Saturday, August 31, 2013
Bunny Express Saturday 2013 (Aug 31)
Bunny Express Saturday is hosted every Saturday at Paranormal and Romantic Suspense Reviews.
I received this in the mail this week.
For Review:
Styxx (Dark-Hunter Novels) Hardcover
Sherrilyn Kenyon's most highly-anticipated novel in the Dark-Hunter series since Acheron is here — the unforgettable story of Styxx, Acheron's twin brother and one of the most powerful beings on earth.
Just when you thought doomsday was over
Centuries ago Acheron saved the human race by imprisoning an ancient evil bent on absolute destruction. Now that evil has been unleashed and it is out for revenge.
As the twin to Acheron, Styxx hasn’t always been on his brother’s side. They’ve spent more centuries going at each other’s throats than protecting their backs. Now Styxx has a chance to prove his loyalty to his brother, but only if he’s willing to trade his life and future for Acheron’s.
The Atlantean goddess of Wrath and Misery, Bethany was born to right wrongs. But it was never a task she relished. Until now.
She owes Acheron a debt that she vows to repay, no matter what it takes. He will join their fellow gods in hell and nothing is going to stop her. But things are never what they seem, and Acheron is no longer the last of his line. Styxx and Acheron must put aside their past and learn to trust each other or more will suffer.
Yet it’s hard to risk your own life for someone who once tried to take yours, even when it's your own twin, and when loyalties are skewed and no one can be trusted, not even yourself, how do you find a way back from the darkness that wants to consume the entire world? One that wants to start by devouring your very soul?
Kitty in the Underworld (Kitty Norville) Mass Market Paperback
As Denver adjusts to a new master vampire, Kitty gets word of an intruder in the Denver werewolf pack’s territory, and she investigates the challenge to her authority. She follows the scent of the lycanthrope through the mountains where she is lured into a trap, tranquilized, and captured. When she wakes up, she finds herself in a defunct silver mine: the perfect cage for a werewolf. Her captors are a mysterious cult seeking to induct Kitty into their ranks in a ritual they hope will put an end to Dux Bellorum. Though skeptical of their power, even Kitty finds herself struggling to resist joining their cause. Whatever she decides, they expect Kitty to join them in their plot willingly or otherwise.
Quick Fix (Ciel Halligan) Paperback (Unsolicitated)
QUICK FIX the second installment of the original urban fantasy series by LINDA GRIMES.
Ciel Halligan, an aura adaptor with a chameleon-like ability to step into the lives of her clients and fix their problems for them — as them — is working a job at the National Zoo with her boyfriend, Billy, and his ten-year-old sister, Molly. It's supposed to be a quick fix, giving her time to decide if it's wise to pursue the romantic relationship her charming scoundrel of a best friend wants, or if she should give Mark, the CIA spook she's crushed on since hormones first rattled her pubescent brain, a chance to step up to the plate.
Molly has already begun to show signs of being an adaptor herself. She's young for it, but she's always been precocious, so it's not impossible. What is impossible is her taking on the form of the baby orangutan she touches — adaptors can only project human auras. Until now, apparently. Worse, Molly is stuck in ape form. She can't change herself back.
Escaping from the zoo with their new baby orang, Ciel and Billy head for New York City and the only person they know can help: Ciel's brother James, a non-adaptor scientist who's determined to crack the aura adaptor genetic code. But when Billy winds up in jail, accused of attempted murder, Ciel begins to suspect Molly's unusual adapting ability is more than just a fluke. Who's been experimenting on Molly, and what do they hope to gain? And will Ciel survive to find out?
Manga:
Judge, Vol. 1 Paperback
Envy, lust, sloth, wrath, gluttony, pride, greed.
A group of sinners who bear the guilt of the seven deadly sins has been gathered in an old courthouse to face judgement. To leave this place alive, they must offer up a sacrifice - one of their number. As the trial begins, who will the gavel fall on first?
BTOOOM!, Vol. 3 Paperback
After Ryouta Sakamoto is deposited on an island and forced to kill others with unique bombs called BIMs in order to stay alive as a player in live-action "BTOOOM!", he and his newfound ally, Kiyoshi Taira, search for a way off the island. En route, he encounters a heavily armed teenage girl, who, suspicious of his motives, unleashes a vicious barrage of BIMs in his direction. Though initially unwilling to engage, Ryouta decides to fight back. But will earning another victory on the island lead to him losing more of his humanity and committing yet another unpardonable sin?
Hachette Book Group Canada, St. Martin's Press and TOR Books!
Friday, August 30, 2013
Follow My Blog Friday #161
If you are new to the FF fun, Feature and Follow Friday
is a blog
hop that expands your blog following by a
joint effort between
bloggers. Feature & Follow Friday
is now hosted by TWO hosts,
myself of course and Alison of Alison Can Read. Each host will have their own Feature Blog and this way it'll allow us to show off more new blogs! How does this work? First you leave your name here on this post, then you create a post on your own blog that links back to this post (easiest way is to just grab the code under the #FF picture and put it in your post) and then you visit as many blogs as you can and tell them "hi" in their comments (on the post that has the #FF image). You follow them, they follow you. Win. Win. Just make sure to follow back if someone follows you!
Now to make this FF interesting we do a FEATURE blogger. If you are interested in becoming a Feature click on the drop down link above FEATURES and Features and Follow Friday and get on the waiting list! It is also required, that if you participate you must follow the hosts (Parajunkee and Alison Can Read) and the two Feature blogs.
This Meme is hosted by Rachel from Parajunkee's View and Alison from Alison Can Read on Fridays.
To join the fun and make now book blogger friends, just follow these simple rules:
1. (Required) Follow the Follow My Book Blog Friday Hosts {Parajunkee and Alison Can Read}
2. (Required) Follow our Featured Bloggers
3. Put your Blog name and URL in the Linky thing. You can also grab the code if you would like to insert it into your posts.
4. Grab the button up there and place it in a post, this post is for people to find a place to say “hi” in your comments and that they are now following you.
5. If you are using WordPress or another CMS that doesn’t have GFC (Google Friends Connect) state in your posts how you would like to be followed
6. Follow Follow Follow as many as you can, as many as you want, or just follow a few. The whole point is to make new friends and find new blogs. Also, don’t just follow, comment and say hi. Another blogger might not know you are a new follower if you don’t say “HI”
7. If someone comments and says they are following you, be a dear and follow back. Spread the Love and the followers.
8. If you’re new to the follow Friday hop, comment and let me know, so I can stop by and check out your blog!
Our Feature is The Whimsical Mama
When did you start blogging?
I started this blog back in the fall of 2011. Originally, I intended to do a blog inspired by Julie and Julia, but that never really happened. I had a newborn to take care of, my hubby had a travel job, and cooking for one just isn’t fun. A few other failed ventures and I finally found my niche in book blogging this summer. Haven’t looked back!
What is your favourite part of book blogging?
I’d have to say that my favourite part of book blogging so far is getting connected with so many new people and hearing about so many great books!
What type of books do you mainly blog about?
I haven’t gotten many reviews up yet, but I will (probably) be mainly blogging about YA books with a few adult novels thrown in too. I’m in my mid 20s, so I’m in that realm between two book worlds. YA will always have a special place in my heart though! I doubt I will ever stop reading it.
What is your favourite book(s)?
This is a toughie! I’m always drawn to say Harry Potter, because that is what launched my continuous love of reading, but I’ve read so many great books over the years. I’ll go with my favourite book to read to my kiddos – Love you Forever.
What has been the best thing that has happened to you because of book blogging?
The best thing so far that has happened to me is getting the opportunity to read and review books before they are released. I’ve always dreamed about having a chance to do that, and it’s coming true!
Our Feature - I Read, Ergo I Write
1. When did you start blogging?
I've been blogging for about 4 years now, but I started book blogging only last November.
2. What is your favorite part of book blogging?
I love the interaction with so many different people from all over the world! It's so crazy that I get to fangirl over a book with a complete stranger! And I love the direct interaction that we get to have with authors.
3. What type of books do you mainly blog about?
Mainly Young Adult, with a bit of quirky non-fiction and general fiction thrown into the mix :)
4. What is your favorite book(s)?
Aah... everyone asks this (and a few books change every time)! Okay, The Blue Castle by L M Montgomery, Pride and Prejudice by Jane Austen, the Harry Potter series, and currently, On The Island by Tracey Garvis-Graves.
5. What has been the best thing that has happened to you because of book blogging?
My relationship with books has gone to a whole new level since I started book blogging. I've always been an avid reader ever since I could read, but blogging has made me look at books a whole lot differently, and I'm also reading SO many more books now than I ever did!
Q: If you could only have ONE – one book – for the rest of your life. Don’t cheat what would it be?
Man this is a good question and a hard one to really answer when you have so many favorite reads.
I can't really decide between these three:
1. Dance with the Devil - Sherrilyn Kenyon (Zarek)
2. Lover Awakened - J.R. Ward (Zsadist)
3. Lover at Last - J.R. Ward (Qhuay)
Labels:
Follow My Blog Friday
Thursday, August 29, 2013
Headed for Trouble (Troubleshooters) Mass Market Paperback
I've finished "Headed for Trouble" by Suzanne Brockmann.
New York Times bestselling author Suzanne Brockmann, whom USA Today calls “the reigning queen of military suspense,” breaks out a rapid-fire collection of pulse-pounding, heart-tugging stories and novellas featuring the intrepid men and women of Troubleshooters Inc., fiction’s hottest ultimate counterterrorism squad.
Tough-as-nails Troubleshooters operative Sam Starrett learns the agony of loving someone in danger — and the hell of waiting on the home front — as his wife, Alyssa, hurtles into a foreign hotspot that’s about to boil over.
Navy SEAL Frank O’Leary’s ill-fated holiday reunion with his older brother takes a turn for the better — when a chance encounter on a rainy New Orleans street gives Frank a reason to be thankful after all.
In a maze of tunnels deep beneath a military base in Germany, Jules Cassidy, Alyssa Locke, and their comrades in arms match wits with terrorists on a mission with explosive consequences.
Plus more never-before-released adventures featuring Jenk, Izzy, Gillman, Lopez, Kenny, Savannah, and other members of SEAL Team 16 — along with Suzanne Brockmann’s exclusive interviews with her beloved characters.
Looking for the best kind of trouble? You’ve found it!
Product Details
Series: Troubleshooters
Mass Market Paperback: 368 pages
Publisher: Ballantine Books (April 30, 2013)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 0345521250
ISBN-13: 978-0345521255
My Review:
I really enjoyed reading the stories with Sam, Alyssa, Jules, Robin, Max and Gina. It was interesting reading one story about Jules still thinking of Robin and then all of sudden I'm reading one where they are married.
Loved the timeline where we find out where each story falls in-between and which year they were released.
4/5
Wednesday, August 28, 2013
Wednesday Wish List
Please list the books/manga/manhwa/yaoi manga from your wishlist that you are hoping to add to your shelves in a comment, thanks.
Books, Manga, Manhwa, Shonen-Ai and Yaoi I'm Waiting For:
Styxx (Dark-Hunter Novels) Hardcover
Sherrilyn Kenyon's most highly-anticipated novel in the Dark-Hunter series since Acheron is here — the unforgettable story of Styxx, Acheron's twin brother and one of the most powerful beings on earth
Just when you thought doomsday was over
Centuries ago Acheron saved the human race by imprisoning an ancient evil bent on absolute destruction. Now that evil has been unleashed and it is out for revenge.
As the twin to Acheron, Styxx hasn’t always been on his brother’s side. They’ve spent more centuries going at each other’s throats than protecting their backs. Now Styxx has a chance to prove his loyalty to his brother, but only if he’s willing to trade his life and future for Acheron’s.
The Atlantean goddess of Wrath and Misery, Bethany was born to right wrongs. But it was never a task she relished. Until now.
She owes Acheron a debt that she vows to repay, no matter what it takes. He will join their fellow gods in hell and nothing is going to stop her. But things are never what they seem, and Acheron is no longer the last of his line. Styxx and Acheron must put aside their past and learn to trust each other or more will suffer.
Yet it’s hard to risk your own life for someone who once tried to take yours, even when it's your own twin, and when loyalties are skewed and no one can be trusted, not even yourself, how do you find a way back from the darkness that wants to consume the entire world? One that wants to start by devouring your very soul?
Realm of Shadows (The Alliance Vampires) Mass Market Paperback
Tara Mason wants more than tourist sights out of her trip to the city of dreams, something strange and off the beaten path. But is it her own curiosity that draws her to an ancient cemetery on the outskirts of Paris? Or is she lured by a dark, immortal force she is powerless to resist? When she realizes someone is chasing after her, a shadowy figure getting closer and closer, how quickly the dream becomes nightmare...He calls himself a guardian. He is sworn to protect the innocent from an evil most never see. Now that he has caught up to her in the abandoned ruins of a country estate, he insists Tara must trust him. She has carelessly exposed herself. The evil has seen her, but he vows it will not claim her.
The Art of Stealing Time: A Time Thief Novel Mass Market Paperback
Experts in the art of stealing time, Travellers live on the edge of both mortal and immortal realms. But a few fight their outlaw instincts.
Gwenhwyfar Byron Owens learned everything she knows about potions and spells from her two Wiccan moms, who are forbidden by Otherworld laws to teach magic to mortals. But when their latest transgression results in the kidnapping of a mortal woman, Gwen figures the only place to hide them all is in Summerland, the Wiccan afterlife.
But Gregory Faa — a member of the Watch — is hot on their heels. A Traveller who has stolen time, he’s eager to prove himself worthy of the Watch, only he has a past with the dark-eyed Welsh beauty he’s been charged with bringing to justice. He’s tempted to just let Gwen disappear into Summerland until he realizes that she’s being pursued by a squad of goons and death’s minions.
Gwen is used to taking care of her moms and herself, so she can’t give in to her heart’s demand to trust Gregory, despite the fact that he’s as handsome as the day is long — and the days in Summerland last centuries.
Dark Lycan (Carpathian) Hardcover
“The erotic, gripping series that has defined an entire genre” (J. R. Ward) continues as #1 New York Times bestselling author Christine Feehan links the fates of two strangers bound by a secret in the shadows of the Carpathian Mountains.
Tatijana of the Dragonseekers spent centuries encased in ice with her sister, trapped in limbo between life and death, never speaking to a soul other than those who tormented her. Now, she has been freed from her frozen prison by an unknown descendent. Awakened in human form, Tatijana yearns to explore the modern world in which she now lives — a world with more mysteries than she is prepared for.
Fenris Dalka has returned to the Carpathian Mountains after a long absence to be with his brother. He is scarred by centuries of battle, and every hard-won victory. But the real reason for his return home could prove deadly if discovered by the wrong man — or woman. Upon his arrival, he is compelled by a beautiful and enigmatic stranger who carries the scent of fresh earth, of forest, of the night itself.
In time Tatijana and Fenris will discover all that unites them — their secrets and pasts, their predators, and the hot flush of passion that stirs their souls. Yet just as surely, seduced into the silvery darkness of a full-moon night, they’ll also discover everything ancient and evil that exists to destroy them.
Includes a teaser for Christine Feehan’s next Carpathian novel, Dark Wolf.
Ritual Magic Mass Market Paperback
In Eileen Wilks’s new Novel of the Lupi, FBI agent Lily Yu is about to confront a power even darker than magic.
On her 57th birthday, Lily’s mother suddenly loses all memory beyond the age of twelve. Lily knows her mother was attacked by something more than magic. More and darker.
When Lily and Rule discover that others suffered the same, mysterious loss — at the same time on the same night — their investigation into the darkness begins. Joining them is someone Lily never thought she’d see again: Al Drummond, who once tried to destroy her. He also happens to be dead. But the mysterious attacks were caused by a power strong enough to affect matters beyond the world of the living.
With some victims losing years of memory and others their lives, Lily must discover what on earth — or beyond — connects them.
Hunter's Heart: An Alpha Pack Novel Mass Market Paperback
A group of former Navy SEALS, the Alpha Pack is a top secret team of wolf shifters with Psy powers combating the greatest dangers in the world. And when the battle gets personal, their wild side is unleashed.
Ryon Hunter sees dead people — spirits that beg him for help in ways he can’t understand. He’d do anything to end the torment, until a beautiful spirit appears to him with a plea he can’t ignore: Help me…I’m alive. The woman is wildlife biologist Daria Bradford, mortally wounded after encountering a white wolf, calling to Ryon through a rare Psy gift.
When Ryon locates Daria in the Shoshone National Park, it is almost too late, but nursing her back to health at the Alpha Pack compound brings a new complication — Daria is his destined mate, and Ryon is afraid of what will happen when she discovers what he is, and what he had to do to save her life. But the biggest threat of all is still loose in the forest, leaving a merciless trail of death behind it. The Alpha Pack goes on the hunt for the mysterious white wolf, determined to stop the murderous rogue only to find that the most lethal creature of all is the one they can’t see coming.
A Time For Home: A Snowberry Creek Novel Mass Market Paperback
Welcome to the small rustic town of Snowberry Creek.
As Nick Jenkins travels from the war zones of Afghanistan to his comrade’s hometown, the kinds of wounds he carries with him have little to do with the shrapnel damage to his arm. Burdened with the guilt of failing to save his friend Spence, Nick is nonetheless determined to find a home for the dog that had been Spence’s constant companion.
Callie Redding, Spence’s childhood best friend, was shocked to learn he left her his old Victorian home. She’s even more surprised when one of his war buddies shows up with a dog at his side—and a heavy weight on his shoulders. As a tribute to their friend’s life, Nick agrees to help Callie turn her inheritance into a welcoming bed-and-breakfast for the town of Snowberry Creek.
But as they work through their grief together, they also share something far more precious — the belief that love is worth fighting for.
Never Go Back: A Jack Reacher Novel Hardcover
Never go back — but Jack Reacher does, and the past finally catches up with him.
Former military cop Jack Reacher makes it all the way from snowbound South Dakota to his destination in northeastern Virginia, near Washington, D.C.: the headquarters of his old unit, the 110th MP. The old stone building is the closest thing to a home he ever had.
Reacher is there to meet — in person — the new commanding officer, Major Susan Turner, so far just a warm, intriguing voice on the phone.
But it isn’t Turner behind the CO’s desk. And Reacher is hit with two pieces of shocking news, one with serious criminal consequences, and one too personal to even think about.
When threatened, you can run or fight.
Reacher fights, aiming to find Turner and clear his name, barely a step ahead of the army, and the FBI, and the D.C. Metro police, and four unidentified thugs.
Combining an intricate puzzle of a plot and an exciting chase for truth and justice, Lee Child puts Reacher through his paces — and makes him question who he is, what he’s done, and the very future of his untethered life on the open road.
Manga:
Demon Love Spell, Vol. 4 Paperback
A supernatural romance by the creator of Ai Ore! and Sensual Phrase
Miko is a shrine maiden who has never had much success at seeing or banishing spirits. Then she meets Kagura, a sexy demon who feeds off women's feelings of passion and love. Kagura’s insatiable appetite has left many girls at school brokenhearted, so Miko casts a spell to seal his powers. Surprisingly the spell works — sort of — but now Kagura is after her!
Shrine maiden Miko has sealed the powers of the sexy incubus Kagura, who has vowed to protect her. An incubus even more handsome than Kagura comes to take him to task for not using his powers on Miko. Miko finds herself succumbing immediately to the spell of this powerful demon — who turns out to be Kagura's father?
Reads R to L (Japanese Style) for teen plus audiences.
Strobe Edge, Vol. 6 Paperback
A heartwarming story about first love that’s one of the most hotly anticipated new shojo series among U.S. fans.
What is love, anyway? Ninako Kinoshita’s friends tell her it’s one thing, but Ninako wonders what this mysterious feeling really is. When she meets Ren Ichinose, the handsome, enigmatic guy that all the girls worship, her life takes an unexpected turn. With just a few words and a smile, he changes her world.
A big change occurs in Ren and Mayuka’s relationship, leaving Ninako wondering what she should do with this news. Just as things seem to be moving forward, Ando confronts Ren about a past transgression. Will these two former friends be able to mend their rift?
Reads R to L (Japanese Style) for teen audiences.
Midnight Secretary, Vol. 1 Paperback
Mad Men meets Vampire Diaries
Kaya Satozuka prides herself on being an excellent secretary and a consummate professional, so she doesn’t even bat an eye when she’s reassigned to the office of her company’s difficult director, Kyohei Touma. He’s as prickly — and hot — as rumors paint him, but Kaya is unfazed until she discovers that he’s a vampire!!
Kaya quickly accustoms herself to scheduling his “dinner dates” and working odd hours, but can she handle it when Kyohei’s smoldering gaze starts turning her way?!
Reads R to L (Japanese Style) for mature audiences.
Labels:
Wednesday Wish List
Tuesday, August 27, 2013
Manga Review: X, Vol. 5: 3-in-1 Paperback
I've finished "X Vol. 5 3-in-1" by Clamp.
The fate of the world as at stake in this lavishly
Reads R to L (Japanese Style).
X, the epic series from CLAMP, is now available in this deluxe collector’s edition. The pages have been recomposed in the original right-to-left reading order and restored to the highest quality. Each volume contains three of the original graphic novels, along with gorgeous, full-color illustrations never before published outside Japan!
Duality is a fact of Kamui’s prophecy-driven life, but he’s not the only one — as the battle between the Dragons of Heaven and the Dragons of Earth heats up, the warriors begin to realize who their opposite numbers are. The members on both sides of the conflict all have their reasons for wanting to save the world or destroy it, and the greatest of those is love. For the sake of loved ones long lost, and of those still living, decisions are made that will move heaven and earth.
About the Author
CLAMP is an artistic team of four women—Satsuki Igarashi, Mokona, Tsubaki Nekoi, and Nanase Ohkawa — whose works are beloved by fans worldwide. They debuted with the manga RG Veda in 1989 and went on to create such internationally bestselling series as X, Magic Knight Rayearth, Cardcaptor Sakura, Angelic Layer, Chobits, xxxHolic and Tsubasa: RESERVoir CHRoNiCLE, all of which have been adapted into TV anime series. In addition to manga, CLAMP also produces illustrations, book designs, screenplays, and essays.
Product Details
Series: X (Book 5)
Paperback: 584 pages
Publisher: VIZ Media LLC (May 14, 2013)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1421540452
ISBN-13: 978-1421540450
My Review:
I highly recommend this series if you enjoy action, deep friendships and long-standing feuds. This omnibus editions are worth the cover price because it is quite thick and well made with gorgeous never before seen illustrations.
In this volume we see interesting fight scenes, touching and tender scenes between partners and friends and friendships are strengthening.
4/5
Thanks Simon and Schuster Canada for sending me this manga to review, greatly appreciated!
Labels:
CLAMP,
Manga Review,
X 3-in-1 Vol. 5
New Releases 2013 (Aug 27)
New Releases
The Vampire With the Dragon Tattoo (Love at Stake) Mass Market Paperback
He's out of control
Dougal Kincaid has something to prove. After being injured in a battle with the Malcontents, he's ready for active duty protecting unsuspecting mortals from these villainous vampires who want to rule the world. But first he has to get control of himself . . . because just the sight of a certain lovely doctor has his injured hand doing some peculiar things, not to mention the sizzling sensation that burns along his dragon tattoo ... Vampires? Vampires? As a scientist, Leah is having trouble believing that these immortal creatures exist. But there they are, standing in front of her, asking for help in solving a genetic puzzle that can save mankind. There's even one in a sexy kilt! Just one look into Dougal's gorgeous green eyes sets her pulse racing. But can she trust him — and the overwhelming desire that refuses to be ignored.
Hearts in Darkness: Nikki and Michael Book 2 Mass Market Paperback
PASSION WITH A BITE
Private Investigator Nikki James has a lot to contend with. Her lover, Michael Kelly, walked out without so much as a goodbye, and what seemed like a simple case of stopping a runaway teen brought her face-to-face with another clutch of deadly vampires. But if that seemed bad, it is about to get a lot worse, because when Michael returns, it is not for her, but for the case.
Wealthy men are starting to vanish from a resort in Jackson Hole — which is exactly where Nikki’s runaway teen seems to be as well. Something nefarious is going on at the luxury spa, but what? The last thing Michael needs is a confrontation with Nikki — especially when his control over his bloodlust is still so tenuous. But posing as a newlywed couple at the swanky resort may be the best way for both of them to solve their respective cases. This time, Nikki is determined to make Michael see that life apart is worse than death. Yet before she can make him see the light, a specter from Michael’s past rises that could destroy any hope she has of a future with him. Because this time the threat isn’t physical. It’s a matter of the heart.
Includes an excerpt of the next novel in Keri Arthur’s Nikki and Michael series, Chasing the Shadows
Declan's Cross (Sharpe and Donovan) Hardcover
An escape to an idyllic Irish seaside village is about to turn deadly in this riveting new novel by master of romantic suspense Carla Neggers
For marine biologist Julianne Maroney, two weeks in tiny Declan's Cross on the south Irish coast is a chance to heal her broken heart. She doesn't expect to attract the attention of FBI agents Emma Sharpe and Colin Donovan — especially since a Donovan is the reason for her broken heart.
Emma and Colin are in Ireland for their own personal retreat. Colin knows he's a reminder of everything Julianne wants to escape, but something about her trip raises his suspicion. Emma, an art crimes expert, is also on edge. Of all the Irish villages Julianne could choose why Declan's Cross?
Ten years ago, a thief slipped into a mansion in Declan's Cross. Emma's grandfather, a renowned art detective, investigated, but the art stolen that night has never been recovered and the elusive thief never caught.
From the moment Julianne sets foot on Irish soil, everything goes wrong. The well-connected American diver who invited her to Ireland has disappeared. And now Emma and Colin are in Declan's Cross asking questions.
As a dark conspiracy unfolds amid the breathtaking scenery of Declan's Cross, the race is on to stop a ruthless killer and the stakes have never been more personal for Emma and Colin.
Against the Mark (The Raines of Wind Canyon) Mass Market Paperback
The perfect murder is a work of art
In one catastrophic instant, Haley Warren's estranged father was taken from her. She never got the chance to reconnect with him, so now she's doing it the only way she's got left: by proving the explosion that killed him was no accident.
When Tyler Brodie, the provocative and handsome P.I. hired by Haley, discovers that her father was investigating a suspected art theft, he knows his death is no coincidence. After all, tens of millions of dollars worth of stolen art could motivate a thief to go to any lengths — including getting rid of anyone poking around where they don't belong.
As Haley and Ty get closer to the truth, the truth gets ugly: Did Haley's dad know too much or was he in on the take? And although Ty's a consummate professional, he's having trouble focusing on the facts of the case, and not the figure of his gorgeous client. The two are determined to get to the bottom of the case, even if it means they die trying.
Nowhere Safe Mass Market Paperback
She sense their twisted desires before she meets them. It's as if fate is helping her stop these monsters from preying on others the way she was preyed upon. And after she has delivered brutal justice, she will let the whole world see their guilt. "I must pay for what I've done." The first victim - naked, bound, frozen to death - wore the note strung around his neck. Now there's another note - this one attached to Detective September Rafferty's own stepbrother. Stefan survives, but September is sure he knows more than he's saying. Someone is eliminating suspected sexual predators, and the only thing more dangerous than a madman is a killer who's ruthlessly sane. Racing to predict the next target, September finds himself drawn into a harrowing and deeply personal case. For this time, there are no innocents - only the one who kills, and those condemned to die.
The Hero (Thunder Point) Mass Market Paperback
With warmth and sensitivity, #1 New York Times bestselling author Robyn Carr shows readers that falling in love can be the bravest act of all.
In a moment of desperation, Devon McAllister takes her daughter and flees a place where they should have been safe and secure. She has no idea what is around the next bend, but she is pretty certain it can't be worse than what they've left behind. Her plan is to escape to somewhere she can be invisible. Instead, an unexpected offer of assistance leads her to Thunder Point, a tiny Oregon town with a willingness to help someone in need.
As the widowed father of a vulnerable young boy, Spencer Lawson knows something about needing friendship. But he's not looking for anything else. Instead, he's thrown his energy into his new role as Thunder Point's high school football coach. Tough and demanding to his team, off the field he's gentle and kind just the kind of man who could heal Devon's wounded heart.
Devon thought she wanted to hide from the world. But in Thunder Point, you find bravery where you least expect it…and sometimes, you find a hero.
Labels:
New Releases 2013 (Aug 27)
Monday, August 26, 2013
Weekly Book Reads (Aug 26)
Weekly Book Reads
Weekly Book Reads is a weekly Monday Meme that is hosted by Paranormal and Romantic Suspense Reviews:
Post the books read last week and books you plan on finishing this week.
Read Last Week:
1. The Night is Watching - Heather Graham
2. Let Me Go - Chelsea Cain
3. Justice for Sara - Erica Spindler
4. X 2-in-1 Vol. 5 - Clamp
Weekly Book Reading:
1. Headed for Trouble - Suzanne Brockmann
2. The Newcomer - Robyn Carr
3. Bare It All - Lori Foster
4. 9th Girl - Tami Hoag
5. Doubt Vol. 2 -
Sunday, August 25, 2013
RS Review: Justice for Sara (Hardcover)
I've finished "Justice for Sara by Erica Spindler.
When seventeen-year-old Katherine McCall awakened one morning to find her beloved sister, Sara, brutally murdered, her whole life changed in the blink of an eye. Kat was named the prime suspect and, on a string of circumstantial evidence, charged and tried. While the jury found her innocent, not everyone else agreed, and her only choice was to go into hiding. But she carried a dark secret with her, one that made her worry she might actually have had something to do with Sara’s death.
Now, years later, Kat is still haunted by her sister’s unsolved murder and continues to receive chilling anonymous letters, but she has tried to move on with her life. Until, on the tenth anniversary of Sara’s death, she receives a letter that makes the past impossible to ignore: "What about justice for Sara?" What about justice for Sara? And for herself? Kat realizes that going back to Liberty, Louisiana, might be the only way to move forward and find some peace. And there’s a killer out there who was never caught.
But the town she’s come back to is hardly different from the one she left. The secrets and suspicions still run deep. Kat has an ally in Detective Luke Tanner, son of the former Liberty police chief, but he may be her only one. With plenty of enemies, no one to trust and a killer determined to keep a dark secret buried, Kat must decide if justice is worth fighting — and dying — for.
Bestselling author Erica Spindler returns with a chilling new suspense novel about a woman who goes home ten years after her sister's murder to find the true killer.
About the Author
A New York Times and International bestselling author, Erica Spindler's skill for crafting engrossing plots and compelling characters has earned both critical praise and legions of fans. Published in 25 countries, her stories have been lauded as "thrill-packed page turners, white- knuckle rides and edge-of-your-seat whodunits."
Raised in Rockford, Illinois, Erica had planned on being an artist, earning a BFA from Delta State University and an MFA from the University of New Orleans in the visual arts. In June of 1982, in bed with a cold, she picked up a romance novel for relief from daytime television. She was immediately hooked, and soon decided to try to write one herself. She leaped from romance to suspense in 1996 with her novel Forbidden Fruit, and found her true calling.
Her novel Bone Cold won the prestigious Daphne du Maurier Award for excellence. A Romance Writers of America Honor Roll member, she received a Kiss of Death Award for her novels Forbidden Fruit and Dead Run and was a three-time RITA® Award finalist. Publishers Weekly awarded the audio version of her novel Shocking Pink a Listen Up Award, naming it one of the best audio mystery books of 1998.
Erica lives just outside New Orleans, Louisiana, with her husband and two sons and is busy at work on her next thriller.
Product Details
Hardcover: 352 pages
Publisher: St. Martin's Press (August 6, 2013)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 125001252X
ISBN-13: 978-1250012524
My Review:
Storyline: Both Sara and Katherine McCall (Kat) lost their parents to a terrible accident when both were young. Sara has been taking care of Kat for 5 years and only has been met with resentment, loathing and rebellion.
Kat has come back to town to after ten years to find out who the real murderer of her older sister Sara
was. At 17, one morning while getting ready for school she found her sister beaten to death with a baseball bat. At this time she was rebellious and keeping a secret - she was secretly sleeping with 20 year old Ryan Benton and believed she was in love with him.
The book switches from the present to the past before and after the murder.
Characters: All the characters were well developed and we get glimpses that people aren't what they appear.
Romance: I really enjoyed the romance between Luke and Kat because he was persuasive but not overbearing, he believed in Kat's innocence and it was loving and sweet.
Villain(s): They were selfish and only cared for their own welfare.
4/5
Library Haul 2013 (Aug 25 - 31)
Library Haul
Here's the list of books/manga/manhwa/yaoi manga I picked up this week at the library:
Softcover:
1. Bare It All - Lori Foster
2. The Newcomer - Robyn Carr
Labels:
Library Haul 2013 (Aug 25 - 31)
Saturday, August 24, 2013
Bunny Express Saturday 2013 (Aug 24)
Bunny Express Saturday is hosted every Saturday at Paranormal and Romantic Suspense Reviews.
I received this in the mail this week.
For Review:
Declan's Cross (Sharpe & Donovan Novels) Hardcover
An escape to an idyllic Irish seaside village is about to turn deadly in this riveting new novel by master of romantic suspense Carla Neggers.
For marine biologist Julianne Maroney, two weeks in tiny Declan's Cross on the south Irish coast is a chance to heal her broken heart. She doesn't expect to attract the attention of FBI agents Emma Sharpe and Colin Donovan — especially since a Donovan is the reason for her broken heart.
Emma and Colin are in Ireland for their own personal retreat. Colin knows he's a reminder of everything Julianne wants to escape, but something about her trip raises his suspicion. Emma, an art crimes expert, is also on edge. Of all the Irish villages Julianne could choose why Declan's Cross?
Ten years ago, a thief slipped into a mansion in Declan's Cross. Emma's grandfather, a renowned art detective, investigated, but the art stolen that night has never been recovered and the elusive thief never caught.
From the moment Julianne sets foot on Irish soil, everything goes wrong. The well-connected American diver who invited her to Ireland has disappeared. And now Emma and Colin are in Declan's Cross asking questions.
As a dark conspiracy unfolds amid the breathtaking scenery of Declan's Cross, the race is on to stop a ruthless killer and the stakes have never been more personal for Emma and Colin.
Elysian Fields (Sentinels of New Orleans) Hardcover
Elysian Fields by Suzanne Johnson is the fun, fast-paced third book in the Sentinels of New Orleans, a series of urban fantasy novels filled with wizards, mermen, and pirates.
The mer feud has been settled, but life in South Louisiana still has more twists and turns than the muddy Mississippi.
New Orleanians are under attack from a copycat killer mimicking the crimes of a 1918 serial murderer known as the Axeman of New Orleans. Thanks to a tip from the undead pirate Jean Lafitte, DJ Jaco knows the attacks aren’t random — an unknown necromancer has resurrected the original Axeman of New Orleans, and his ultimate target is a certain blonde wizard. Namely, DJ.
Combating an undead serial killer as troubles pile up around her isn’t easy. Jake Warin’s loup-garou nature is spiraling downward, enigmatic neighbor Quince Randolph is acting weirder than ever, the Elders are insisting on lessons in elven magic from the world’s most annoying wizard, and former partner Alex Warin just turned up on DJ’s to-do list. Not to mention big maneuvers are afoot in the halls of preternatural power.
Suddenly, moving to the Beyond as Jean Lafitte’s pirate wench could be DJ’s best option.
Tell No Lies Hardcover
A series of anonymous threats intended for others puts a man — and everyone he loves — in the path of a relentless killer, in Tell No Lies by Gregg Hurwitz
Daniel Brasher has always been something of a disappointment to his old-money aristocratic San Francisco mother. Daniel left his high-paying job as a money manager to marry his community organizer wife and work at a job he loves, leading group counseling sessions with recently paroled ex-cons. Now he’s ready to move on and start a private practice.
But before he leaves, he finds an envelope in his department mailbox — one intended for someone else that was placed in his slot by accident. Inside it is an unsigned piece of paper, a note that says only “admit what you’ve done or you will bleed for it. you have 'til november 15 at midnite.” The deadline has already passed and the person to whom the envelope was addressed was brutally murdered. But this first warning is only the beginning.
Soon, Daniel finds more warnings in his office mail, to people that the police cannot track down, and to victims that cannot be saved. Daniel's efforts, however, have alerted the killer to his involvement and next he gets a threat of his own. Now, with the clock ticking, Daniel — with no clue what he’s supposed to have done or to what action he must confess — must somehow appease, or outwit, a seemingly unstoppable killer.
Thanks Meryl Ross Media Relations, Penguin Canada and TOR books!
Friday, August 23, 2013
Follow My Blog Friday #160
If you are new to the FF fun, Feature and Follow Friday
is a blog
hop that expands your blog following by a
joint effort between
bloggers. Feature & Follow Friday
is now hosted by TWO hosts,
myself of course and Alison of Alison Can Read. Each host will have their own Feature Blog and this way it'll allow us to show off more new blogs! How does this work? First you leave your name here on this post, then you create a post on your own blog that links back to this post (easiest way is to just grab the code under the #FF picture and put it in your post) and then you visit as many blogs as you can and tell them "hi" in their comments (on the post that has the #FF image). You follow them, they follow you. Win. Win. Just make sure to follow back if someone follows you!
Now to make this FF interesting we do a FEATURE blogger. If you are interested in becoming a Feature click on the drop down link above FEATURES and Features and Follow Friday and get on the waiting list! It is also required, that if you participate you must follow the hosts (Parajunkee and Alison Can Read) and the two Feature blogs.
This Meme is hosted by Rachel from Parajunkee's View and Alison from Alison Can Read on Fridays.
To join the fun and make now book blogger friends, just follow these simple rules:
1. (Required) Follow the Follow My Book Blog Friday Hosts {Parajunkee and Alison Can Read}
2. (Required) Follow our Featured Bloggers
3. Put your Blog name and URL in the Linky thing. You can also grab the code if you would like to insert it into your posts.
4. Grab the button up there and place it in a post, this post is for people to find a place to say “hi” in your comments and that they are now following you.
5. If you are using WordPress or another CMS that doesn’t have GFC (Google Friends Connect) state in your posts how you would like to be followed
6. Follow Follow Follow as many as you can, as many as you want, or just follow a few. The whole point is to make new friends and find new blogs. Also, don’t just follow, comment and say hi. Another blogger might not know you are a new follower if you don’t say “HI”
7. If someone comments and says they are following you, be a dear and follow back. Spread the Love … and the followers
8. If you’re new to the follow Friday hop, comment and let me know, so I can stop by and check out your blog!
Our Feature is Spare Time Book Blog
When did you start blogging?
I started blogging on January 12, 2012.
What is your favorite part of book blogging?
I love meeting new bloggers and authors. I have met a few authors that I talk with regularly. It’s been great! I have also been exposed to so many books that I might not have come across them otherwise!
What type of books do you mainly blog about?
I mainly blog about YA and New Adult. I am in love with the New Adult genre! I do a few adult reviews now and then.
What is your favorite book(s)?
I really love Jennifer Armentrout’s Obsession. All her books really but, that one is by far my favorite. I also like anything written by M. Leighton! They are both awesome!
What has been the best thing that has happened to you because of book blogging?
There are a couple of things. I love getting review requests from authors. Some of those books have been awesome. That has been so great. I kind of feel honored when authors reach out for my opinion. I have also had a couple review pieces published in books. Like, the blogger praise part in the beginning of books. I literally jumped up and down when I got my copy of them.
Our Feature - Read This Instead
1. When did you start blogging?
I started in March of 2011, nearly two and a half years ago! But I've taken a few breaks here and there.
2. What is your favorite part of book blogging?
My favorite part is trying to come up with new ways to share books with my readers. I just had my 4 year old review a book on the blog, and a couple years ago I reviewed the tax instructions book. Sometimes they kind of bomb, but at least they're different. :)
3. What type of books do you mainly blog about?
I usually read YA, and I especially love contemporary. Although I've been on a big fantasy kick lately.
4. What is your favorite book(s)?
My favorite book is always changing! Lately I am in love with The Girl of Fire and Thorns series by Rae Carson and The Raven Boys books by Maggie Stiefvater.
5. What has been the best thing that has happened to you because of book blogging?
The best thing has been making so many new friends. There is a big book blogging community where I live and I've been very lucky to meet lots of bloggers in real life. It's so fun to find bookish kindred spirits!
Q: Book Selfie! Take a pic with your current read.
Labels:
Follow My Blog Friday
Thursday, August 22, 2013
RS Review: The Night Is Watching (Krewe of Hunters) Mass Market Paperback
I've finished "The Night is Watching" the 9th book in her Krewe of Hunters series by Heather Graham.
Product Description
The dead of night
The Old West town of Lily, Arizona, is home to the Gilded Lily, a former theater and bawdy house. These days, it offers theatrical productions geared to tourists, but the recent discovery of a skull, a real skull, among the props and costumes shakes everyone up.
So, who do you call? The Krewe of Hunters, a special FBI unit of paranormal investigators. In this case, it's agent Jane Everett. Jane's also a talented artist who creates images of the dead as they once were. But the Krewe always works with local law enforcement, and here that means Sloan Trent, former Houston cop and now sheriff. His great-great-grandmother was an actress at the Gilded Lily and she's not resting in peace.
Then more remains appear in the nearby desert. As they search for answers, using all the skills at their disposal, Jane and Sloan find themselves falling into danger — and into love.
About the Author
New York Times and USA Today bestselling author Heather Graham has written more than a hundred novels. She's a winner of the RWA's Lifetime Achievement Award, and the Thriller Writers' Silver Bullet. She is an active member of International Thriller Writers and Mystery Writers of America. For more information, check out her websites: TheOriginalHeatherGraham.com, eHeatherGraham.com, and HeatherGraham.tv. You can also find Heather on Facebook.
Product Details
Series: Krewe of Hunters
Mass Market Paperback: 400 pages
Publisher: Harlequin MIRA; a edition (May 28, 2013)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 0778315061
ISBN-13: 978-0778315063
My Review:
Storyline: We are transported to the Old West in the town of Lily in Arizona. The town is known for The Gilded Lady a former theatre and brothel. The main drag has been restored to it's former glory and it's rumored to be haunted by ghosts. The old jailhouse is now a hotel where you can stay in outlaw cells and you can also stay at the Guilded Lady, dine in a A-Class Restaurant and watch nightly theatrical productions.
Characters: Sloan Trent is a former Houston cop who quit his job and became sheriff when his uncle became ill. He stayed on because he enjoys the quiet life. When he receives a call that an old skull wearing a wig is found at The Gilded Lady he calls his former partner and friend Logan. Logan now heads up Jane's FBI team and when Sloan asks for a forensic artist he sends in Jane Everett to reconstruct the skull.
Sloan was a sexy, smart, dedicated, level-headed and well respected. At first he was quite cold towards Jane but he was attracted to her. Once he thawed their romance was hot and steamy.
I wanted to bop Sloan on the head at the beginning because of the way he first treated Jane. He judged her without finding out what she was capable of.
Jane was smart, well respected, a great artist and capable FBI agent. Glad she was able to communicate with the spirits and able to take care of herself.
Romance: The first meeting didn't go so well between Sloan and Jane because he was acting like a jerk towards her. You can feel the chemistry between them even though they are civil towards each other at first until Sloan finally thaws out. Then it becomes hot, heavy and steamy!
Villain(s): The villains all had personality and were motivated by greed and egos. I was surprised at all the players and who some of them were.
4/5
Wednesday, August 21, 2013
Wednesday Wish List
Please list the books/manga/manhwa/yaoi manga from your wishlist that you are hoping to add to your shelves in a comment, thanks.
Books, Manga, Manhwa, Shonen-Ai and Yaoi I'm Waiting For:
The Vampire With the Dragon Tattoo (Love at Stake) Mass Market Paperback
He's out of control
Dougal Kincaid has something to prove. After being injured in a battle with the Malcontents, he's ready for active duty protecting unsuspecting mortals from these villainous vampires who want to rule the world. But first he has to get control of himself . . . because just the sight of a certain lovely doctor has his injured hand doing some peculiar things, not to mention the sizzling sensation that burns along his dragon tattoo ... Vampires? Vampires? As a scientist, Leah is having trouble believing that these immortal creatures exist. But there they are, standing in front of her, asking for help in solving a genetic puzzle that can save mankind. There's even one in a sexy kilt! Just one look into Dougal's gorgeous green eyes sets her pulse racing. But can she trust him — and the overwhelming desire that refuses to be ignored.
Hearts in Darkness: Nikki and Michael Book 2 Mass Market Paperback
PASSION WITH A BITE
Private Investigator Nikki James has a lot to contend with. Her lover, Michael Kelly, walked out without so much as a goodbye, and what seemed like a simple case of stopping a runaway teen brought her face-to-face with another clutch of deadly vampires. But if that seemed bad, it is about to get a lot worse, because when Michael returns, it is not for her, but for the case.
Wealthy men are starting to vanish from a resort in Jackson Hole — which is exactly where Nikki’s runaway teen seems to be as well. Something nefarious is going on at the luxury spa, but what? The last thing Michael needs is a confrontation with Nikki — especially when his control over his bloodlust is still so tenuous. But posing as a newlywed couple at the swanky resort may be the best way for both of them to solve their respective cases. This time, Nikki is determined to make Michael see that life apart is worse than death. Yet before she can make him see the light, a specter from Michael’s past rises that could destroy any hope she has of a future with him. Because this time the threat isn’t physical. It’s a matter of the heart.
Includes an excerpt of the next novel in Keri Arthur’s Nikki and Michael series, Chasing the Shadows
Against the Mark (The Raines of Wind Canyon) Mass Market Paperback
The perfect murder is a work of art
In one catastrophic instant, Haley Warren's estranged father was taken from her. She never got the chance to reconnect with him, so now she's doing it the only way she's got left: by proving the explosion that killed him was no accident.
When Tyler Brodie, the provocative and handsome P.I. hired by Haley, discovers that her father was investigating a suspected art theft, he knows his death is no coincidence. After all, tens of millions of dollars worth of stolen art could motivate a thief to go to any lengths — including getting rid of anyone poking around where they don't belong.
As Haley and Ty get closer to the truth, the truth gets ugly: Did Haley's dad know too much or was he in on the take? And although Ty's a consummate professional, he's having trouble focusing on the facts of the case, and not the figure of his gorgeous client. The two are determined to get to the bottom of the case, even if it means they die trying.
Nowhere Safe Mass Market Paperback
She sense their twisted desires before she meets them. It's as if fate is helping her stop these monsters from preying on others the way she was preyed upon. And after she has delivered brutal justice, she will let the whole world see their guilt. "I must pay for what I've done." The first victim - naked, bound, frozen to death - wore the note strung around his neck. Now there's another note - this one attached to Detective September Rafferty's own stepbrother. Stefan survives, but September is sure he knows more than he's saying. Someone is eliminating suspected sexual predators, and the only thing more dangerous than a madman is a killer who's ruthlessly sane. Racing to predict the next target, September finds himself drawn into a harrowing and deeply personal case. For this time, there are no innocents - only the one who kills, and those condemned to die.
The Hero (Thunder Point) Mass Market Paperback
With warmth and sensitivity, #1 New York Times bestselling author Robyn Carr shows readers that falling in love can be the bravest act of all.
In a moment of desperation, Devon McAllister takes her daughter and flees a place where they should have been safe and secure. She has no idea what is around the next bend, but she is pretty certain it can't be worse than what they've left behind. Her plan is to escape to somewhere she can be invisible. Instead, an unexpected offer of assistance leads her to Thunder Point, a tiny Oregon town with a willingness to help someone in need.
As the widowed father of a vulnerable young boy, Spencer Lawson knows something about needing friendship. But he's not looking for anything else. Instead, he's thrown his energy into his new role as Thunder Point's high school football coach. Tough and demanding to his team, off the field he's gentle and kind just the kind of man who could heal Devon's wounded heart.
Devon thought she wanted to hide from the world. But in Thunder Point, you find bravery where you least expect it…and sometimes, you find a hero.
Labels:
Wednesday Wish List
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)