Tuesday, January 22, 2013

Teaser Tuesdays: Love Finds You in Glacier Bay, Alaska

• Today's Teaser Tuesdays by MizB - click here

"Love Finds You in Glacier Bay, Alaska" [Love Finds You Series, Book 3] by Tricia Goyer & Ocieanna Fleiss

Book Teaser:
"Miss?" A man behind her clear his throat.
"I'm sorry, sir." She cleared the last step and then moved to the side. A man in khakis and a faded blue knit sweater slung a gray duffel over his shoulder as he followed her gaze.
"I think I got off at the wrong stop," she muttered, glancing back up the steps and waving a hand to get the attention of the stewardess. "I'm going to Juneau. That's where I transfer."
"This is Juneau, miss." A businessman exited next, pointing. It was only then Ginny noticed the painted sign. WELCOME TO JUNEAU, ALASKA.
"But it's the capital city...." she said to no one in particular. "It looks more like a pit stop on the way to the North Pole." ~ within Chapter 2

My Previous Review(s) for Tricia Goyer : The Memory Jar

My Previous Guest Post(s) by Tricia Goyer : Family Traditions: A Glimpse into Christmas Future - December 2011 | What I Am Not - May 2012 | Christmas Mourning - December 2012

Monday, January 21, 2013

Disappointmentville: Operation: Family Series, Book 1

Format: Paperback | Pages: 219 | Release Date: August 2012 | Publisher: Harlequin American Romance | Obtained: The Recycled Reader -- Used Bookstore

"A SEAL's Secret Baby" [Operation: Family Series, Book 1] by Laura Marie Altom

My Book Summary : Ellie & Deacon shared one steamy night years ago that changed Ellie's life forever. However, at that time they both didn't want or expect any relationship happen between them, so Deacon introduced Ellie to his best friend, and fellow Navy SEAL, Tom thinking that they would hit it off. Thankfully, Ellie and Tom do hit it off; they get married and have a kid. Yet not everything goes exactly to plan while out on a mission Tom unexpectedly dies leaving Deacon to help out Ellie and her daughter any way he can.

Now a year after Tom's death, Ellie feels it's time to reveal the massive secret she's been keeping.... her daughter's father isn't really Tom but Deacon from their one wild night. Nevertheless, will she be able to keep her life from falling apart once the secret is finally out there??

My Book Review : 2.5 out of 5 stars! This is a novel about mistakes, misunderstandings, love, friendship, respect, and trying to make an unusual situation right even when everything isn't how they want it to be. It's a compelling story that you never expect the twists that happen throughout it.

The reason I gave this novel the rating that I did was because while I enjoyed the relationship that grew between Pia, Deacon, & Ellie, I didn't like how Ellie handled the situation at all and I wasn't fond of how wishy-washy Deacon was at times. I can understand that they both grew up in bad situations so both had no way of knowing how to deal with the situation they had. However, they could have played out certain scenes better between them and wouldn't have had to deal with as much heartache as they did if they did so.

I recommend this novel to anyone who likes military romances and/or those who like novels dealing with paternity issues.

Author's Series Extras : It's Raining Men--Again!!!! | Time Sucking Broken Eyeballs!!

Book Teaser(s) :
"Doesn't matter." Garrett popped another seed. "Way I see it, now that the cat's out of the bag, you gotta feed it. Let's say Tom was still alive when this came out. He knew you and Ellie had a fling."
"He did?" Deacon sat up so abruptly he nearly choked on his spit.
"Everyone did. Thing is, he loved you like a brother, man. What happened with you and Ellie was in the past. He staked claim to her future. He never said anything, but given the short timing between their marriage and Pia's birth, even he had to wonder. I know me and Tristan did."
Deacon winced. ~ within Chapter 2
"Tell me more about this neighbor kid. Any romance?"
"Maybe..." Ellie matched his six and found another stone she was sure could get seven. "You'll never know."
"Oh," he said with a laugh, getting only four on his latest throw, "I don't know about you, Pia, but that sounded like a challenge to me. Think Mommy needs tickling?"
"Tickle, tickle!" Laughing, the little girl was first to attack.
Then came Deacon, going straight for Ellie's vulnerable ribs.
Laughing so hard she could barely breath, Ellie didn't fight it when they collapsed onto the ground in a laughing, tickling pile. ~ within Chapter 8
For more information on this book, series, and/or any other books by Laura Marie, then please check out her website.

Sunday, January 20, 2013

Liebster Blog Award - 2013


Well .... recently one of my newest blog followers nominated me for the Liebster Blog Award!! It's very sweet and I'm glad she (and others who've complimented over the years) like my blog's layout. =0)

So, I want to say a BIG THANK YOU to Deidra from Simply Books (again) for the nomination and becoming a follower!!



The Rules :
  1. Thank your Liebster Blog Award presenter on your blog and link back to the blogger who presented this award to you.
  2. Answer the 11 questions from the nominator, list 11 random facts about yourself and create 11 questions for your nominees.
  3. Present the Liebster Blog Award to 11 blogs of 200 followers or less who you feel deserve to be noticed and leave a comment on their blog letting them know they have been chosen.
  4. Copy and paste the blog award on your blog.



Questions from Deidra :
  1. If you could choose to live in one book, what book would it be?
    • I'm not sure when this will change but I still am a huge fan of Ms. Neill's Chicagoland Vampires Series! Technically I'd like to be one of Merit's best friends and living in the Cadogan House. **I know good luck with that one, but everyone can dream sometimes.**
  2. You are on a deserted island, and you can choose ONE book. What book do you take?
    • Oh lordy. I have no idea .... hmmmmm ... well if I had to choose a book that I've read within the past year, and if it could be found in a paperback version anytime soon, then I'd read "Feral Sins" [The Phoenix Pack Series, Book 1] by Suzanne Wright. It has a great mix of intrigue, passion, and suspense that I could read that novel over and over.
  3. Why did you decide to start a book blog?
    • This blog started because I decided (at that time--in 2008) was going to open a side business for my photography & videos. However, I didn't put much effort into the business so I only tried for a year. Yet I didn't want to give up this blog so I included/started book reviews to the blog as well and now it covers my three hobbies... creating videos, taking photos, and reading/reviewing books!!
  4. Moment of truth: Do you judge a book by its cover?
    • Sad to say but ... YES. Well ... I should say not always but definitely most of the time. Especially when I'm avoiding the books that I already have piled up in my TBR and just want a quick read, so I scan Amazon.com to see what they recommend and by that time I usually go by what the cover looks like first.
  5. Your favorite book is about to be made into a movie. How do you feel about that?
    • It just depends on if they did justice to the book series or not ... I mean I LOVED the Harry Potter movies, especially the last one (both parts 1 & 2) because they based the movie straight from the novel. Also, I surprisingly loved the Confessions of a Shopaholic movie even though they changed the heroine's life a bit by location and the movie basically mushed book 1 & 2 from Ms. Kinsella's series into one movie. However, since they don't always do that I'm always leery when seeing a new movie that's based off of a book.
  6. Where is your favorite place to buy books?
  7. Who are your favorite book boyfriends?
    • Oh my well ... they usually change on whatever book I'm reading at the time and if I like that book or not. So, to give you an idea on previous "book boyfriends" I've had crushes on please check out my Best Book Couples List that I made in 2012!!
  8. Which character would you love to slap and why? *We all have those moments*
  9. What was your favorite book that you had to read for school?
    • I didn't have a favorite since I hating reading when I was in school. Therefore, I didn't enjoy or finish reading most of the books that I read in school, CliffsNotes versions were my friend. =0)
  10. What is your favorite thing about blogging?
    • Putting my views and/or my creations out there so I can see what others think of it.
  11. Which author are you dying to meet?
    • Any from the long list that I've read from--click here to see--yet most don't head my way. Maybe some day though. =0)



All About ME :
  1. Blue is my favorite color ... not sure why but I can't get enough of it.
  2. My daughter is almost two years old (in less then 4 months) and is already testing out her terrible 2s.
  3. Even though I have a degree in Travel & Tourism Management, at both of my part-time jobs I am their Website Coordinator (I taught myself yet I'm always learning).
  4. I love to bake but I really am not a fan of everyday cooking.
  5. I have two dogs -- Paige & Surka -- Paige is my 7 year old pug and Surka is my 6 year old doberman.
  6. This year (2013) I'm supposed to be having my 10 year high school reunion. **Hopefully I'll be able to go**
  7. I love country music but I typically can listen to and enjoy about anything.
  8. I'm a HUGE fan of The Voice, and I always seem to find a new reality show to DVR (much to my hubby's dismay).
  9. Right now I'm in the middle of reading "A SEAL's Secret Baby" [Operation Family Series, Book 1] by Laura Marie Altom, so far it's really cute.
  10. Thinking about making some tacos for supper tonight. =0P
  11. Doesn't really enjoy talking about herself this much. =0P =0)



My Nominees :
    **Okay I know there are less then the 11 requested nominees listed below but these are blogs that I follow who just happen to have less then 200 followers right now and have posted something within the past month! Plus they all happen to be some wonderful authors so please check them out!!**
  1. Kenya @ Two Fantasy Floozies
  2. Courtney @ Courtney Rene's Blog
  3. Cheryl @ Cheryl Brooks Erotic Blogspot
  4. April & Danielle @ Fifer Hylton's Blah... Blah... Blog



Now ...
My Questions for the Nominees :
  1. What books did you enjoy reading while growing up?
  2. What is one of your quirky habits?
  3. Out of the books you’ve read in 2012, which characters would you most & least like to invite to dinner, from which book and why?
  4. Do you have a favorite place you like to read?
  5. Moment of truth: Do you judge a book by its cover?
  6. What are your top 3 favorite genres to read? Any reasons why?
  7. What book out in 2013 are you most looking forward to reading? Or have you already read it?
  8. Do you have a favorite quote? If so, what is it?
  9. What is your favorite thing about blogging?
  10. If someone wrote a biography about you, what do you think the title should be?
  11. List 3 books you just recently read and would recommend?

Saturday, January 19, 2013

Feasted On: Raveneau Series, Book 1

Format: Kindle Edition | File Size: 720 KB | Release Date: July 2011 | Publisher: Self-Published | Obtained: Amazon.com

"Silver Storm" [Raveneau Series, Book 1] by Cynthia Wright

My Book Summary : Devon has had the urge for adventure for as long as she's known, making plans for her best friend--Morgan--and her to sail the world once they were older. However, growing up Devon was enchanted with the ships that docked at the waterfront, especially that of one particular Captain--Andre--who was quite a few years older than her.

A few years later--when she was eighteen--she got to meet Andre. Yet it wasn't the greatest first meeting and afterwards they went their separate ways.

Another year later the Revolutionary War hits New London burning it to the ground and Devon--now nineteen--narrowly escapes with her life. Searching for a way to escape the British's clutches she goes with a sailor to Andre's ship in hopes that Andre will bring her to Morgan--her "fiancé"--who is currently in Virginia fighting in the war. Yet in her search to get to Morgan, Andre and Devon get closer than they ever thought. Will they become close enough so they'll find that they have more in common with each other then with anyone else? Or will they find that there is too much going on in their pasts to be able to get close to each other?

My Book Review : 4 out of 5 stars -- see a different side to the Revolutionary War while you follow the romance between a couple who love the sea. Andre seems to be a drool worthy hero who doesn't feel that any woman is capable of being faithful, especially when it comes to matters of the heart. Devon is a naive girl turned woman who makes friends easily, wishes she could do the things guys could do, and trusts other people very easily. Together they make a powerful duo, that bicker like crazy but fall into caring about one another more than they would have thought.

I loved the journey that Devon goes through, throughout this novel. Mostly I loved how no matter what happened to her she kept her "childlike innocence"--or a more accurate description would be that she was very optimistic about everything and thought the best about everyone--as she got older, even though it annoyed me at times.

I recommend this novel and series to anyone who likes historical romances!

Author's Novel Extras : Pinterest - Silver Storm "behind the book"

Author's Series Extras : About the Series | Pinterest - Inspiration | Pinterest - Tempest "behind the book"

Book Teaser(s) :
The Black Eagle was as bold as its captain. They would sail, meeting head-on whatever weather lay waiting for them.
Minutes grew to an hour. Raveneau scarcely spoke, and the rest of the crew carefully ignored Devon. She was reluctant to return to the cabin, although it was obvious that Raveneau expected her to do so. Mr. Lane's disapproving gaze seemed to burn holes in her back.
The seamen grew quieter as the sky darkened. Every now and then the captain would shout an order through his speaking trumpet and there would be a general scramble up and down the ratlines to reef the sails one by one as the wind increased. At last Raveneau seemed to remember Devon. When he turned to address her, she felt a twinge of alarm at the sight of his furrowed brow. She hadn't imagined that he was subject to such a human emotion as worry or fright.
"You'd better go below."
Devon sighed, pushing windblown curls out of her eyes. She was cold and more than a little scared; this was not the time to argue with Captain Raveneau. "All right, but I want to be kept informed. Don't you dare leave me below to sink with the ship!"
Raveneau's grin was involuntary. ~ within Chapter 7 - titled 'September 8, 1781'
They reached the tent headquarters of Comte de Rochambeau about noon, where a few stragglers reported that the ceremony was scheduled to begin at two o'clock and most of the troops had already left for the field.
Raveneau seemed unsurprised to learn how perfectly he had timed their arrival. Descending from the carriage, he slipped into the dashing white coat of his French officer’s uniform and smoothed back his unpowdered hair. Then he untied his horse and called to Azalea and Devon to alight.
"There is bound to be a huge crowd," he informed them, "so I think it would be best for you ladies to walk."
"Are you going off without us?" Azalea demanded.
"I must join my regiment. Don't worry, the field is not far— just follow this street to the town outskirts. I'll be on horseback and easy to spot. Find a place near me, and I will come to you when the ceremony is over."
With a last jaunty smile, Raveneau bent to graze first Azalea's lips, then Devon's. He mounted his gray stallion in one graceful movement.
"A bientot!" he called, then galloped off.
Azalea and Devon looked at each other.
"I feel as though we've been jilted," Azalea declared, and the younger girl nodded agreement.
"That man is insufferable. He thinks he can get away with anything."
"I hate to say it, but he probably can." ~ within Chapter 13 - titled 'October 19, 1781'
For more information on this book, series, and/or any other books by Cynthia, then please check out her website.

Thursday, January 17, 2013

What was I thinking?: Shadowlands Series, Book 2

Format: Kindle Edition | File Size: 560 KB | Release Date: May 2012 | Publisher: Sourcebooks Casablanca | Obtained: Amazon.com

"Kiss of the Goblin Prince" [Shadowlands Series, Book 2] by Shona Husk

What was I thinking? : I liked the cover and because of previous book ratings I've given, Amazon.com kept recommending that I'd like this novel too. However, what made me finally purchase it was when Sourcebooks was doing their 2012/2013 Twelve Days After Christmas Sale; it was a part of their "ten paranormal romances" part.

Author's Book Description : The Man of Her Dreams

He is like a prince in a fairy tale: tall, outrageously handsome, and way too dark for her own good. Amanda has been hurt before, though. And with her daughter's illness, the last thing she needs right now is a man. But the power of Dai King is hard to resist. And when he threads his hands through her hair and pulls her in for a kiss, there is no denying it feels achingly right.

In a Land of Nightmares

After being trapped in the Shadowlands for centuries with the goblin horde a constant threat, Dai revels in his newfound freedom back in the human realm. But even with the centuries of magic he's accumulated, he still doesn't know how to heal Amanda's daughter—and it breaks his heart. Yet for the woman he loves, he'd risk anything...including a return to the Shadowlands.

My Book Review : 1 out of 5 stars. Can a man who has lived over two thousand years in a world that was stealing/corrupting his soul be able to live as a human again, even while the odds are stacked against him?

I had such high hopes for this novel, and I do hope that whoever decides on reading it will enjoy it tons more then I did. However, from the very beginning the novel dragged everything out, so much so that by the time I got to Chapter 8, I could not read a bit more. Not even to skim through the last chapters to see how Amanda and Dai end up together. =0/ *sigh*

Therefore, I don't recommend it unless you have read book 1 in this series and enjoyed it. Good luck to those that do decide on reading this one.

My Previous Review(s) for this Author : Kissing Phoenix

Author's Novel Extras : Excerpt | Writing Romance | Good News Day! | Feature book: Kiss of the Goblin Prince | A Bite Of... Kiss of the Goblin Prince

Author's Series Extras : About this Series | Without an ending there is no beginning | Magic Thursday Giveaway- Shona Husk: Good Things Come in Threes | Winter Solstice | Magic Thursday-The Goblin King | Darklight On...Shona Husk | Feature book: The Goblin King | Safety tips for Winter Solstice | From the Bookshelf...The Shadowlands Trilogy | The Next Big Thing | Magic Thursday: Location, location, location

Book Teaser(s) :
“Do you need a lift?” The words were out so fast her brain didn’t have time to register or approve them. What would spending more time with him achieve?
Maybe he’d answer some more of her questions. The long hair and hard, dark blue eyes were at odds. Then there was the travel. He’d studied languages where they were spoken, not from textbooks. Lived life on the edge in places sensible people steered clear of. She could only imagine the freedom of packing everything into one bag and taking off for somewhere on a whim.
“I’m only going into the city. I can catch the train.”
“The train? Eliza won’t let you drive her car?”
“Can’t drive a manual,” he said with a hint of a curve on his lips.
She bit back the grin that wanted to form and returned a polite smile instead. He could translate obscure languages, yet he couldn’t handle a stick shift. ~ within Chapter 4
For more information on this book, series, and/or any other books by Shona, then please check out her website.

Wednesday, January 16, 2013

Idolizing In: Hooked Series, Book 1

- This is an ARC book - Available Formats through Amazon.com: Paperback - Pages: 347; Kindle Edition - File Size: 453 KB | Expected Release Date: January 29, 2013 | Publisher: Harlequin TEEN | Obtained: NetGalley

"Hooked" [Hooked Series, Book 1] by Liz Fichera

My Book Summary : Neither ever talked to each other before ... Ryan was in one of the most popular guys in school, while Fredricka (Fred) was one of the few Native American girls that went to their high school and typically stayed in the background ... but once they did they both couldn't deny their attraction, no matter how much they both tried. But how could Ryan ever like, let alone be nice to, the girl who got his best friend kicked off the boys' varsity golf team?

Both Fred & Ryan will find that feelings like theirs are harder to ignore then they've would have ever imagined, especially when they're already hooked on each other...

My Book Review : 5 out of 5 stars!! This novel HOOKED me from the very beginning!! I loved the characters!! Plus, I thoroughly enjoyed the back-and-forth POV chapters, like it is in Ms. Barnholdt's "Two-way Street," Ms. Crane's "Stupid and Contagious," & Ms. Elkeles' "Perfect Chemistry" especially since this novel seems to be a unique mix of all three of these books too!

Ryan & Fred are great together! Their banter and their growing respect for each other make it so that no matter what really happens between them they can never fully dislike the other. Only two things I wish would have happened for me to enjoy this novel even more...
  1. I wish Ryan stopped having his "blinders" on when it came to his best friend, because in truth that boy was a bit of a psycho and needed to be arrested for some of the shit he pulled.
  2. I wish the epilogue was longer then it was. Did they ever make it to and win the state championship like their coach kept talking about?
Overall, though, this novel has just the right amount of intrigue, compassion, romance, and teenage angst that it keeps you entertained the whole way through!

I recommend this novel to anyone who liked the previous novels I mentioned and/or are just a fan of YA romance novels!!

Author's Novel Extras : HOOKED - Book Reviews | Book Deal NEWS! | The Lucky 13s | Good Things Come To Those Who Wait | Revision, Revision. Everywhere a Revision. | HOOKED News! | WANTED: Book Bloggers! | HOOKED - The Big Reveal! | Coming Soon to a Bookstore Near You! | HOOKED Book Swag Has Arrived | HOOKED Inspiration | HOOKED Countdown Widget! | Fun HOOKED Pics! | 2013 Writing Conferences | Only One More Day Till... | A Reason to Subscribe to an Author Newsletter | Choose My Way: HOOKED-inspired Music | Standing On a Corner, Naked | Just Words? | HOOKED, Australian-Style | HOOKED Blog Tour Starts TODAY!

Author's Series Extras : Mind-Meld | So Close And Yet So Far | Volume, Turn It Up

Author's Book Trailer :

Author's Book Interview(s) :

Book Teaser(s) :
Boys like Ryan and girls like me moved in different circles---well, I was pretty sure he had a circle; I simply moved.
I couldn't understand why he'd sat and glared at everybody all night, even his own family. He'd acted as though he would have preferred to jump through one of the restaurant windows than enjoy a dinner with them. And his parents seemed so lovely, so perfect. They'd looked like the perfect family, out enjoying a perfect dinner on a perfectly good Saturday night. How nice would it be to have your parents treat you to a fancy restaurant with a special birthday cake and everything? Where's the misery in that? Clearly Ryan Berenger was deranged. ~ within Chapter 3 - titled 'Fred'
"I don't know, Dad." I looked straight into the sunset. "Maybe you and Trevor were right. Maybe being on this team is a bad idea."
Dad snorted. "For you or them?"
I didn't answer. I sank lower in my chair. The Lab at my feet lifted his head.
"Well?" he prodded.
"I guess for them. All I wanted to do was play. I wasn't expecting special treatment. That's the last thing I want."
Dad chuckled. "So, play. Enjoy. Have fun for once." He leaned forward in his chair. "Pretend those boys are invisible. Or," he said slowly, "you could try to fit in."
My eyes widened. Fit in with a bunch of spoiled white boys? It would be easier to pretend I'm Princess Kate. ~ within Chapter 17 - titled 'Fred'
For more information on this book, series, and/or any other books by Liz, then please check out her website.

"Waiting On" Wednesday: Immortal Ever After

• Today's "Waiting On" Wednesday by Jill - click here

"Immortal Ever After" [Argeneau and Rogue Hunter Series, Book 18] by Lynsay Sands
Expected Publication Released Date: February 26, 2013

Author's Book Description:
    New York Times bestselling author Lynsay Sands delivers a wickedly fun Argeneau novel featuring a vampire ready to claim his mate and the beauty who resists her fate!

    A kiss doesn’t mean eternity . . .

    Valerie Moyer doesn’t believe in vampires—until she is kidnapped by a fanged psychopath! After escaping her bloodthirsty captor, she’s through with creatures of the night. Until she finds herself under the protection of the darkly handsome Anders. Not only is she expected to accept that Anders is immortal, but also that she is the woman destined to be his life mate!

    . . . Or does it?

    Anders felt a connection to Valerie from the moment he cradled her bruised body in his arms. But before he claims her, he must destroy the vampire who almost stole her from him forever. His job would be easier if Valerie didn’t fight him every step of the way. Still, Anders loves a challenge, and the green-eyed beauty is worth fighting for!

Tuesday, January 15, 2013

Teaser Tuesdays: Reckless Heart

• Today's Teaser Tuesdays by MizB - click here

"Reckless Heart" [Reckless Series, Book 1] by Madeline Baker (aka Amanda Ashley)

Book Teaser:
A quiet word brought the stallion to within a few feet of where I sat, spellbound. Shadow slid easily to the ground beside me, causing me to tremble, though I could not have said why.
There was just the hint of a twinkle in his eye as he said, gravely, “Did you bring any cookies today, Hannah?”
“N...no,” I stammered, unaccountably pleased by the way he murmured my name.
There was a hint of mischief in his dark-eyed gaze, and a sudden suspicion slid into my mind, prompting me to ask how long he had been watching me.
“Since you first rode up,” he admitted, suppressing a smile, and I blushed with the knowledge that he had seen me swimming in the river, and drying, naked, on the bank afterwards.
“You have grown well,” Shadow remarked casually, and my cheeks burned with embarrassment, for there was no mistaking his meaning or the way his eyes glowed with the memory. And yet, perversely, I was pleased that he had seen me and found me attractive.
“So have you,” I murmured shyly. And indeed he had. ~ within Chapter 4 - titled '1875'

My Previous Review(s) for this Author : Bound By Blood

Monday, January 14, 2013

Made the Grade: Bayou Heat Series, Books 1 & 2

Available Formats through Amazon.com: Kindle Edition - File Size: 377 KB | Release Date: January 7, 2013 | Publisher: Self-Published | Obtained: Amazon.com

"Raphael & Parish" [Bayou Heat Series, Books 1 & 2] by Alexandra Ivy & Laura Wright

Authors' Book Description : BAYOU HEAT, written by Alexandra Ivy & Laura Wright, is a series of novellas set in the world of the Bayou Wildlands. It is a new series for us, unrelated to our vampire worlds. Each book is novella length and there will be 2 books per download. Each story follows the other, but it's written separately.



"Raphael" [Bayou Heat Series, Book 1] by Alexandra Ivy (aka Deborah Raleigh)

My Story Summary : Raphael has been the diplomat of the Pantera shapeshifters for many years, mostly because of how much control he has over his animal making him more "civilized" then the other members in his "clan." However, six weeks ago, when he got a whiff of Ashe when she stopped into the local bar, called "The Cougar's Den," all civility left him and all he wanted to do was get as close to her as he could.

Well, six weeks after they hooked up, her drunk mother is now kicking Ashe out of her home after she informed her mother that she was pregnant. Too bad she doesn't remember how in the world THAT happened. Instead of dealing with her mother's insults, she goes to the local hotel in hopes of making some sense out of the new changes in her life. That same night in the hotel room Ashe starts remembering, in flashes, of her night with Raphael and soon finds that her life is going to be changed in more ways then one...

My Story Review : 3 out of 5 stars, a great start to this new series. It's filled with intrigue and suspense. However, I just wished it were a little longer so I could read more about the relationship between Raphael & Ashe. Their growing relationship seemed very endearing for what I read about it.

Author's Story Extras : A wonderful review from smexy books!!

Story Teaser :
“Think about it.” Bayon’s eyes glowed with golden power. “A strange woman just happens to stroll into a bar where the Pantera gather. She magically stirs your mating urges despite being human, and now she deliberately parks her car close enough that you were bound to pick up her scent before driving away like a madwoman.” He gave Raphael another shake. “Does she have to have T R A P tattooed on her ass for you to get it?”
Raphael made a sound of frustration. His friend wasn’t saying anything that Raphael hadn’t already told himself.
Hell, he’d be shocked if it wasn’t some sort of trick.
But until he discovered exactly what was happening, he wasn’t going to let the female out of his sight.
Or out of his bed, a treacherous voice whispered in the back of his mind.
“There’s one way to find out.”
With a strength that caught Bayon off-guard, Raphael shoved them away and headed toward the road.
“Wait,” Bayon called. “What are you going to do?”
“To find my woman and discover exactly what she has tattooed on her ass,” he snarled.
“Christ, Raphael.” ~ within Chapter 1
For more information on this book, series, and/or any other books by Alexandra, then please check out her website. To find out more about this series then click here.



"Parish" [Bayou Heat Series, Book 2] by Laura Wright

My Story Summary : Parish was sent by Raphael to find a female human doctor and see if she is willing to help Ashe with her pregnancy. However, once Parish meets Dr. Julia he knows that he wants to keep her no matter what anyone says, so he just takes her back to their home before even talking to her about going there. Therefore, once Julia awakes from her trip to find herself in an unusual setting she immediately starts trying to come up with ways to find a way out of the Wildlands. Yet once she is immersed in Parish's world Julia begins to realize that while she has nothing else to go home to and she can't deny the attraction building steadily between Parish and herself she wants something more. Is Parish willing to give her want she yearns for, a family and acceptance, or will his past keep them apart?

My Story Review : 3.5 out of 5 stars, I loved the buildup of this story. Julia and Parish are a pair that you can't help but root for!! I especially liked when Parish's wilder side came out. =0)

Author's Story Extras : Bayou Heat Q&A

Story Teaser :
“Oh, Parish...”
He smiled. “I love it when you say my name too, Doc.” He captured her mouth again, kissing her frantically. “I want you.” He nipped her lip. “Christ, the scent of your heat. It calls to me, begs me to taste.” With one hand around her waist, he easily lifted her. “Let me earn my way into your bed.”
“You already have,” she said breathlessly.
He tossed her onto the bed, then drew back. “Not even close.” He stripped bare, and grinned as her gaze moved hungrily over him. “You know what I am.”
Her eyes lifted, connected to his. She nodded.
He growled softly at her. “Then open your legs for me, Julia. This cat must have his cream.” ~ within Chapter 6
For more information on this book, series, and/or any other books by Laura, then please check out her website. To find out more about this series then click here.



My Book Review : For the full book, I give it 3.25 out of 5 stars! This was a fun start to this series, giving you glimpses of life inside and out of the Wildlands! However....

What a terrible cliffhanger!!! Especially since it has to do with Ashe and to tell you the truth, I liked Ashe more than I did Julia. =0/ Therefore, I'm hoping this isn't an ongoing problem/cliffhanger but something that will be cleared up, at least, by Book 4 in this series at the latest. *crossing fingers*

Overall, I do recommend this series to anyone who likes paranormal romances, especially ones involving puma shifters!

Authors' Series Extras : Wallpaper for Bayou Heat!! | Bayou Heat Blog Tour | Twitter Party | Bayou Heat is out!!! | A chance to win Bayou Heat!!

For more information on this Series, then please check out this website and/or this website.

Sunday, January 13, 2013

Made the Grade: The Cat Star Chronicles, Book 7

Format: Kindle Edition | File Size: 581 KB | Release Date: June 2011 | Publisher: Sourcebooks Casablanca | Obtained: Amazon.com

"Virgin" [The Cat Star Chronicles, Book 7] by Cheryl Brooks

My Book Summary : Daxtronian (Dax) was two-years-old when his planet--Zetith--was destroyed, since then he's lived on a refugee ship until a few years ago, now he's the captain of an elaborate ship traveling the galaxy and taking passengers wherever they'd like to go. His navigator, Waroun, has nicknamed Dax the 'Great Virgin' because of how Dax is a virgin, which is so surprising to his species. Yet when Dax meets Ava, he is more than willing to quit his virgin status immediately. If only he could get her to agree, but he has no idea how to charm a woman let alone seduce one.

Nevertheless, just when everything looks to be working in Dax's favor when it comes to him claiming Ava's heart, a prophesy that holds Ava in the middle of it all has Dax scrambling to be able to keep them together forever, no matter what he has to do...

My Book Review : 3.5 out of 5 stars! Find out who the perfect woman is to hook the Great Virgin...

Ever since I read book 8 in this series I was intrigued to find out about Dax, especially with his bad boy looks along with his virgin status. Therefore, I was very happy that I did read this novel. Yet even though I wish it didn't drag on as much as it did, it was still a very sweet, funny, and charming story that I lives up to the series reputation!

I recommend this novel to anyone who is a fan of the series and likes sci-fi romances!!

My Previous Review(s) for this Series : Book 1 | Book 4 | Book 8

Author's Novel Extras : - The following blog links you are about to view may contain content only suitable for adults. - Yummydoodle Week Begins....on a Thursday? | Whopping Weasel Wednesday! | Thursday Thoughts | Blue Monday Moons | Thursday Thoughts | Monday Moons! | Virgin's Release Day! | Thursday Thoughts | Launch Party! | Monday Moons!

Author's Series Extras : - The following blog links you are about to view may contain content only suitable for adults. - Whopping Weasel Virgin? | Monday Moons and Ramblings | Thursday Thoughts | Thursday Thoughts | Whopping Weasel Wednesday! | Tattooed Monday Moons! | Thursday Thoughts | Thursday Thoughts | Whopping Weasel Wednesday! | Thursday Thoughts | The Next Big Thing!

Book Teaser(s) :
Dax wanted to cry or scream or at least hit something. He’d just saved Ava from that scuzzy Cylopean—which had to count for something in the mating game—and now that she finally had her arm around him, he was about to lose his balls.
Not that he was giving them up without a fight. He’d never hit a woman in his life, but he would defend himself if necessary—or do what he’d done the last time and make a run for it.
“A deal’s a deal,” the blonde snarled. “We let that creepy Norludian do us both, so now you owe us each a fuck—or a nut.”
“Yeah,” the brunette agreed. “A fuck or a nut.”
They were both planted squarely in front of him with hands on hips and fire in their deep blue Davordian eyes. While Dax cast about for a graceful way to escape the situation, he attempted to push Ava behind him and out of the path of danger. But Ava apparently had other ideas.
Ducking out from under his arm, she got right up in the brunette’s face. “He’s not fucking either of you! His balls belong to me, so back off, bitch!”
Dax was stunned. The very last thing he ever expected was to have Ava stand up and claim any part of him, let alone his balls. ~ within Chapter 10
“Must be all that red hair,” Ava suggested. “It’s very sexy.”
“You think so?” Diokut combed his fingers through his bushy mane. “Too bad the Kitnock girls don’t like it.”
“You could change the color, couldn’t you?”
“Hmph,” Teke said. “If hair coloring worked on us, do you honestly think I’d let mine be gray?”
“Gray hair isn’t necessarily a bad thing,” Ava said. “I mean, I’m sure Dax would be amazingly sexy, no matter what color his hair was.”
“Possibly,” Teke conceded. “But then, he has other things going for him.”
“Yeah,” Diokut said with a nod. “He’s tall, dark, and handsome, plus he’s the captain of his own starship. Chick magnet material for sure.”
“And hung like a bull—”
Dax was in the process of sipping his wine and nearly choked.
“—moose,” Waroun finished with an impish grin. “Knew I could sneak that in somewhere.”
“Come on, Waroun,” Ava chided. “When was the last time you saw a bull moose?”
“In holographic nature documentaries,” Waroun said promptly. “I just love the parts about the mating season. They’ve got some seriously big—”
“Waroun!”
“—antlers.”
“We have got to get him laid,” Threldigan observed. ~ within Chapter 16
For more information on this book, series, and/or any other books by Cheryl, then please check out her website.
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