Saturday, December 31, 2011

Review of Embrace The Highland Warrior by Anita Clenney


Mass Market Paperback: 400 pages
Publisher: Sourcebooks Casablanca; Original edition (November 1, 2011)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1402251262
ISBN-13: 978-1402251269
Product Dimensions: 6.8 x 4.1 x 1.1 inches
Source: Own Copy


Author's Website

Summary:
When the powerful demon that left Shay for dead discovers her empty grave, he comes seeking retribution, believing she possesses an ancient book he has sought for centuries. Knowing she can't fight the demon alone, Shay returns to her clan and the Scottish Warrior who betrayed her...the only man she's ever loved, where she discovers that betrayal isn't always what it seems. Sometimes it's far worse.

Review:
One thing that draws me to series books is if I really love the first book, I just have to read the rest because I just can't get enough of these characters. I want to revisit them again and again and this book was no exception. I devoured the fist book and I knew almost immediately I just had to read the second.

Like Bree, I really loved Shay- she is a spitfire and that lately has been my favorite type of heroine. And even though she is tough as nails type of girl, she has the soft side too. As for Cody oh yes definitely my type of hero, fiercely protective and doesn't stop to get what he wants. I loved how their relationship was already thare. It was a refreshing change instead of guy meets girl , boy, smex action, refusal of feelings type of deal. They have a history and I liked that.

Oh one thing I have to mention is the secondary characters, Ronan(I so love him and I really hope he gets his own book), Brode and several others are back as well as Shay's Aunt Nina and Matilda. Matlida I love her, she is very unique and so funny.

This book also had some jawing dropping moments, I have to say I didn't see coming but still left me with some questions as well. No, before you ask there is no cliffhanger just some unanswered questions that I hope get answered in the third book.

I can almost say this book was better than the first, which as all of you know I loved quite a bit. Anita did well with the sequel and can't wait for book 3, Unleash the Highland Warrior. Which still don't know the date and its driving me crazy. I know I will be getting it as soon as its available.

So if you read the first book then this one is a must read for you as well.

Rating:

Friday, December 30, 2011

Review of Awaken The Highland Warrior by Anita Clenney


Format: Kindle Edition
File Size: 635 KB
Print Length: 433 pages
Page Numbers Source ISBN: 1402251238
Publisher: Sourcebooks Casablanca (May 1, 2011)
Sold by: Amazon Digital Services
Language: English
ASIN: B004TTS2T4
Text-to-Speech: Enabled
Source: Own Copy

Author's Website:


Summary:
Historian Bree Kirkland has always been in love with the past, but when she accidentally wakes an ancient Scottish warrior who's spent the past 150 years sleeping in her backyard, her present is suddenly fraught with danger. Faelan has awakened from the time vault ravenous--in more ways than one. He grieves for his lost family, wondering who sent the woman to wake him. If she's a demon, Faelan will have to kill her. If she's innocent, she's unleashed the gates of hell in her backyard. Either way they must rely on each other to save their future.

Review:
I have been wanting to read this book for awhile now and to be honest not sure why I waited as long as I did, but I am so glad I finally did. I started this book last night pretty late and couldn't stop until I was finished that's how good this book was.

I loved everything about this book, the characters, the storyline and not once was I bored, though I felt I couldn't read it fast enough, because I just had to know what was going to happen next.

The characters were well written, and captured my attention from the beginning. Bree, I love her spunk, but she has issues which I could feel through out the whole book. Faelan, 'sigh' I love the fierce protectiveness he has for the people he cares about and even though he has some issues too(which I adore in a hero)though I felt like I wanted to throttle him a few times, but that to me is a making of a realistic character and Anita did a fabulous job of making me feel and want to root for this couple.

There is a couple secondary characters that I fell in love with as well and that is Ronan and Brode, one's a big flirt and the other a trickster. I surely hope we will see more of these two.

If you haven't read this book, then what are you waiting for. If you love highlanders mixed with paranormal and time travel then you must read this book! Not only do I have a new series I can obsess over I have a new favorite author as well. Now off to the next in this series, Embrace The Highland Warrior and I hope can find out when the third in this series, Unleashed The Highland Warrior will be released.
Rating:

Wednesday, December 28, 2011

Bewitching Book Tours Blood of Anteros by Georgia Cates Guest Post and Review



Please give a warm welcome to Georgia Cates who is guest blogging today at BLH.

When an author writes, they have visions and they choose their words carefully to portray images to their readers. Success depends on many variables, but adjectives eliciting the five senses are most important and I have chosen to share some of the images I used when visualizing my characters and setting.


Photo 1: An excerpt describing the house facing the beach in Blood of Anteros:

I stopped to study the house, a white, two-story Greek Revival with a raised basement. The three dormers and windows were adorned with black shutters and a double staircase descended from the center of the raised porch. The pair of staircases curved toward one other, resembling two open arms, welcoming me home.

The landscaping was different; it was better, and great care had been taken in the tending of the yard. The Live Oaks I had planted along the drive and property had matured and they stood over one hundred feet tall, providing the house with the much needed shield from the hot,coastal sun.

The house had diligently stood strong and proud against the anger of the sea and defiantly survived the hurricanes and storms that attempted to erase it’s existence. I knew this well because I had once called this home. I lived here more than one hundred and sixty years ago and while cruel circumstances had forced my unplanned departure, destiny had commanded my return.


Photo 2: An excerpt describing the appearance of Curry Brennan:

I looked at the stranger in the mirror staring back at me and wondered who he was. His image stood just under six feet tall and his hair was dark, nearly black, like his heart. I leaned closer to the reflection, attempting to see a glimpse of myself within the monster standing in front of me and searched his eyes, the so-called windows to the soul. I looked beyond the flecks of light blue and gold of his irises, but found no trace of the soul I was told no longer existed and wondered, “Who is this demon mocking my every move?”



Photo 3: An excerpt describing the eyes of Chansey Leclaire:

I studied her flawless ivory skin and rosy glow. Her lips were full and stained a shade of deep scarlet and I was surprised when I didn’t find Anna’s crystal blue eyes or Grady’s deep brown. Her eyes were her own, a beautiful hazel with greens, browns, and golds fighting for dominance in each iris. She wore a fuchsia shirt, so green was winning today.

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Georgia has graciously offered an ebook copy of Blood of Anteros, All you have to do is comment and leave your email addy. The giveaway is running from December 28th to Jan 5th. I will announce the winner on Jan 6th!




Book Description-

Cruel circumstances turned Curry Brennan into the wretched monster he hates and refuses to accept, but when an expected turn of events releases him from the bond of his obsessive maker, he returns to the home he knew 161 years earlier and finds the return of happiness and joy in something he didn’t know existed.

Puzzled by his growing attraction to Chansey Leclaire, a human, he is unable to resist the captivating relationship that threatens to reveal his existence as a vampire. He eventually discovers the reason he was destined to find what he didn’t know he searched for and is faced with the cruel realization that the living and the immortal undead will always be separated by one thing. Eternity.

Brief Excerpt-

I was tantalized by mystery of her. The leech inside me came out to find prey, but found none in this enigmatic girl. The close proximity of her essence didn’t entice the monster within, so what did that make her? I had more questions than answers, but one thing was unmistakable; although she released me from her embrace, her hold on me remained.

Buying Links:


Review:
As many know I am a huge lover of vampires and I am always looking for new author's to read, I signed up to give this book a try.

Curry is very angry and eager to part from his maker, he hates her and everything about the vampire world, til one day he steps out intending to end his miserable exsistance. Then unexpectedly his bond is broken and he runs away back to his home that he lived in 161 years ago.

Where he meets a woman he is drawn to for the first time in vampire life, Chansey, the granddaughter of the family he rents a room off of.

What I liked about this book was the unique twist on the vampire lore. Though the vampires are and can be turned their mates are chosen by a God. And the vampire has the option for their mate to either be turned or just enjoy their time together, while he would remain immortal the mate has an option.

What also is different this book is more about romance and smex, which I have to say is much different than I have been reading as of late and is a refreshing change of pace.

I can honestly say I enjoyed this book, though I was wondering or maybe expecting to see Marsala again but when we didn't I was a bit disappointed. I really wanted to see how she would actually react to Chansey  But I guess we will be seeing that in future books, I sure hope so.

This book was a nice debut for this author and I would like to see where she takes this series.



Rating:




About the Author:


In addition to being an author Georgia is a wife, mother of two daughters and a labor and delivery nurse.

She recently added Paranormal Romance Writer to her list of things that keep her busy, but she is ecstatic to release my debut novel, Blood of Anteros, the first book in The Vampire Agápe Series.

Like others that enjoy a great story of paranormal romance, she is easily bored by the tale of an obtainable, ordinary romance and was inspired to create The Vampire Agápe Series. When not tied up with family or delivering babies, she is working feverishly on the second book in The Vampire Agápe Series.

Links-




Tuesday, December 27, 2011

And The Winner is ...... of an ebook set of Boyfriend From Hell and Earth Angel by E. Van Lowe

BannerFans.com

Thanks to all that have entered this giveaway, stay tuned for many more in the future. Now on to the winner........

Jess

Congrats! An email has been sent you have 48 hours to reply or a new winner will be chosen.

Friday, December 23, 2011

Switched by Amanda Hocking Book Trailer




About the "Trylle" Series and "Switched":

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

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

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

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

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

Buy Links:

Author's Links:

Trailer:


Link to Photo Album

Wednesday, December 21, 2011

Tower of Parlen Min Chapter Commentaries and Giveaway




Now on to the giveaway, Matt has generously offered not one but 10 ebook copies of Tower of Parlen Min to 10 lucky winners, the giveaway will run from 20th, to 26th!

Tuesday, December 20, 2011

Goddess Fish Promotions Highland Honor Guest Post and Giveaway


Why are Highlanders so popular?

Throughout history the Scottish people have been persecuted. They have spent much of their history fighting the English and trying to remain sovereign. Highlanders have been portrayed with characteristics such as honor, courage and integrity. They fight for their beliefs even if it means fighting to their death. In Highland Honor Colin “Hawke” MacPherson seeks the reasons for his father’s death. He knows the man who sired him is not a traitor to either the English or the Scottish crown.

For many of us we have relatives who have lived in the Highlands and reading the novels is a way to relive the past through generations. And of course there is the romantic element of these lands. They are rugged and wild and they breed a man who has the same characteristics. We like to believe in love so deep and strong the man would give up his life to protect the woman he loves. We don't really see that in our every day lives. Most of get up, go to work then come home to fix dinner and watch TV.

Reading Highland romances gives us a chance to dream and fantasize about brave Scottish highlanders such as Colin MacPherson. As Callie wondered in the book, how would it feel to be touched so gently by such a man? Highlanders are larger than life. They can toss cabers and run in kilts. They defend their castles and honor their women. A real highlander will protect their families and the ones they love, putting their lives before their own.

In Highland Honor, Hawke does just that. He rushes forward with little care to his safety to rescue Callie. Of course he has every confidence in his fighting skills. Still, a man can die, a horse can fall, or an arrow can hit home, penetrating any armor. In Highland Honor, Hawke and Callie find a love so true it can will last an eternity.

Thank you Christine for stopping by today, Christine is offering for this tour:
* a $50.00 Amazon GC to one randomly drawn commenter for the blog tour.
* a Clan MacPherson book mark awarded at each stop to one randomly drawn commenter.
* Antique Gold Double Thistle Broche for the blog host with the most comments (excluding Christine's and their own).

So don't forget to comment for your chance to win one of these awesome prizes. For the tour schedule click HERE


Format: Kindle Edition
File Size: 668 KB
Simultaneous Device Usage: Unlimited
Publisher: Rogue PHoenix Press (October 28, 2011)
Sold by: Amazon Digital Services
Language: English
ASIN: B0064FJ8Q2


Short Blurb:
Willfully stubborn, innocently courageous, Callie Whitcomb braves a journey through the treacherous highlands to the MacPherson castle. Callie flees from an unwanted marriage as well as her ruthless half brother. Naively she believes Colin MacPherson, the head of the clan, is loyal to her father and will give her sanctuary, protecting her from the vile plans that have been made for her. As hard and as unyielding as the winter storms that sweep through the countryside, Colin is irresistibly drawn to the impetuous beauty who has magically appeared on his doorsteps. Despite his vows of revenge against her father, she stirs his passion as well as his sense of justice...but to love her would violate all his vows of revenge.

Excerpt:
Scotland November 1512:

A heavy frost sat on the frozen earth, and a full moon shone clearly between the heavy clouds dotting the sky. Lady Callie Whitcomb looked over her shoulder as she raced through the deepening gloom toward the lighted tavern ahead. Every shadow, every mournful sigh of the wind sweeping through the trees, every chilling animal sound filled her with terror. Fear for her life drove her to put all thoughts of danger aside. He would follow her, find her, and drag her home.

Home.

"Don't think of that now," she reminded herself fiercely, even while tears stung in the back of her throat and fear made her limbs tremble. "Don't ye dare think of home. It no longer exists." Nothing and no one could coax her back or make her believe there was naught but terror in the home where she'd been born.

"I will never marry Lord Huntington. Never!" she whispered fiercely, the chill night air solemnly echoing her words.

Her stepbrother, Archibald Covington III, made sure she could never return.

"There ye be, lass! I've been waiting for ye."

The voice rose from nowhere and surprised her. Her heart froze, lurched, then began an erratic beat, while raw nerves snapped, sending a myriad of sensations racing down her spine.

"Archibald--" she whispered, panic sweeping through her. "He's found me." All she could hear was the pounding of her own blood in her ears.

About The Author:

Born in Medford, Oregon, novelist Christine Young has lived in Oregon all of her life. After graduating from Oregon State University with a BS in science, she spent another year at Southern Oregon State University working on her teaching certificate, and a few years later received her Master's degree in secondary education and counseling. Now the long, hot days of summer provide the perfect setting for creating romance. She sold her first book, Dakota's Bride, the summer of 1998 and her second book, My Angel to Kensington. She is the author of 10 published romance books and 2 novellas. Christine is a retired high school math teacher. Her teaching and writing careers have intertwined with raising three children. Christine's newest venture is the creation of Rogue Phoenix Press. Christine is the founder, editor and co-owner with her husband. They live in Salem, Oregon.

Links:

Monday, December 19, 2011

Bewitching Book Tours Earth Angel by E Van Lowe Guest Post, Review and Giveaway


Damned Internet

I’ve noticed something strange lately. I don’t read as many books as I used to. I used to love to curl up in bed or on the sofa and devour a good book. But lately I can’t seem to stay focused. I know why. It’s that damned internet. It keeps calling me. It’s like that old Twilight Zone episode where a guy goes to Las Vegas for the first time and discovers slot machines. You know the one I’m talking about? He goes back to his room and tries to go to bed but he hears his name being called in a loud whisper. “Franklin.”

The slot machines are calling.

That’s how I feel. The internet is calling and I must heed the call: email, Twitter, Facebook my blog. I must check them. I MUST CHECK THEM!

Last evening, I sat in the living room, book in hand and began to read: “Franklin.” (I know that’s not my name but it has an ominous ring to it). A few nights ago I lay in bed, picked up my book and began to read: “Franklin.” I realize I just checked my email ten minutes ago so I continue reading… “Franklin!” But when was the last time I checked my Facebook page? An entire hour ago. It’s important that I find out what Barbara Jensen had for lunch, so I stop reading and I check.

I’ve been reading the current book I’m on for nearly a month now. Yes, it’s interesting. No, it’s not as long as War And Peace. But I can’t get through it. Am I alone in this? Do any of you out there have this problem? That damned internet is destroying my life. Someone has to shut it down. It’s dangerous… Excuse me? What was that?

“Franklin.”

Time to sign off. I have to check my Twitter stream. Aside from being addicted to the internet, I am an author. If you’d like to check out some of my work there’s a free sample of Boyfriend from Hell available on my website http://evanlowe.com/ My books are addictive, just like that damned internet.

Thank you so much E. Van Lowe for stopping by and I agree the internet always gets in the way of my reading time LOL. Now for there are two giveaways one for this blog stop and the main one.



For this blog stop, E. Van Lowe has graciously offered an ebook set of Boyfriend from Hell and Earth Angel. Open internationally. All you have to do is comment and leave an email addy so I can contact you if you should win. This giveaway will run from 19th to 26th, The winner will be chosen on the 27th!



The main giveaway is E. Van Lowe is offering two signed sets of Boyfriend from Hell and Earth Angel to 2 lucky winners tour wide Open to US shipping.

Click HERE to fill out the form.


Format: Kindle Edition
File Size: 287 KB
Simultaneous Device Usage: Unlimited
Publisher: White Whisker Books (December 5, 2011)
Sold by: Amazon Digital Services
Language: English
ASIN: B006IHGOEK
Text-to-Speech: Enabled
Lending: Enabled

Book courtesy of Author


Amazon Summary:
Just because Megan Barnett recently defeated Satan, has a fantastic new best friend, and has won the love of deliciously handsome Guy Matson doesn't mean her troubles are over. Far from it. For Megan doesn't realize it, but in her possession is a powerful weapon, one sought after by both angels and demons and everything in between. They will do ANYTHING to get it.

In E. Van Lowe's dramatic and humorous sequel to "Boyfriend From Hell," Megan winds up in a gripping life-or-death battle to save herself, the angel she loves, and all of mankind from unspeakable evil.

"E. Van Lowe does a great job of capturing teenage angst, dating woes, and parental issues without over-doing it," writes critic Nicole Etolen, Pretty Opinionated. "'Earth Angel' was just as fun to read as 'Boyfriend From Hell'."

Review:
A few months ago, I read the first book in this series, Boyfriend from Hell and I loved it, so when I found out Earth Angel was coming out I had to sign up. Sometimes sequels though good are not as good as the first book. But this one was even better than the first if it was possible.

We pick up where we left off in the first one, Megan coming to terms with all the events that happened in the first book, battling Satan, falling in love with her Angel, Guy and making a new best friend. Besides nightmares that have been plaguing her, life is good. Until all Hell breaks loose, literally over a certain item she now has and has kept hidden since her battle with Satan.

What I loved about the first book and continues in this book is that I could honestly relate to Megan, even though I haven't seen my teen years in what 20 plus years, I still felt I could relate to everything Megan was dealing with. It brought back memories of some of my not so great times as well as the good times. I have to thank the author for making it so believable for me I could feel this way.

So not only does she have to deal with normal teen issues she has to battle evil again to save the angel that she loves. This book is a fantastic fast read and I urge you if you haven't read the first book then you should. If you have and liked it as much as I did, then you have to read the sequel its even better than the first.

The only thing I didn't like is I have to wait a whole year to find out what happens next, Heaven Sent is scheduled to be released in December 2012.
Rating:

Saturday, December 17, 2011

Blitz Day and Giveaway Blood Oath by Belinda Boring


Blurb

Someone is trying to send a deadly message to Mason, arranging the deaths of those he loves and it puts the entire pack and Alpha on high alert. Plans are made but when the enemy strikes another painful blow by entering into the heart of pack property and kidnapping Darcy, Mason declares war. There’s nothing he won’t do to keep his future mate and pack safe.

Darcy understands the primal instincts driving her beloved Mason’s commands. With the help of those he sets as protectors, she learns about herself and the things she’ll need to help support her Alpha and pack. When events turn dire however, one truth offers her strength – once given, a blood oath is unbreakable … even if it means risking it all.

Book Buying Links



Teaser:
“What is it about you that I can’t resist?” he asked, inching painstakingly lower until he hovered just about my mouth, barely touching. His breath was hot, seductive, and it caused a ripple of excitement to course through me.

“Must be my sparkling personality,” I whispered back, struggling not to close the distance between us. Electricity charged the air, the chemistry of our connection wreaking havoc on my hormones. He feathered his lips lightly over mine, just the ghost of a touch and I whimpered as he retreated without fully claiming my mouth. “Must be because I can barely remember my name when you look at me like that.” His fingers drew a soft line down the side of my cheek.

“And how is that?” I purred softly, a sultry tone to my voice. My body felt as if it would explode from the way he seemed to drink me in.

“Like the world doesn’t exist, but for the two of us. How did I deserve you?” He kissed me again. This time a little slower, pressing harder, and I followed him involuntarily as he moved back. He was teasing me and driving me crazy with it.

About The Author:

A homesick Aussie living amongst the cactus and mountains of Arizona, Belinda Boring is a self-proclaimed addict of romance and all things swoon worthy. When she's not devouring her latest read, you can find her celebrating her passion for books on her blog The Bookish Snob. With all that excitement, it wasn’t long before she began writing, pouring her imagination and creativity into the stories she dreams. Whether urban fantasy, paranormal romance or romance in general, Belinda strives to share great plots with heart and characters that you can’t help but connect with. Of course, she wouldn’t be Belinda without adding heroes she hopes will curl your toes. Surrounded by a supportive cast of family, friends and the man she gives her heart and soul to, Belinda is living the good life. Happy reading!

EVERY COMMENTER GETS A FREE COPY. Yep, You read that right Belinda is giving a copy to everyone that leaves their name and email address. You'll be sent a Smashwords coupon by Belinda so you can download the format you'd like. If you are on Facebook or twitter, please share this info with all you know!


Review:
Belinda does it again! I didn't think this series could get any better. I just love these characters Mason and Darcy as well as Daniel and Devlin who give some comic relief to this wonderful tale.

There are a couple moments I actually laughed out loud, okay more than a couple - a certain reference to a certain series as well as making fun of a certain genre, we all love to read. I don't want to divulge more than that because I don't want to spoil it for you. But I laughed so hard.

I cried as well, the farewell ceremony for Jasmine was well written and so beautiful. Those are just a couple of points I can mention. But why!! Belinda! just when I thought everything was fine and dandy and happily ever after then boom, she does it again! Another cliffhanger! One that just nearly knocked me off my chair! Now I must have to wait to see what happens. Write faster please I have to know!

This book is a wonderful continuation to this series and I am going to be waiting on pins and needles to find out what happens next. IF you haven't read this series then I say what are you waiting for! Go do it now !!
Rating:

Friday, December 16, 2011

Review of Midnight Magic by Nancy Di Fabbio

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Paperback: 240 pages
Publisher: iUniverse Publishing (September 8, 2011)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1450291457
ISBN-13: 978-1450291453

Book Courtesy of Author


Amazon Summary:
Fourteen-year-old Mattie is obsessed with horses. Thrilled to discover a primitive painting of a beautiful black horse hidden in the attic of her grandmother's home, it is not long before Mattie realizes the image of the painted horse seems to be coming to life. This is no ordinary work of art-this is a painting with a fascinating history that Mattie is about to unearth. One moonlit night, Mattie leaves the safety of her grandmother's home and ventures deep into the surrounding forest where she meets a wild horse who bears an uncanny resemblance to the one in her painting. Mattie and her mystery horse form a bond that she instinctively knows she cannot reveal to anyone. The mysterious spirit who inhabits the painting seems to gain strength as Mattie's bond with the wild horse deepens. But Mattie is uneasy as she wonders-and fears-if the two are somehow connected. Mattie soon realizes she should have heeded her grandmother's warnings to be careful what she wishes for in life-for it is one thing to hope her painted horse is real and quite another to discover he might be.

Review:
Reading this book was a refreshing change of pace for me, as well as bringing back memories of my teenage years. The author's love for horses are painted clearly in this book and I definitely could connect with Mattie. Her low self esteem is felt through out until she is able to find herself while working at Briarwood Stables.

I remember clear as day, the pain of low self esteem as a teenager as well the loneliness of being any only child. So I could definitely understand her obsession with horses, it was something to fill that void. What I loved is that you could see Mattie's progression from low self worth to a very confident young lady. Though with the painting, she becomes a bit withdrawn and almost addicted to having this certain horse.

I also loved the fact, there are lessons to be learned in this book, one being never judge a book by its cover. Mattie so obsessed with this one horse, that she didn't see the gem of a horse she had in front of her.

This book was so well descriptive that I could almost feel the painting as being so life like as well and the fact I kept wanting to shout out, stay away from it..

Overall, I can't say enough praise for this book. I strongly urge you to give this book a try. It's a fast read and believe me it will leave you with a smile on your face.

Rating:

Thursday, December 15, 2011

Topic Thursday Best Books of 2011

BannerFans.com


So as 2011 is drawing to a close and I have finished my first full year as a blogger. I have come across some fantastic books, some from my favorite authors and others I found thanks to this wonderful blogging community.

My list is in no particular order

Highland Destiny by Laura Hunsaker
Eternal Hearts by Jennifer Turner
Eternal Seductions by Jennifer Turner
The Trouble with Spells by Lacey Weatherford
Eternal Rider by Larissa Ione
The Vampire Relationship Guide by Evelyn LaFont
Soul Stalker by Laura Kreitzer
To Kill A Warlock by H.P. Mallory
Gabriel’s Mate by Tina Folsom
Eternity Embraced by Larissa Ione
A Touch of Greek by Tina Folsom
The Willow by Stacey Kennedy
Eternal Rider by Larissa Ione
Retribution by Sherrilyn Kenyon
Dead Until Dark (Book #1)by Charlaine Harris
Living Dead in Dallas (Book #2)Charlaine Harris
Club Dead (Book #3)Charlaine Harris
Dead to the World (Book #4)Charlaine Harris
Holding Onto Heaven by Keta Diablo
Under the Moon by Natalie J. Damschroder
Something Secret This Way Comes by Sierra Dean
Decadent Dreams by Ty Langston

I know I am missing some great books and I apologize. Next year I plan on keeping a list so I can keep track.... So tell me what are some of your favorites this year?


Monday, December 12, 2011

Bewitching Book Tours Holding Onto Heaven By Keta Diablo Guest Post, Promo and Review

I would like to take the opportunity to welcome Keta again to BLH. Most of you know I am a huge fan of hers and so happy to have her stopping by once again. So please give her a warm welcome.
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Ten Things I Am Thankful For This Holiday Season


Clean slates
Around the holidays we start to think about saying goodbye to the old year and hello to the new. The New Year ushers in clean slates—an opportunity for us to change, add positive elements to our lives or remove negative energy that surrounds us daily.  What if we lived in a country where change of any kind was forbidden? What if you could never wipe the slate clean? I’m thankful for clean slates. 

Little things
Unspeakable tragedy lurks all around us; a teen beaten to death in New York, a horrific hate crime in Pennsylvania, the shooting of a priest in a small town. Big things. And then I realize how truly fragile life is. I have a place to live, cars that run, heat, and electricity—little things we take for granted. I’m thankful for little things.


Groaning Tables
My cupboards are full and so is my refrigerator. During the holidays my table groans with platters of food, laughter of children and smiles from elderly members of our family. Did you know that one out of eight children in the US go to bed hungry? I’m thankful for groaning tables.

Sweet Visits
I love that my children still like to hang out with me, truly want my company. Tell your children you love them every time you share a sweet visit, hug them, let them know how blessed you are they were sent to journey through life with youI am thankful for sweet visits.

Meows and Barks
Cats have saved owners from burning buildings, dogs have rescued drowning children. Your pet in most cases will always choose you over anyone else in the world. Your furry friend gives you unconditional love, friendship, and loyalty. Give it back and you’ll never be sorry. I am thankful for meows and barks. 


The joy of writing 
I’m horrible at math, not very good at biology or science either. But someone gave me a gift I’m sure I’m not worthy of. If you open a dictionary and choose a word, 90 percent of the time I can tell you the meaning. One thing I can always count on is the ability to string words together. I’m gonna ride this one out for as long and as far as it will take me. I am thankful for the joy of writing.

Random acts of kindness
There is  power in random  act of  kindness -- a selfless act performed by a person wishing to either assist or cheer up an individual. There will generally be no reason other than to make people smile, or make them happy. An example of a random act of kindness is stopping to help someone who’s out of fuel. You can’t leave your name and you refuse to accept money in exchange for your assistance. You stopped to help because help was needed. We shouldn’t help people based on merit, but on need. I am thankful for random acts of kindness.
Freedom 
Almost 5,000 US soldiers have died in the Iraq war and 1,000 in Afghanistan. We must all realize that giving one’s life is the ultimate sacrifice. These heroic men and women have lost everything. This Holiday Season, thank them/pray for them for surrendering all they ever were or could ever hope to be to ensure our freedom.  I am thankful for freedom.
Friends and family
I saved the best for last. I’ve made wonderful friends over the years and have been blessed with the most awesome family. At Christmas and every day of the year I’ll remember to be thankful for friends and family. Remember, family and friends are like stars. You don’t always see them, but you know they’re always there for you.  I am thankful for friends and family.



Blessed Holidays to you and yours, 


You can find Keta here on the Net:



Genre: historical erotic romance set during the Civil War

When the blazing fires of revolt ravage the countryside, Lauren and Sage McCain are trapped amid the flames of destiny. The Civil War has crumbled a Nation, and the Dakota Sioux uprising has turned southern Minnesota into a violent battlefield. Holding on to Heaven is a story of love between two men and a woman, love between siblings, and love that crosses all boundaries and forges all cultures.


Review:
As many of you know I am a fan of Keta's books and this book I have to say is my favorite so far. It basically has two stories in one book.- Creed/Lauren and Sage/Wanapaya - Two sisters that neither know that other exists until fate brings them together.

What an amazing concept! At least for me anyway, I am almost positive I hadn't read anything this unique in awhile. Problem is where to begin with this review, other than I just loved it so much.

I have to admit Lauren, I wanted to smack a few times, but to me that is definitely a good sign the author has written the character well enough for me to actually feel for these fictional people. All these characters I grew to love in this short amount of time. I hate to sound redundant, but that is one of the main things that grab me, if I can connect then I will want to see how their lives play out.

I laughed, cried (can't say why don't want to spoil it for you), and even screamed at the end..... It was definitely an ending I didn't see coming. Well part of it I did, just not all of it. I can't say more without giving anything away. Okay I rambled enough , if you have read Keta's books before then you have to read this one and if you haven't then I say what are you waiting for...



Rating:

Sunday, December 11, 2011

A Passionate Christmas Tour Guest Post with Clarissa Yip


Procrastinating in Five Oaks!

’Tis the season! It’s amazing how fast the months have flown by. Halloween came and trick-or-treaters took all your candy. Thanksgiving flew in with colors and feathers, and through your food coma, it’s become a haze to you. Then December starts and you’re wondering how many days till Christmas and then—
HOLD IT!

Wait…we’re in December now?
I’m not ready for the holidays!

Well…I’ve been hanging out in Five Oaks lately, just doing a little procrastination. If you’ve met Maddy and Cole, then you’ve visited this quaint town. Magic happens here! No, I’m serious. Cole owns a lodge and offers tourists the chance to escape into another world. If you like skiing then this is definitely the place you want to be. Great food, friendly people, beautiful scenery, life-threatening cliffs…

I’ll tell you about my typical day in town…

First, I’d have breakfast at Stumps Diner (They have the best grilled cheese sandwiches there! I could eat it 3 times a day!) Then I would go back to Tall Oaks, hang out around the lodge, hit the slopes, grab some hot chocolate, and then maybe see what other mischief I could get into. Cole has a new lodge that had opened and it’s grand! Beautiful lights, awesome views, and a huge Christmas tree sits in the center of the courtyard.

There’re angels (Smitten) and assassin witches (Mid-Winter Magic) that hang around also! You’d be surprise at who you would meet. I would be very very careful of where you go. But Five Oaks is amazing! You really have to see for yourself. Maddy does all the event planning, throws some fabulous parties, and Cole is just a hunk you have to check out…lol.

If you’re like me, you’re probably looking to run away and find a world to hide. Where do you usually go to procrastinate?

Join me at http://www.passionatecritters.org to check out the Last Snowy Encounter—a short sequel to Cole and Maddy’s story in Snowy Encounters on December 18th!

And I’m over at Books Read and Makeup Done chatting about Hunky Heroes, Spunky Heroines, and Makeup Obsessed…in Alaska!


Blurb:

Ever since her divorce, successful Event Planner Maddy Glover dreads visiting her hometown. For the first time in three years, she returns home for the holidays and finds herself caught at the end of an avalanche. Only to be rescued by the one man she’s determined to avoid: her ex-husband.

Ambitious and desirable Cole Harmon lives to rebuild the town and to forget the woman who hadn’t believed he had enough to offer her—until Maddy shows up in her cute city-slicker attire and sexy black boots. In need of a decorator for the holidays, he hires his ex-wife to help, only to be thrown into dark buried memories and snowy encounters that may thaw the ice between them. Will their love rekindle or will Maddy walk away once again?

Excerpt:

“Let me go.”

He paused. Latching onto control and restraint, he dropped his hands with reluctance.

Maddy’s boot pivoted and she fell, landing in the snow. She glared up at him. He blinked then mirth struck him full force. She looked too adorable sitting on the ice, eyes darting fire. He almost doubled over when she cursed out loud.

“It’s not funny.” She huffed as she tried to stand.

Taking pity on her, Cole stifled his laughter and helped her up. Then, turning her around, brushed the snow off her ass. He tugged her skirt back into place, but couldn’t help lingering over the bottom curve of her butt and gave her a light pat.

“Stop that.” She moved away and frowned.

Cole grinned. He knew that look. She had it every time she was irritated over some thing, but couldn’t decide. “Stop what?” he asked, innocently.

Her eyes narrowed. “You know what I’m talking about. Every time you touch me, something happens.”

He crossed his arms and leaned against the door. “Like what?”

Her fingers balled into fists at her sides. “Cole Harmon, don’t you dare mess with me. You know what I’m talking about.”

Cole chuckled and reached into the back seat for the suitcase. “We better get you inside and dry that cute butt of yours before it freezes in the cold. Wouldn’t want you to get frostbite before you go back to the city.”

Maddy growled. She rushed past him to the driveway. He watched as she slowed her steps and carefully trudged to the door in her dangerous heels.

He grinned.

She hasn’t changed all that much.




Buy Links

A Passionate Christmas




Thank you Clarissa for stopping by today at BLH!

Saturday, December 10, 2011

On My Wishlist #20

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On My Wishlist is a fun weekly event hosted by Book Chick City and runs every Saturday. It's where I list all the books I desperately want but haven't actually bought yet. They can be old, new or forthcoming. It's also an event that you can join in with too.

Not so much a book on my wishlist this week as is an Kindle, been wanting one for a long time now ever since I started my blog. Hoping I have been good enough for Santa to bring me one but if not I am going to treat myself afterwards for one.


As for books, This book I have been wanting for awhile, I love this series.


Mass Market Paperback: 368 pages
Publisher: St. Martin's Paperbacks; First Edition edition (August 30, 2011)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 0312533489
ISBN-13: 978-0312533489


Summary:
Sent on a dangerous mission into the shadowy world of the Druids, Galen must find a powerful ancient relic to defeat the enemies of Castle MacLeod. But what he discovers is far more powerful—and far more dangerous. A Druid lass whose beauty is as spellbinding as any magic…

Reaghan is the most enchanting woman Galen has even met—and the most enigmatic. She alone is immune to his mind-reading gifts. He alone makes her feel safe and secure. But Reaghan holds a secret power deep inside her that could destroy them both. And if Galen hopes to hold this captivating woman in his arms every night, he must defeat the darkness that draws closer around her every day….

and the next one, did I mention just how much I love this series, if you haven't read anything by Donna Grant I highly recommend her.



Mass Market Paperback: 336 pages
Publisher: St. Martin's Paperbacks; First Edition edition (January 31, 2012)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 0312533497
ISBN-13: 978-0312533496
Release Date Jan 31st, 2012

Summary:
n the acclaimed Dark Sword series, the darkest, fiercest warriors of Scottish legend finally meet their match—in the brave, fiery hearts of the women they cherish…

For years, Broc has watched over her, protected her—and hidden his love for her. But when his beautiful Sonya, finds herself in a hopeless situation, the Highlander flies to her side to save her. Unfortunately, before the Druidess can thank him, Broc is captured by his enemy and destined for eternal pain…

Sonya vows to help her noble warrior, though he is imprisoned in a mountain of pure evil—bound in chains of the darkest magic. With Sonya’s own magic fading, she must summon the greatest power of all to save the man she loves. But even if these two hearts are united, will they be strong enough to defeat the heart of darkness? Or will their undying love doom them for all eternity…?

Thursday, December 8, 2011

And The Winner of ebook copy of The Kure is.... and other announcements

BannerFans.com

Just wanted to say It's my birthday giveaway has been extended again, reason is being Xmas has hurt my pocketbook so ... the new end date is Jan 3rd , with the winner being announced on Jan 4th! so if you haven't entered click HERE. You got a few more weeks to enter.

Now on to the winner of an ebook copy of The Kure is.....

Na

Congrats! An email has been sent, you have 48 hours to respond or a new winner will be chosen.