immersed in on the job training with some help from a handy notebook prepared for her by Thomas. The notebook defines the organization, identifies the other operatives by name, title, responsibility, super power and personality quirks. Myfanwy doesn’t even know her own unique gifts until she accidentally uses them and begins to learn to expand and control them.

While Thomas was super organized she was also obsessively plain, neutral and timid. She had learned not to touch as she apparently can injure or even kill another person with just a touch. Although Myfanwy can dress like Thomas she has a hard time being timid. She is ready to face any challenge, the biggest one being  to discover who wiped out her memory and why. This task is extra difficult since she has no idea who, if anyone, she can trust.

The team of operatives is soon faced with an ancient foe, The Grafters. Hundreds of years before they were creatures that were mostly blobs that were sent to take over a portion of England. They were defeated and thought to have been destroyed. Instead it appears that some survived and have become a dangerous group that grafts themselves into new forms and is infiltrating the Organization.

I really enjoyed the way the author sets up the discovery of information through Thomas’ letters and notebook. There were occasions when characters were introduced through a scene before they were disclosed by Thomas’ information. This caused a little confusion as I had to flip back a few chapters later to make sure who the character was.

I loved Myfanwy’s character with her bravery, determination and growing, or emerging, strengths. I also enjoyed discovering her quirky allies and laughed at many of the crazy enemies and scenarios that Myfanwy stumbles into. The mystery is full of suspects and twists that kept me eager to read as I wondered what would happen next. This is a fun and different read that is a good break from romance reading!

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Thank you to Little Brown and Co. for this book to read and review.
This book is set in London, England for my Where Are You Reading challenge.  This will also go on my ARC and New Author challenge lists.


TO ENTER THIS GIVEAWAY for the ARC copy:

1. Visit the author site and tell me something of interest you found there.  This is required for entry.

2. For an extra entry, become a follower or tell me if you are already a follower.

3.  For two entries, blog, facebook, tweet (any of those networks!) about this giveaway and tell me where you did.

It isn't necessary to use separate entries unless you want them in different chronological order.
(Four total entries possible.)

* This contest is only open to residents of US and Canada.

* This contest will close 10 PM (Central) on February 10, 2012.
The winner will be randomly selected from all entries.
The WINNER WILL BE ANNOUNCED on February 11. 
Winners will have 72 hours to respond by email or the winners form linked in the announcement.