Audible Book Review: Ghost Hunter by Jayne Castle

A good paranormal romance but not such a great listen.

Ghost Hunter

Written by: Jayne Castle

• Narrated by: Laural Merlington
• Length: 9 hrs and 18 mins 
• • Series: Ghost Hunters, Book 3
• Format: Unabridged


Release Date:10-17-08
Publisher: Brilliance Audio

Genre: Paranormal Romance

My Rating: 3.75 of 5.0

Publisher's Summary
Where deadly energy ghosts lurk in the ruins of an ancient alien civilization.
Where dust bunnies prove to be loyal pets.
And where a ghost hunter will discover that a woman's heart is the most dangerous adversary of all...
Local Guild boss and powerful ghost-hunter Cooper Boone is everything botanist Elly St. Clair could ask for - the handsome, strong, and silent type. Maybe too silent. For when Guild secrets threaten her career at the college, Elly has to call off their marriage - and leave small-town life behind...
But starting over in the thriving metropolis of Cadence City isn't easy, especially when one of Elly's new friends disappears in the eerie catacombs beneath the streets. Cooper turns up just in time to help Elly investigate. And as the mystery deepens and dangerous ghost myths and legends come to light, Cooper makes it clear he intends to stick around - and this time he's holding nothing back...
(P)2006 Brilliance Audio, Inc.

Review:
Elly often feels like an underachiever in her family of strong psi-gifted family of ghost hunters. Elly does have a psi-gift but it is with plants which even her family, not to mention the professionals, discount as a form of madness. Because of her family, Elly is a prime marital catch for anyone looking to gain position and influence in her local guild. Elly became engaged to Cooper because she was immediately attracted to him. However, Cooper is the new Guild boss and is often too busy to spend time with her. He has canceled several dates and has barely kissed her during their six month engagement. When Elly learns that Cooper basically fought a duel over her she is concerned about the scandal. She is even more concerned when Cooper shows little interest or understanding of her feelings. She feels the best way to get over him, or maybe stir his emotions if possible, is to move away.

Six months later Cooper shows up in Elly’s new community claiming to have some business to take care of. Cooper has always been focused and driven to reach his goals. He succeeded in business and now he has to find a way to succeed in his personal and emotional life. He isn’t ready to tell Elly that she is his important business but he is ready to try to win her back. Fortunately he has arrived just in time to use his skills to help her find a missing friend in the dangerous catacombs and tunnels that exist underground, left behind from a prior alien society.

I thought this series, with extra sensory skills and archaeological elements would be interesting. I enjoyed the mystery, danger and the romantic conflict and although there are some fun features -the dust bunnies - I wasn’t overly impressed with this one. That may have been due to the narration which was a bit of a whine for me or it may be that my tastes are shifting from romance to more action and suspense.

I have enjoyed a number of romances, contemporary and historical and some paranormal stories by Ms Castle (aka Jayne Krentz, aka Amanda Quick). I will give the first book in this series a try just to make sure.

Audio Notes: I was disappointed with this narrator who made the whole reading sound too blaise or too whiney. It detracted from the story this time as I see that I liked the story elements but was glad when I finished the audio.

I've had this in my Audible library for a while. 

Book Review and Giveaway: Accidentally Married to...A Vampire? by Mimi Jean Pamfiloff

This is the second in this fun, very sassy series.

Accidentally Married to...A Vampire? (Accidentally Yours)
by Mimi Jean Pamfiloff

• Series: Accidentally Yours
• Mass Market Paperback: 384 pages
• Publisher: Forever (November 19, 2013)
• ISBN-10: 1455546941
• ISBN-13: 978-1455546947

Genre: Paranormal Romance
My Rating: 4.25 of 5.0

Book Description
Publication Date: March 5, 2013
This is book 2 in the New York Times and USA Today bestselling paranormal romance Accidentally Yours series.

"If you love her, set her free. If she comes back, she's yours. If she doesn't...Christ! Stubborn woman! Hunt her down, and bring her the hell back; she's still yours according to vampire law."

- Niccolo DiConti, General of the Vampire Queen's Army.

After a three-century "time out," legendary vampire Niccolo DiConti vows to fulfill an ancient prophecy and, along the way, defeat the demented queen of the damned. All he has to do is find his human mate, seduce her into agreeing to become a vampire, and bond her to him forever. Luckily, he's handsome, charming, and mind-blowing in bed. How hard could this be?

On vacation in sultry Mexico, biologist Helena Strauss makes the discovery of a lifetime when she meets Niccolo-and finds herself caught in a world of supernatural secrets and dangerous delights. Even more shocking is that he seems to know everything about her and claims her as his true immortal companion. Sure, she can't take her eyes-or mouth-off this gorgeous, perfect being. But can a hot-blooded gal like her really settle down with a cold-hearted vampire?

Review:
Helena is a young biologist who gets stranded in the Mexican jungle where she ends up discovering a god-like naked man in a cave. She is compelled to kiss him, awakening Niccolo.  He claims that she is his destined mate, they are bonded and he will protect her so they can be together forever. And he means forever, even though Helena doesn’t realize that right away.

Helena has been too busy for dating but she is thrilled with her attraction to the very hunkie Niccolo. She is even more interested after he saves her from attack outside of the cave.  Niccolo sends her home with promises to call, leaving her to wonder what is going on. When Niccolo shows up a few weeks later to rescue her again she is still wondering but can’t deny the overwhelming attraction. She allows him to sweep her off her feet and put her on a plane to New York with more promises of explanation, seduction and a wedding. Only he doesn’t show up and she has to wait under guard.

Niccolo is a thousand year old vampire who wants to escape the control of his wicked queen without dying. He made a pact with the goddess Cimil who claimed that only his future bonding to a pure human could win him freedom.  But he has to follow all the rules which include not explaining anything to the woman until he marries her. They must marry three months after they meet and only after the woman has voluntarily agreed to transform. He just can’t figure out how to control his lust for Helena without explaining anything to her so he has been staying away. But that makes it doubly difficult to woo her and convince her to stay.

Helena decides enough is enough and plots out an escape from the lonely apartment. She is followed by Andrus who claims he can help dissolve the bond between her and Niccolo. Along the way Helena discovers that Niccolo is a vampire and Andrus is something else although she isn’t quite sure if he is good or bad.

Andrus is a demigod whose job is to kill evil vampires. He doesn’t much care if he mistakes a few good ones, like Niccolo and his men, along the way. His goal is to kidnap Helena to lure Niccolo into bringing the twisted vampire queen to Andrus so he can kill her. There are many problems with this revenge idea but he is blind to all of it except seeking freedom.

The connection between Helena and Niccolo sizzles but can’t be explained or consummated because of ‘the rules.’ It is fun to see how Niccolo responds to modern phrases and technology after being asleep for 300 years. Andrus seems like another trapped soul who was designed to do good but has allowed his hatred to twist his actions. The crazy goddess Cimil has to step in a few times to run interference to protect her plan and the world. I appreciate the clever way that Ms. Pamfiloff has tied the characters and the details to work from beginning to end through the twisted plot. I enjoyed the first story Accidentally in Love With ...a God? and once again I enjoyed the humor that underlies the entire story. This is a lively, fun and fast read and can work fine as a stand alone.

I received this book from Hachette for review, Book Feature and Giveaway.

Excerpt from Accidentally Married to…A Vampire? by Mimi Jean Pamfiloff (11/19)

     Helena’s tense body swooned when the force of his lips met hers. He pulled her greedily into his hard frame and moved his strong hands to grip her waist. It felt like he had claimed her as his personal prize. It felt euphoric. Owned by a sex god!
     Wait! What the hell am I doing? She broke the kiss and pushed him away again. “This is insane. I don’t know who you are or how I got here, but you have to let me go. You have the wrong person.”
     He smiled devilishly. “Afraid not, my dear Helena. Fate has united us.”
     Helena raised her brow in question.
     “However, you are correct, bella. This is insanity. And as much as I would like to show you the depths of my lunacy—and the things it is asking me to do to your succulent body at this very moment—we must go. Before they come for me.”
     That sounded ominous. “Who are ‘they’?” Wait. Did she want to know?
     “It is forbidden to speak of such things to a human, but I vow the day will come when there will be no secrets between us.” The naked warrior held out his hand. “Come, mio cuore.”
     Helena shivered. Something about that explanation left her feeling substantially more terrified. Why couldn’t humans know? And what exactly was he? If the scientist in her had no answers, then better not stick around to find out.
     Helena nodded. She took his hand—it was cool to the touch, yet heated her skin at the same time—and followed him through the chamber toward the doorway. As they reached the passage, Helena nonchalantly dipped down and grabbed a golden statue. It reminded her of an Oscar. In fact, she could swear there was an inscription on its base.
     Sally Field? Too dark to know for certain.
     She quickly jumped and struck Niccolo in the back of his head with all her strength. He stumbled to the side. She squeezed past him down the passage.
     The moment she burst from the temple into the night, the stupidity of her plan hit home. How far could she get?
     At least he was barefoot, bare everything—sigh—and she still had on her low-tops. That might give her the advantage. Question was, would she find her way back to civilization? She had to try.
     Helena pushed frantically with her hands through rough branches and vines. They lashed at her face and scratched her arms and legs. She ran straight into a tree trunk.
     She cupped her nose. Ow! That hurt!
     Thankfully, it wasn’t broken.
     She slid around the enormous tree, panting and sweating. She continued on with her hands extended, wondering if running through the jungle, unable to see a goddamned thing, was actually more dangerous than trying her luck with that man. Were there any cliffs around here?
     Helena tripped and landed on her knees, reopening the cut. “Son of a—” She cupped her hands over her mouth. She quickly picked herself up and slammed right into something hard again. Another tree? She probed hesitantly with her hands.
     Nope. Not a tree.
     “Well, well…What have we here?” said a deep, unfamiliar voice.
     Helena screamed.
     Two steel hands grasped her shoulders. “Hush, hush, now…” The voice was low and menacing.
     She couldn’t see so much as an outline of a body or face. “Who the hell are you?”
     “I go by Rodrigo. You may call me ‘Lucky.’ It’s been eons since I’ve dined on such a pure Forbidden, and your fresh blood smells…”—he paused and inhaled deeply—“divine.”
     Yes. Running away had been a bad choice. Helena kicked and fought, but whatever held her was a thousand times stronger. She suddenly felt his hot tongue run down her neck.
     “Ummm. Delicious.”
     He tasted her? Holy s*%#! “Let me go!” Helena shrieked. The man wrapped his unyielding arms around her waist and crushed her into his body.
     “Release her, Rodrigo.” Niccolo’s deep voice sliced through the night like a welcome knife. “Or I will rip out your entrails and force you to swallow them. Repeatedly.”
     Rodrigo froze, but did not loosen his painful grip on her body. Like a caveman trying to hold on to a drumstick, she thought.
     “So, the anonymous tip was right.” Rodrigo’s voice was filled with arrogance. “You’re just the vampire we’ve been looking for.”
     Vampire? Did he just say “vampire”? Helena’s frazzled body took what little energy it had left to resist fainting. She shook her head.
     “And, let me compliment your fashionable attire, my friend. Is naked the new black?” said Rodrigo.
     Apparently, the two men could see each other. That figures; all monsters can see in the dark.
     “I am uncertain of what happened to the old black while I have been indisposed,” Niccolo replied flatly. “But I have no interest in indulging your urges to discuss my legendary body. I do, however, want you to let my woman go.”
     My woman?

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Audible Book Review: Third Grave Dead Ahead by Darynda Jones

The beginning of this was a little too focused on sensual aspects for my tastes, but the second half was non-stop fun listen.

Third Grave Dead Ahead
by Darynda Jones
    
Narrated by Lorelei King
        Series: Charley Davidson, Book 3
    LENGTH    9 hrs and 51 mins
    RELEASE DATE    01-31-12
    PUBLISHER    Macmillan Audio

Genre: Paranormal, Romantic Suspense
My Rating: 4.25 of 5.0

Publisher's Summary

Third in the award-winning paranormal series that’s “hilarious and heartfelt, sexy and surprising.” (J.R. Ward)

Paranormal private eye. Grim reaper extraordinaire. Whatever. Charley Davidson is back in Darynda Jones' Third Grave Dead Ahead! And she’s drinking copious amounts of caffeine to stay awake because, every time she closes her eyes, she sees him: Reyes Farrow, the parthuman, part-supermodel son of Satan. Yes, she did imprison him for all eternity, but come on. How is she supposed to solve a missing persons case, deal with an ego-driven doctor, calm her curmudgeonly dad, and take on a motorcycle gang hellbent on murder when the devil’s son just won’t give up?

Review:
This is the third Charley Davidson book continuing her misadventures as the Grim Reaper and a private eye. This third story actually has three investigations although two are primary and one is on the periphery.

The first case involves finding a missing wife. Although the supposedly concerned husband brings the case to her, Charley doesn’t actually accept the case on his behalf since she believes the husband is responsible for the disappearance. Charley starts looking for the missing lady and then accepts the case on behalf of the woman’s angry brother, who has been brought in by the other worried, and ill, sister. Charley’s investigation leads her to determine the husband is a control freak who most likely got away with killing his first wife. She is determined to find the wife before she turns up as a ghost.

The second matter tying up Charley’s time is the most dangerous. Her dream lover, Reyes, the son of Satan, escapes prison and kidnaps Charley. He wants her aid to find the step-father he was convicted of killing but now believes to be alive. Charley soon discovers a trail of dead, and dying witnesses, as she courts danger in the investigation. The cops are tailing her, either to keep  Reyes from making contact or to protect her. Having the cop tales isn’t likely to protect her since she tends to evade them, even Garrett, the skip tracer who has learned her secrets and has appointed himself as a protector.

The third investigation involves the biker gang that occupy the abandoned building that Charley sneaks into to talk to her crazy friend Rocket. Rocket is always busy cataloguing deaths by writing the names on the walls. Charley can usually rely on him to let her know when someone she is looking for is dead or still alive. Charley always had to sneak into the building as she wanted to avoid the biker gang and their large guard dogs. Turns out they knew about her and they want her to help find the person who is poisoning their dogs.

An interesting line in this story is a prediction that Charley would be the cause of a death that would result in a new protector for her. Charley is distressed to think she is the cause of deaths around her and she is concerned who this latest victim might be.

I didn’t enjoy the beginning of this book as it seemed too focused on the sexual aspects between Charley and Reyes. However after a bit the story shifts to the craziness of the investigations and I enjoyed the snarkiness that is Charley’s trademark.  Darynda Jones does a wonderful job of surprising the reader with last minute twists in the plotlines. I am looking forward to book four and more adventures and snark!

Audio Notes: It still surprises me how good a job Lorelei King does with the characters, nailing their accents and characters. She makes it a joy to listen to this series.

This was a selection from my own Audible Library.

Book Review: Accidentally In Love With...A God? by Mimi Jean Pamfiloff

Fast paced - a little crazy but a fun read.

Accidentally In Love With...A God? 
(Accidentally Yours)
by Mimi Jean Pamfiloff

• File Size: 1217 KB
• Print Length: 405 pages
• Page Numbers Source ISBN: 1455546925
• Publisher: Forever (March 5, 2013)
• Sold by: Hachette Book Group
• ASIN: B00BHHHQMU

Genre: Paranormal Romance
My Rating: 4.25 of 5.0

Book Description
Publication Date: March 5, 2013
Trapped for decades, a powerful god seeks freedom . . . and revenge. But the only thing that can save him is the passion of a woman's touch . . . 

Emma Keane is your average city girl trying to get a date. There's just one thing holding her back: the disembodied male voice speaking to her through her mind. Sound kind of crazy? Maybe. But crazy turns downright deadly when the voice persuades her to travel to the wilds of the Mayan jungle. There she will free his body-his incredibly hot, muscled, naked body.

Humans are so frail, so undisciplined, so susceptible to love. And when this ancient being connects with Emma, the feelings she sparks drive him utterly mad. Protective, keep-her-close, never-let-her-go kind of mad. Which might not be such a bad thing because from the moment the beautiful, passionate Emma unshackles his body, they are hunted at every turn. Now he'll have to do everything in his power to keep her safe. But will it be enough?

Review:
Emma Keane is a young woman who would love to start some intimate dating. Problem is that she has trouble ignoring the very sexy male voice that speaks through her mind...especially when he tells her all the reasons not to encourage a guy. And darned if “Guy” in her head hasn’t been right such as warning her away from that handsome fellow who turned out to be a serial killer! Still he is an annoying distraction and needs to go.

It is really hard dealing with this man-voice, “Guy” as she has dubbed him, who was a friend when she was a child and an irritant as she has grown older. “Guy” convinces Emma that the only way to get rid of him is to travel to Mexico and free him where he has been trapped in a Mayan jungle. She agrees to the crazy idea with promises of explanations of how he was trapped and how he can talk to her.

Although Emma manages to free Guy, he isn’t too good about providing explanations. Other than learning that he is a gorgeous god – not The God but still ‘a god’ and isn’t that just wild? – she has learned little other than that he is irritatingly arrogant. Getting any more information out of him is frustrating so she begins to rely on others around her like the body guard assigned to protect her, Tommaso.

Guy has a special bond to Emma and has sworn to keep her safe, even from herself. He is entranced by her but knows that gods can’t mix with humans. He should let her go to live a free life but he can’t do that until he knows that she is safe... and even then... he doesn’t really want to let her go. And seeing her show interest in another man, especially Tommaso, is raising all sorts of ire for the god of death and war!

Emma can be a bit ditzy and irrational. I can excuse some of that on the confusion of having a man talking in your head most of your life. The mixed messages from Guy - sexy hot one minute and coldly indifferent the next - add to Emma’s unsteady emotions. There is danger posed by horrible, black, scabby, evil priests and an unknown god who seeks Emma for his own evil purposes. Not to mention a traitor in Guy’s secret, special guards.

There was a bit of sexual innuendo that I could skip and once or twice the shift from first person (Emma) to third (Guy’s chapters) was distracting. In spite of getting a bit frustrated with the on again, off again feelings and Emma’s tendency to rash emotions, I did enjoy this is fun, fast paced read.

I received this title from Hachette, through NetGalley, for an honest review, Blitz and Giveaway -- See next post!

About Mimi Jean Pamfiloff

Before taking up a permanent residence in the San Francisco Bay Area, Mimi spent time living near NYC (became a shopaholic), in Mexico City (developed a taste for very spicy food), and Arizona (now hates jumping chollas, but pines for sherbet sunsets). Her love of pre-Hispanic culture, big cities, and romance inspires her to write when she's not busy with kids, hubby, work, and life...or getting sucked into a juicy novel.

She hopes that someday leather pants for men will make a big comeback and that her writing might make you laugh when you need it most.

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Book Review and ARC Giveaway: My Lady Quicksilver by Bev McMaster

This has great, strong characters and wonderful relationship tension.
My Lady Quicksilver
by Bec McMaster

• Mass Market Paperback: 448 pages
• Publisher: Sourcebooks Casablanca (October 1, 2013)
• ISBN-10: 140227033X
• ISBN-13: 978-1402270338

Genre: Steampunk, Fantasy Romance
My Rating: 4.5 of 5.0

Book Description
Publication Date: October 1, 2013
"Deftly blends elements of Steampunk and vampire romance with brilliantly successful results...darkly atmospheric and delectably sexy."—Booklist Starred Review for Kiss of Steel
In the mist-shrouded streets of a steam-fueled London, a clockwork army is on the rise, vampire blue bloods rule the streets, and war is brewing...
I Will Come For You...
He will find her no matter what. As a blue-blooded captain of the Nighthawk Guard, his senses are keener than most. Some think he's indestructible. But once he finds the elusive Mercury, what will he do with her?

It's his duty to turn her in—she's a notorious spy and traitor. But after one stolen moment, he can't forget the feel of her in his arms, the taste of her, or the sharp sting of betrayal as she slipped off into the night. Little does Mercury know, no one hunts better than the Nighthawk. And his greatest revenge will be to leave her begging for his touch...

Review:
Mercury is a leader of the humanist rebellion against the powerful, blood sucking Echelon. She was raised to be a spy and an assassin. When her brutal, blue-blood, father slaughtered her beloved husband in front of her she managed to escape his clutches, along with her brothers. Her older brother, Jack, is frail due to the experiments and tortures of their father. Her younger brother, Jeremy, had gotten into the wrong crowd of machinists and has been missing since Mercury foiled the machinists plan to bomb the Echelon leadership.

Mercury has her own mechanical arm that was cut off trying to free her husband. The arm was then replaced by expert biotechs engaged by her father. Although Mercury sympathizes with the machinists, she did not agree they were ready for the all out war that would follow a vicious attack against the Echelon. Still she continues with her plans to face the brutal Coldrush guards of the Echelon. But her activities are being investigated by Lynch, “The Nighthawk” himself, who is the head of the Nighthawks, the rogue, outcast blue-bloods who serve as spies and enforcers for the Echelon along with the guard.

Mercury is distracted from her own revenge efforts while seeking news of the whereabouts of Jeremy. Mercury goes undercover as Rosalind, an able and determined secretarial assistant.  She convinces Lynch to engage her and they begin a careful, but oh-so dangerous, dance. The more Rosalind gets to know Lynch the more she respects him, even knowing he is the enemy. She knows she shouldn’t grow close but this is the first time her senses have been stirred–even her heart– since her husband’s death.
Lynch feels a growing attraction for Rosalind but he is confused by his lustful reaction to the seductive play of Mercury. He is having a hard time keeping his usual cold, controlled demeanor while challenged by two attractive, but both unattainable, women.

Lynch is given an ultimatum by the Prince Consort: he has two weeks to bring in Mercury for execution or submit himself in her place. But how can he turn over a woman who makes him feel alive?

There is plenty of action in addition to the deceptive intrigue as Lynch and his team, with Rosalind in tow to take notes, investigate the sudden rampaging and killing of loved ones and households among several Echelon leaders.  The reader knows that Rosalind is going toeventually get caught and exposed as Mercury. The fun is getting there and learning how Lynch reacts!

I enjoy the steampunk elements in this series and the strong characters. I really loved the intrigue and sensual play throughout this book. It kept my attention riveted waiting to see the next step or play in the game.

Although I recommend this whole series I think this could be read as a stand alone and it is my favorite so far. I read two of the prior books and missed one. I think the background was sufficiently recounted to identify the players and how they got where they are. There are still characters who have stories waiting, and I am especially interested to learn what happens to Barrons and to the ongoing battle between humanists and the Echelon.

I received the ARC from Sourcebooks for an honest reviewing.

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Audio Book Review: Hearts of Shadow, A Deadglass Novel, Book 2, by Kira Brady

I really like the protagonists and the intensity in this story.
Hearts of Shadow
A Deadglass Novel, The Deadglass Trilogy, book 2
By Kira Brady
Read by Xe Sands

Length 10.0 hrs • UNABRIDGED
Publisher: 2013 by Blackstone Audio, Inc. Genre: Paranormal Romance
My Rating: 4.25 of 5.0

Publisher/Date: Blackstone Audio, 05/07/13
In this brilliant new novel in the Deadglass series, a fierce young woman’s quest entangles her in an apocalyptic endgame—and unexpected desire.

Grace Mercer’s unmatched wraith-killing ability made her the unofficial defender of a city shattered by supernatural catastrophe. So there’s no way she’ll allow the new regent of Seattle’s most powerful dragon-shifter clan to “protect” her from a vicious evil stalking the ruined streets or keep her from the freedom she’s risked everything to earn.

Leif’s science-honed instincts tell him Grace is the key to keeping shifters and humans safe, but helping this wary fighter channel her untapped power is burning away the dragon’s sensual self-control and putting a crucial alliance at risk. Soon the only chance Leif and Grace will have to save their world will be a dangerously fragile link that could forever unite their souls—or consume everything in a storm of destruction.
© 2013 by Kira Brady

Review:
Grace is a human girl whose world fell apart when demons were unleashed destroying the city (the first book). Post apocalyptic Seattle is now under the control of a powerful dragon-shifter clan, the Drekar, with an uneasy alliance–maybe–with a Native American shifter clan, the Kivati, and the extremely prejudiced human authorities. As these leaders juggle power and control, the city and their people are facing attacks from zombie humans who are being possessed by demon wraiths.

Leif is the reluctant leader of the dragon-shifters. He would rather be working on experiments in his laboratory and has been neglecting his ruling duties, or leaving them to his female high counselor, Zetian.

Grace was pulled into the control of the dragon-shifters by Sven, Leif’s manipulative and cruel brother. Sven had Grace trained as a warrior-assassin but he also made her a bond slave and used her. It wasn’t rape but lies and misguided adoration that had her in the position of a sexual partner. Grace soon learned to hate her bondage and will take on any fight to earn her way to freedom.

No one understands fully why Grace is such a powerful wraith killer although they believe part of her power is reflected by the rune tattoos that cover her lithe body. Leif is fascinated by the young woman and wants to protect her. He doesn’t know how to release the slave bond so she must continue to work off the debt. But when he forbids her to fight he unintentionally takes away her source of earnings.

The three jostling powers are threatened by a power hungry, love thwarted demi-god. As the clans struggle to find the artifacts that will defeat the demi-god, Leif struggles to get Grace to succumb, by her free choice, to their passion. Grace believes that the dragon-shifters are soulless and she has the horrible past betrayal to teach her not to trust one. But Leif continues to assault her with honor and kindness. Can the dragon and human find love and break a curse that legend says has stolen the dragon soul?

This story is very engaging with lots of action as Grace individually, and with others including the powerful dragon, Leif, battle paranormal beings and body stealing wraiths. There is quite a bit of pagan legend, including an Ishtar brothel, that has a prominent place in the story. It seemed that the mythological and pagan elements were extremely well researched and consistent for the background of the battles that rage. There is good description and development of the settings, intense action and romance. The passion is lovely with Leif’s integrity and devotion which I liked. I also  really liked the strength of Grace’s character, especially as she overcomes her past insecurities and betrayals.

Audio Notes: I enjoyed the narration by Xe Sands. I felt that she portrayed Grace exceedingly on point, in intensity, frustrations and fierceness. She also did a good job getting the other characters with different voices and capturing their respectful, or not, attitudes. I'm interested to see what other stories she narrates.

I recommend this story as an entertaining, fast paced, listen.

I received this MP3 download from Blackstone Audio through AudioBook Jukebox.

Book #Review and ARC #Giveaway: The Magic of I Do by Tammy Falkner

A fun read especially for those who like a sensual focus.
The Magic of I Do
by Tammy Falkner

• Mass Market Paperback: 320 pages
• Publisher: Sourcebooks Casablanca (June 4, 2013)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 1402268157
• ISBN-13: 978-1402268151

Genre: Paranormal, Historical Romance
My Rating: 3.75 of 5.0

Book Description
Release date: June 4, 2013

Desperately Seeking Excitement...

With the temporary prohibition on magic on the land of the Fae, Claire Thorne might as well go back to the Regency world. The haut ton has just as many annoying rules as her world, but at least they have parties and dances. Plus, the roguish Lord Phineas "Finn" Trimble is there...

When the feisty faerie tumbles into his room through a magical portal, Finn can't believe how completely unpredictable she is. Even before the two stumble into a dangerous intrigue that threatens both their worlds, Finn discovers that his hitherto carefree life is about to go up in smoke...

Review:
Claire Thorne is a rather spoiled fairy. She has had an easy life in her fairy world but now that she is struggling with anger at her sister for marrying a human and for learning that her parents abandoned her as an infant and have lived in the human world since then. It doesn’t matter that it wasn’t their fault that they broke the rules with their mixed human to fairy marriage and the fairy authorities took the fae children and wiped their memories. She still blames them for letting her be raised without the full benefit of family.

Her parents and sister’s family are visiting the fairy world and hoping to change the rules regarding the mixed marriage situation. During a temper fit Claire propels herself back to the human world into the bedroom of the handsome rouge, Lord Phineas. They had shared one night of passion when he was supposed to be keeping her safe for his brother, Robin, Claire’s brother-in-law. He should have protected her innocense but compromised her instead. She went along with it willingly enough but warned him that she wouldn’t fall in love with him and he mustn’t fall in love with her.

Well– that night has left its consequences and Claire is scared to tell anyone, fae or human, of her dilemma. But she needs to figure out a solution pretty quickly before her problem becomes obvious. She also needs to stay out of the reach of the smarmy, cruel Earl of Mayden who seeks revenge against Finn and Robin.

I wasn’t enthralled with either Claire or Finn in the early pages of the book as they seemed selfish and self-centered. Fortunately their characters became more complex, softer, more loyal and likeable as the story progressed. I did like Claire’s magical gift through her art and thought that was a good touch.

I have to say though that a big part of this story is the sexual pull and play between Claire and Finn. I waited about half the book hoping there would be a larger plot. There is the danger posed by Mayden and a bit of the history of Claire’s family, but it is the smaller part of the whole presentation. The writing is light and sassy and this is an easy read. There was just too much emphasis on sex for my tastes.

This was the second in a series but read fine without having read the first book. This would be good for readers who like their romance centered on the sensual story of the romance.

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

Here is where the danger begins:

   “What the devil do you think you’re doing?” Finn hissed as he circled around her.
   “Dancing, my lord.”...
   “Don’t play with that man, Claire,” he warned.
   Claire had no intention of playing with the earl. She intended to expose him. To ease some of Finn’s burden, if she could. He deserved a life free of men who wanted to do him harm. She could want to do him harm all day long, but no one else could hurt him, blast it all. Page 158.

I received this book from Sourcebooks for an honest review.

ENTER THIS GIVEAWAY for the ARC Copy:

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For 3 Extra Bonus entries Visit the author's website and tell me something you find of interest.

* This contest is open to those with US or CANADA address.
* This contest will close 10 PM (Central) on June 30, 2012.
The winner will be randomly selected from all entries.
WINNERS WILL BE ANNOUNCED on July 1, 2012.
Winners will have 72 hours to respond by email or the winners form linked in the announcement.

Book Review and ARC Giveaway: Undone by Sara Humphreys

Another enjoyable paranormal romance with intrigue and action.
Undone (The Amoveo Legend)
by Sara Humphrey 

• Mass Market Paperback: 288 pages
• Publisher: Sourcebooks Casablanca (May 7, 2013)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 1402258526
• ISBN-13: 978-1402258527

Genre: Paranormal Romance
My Rating: 4.25 of 5.0

Book Description
Release date: May 7, 2013 | Series: The Amoveo Legend
The Amoveo are shapeshifting animal clans who live secretly among humans and must find their pre-destined soul mates while avoiding the enemy that seeks to destroy them all.
Party girl Marianna Coltari is an unmated pureblood Amoveo who wants nothing to do with the ongoing war that took her father's life and continues to consume her brother Dante's. But when she is targeted by one of the clans, she has little choice but to run and hide in a cabin with Pete Castro, a retired cop from her brother's security firm. There, Pete and Marianna explore an intensifying attraction between them until danger is at the door and there's no escape.

Review:
Marianna is a pureblood Amoveo from the Bear Clan who feels time running out to find her soul mate. She doesn’t want to take sides in the Amoveo war that has pitted those who promote only “pureblood” mates, the purists, and those who are taking hybrid, half-Amoveo mates. Her father was a Purist who lost his life while her brother, Dante, is married to a hybrid.

Marianna buries her frustration by partying and hanging out at a Vampire nightclub. Hayden, another Pureblood Bear is tagging along hoping to convince Marianna to mate with him even though he isn’t her mate.  Dante has appointed Pete, an ex-cop and security man, to guard Marianna by posing as her chauffeur.

Pete has always been attracted to Marianna but knows that he doesn’t stand a chance with her since he is merely human. Marianna recognizes the attraction, and even senses some dream and mind telepathy between them. But she knows that line of interest would be a dead end. When other pureblood females start disappearing, Pete temporarily neutralizes Marianna’s powers so he can move her to a safe place and her powers won’t be tracked. This puts them in isolation and tempts the chemistry.

As soon as Marianna’s powers return she blithely goes for a walk on the wild side and trouble appears in the form of the Purists to kidnap her. Pete is livid and discovers something new about his own nature–something that just might give him an edge in the battle to rescue Marianna and the other missing femailes.

I liked Pete and Marianna and their warm--well hot, really–connection. There is enough plot story and action to keep the book interesting beyond the love scenes. I wasn’t totally surprised by Pete’s discovery and I was totally disgusted by Marianna’s idiot free romp when they were supposed to be in hiding. That was a “duh” moment. I have really enjoyed this series and I appreciate how Ms. Humphrey’s is able to keep the writing and plot fast paced. It makes for a satisfying romance read.

I received this book for an honest review for Sourcebooks.

ENTER THIS GIVEAWAY for the ARC Review Copy:

 ENTRY FORM HERE

For 3 Extra Bonus entries Visit the author's website and tell me something you find of interest.

 * This contest is open US ONLY.
* This contest will close 10 PM (Central) on May 31, 2012.
The winner will be randomly selected from all entries.
WINNERS WILL BE ANNOUNCED on June 1, 2012.
Winners will have 72 hours to respond by email or the winners form linked in the announcement.

Book Review, Spotlight and Giveaway: Cursed by Lynn Ricci

A quick read with a mixed Gothic and fairy tale bent.
Cursed
Lynn Ricci

• File Size: 444 KB
• Print Length: 258 pages
• Simultaneous Device Usage: Unlimited
• Sold by: Amazon Digital Services, Inc.
• Language: English
• ASIN: B00AQO2ISW

Genre: Paranormal Romance
My Rating: 4.0 of 5.0

Book Description
Publication Date: December 18, 2012
When Sarah Carter moves to Boston to escape her past she realizes there's more than meets the eye with the landlord and her mysterious new best friend. What happened to the owner of this brownstone and what secrets lie within its walls and continue to torment? Witchcraft, curses and timeless love are not what Sarah expected to find, but as she learns more, she wonders is she actually running back to her past instead of from it?

Review:
Sarah has moved to Boston after a romance gone bad. She has gotten a good job offer and found an apartment in a lovely old brownstone. Her new landlord is apparently disfigured and very reclusive but he is very gentlemanly and helpful.

Sarah settles in at the office with other staff and occasionally joins some of the ladies for lunch. One morning getting bagels an attractive woman, Zoe, befriends her and becomes quite chummy. Zoe encourages Sarah to go out but Zoe is the one who attracts all the men wherever she goes and she isn’t particularly kind to Sarah’s other friends.

Strange things begin to occur at her apartment and Sarah starts to have more contact with her landlord, seeing Mason as a man beyond his disfigurements. As black cats hiss at windows and other spooky things happen Mason finally discloses his story and his suspicions to Sarah. It is a remarkable tale of witchcraft, jealousy and curses.

The story is interesting and engaging although a bit different. There is quite a bit of ‘telling’ instead of showing as the past history unfolds as Mason shares it with Sarah. It works okay as it is like a storyteller in front of a campfire or in a dark room and you want to know what happened! I liked Sarah as a down to earth and kind heroine. The villain is a fabulously wicked character - and you really do suspect it fairly early.  It is interesting that the story has a bit of fairy tale leanings such as The Beauty and The Beast and Sleeping Beauty.

The story reads easily and quickly and there is excitement as the secrets are revealed and danger must be met. If you enjoy Gothic romance with a hint of fairy tale curses you should enjoy this story. 

I received the eBook for an honest review to post as part of Bewitching Blog Tour.

Set in Boston, Massachusetts for my 2013 Where Are You Reading Challenge; Ms. Ricci is a New Author for me.

Excerpt Chapter 1

Staring out of the small dormered window, he could just see the corner of the street. Leaves on the trees lining the sidewalk were moving past their prime of orange and red and turning brown as autumn made its way through Boston. The ones still clinging to the trees blocked part of his view. Absentmindedly he pulled his pocket watch out of his pants and checked the time although he instinctively knew it was still early. Purposely, he had chosen this spot to watch the street for a sign. He didn’t want to miss a thing.
Mrs. Casey was nearly three stories below waiting on the sidewalk next to her white BMW. He gazed down at the plump woman in her camel jacket and brown plaid scarf. She had just arrived and was on her mobile phone, trusty bag over her shoulder. As he watched from above, he wondered if he might keep her for a while. She had proven to be discreet and respectful in their dealings thus far –always keeping her eyes conveniently averted. That was a big plus in his book.

The sky had been bright blue and clear all morning but now the sunlight dimmed and small gusts of wind kicked up from time to time, stirring up the brittle leaves, scratching at the sidewalk and causing drifts against the wrought iron fence. He would go out and clean up the two small patches of grass in front of the building later, when it got dark. After all these years, he was comfortable working outside after nightfall.

A flicker of yellow caught his eye as a taxi turned from Columbus Avenue onto Dunhill – a small side street in Boston’s South End, lined with fashionable brownstones. He straightened his bent frame as best he could and intently watched the cab's approach, completely absorbed in his surroundings and on high alert. Below, Mrs. Casey tucked her phone away and pulled her coat closed. Is it getting colder, he thought, touching the glass pane in front of him, the chill spreading through his fingertips.

The yellow checker taxi glided to a stop in front of the building and a young woman with ash blonde hair stepped out but held the door and leaned back in. His heart clenched as if it had been submerged in cold water and he grasped the windowsill to steady himself. From his vantage point, he could see the cabbie handing her some bills. She closed the car door and turned to Mrs. Casey, shaking hands. He wished he could hear the conversation, but knew that it would be pleasantries and then the expected basics.

Both women squinted up towards the window and he faded back as quickly as possible. He was sure he was a moment too late, but what did it really matter? He snuck another quick look and relaxed, realizing Mrs. Casey was pointing out items on the ground level – most likely the security system, or flower boxes. But as he continued to watch he finally saw it: the sign he had been waiting for.

Small gusts that had been making the crunchy, dry leaves rise and dance with their still colorful counterparts whipped up again a few buildings further along the street and came towards the women like a mounting wave. The leaves blew up waist high, swirling and twirling onto themselves until the force reached the women and spun around them in a leaf tornado. Mrs. Casey stepped back towards her BMW parked at the curb to get out of the maelstrom and the leaves continued, picking up energy and speed; surrounding the flaxen-haired woman, lifting and tossing her long hair like a Medusa at the center of the funnel. In reaction to the onslaught, the young woman covered her head with her arms and ran up the front walk toward the building to get out of its path. The wind disappeared and the leaves fell to the ground on the sidewalk as quickly as it had started. Overhead the sky was once again blue.

She’s here, he thought.

The leaves settled gently on the sidewalk. Sarah laughed, removing a few dry leaves that had snagged on her scarf and sweater.

“My goodness! It’s getting blustery!” Mrs. Casey exclaimed as she hurried across the brick sidewalk to the open gate that Sarah ran through, moments before. “Are you ok, dear?”

“I’m fine, really.” Sarah said almost to herself while smoothing her hair. “Just a little wind.”

“Well, dear, if it was any more wind it would have swept you away to Oz.” Sarah heard the deep Boston accent in the woman’s voice and felt immediately comfortable with the realtor. The cadence was almost like she was listening to her maternal grandmother, Rose. Growing up in Connecticut, her grandmother's Boston accent was fodder for jokes, but she always associated the distinctive pronunciations with happy childhood memories. Sarah waited as Mrs. Casey reached into her oversized bag and easily pulled out a business card.

“Thank you, Mrs. Casey,” Sarah said as she examined the card. “I’m so glad you were able to meet me on short notice.” Sarah stood on the bottom step and waited as Mrs. Casey dug paperwork out of her briefcase. Glancing around the small front enclosure she wasn’t sure was big enough to qualify as a yard, she noticed the black wrought iron flower boxes mounted below the bay windows, full of deep russet, red, and burnt orange mums. Mrs. Casey finished pulling out the listing sheet and noticed where Sarah was looking.

“The flowers are lovely, aren’t they? You should see this place in the summer! I don’t know how he does it. No one ever sees him working in the garden but it’s always immaculate.” She leaned over and pointed to the side of the building indicating she actually meant around the corner. “Over there are the rose bushes. This is actually one of the few brownstones that has a little side yard since the alley cuts through there.”

Sarah looked at the old-world cobblestone alley. Mrs. Casey continued her garden tour, “Not big enough to do much with, but he keeps pink roses in the summer all along those wooden trellises.”

“It’s very nice. You can tell the property is well kept; it’s wonderful that he cares so much for the landscaping.”

“Everything is kept well. This was a grand house in her day.” Mrs. Casey stressed the last sentence as she looked lovingly up to the front door. The realtor continued with a tone of letting Sarah in on a fact already well known in certain social circles, “This is one of the prime rental properties in the South End, dear.”

Mrs. Casey started to climb the front steps slowly. Sarah wondered if it was her age that slowed her down but this seemed different, almost hesitant. As if on cue, the woman turned and looked down at Sarah, two steps below. She put one hand on the railing to steady herself before speaking.

“Before we go in, I must tell you something. We will be meeting with the owner in a few minutes. He’s very particular about his renters since he lives on the first floor.”

Sarah started to say she would make a good impression but the woman laid her gloved hand on her arm to quiet her.

“There’s more.” Mrs. Casey looked down at her feet in discomfort with what she was about to say. “He had an accident . . . of some sort. I am not sure exactly what happened but he is disfigured and very, very self-conscious.” Her eyes darted back to Sarah’s and locked. “Don’t act like you pity him. Don’t ask any questions about it. And, whatever you do, don’t look straight at him.”

“Is it that bad?”

“I really don’t know the extent of it. He tries to cover as much he can and I pretend like nothing is wrong. But it’s bad. I always keep myself busy and interested in looking at something else.”

“I will avoid looking at him. Promise.”

“I’ve lost some good tenants by them being too interested in him. He’s a proud man. He has done a lot of beautiful work; everything in this home has been lovingly maintained. The whole building possesses a charm you just don’t see anymore.”

Mrs. Casey searched Sarah’s face, making sure all this had settled in.

“Ready, dear?”

“Ready.”

About the Author:

Lynn Ricci was born and raised in the Boston area. Her professional background is in financial communications and she pursues her artistic endeavors of writing and painting while enjoying an active family life with her two children and dog, Fenway. In the summer, she enjoys relaxing in Chatham on Cape Cod.

A writer of several published short stories including Daydreams which was picked up for an anthology collection through Outskirts Press, The Dating Intervention is her debut novel and Cursed, a paranormal romance, is her most recent novel released December 2012.

More information on novels available and underway can be found at www.lynnricci.com

Website: http://www.lynnricci.com/
Blog: Lynn Ricci's Musings
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/Lynn.Ricci.Author
Twitter: http://twitter.com/lynnricci

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2 Kindle copies Cursed
2 Print copies Cursed

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Book Review: Immortal Craving by Kendra Leigh Castle

This is very engaging action with a star crossed romance.

Immortal Craving
by Kendra Leigh Castle

• File Size: 542 KB
• Print Length: 400 pages
• Publisher: Forever (January 29, 2013)
• Sold by: Hachette Book Group
• Language: English
• ASIN: B007ZFIU0K

Genre: Paranormal Romance
My Rating: 4.5 of 5.0

Book Description
Release date: January 29, 2013 | Series: Dark Dynasties (Book 4)
The last-and most lethal-of his kind . . .
Wild, uncontrollable, and powerful, the lion-shifting Rakshasa were hunted down by vicious rival vampires who feared their dark, magical abilities. Somehow one survived, and now, after centuries of hiding, Tasmin Singh reemerges as fierce and fearless as ever at the door of the Lilim queen, seeking answers . . . and sanctuary.

The human best friend to a vampire queen, Bay Harper traded her quiet, comfortable life for a world filled with immortal assassins, warring werewolves . . . and this hauntingly sexy shifter. Only Bay's gentle touch can subdue Tasmin's inner demons, even as he brings out a passion and sensuality she never imagined she could feel. But when a bloody struggle threatens to tear them apart, can Bay risk everything on her faith in him-or will his dark side be stronger than even their all-consuming desire?

Review:
Bay is comfortably human but she has powerful, non-human friends. Her relationship with her best friend, Lily, is starting to show strain as Lily’s attention has shifted to her new mate, Ty, and to her stressful duties as the vampire queen of the Lilim. Bay has met various Cait Sith, vampires and werewolves who are gathering with Lily as she negotiates alliances to fight the power hungry and evil Arsinoe, Queen of the Ptolemy, an enemy sect of vampires.

Bay dreams of finding a normal mate until a gorgeous man, with strange amber eyes, comes seeking information about Lily and collapses in Bay’s shop. Bay sees below the fierceness to the fear and tenderness within the powerful but confused Tasmin. He is the last of his kind, a lion-shifting Rakshasa. He should be dead but instead he has awakened four hundred years after his pride was killed at the urging of Arsinoe. And he hasn’t awakened alone - apparently Arsinoe cast a spell that put a demon within his body. Now she wants the demon for her own purposes.

The demon is Hunger and he is a vicious killer.  He wants revenge against the Queen who imprisoned him. Hunger and Tasmin battle internally for control of Tasmin’s physical form. If Tasmin can’t maintain control he would rather die than kill with such dishonor. Yet Tasmin may have to make a deal with the demon to protect the woman he has come to love; the woman who accepts him for who he is and brings him a measure of peace.

Bay and Tasmin are the targets that trigger war between Arsinoe and the other clans. Tasmin may find a way to protect Bay but it is going to mean giving up any chance of a future with her.

I really liked this action packed story and the warm, intense relationship that builds quickly between Tasmin and Bay. He is a tortured, vulnerable hero and she is the mere human who proves stronger than anyone realized. Their star crossed romance is beautifully written with intense warmth and light humor. There are a couple of heavy scenes when they finally give in to their doomed attraction but it fits well and is just a small portion of the bigger action plot.  I didn’t want to put it down and read this in one day. This releases 1/29 and, if you love action with warm romance, I recommend you pick this up and enjoy!

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

Bay’s reaction to Tasmin:

How something so fierce could hide this kind of gentleness amazed her–but Tasmin was a creature of contradictions.  Location 1882.

Tasmin’s reaction to Bay:

He supposed it should shame him, that he would want her so desperately as an anchor when things around him–and within him–kept shifting. He had never been a weakling. Location 2002.

I received this from Forever Romance through NetGalley.

The first half of the story is set in Tipton, Massachusetts for my 2013 Where Are You Reading Challenge.

Book Review and ARC Giveaway: Deliver Me From Temptation by Tes Hilaire

I really like the heavenly guardians and the action in this series.
Deliver Me From Temptation: A Novel of the Paladin Warriors
Tes Hilaire

• File Size: 552 KB
• Print Length: 354 pages
• Page Numbers Source ISBN: 1402264372
• Publisher: Sourcebooks Casablanca (December 4, 2012)
• Sold by: Amazon Digital Services, Inc.
• Language: English

Genre: Paranormal Romance
My Rating: 4.5 of 5.0

Book Description
Publication Date: December 4, 2012
"Dark, sexy, and intense! Hilaire blazes a new path in paranormal romance."—Sophie Jordan, New York Times bestselling author on Deliver Me From Darkness
Logan Screwed Up...Big Time
When things go bump in the night, Logan bumps back. Vampires, demons, succubi—you name it, he's fought it. His job as Paladin angel warrior is to protect humans. Not fall for one.
She Never Believed in Divine Intervention...Until Now
Detective Jessica Waters protects humans too-with her Glock and a good set of handcuffs. She doesn't believe in fate. But if anyone looks like a gift from the gods, it's Logan. And he clearly knows more about her case than he's letting on...

Review:
Jessica is a fierce cop whose driving force is the anger and hate that she carries from the rape and brutal death of her twin sister. She is a good and dedicated cop but sometimes her anger pushes her to take risks like investigating without her partner for backup.  She has been pushing pretty hard on a murder that involved some freakish aspects. High on Jessica’s lists of suspects is Roland, a Paladin Warrior (heavenly protector) who is outcast from the ranks because he is now a vampire.  (See Roland’s story in Deliver Me From Darkness.) Roland is not the murderer, but there are other vampires and dark forces involved in the murder.  They object to Jessica’s snooping and she is now a target.

While investigating, Jessica sees Logan and Alex, two Paladin Warriors, chasing what appears to be an innocent woman. Jessica tries to challenge the men, interfering with their efforts and gaining a memory wipe for her troubles.  Jess doesn’t remember Logan and Alex when she next meets them at the station while they are bailing out Roland. She suspects something isn’t right but doesn’t know what.

Now Logan is set on protecting Jessica as she continues to bump into bad, dark things in the night. Their attraction is intense. She tries to resist as he is a “person of interest” in the case and she can’t really believe in forces he alludes to. Logan realizes that, as the future leader of the warriors, there is no way he should get involved with a human. There union may be beyond their control! But can Logan keep Jessica alive as she is dragged in by enemies to lure him to a trap?

Logan is a great, strong hero who is dedicated to his mission but sometimes challenges the Paladin leader, his father, because of his old-fashioned and limiting methods. Jessica is a wonderfully strong and dedicated officer although her independence and hatred get her into trouble. I really like the action in this series. The book jumps off with a start and never lets up. I also love the fact that the heros are heavenly warriors protecting humans from demons and other evil creatures.  My only hesitation and disappointment in the series is the free use of foul language. Too bad that mars the rest of the great work for me. I did pick this book to review knowing from the last time that it would likely have language. Still - the action and story outweigh the negative language. I’m glad I read this and I recommend the series to those who love strong characters, intense passion and plenty of action.

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

I agree with Logan’s thoughts on faith and Justice:

[The station house} was more than just a place for the work of law to get done. It was the line between human goodness and evil deeds, a sanctuary to Justice’s warriors. But without faith in...something? Could that line really be held? Could Justice survive.   Page 64.

I really liked this imagery:

She made her way down the side street, the sounds of the investigative team playing like a homicide-cops urban symphony.  The clicking of a camera was the erratic drummer, the scuff of boots on gritty pavement the counter beat and the gruff voices lowered in funeral hall tones claimed the melody.  Page 119.

I received this from Sourcebooks for an honest review.

TO ENTER THIS GIVEAWAY for the ARC Copy.

ENTRY FORM HERE

For 3 Extra Bonus entries Visit the author's website and tell me something you find of interest.

* This contest is open US and Canada.
* This contest will close 10 PM (Central) on December 14, 2012.
The winner will be randomly selected from all entries.
WINNERS WILL BE ANNOUNCED on December 15, 2012.
Winners will have 72 hours to respond by email or the winners form linked in the announcement.

Book Review and ARC Giveaway: Untamed (The Amoveo Legend) by Sara Humphreys

This is another warm, fast-paced installment in the entertaining Amoveo series!
Untamed (The Amoveo Legend)
by Sara Humphreys

Mass Market Paperback: 320 pages
Publisher: Sourcebooks Casablanca (November 6, 2012)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1402258496
ISBN-13: 978-1402258497Product Details
Genre:  Paranormal Romance
My Rating: 4.5 of 5.0
   

Book Description
Release Date: November 6, 2012 | Series: The Amoveo Legend
An ancient race of shapeshifters has lived secretly among humans for thousands of years...they are...the Amoveo

HER WORST NIGHTMARE IS COMING TRUE...
Layla Nickelsen has spent years hiding from her Amoveo mate and guarding a devastating secret. But Layla's worst fear is realized when the man who haunts her dreams shows up in person ...

HE HAS FINALLY FOUND HER...
William Fleury is as stoic as they come, until he finds Layla and his feelings overwhelm him. She won't let him get close, but then an unknown enemy erupts in violence and threatens everything Layla holds dear...

Review:
William Fleury, an Amoveo from the Gryfalcon clan, is a straight-laced, stoic man and attorney for the Amoveo Counsel. He has watched his friends find their mates in half-breeds and he looks with longing and envy on their affectionate, and passionate, relationships. He had almost given up hope of finding a mate for himself. Then he saw Layla and knew he must pursue her.

Layla is a half-breed who has known about her nature for years as she was raised with twin half-breeds on a farm with their ‘foster’ mother, Rosie.  She is able to share telepathically with her foster siblings and she can read of auras through her photography. She can also dream in her cheetah form but she has never been able to shift in the real world. She is freakish in the human world and feels substandard in the shifter world-- what little she knows of it.

Layla saw the pain of abandonment and destruction of other females, including her own mother,  who loved Amoveo mates. Layla is fiercely independent and intent on never falling in love or being controlled by another. When Will begins to pursue her in the dream realm, she wants nothing to do with him. When Will shows up in person she considers him a stalker.

Will doesn’t really know how to woe Layla but he is insistent on making her give him a chance. He is also determined to protect her from the Purist threat especially after there is an attack that puts Rosie in a coma.

Will loosens up around Layla and she begins to fall for his gentle and almost bumbling charm. Rather than wait for an attack she decides that the half-breed ladies should confront the Council to force the hand of the Purists. The confrontation will have a greater impact than anyone realized.

I love the great, underlying warmth that Sara imparts in this romance series. Once again she created interesting characters and drew me into their story immediately.  Their slowly growing relationship is the primary story but there is also good suspense building up to the later part of the book when there are new and alarming developments in the Amoveo loyalties.  This changes the character of the Council and sets the stage for civil war among the clans.  I look forward to the next book!

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

William's reaction to Layla

    That day in the bayou, Layla’s energy signature had slammed into him with a voracious intensity that took him completely by surprise... and William was not accustomed to being surprised. He prided himself on his innate ability to alwys remain calm, keep a cook head, and maintain a sense of order.
    All of that changed the second he found her.  Location 489.

    Put him in the heat of battle, in a courtroom, or in the sights of the Caedo, and no one could shake him, but put his brokenhearted mate in front of him, and he truned into a fumbling oaf without the slightest clue how to help her. Location 3457.

I received this from Sourcebooks for an honest review.

A good portion of this takes place in rural Marylanda.
If you haven't read this awesome series yet you can try a taste with the free Novella: Undenied .

TO ENTER THIS GIVEAWAY for the ARC Copy.

ENTRY FORM HERE

For 3 Extra Bonus entries tell me if you know any of the songs or artists that Sara thought of while writing this book:

Here's the soundtrack I created when I was writing William and Layla's story. Enjoy!
    "Promise's Demise"--Amy Petty *this song is used in the book trailer
    "Paris (ooh lala)"--Grace Potter & The Nocturnals
    "I Run to You"--Lady Antebellum
    "Can't Be Tamed"--Miley Cyrus
    "The Edge of Glory"--Lady Gaga
    "I Go to Extremes"--Billy Joel
    "Going Under"--Evanescence

* This contest is open US and Canada.
* This contest will close 10 PM (Central) on November 30, 2012.
The winner will be randomly selected from all entries.
WINNERS WILL BE ANNOUNCED on December 1, 2012.
Winners will have 72 hours to respond by email or the winners form linked in the announcement.

Book Review and ARC Giveaway: Enslaved by Elisabeth Naughton

This is a story of Greek gods, super guardians, battles of good versus evil, and, of course, steamy passion for the tortured hero and heroine.
Enslaved (Eternal Guardians)
by Elisabeth Naughton

• Mass Market Paperback: 384 pages
• Publisher: Sourcebooks Casablanca (November 6, 2012)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 1402262159
• ISBN-13: 978-1402262159

Genre: Paranormal Romance
My Rating: 3.75 of 5.0  (Note there are plenty of positive ratings at Amazon so this is my reflection; just one opinion.)

Book Description
Release Date: November 6, 2012 | Series: Eternal Guardians

"Do not miss this series."—New York Times bestselling author Larissa Ione

GRYPHON—Honorable, loyal, dependable...tainted. He was the ultimate warrior before imprisonment in the Underworld changed him in ways he can't ignore.

She calls to him. Come to me. You can't resist. But Gryphon will not allow himself to be ruled by the insidious whispers in his head. And there's only one way to stop them: kill Atalanta, the goddess who enslaved him. But with so much darkness inside, he can't be sure what's real anymore. Even the Eternal Guardians, those who protect the human realms and the gods, want to exile him.

Finding Malea is like a miracle. Somehow he doesn't feel the pull of the dark when she's near. And he's determined to keep her as near as possible, whether she wants him close or not. But she's a temptation that will test every bit of control he has left. One that may ultimately have the power to send him back to the Underworld...or free him from his chains for good.

Review:
Gryphon is, or was, a warrior of the Argonaut Eternal Guardians. That was before he was subjected to torture and bound by a curse to the evil Goddess, Atalanta.  His brother, Orpheus, rescued Gryphon from the Underworld but Gryphon is still enslaved. He is near crazy hearing Atalanta’s voice calling to him to return and do her evil bidding. 

Gryphon has been held in seclusion at the castle where the half-breed colony remain in hiding. Gryphon is glad to have battle time but his attack against daemons resulted in a berserker episode that injured his fellow warriors. Now the colony leader, Nick, is set on exiling him before he hurts anyone else.  Gryphon doesn’t want his brother to sacrifice his life and new relationship to go with him so he decides to escape on his own before they send him away.

Gryphon isn’t the only one making an escape from the colony. Malea has been glad to have a reprieve in the family atmosphere of the colony but she is afraid to stay and risk exposing them to danger. Malea is the illegitimate daughter of Zeus and Persephone, Hades wife. She has been running from Hades' hellhounds who are constantly looking for her to drag her to the Underworld so Hades can use her in a power battle among the gods and goddesses. Malea seeks to gain entrance and sanctuary in Olympus but she must prove her worthiness before Zeus will recognize her.

Gryphon snatches Malea in the underground tunnels because he believes she knows the way out.  He is startled to discover that her presence quiets the voice of Atalanta within his head. Although he originally planned to let her go as soon as they were out of the tunnels he decides to keep her with him for her calming effects. Malea objects...at first. But soon she is pulled in by the attraction and honor she finds in Gryphon. Can the two of them find strength together to change their dreams-- assuming they can outrace the daemons, hellhounds, half-breeds, not to mention Atalanta and Hades, who are chasing them?

I have wanted to read this author and series for some time. I was a little concerned that the writing might be a bit bolder and grittier than I like and I was right. It took a third of the book for me to begin to feel engaged. That may have been due to the language, as I did like the characters. Both Gryphon and Malea are lonely and tortured. I was glad that they found each other for support. There is fighting action and the writing flows reasonably well. There is also a good amount of sexual activity that takes up the middle of the story before they return to the battle between the forces of good and evil.  I noted a repetitive amount of dialogue that consists of Gryphon gasping "Malea" and nothing else. Though mostly well written, this didn't really pull me in. If you are a reader who like stories of gods, super guardians and battles of good versus evil, and you like steamy passion, then this would be a good paranormal romance choice.  This story seemed fine as a stand alone although I always think it is best to start at the beginning of a series.

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

How Gryphon comes to feel about Malea:

He’d never been just a man. The entirety of his life was wrapped up in being an Argonaut, a warrior, a fighter trained in honor and duty. Females had come on to him, but they’d never wanted him for who he was inside.  Page 242.

“Sotiria.” His hands framed her face, forced her to look up. Heat rushed over her spine when she saw the soft, needy look in his eyes. “Don’t you know I would give up anything for you?” Page 337.

I received this book from Sourcebooks for an honest review.

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