Kelly reviews Ever After by Ryan, Harte, Royce, Davis & Shaw

TITLE: Ever After
AUTHOR: Ryan, Harte, Royce, Davis & Shaw
PUBLICATION DATE: November 12, 2013
ORDER LINKS:

Amazon: http://amzn.to/HIfjZ3
Amazon Print: http://amzn.to/1iZrI6K
BN: http://bit.ly/19WsOyZ
Kobo: http://bit.ly/16uixLb
ARe: http://bit.ly/1diciJB
iTunes: http://bit.ly/17glkZ6
Goodreads: http://ow.ly/qiEZ4

BOOK SYNOPSIS:
From five bestselling authors comes five brand new novellas sure to heat up the night.

From Carrie Ann Ryan’s Dante’s Circle series, a demon from the fiery depths of hell must make his choice to follow in the footsteps of his father or love the submissive wolf who lays claim to his heart in His Choice.

From Marie Harte’s Beasts of Burden, Eira, a fierce valkyrie, has spent fifty years trying to get a rise out of her goddess’s guardians. But when the battle-cat shifters give her what she wants, can she handle the heat—and the danger—that comes from loving them?

From Rebecca Royce’s brand new series, the Alphas of each Werewolf Pack are on the brink of war. Travis Michaels will use all in his power to keep innocent Lilliana out of danger and into his arms…away from rival Alpha Cyrus Fennell.

From Lia Davis’s Ashwood Falls series, buried pain, old lies, and dangerous secrets aren’t enough to keep the sparks from flying as Sarah Mathews and rebel leader, Damian Archer, try to survive a new threat against their race.

From Leia Shaw’s Shadows of Destiny series, a war is brewing in the supernatural world. Rebel shifter Dalton’s only passion is protecting the colony, and flirtatious misfit, Eden, is a distraction he can’t afford. But as danger approaches, he learns that underestimating the sexy little wolf is a big mistake.

REVIEW:
Over all 4 1/2 Hearts All reviews of each novella will be short and sweet just like the stories.

His Choice by Carrie Ann Ryan:
I loved Fawkes & Leslie’s story. But like any good novella I really wish the story was longer. I would have love to see more interaction between Fawkes & Leslie. If you have not read any of Carrie Ann’s Dante’s Circle book never fear you can read His Choice by itself, but I would encourage you to start from the beginning.

Beasts of Burden by Marie Harte:
This was my first Marie Harte story and as I started Beasts of Burden I was excited about the world she created. What I was not expecting was the M/M/F relationship. I guess I didn’t read the blurb very well. But that being said I enjoyed this novella and will be add Marie to my read list.

Alpha Rising by Rebecca Royce:
Again this was my first Rebecca Royce story and I loved it. I so love Travis. He is a total Alpha but goes all soft for his mate. I am really excited to see where this new series goes and will be adding Rebecca’s to my must read list. Also can’t wait to see what is in store for the Cryus and his sister Lake (I know what an awesome name for a heroine right?)

A Rebel’s Heart by Lia Davis:
Again my first Lia Davis book. I have the other Ashwood books, but have not read yet after reading A Rebel’s Heart I am very much looking forward to going back and reading the series from the beginning. I really loved Damian & Sarah. Damian is a very sweet, selfless man and I am so glad that he finally got what he has always wanted. Sarah has has so much heartbreak over the years I am glad that it looks like she will have her happily ever after finally.

Destined for Eden by Leia Shaw:
Again this was another first read. I really loved Dalton & Eden. Both have been burned in the past by people they cared about. But when they meet something shifts between them. I really enjoyed the Eden was so strong, independent and determined despite the hand the life has dealt her. I am looking forward to going back and reading the rest of the Shadows of Destiny series.

If you are looking for some great novella reads I would highly recommend you put Ever After on your to purchase watch list. It is very much worth it.

Disclaimer:
I received a complimentary copy of the book in exchange for an honest review. This review is my own opinion and not a paid review.

November 8, 2013November 6, 2013

Spotlight Feature, Excerpt and giveaway with Laura Wright

ETERNAL SIN

Mark of the Vampire, Book 6

Available November 5, 2013

AVAILABLE AT: Amazon | B&N | Kobo

Love and Vengeance…

The violent attack left Synjon destroyed and his lover dead—at the will of the evil vampire Cruen. Syn’s passionate savior was Petra. When she became pregnant with his child, it should have been a blessing—until Syn vanished after discovering the truth: Petra was the daughter of the man he despised above all others. The daughter of Cruen.

When Petra’s health begins to decline, she contacts Syn to help save their baby. Though reluctant to see Petra, he cannot turn his back on his own innocent child. But night after night, as his feelings for Petra are rekindled, Syn becomes increasingly torn.

Although everyone assumes that Cruen is dead, Syn is not convinced—and is still hell-bent on finding and destroying him once and for all. But will his thirst for vengeance keep him from seeing what is really worth living for before it is too late?

ETERNAL SIN Snippet #6

“You drank from him, didn’t you?” Dani called over her thickly feathered shoulder to Petra as they flew past a stand of teak that housed three of the Avian’s twenty-two nesting grounds.

Avoiding her best friend’s massive wings, Petra leaned forward and wrapped her arms around the hawk’s neck. “Of course I did.”

“Well, I hope you drained him dry. I hope he could barely breathe. I hope he was coughing and sputtering and losing consciousness—”

“I get it, Dani,” she shouted over the wind. “You want him to suffer.”

Dani glanced back, her hawk eyes flashing with ire. “Did he tell you how close he came to having sex with me?”

“No, you told me, remember?” Petra returned.

“Of course, for me,” Dani went on, “it was all part of the act. We needed to get him alone, get him as vulnerable as possible. He’s a total manwhore, and last night I made sure he chose me.”

This wasn’t a subject Petra felt all that comfortable with. Especially a second time. And yet she couldn’t seem to stop herself from asking, “So, if Sasha and Val were late or hadn’t shown up, were you actually going to—”

“Fuck him?” Dani called back, sounding appalled before she actually snorted. “Hell to the no.”

“You make it sound like a fate worse than death, Dani. The guy’s incredibly hot. And the things he can do . . .” What the hell am I doing? She shook her head. It felt like someone else was running her mouth.

“I don’t want to hear about his magic tongue,” Dani shouted.

Heat flared in Petra’s cheeks. “You can stop now.”

Dani laughed. “Fine, then. His magic penis.”

“Okay,” Petra said, completely mortified now. “I think we should play the quiet game, don’t you?”

“No. I don’t.” And just to send that message home, Dani dive-bombed into the forest, pulled up right before they would have hit the ground, and then started serpentining through the trees.

Petra gripped the hawk’s feathers, her mouth dry as she panted with fear. “That was unnecessary,” she called through gritted teeth.

“I don’t think so,” Dani called back. “You need your brain shaken up, reworked. You’re talking about this guy being all hot and everything, and all I can think is he screwed my best friend, got her preggers, and couldn’t care less.”

Petra winced. Her best friend’s words cut deep. As they were meant to. “You know my father took away his emotions. He couldn’t feel a thing now even if he wanted to.”

The hawk made an irritated sound. “Are you seriously defending him?”

“No.” And she wasn’t. That would be insane. That would make her foolish and optimistic, and worse yet, a glutton for punishment.

“You totally are,” Dani returned. “Please tell me that blood you took from him didn’t shatter the reality of the here and now, and his major dickhood.”

TOUR GIVEWAY:

Laura is giving away a $10.00 Amazon card at EVERY blog stop.

To Enter please leave your name, email address and tell me who is your favorite Vampire.

*****

Now a look at the rest of the Mark of the Vampire Series:

*****

ETERNAL HUNGER

Mark of the Vampire, Book 1

AVAILABLE AT: Amazon / B&N / Audible.com / Tantor Audio

FEAR IS IN THE BLOOD

Alexander Roman wants nothing to do with the controlling rulers of his vampire breed or the family he escaped from a hundred years ago. But as a new threat to the pureblood vampires emerges, Alexander’s ties to the past are forced upon him again, and without warning, he finds himself – disoriented, terrified, and near death – at the door of a stranger.

TRUST IS A RISK

Dr. Sarah Donohue is dedicated to removing the traumatic memories of her patients – like those of the stranger at her front door. But what he tells her of his past is too astonishing to be anything more than the delusion of a madman. Yet she has seen his flesh scarred by the sun and witnessed his inhuman strength. And never more has she felt so conneted to a man, by both fear and seductive excitement.

LOVE IS ETERNAL …

But as their worlds collide, Sarah and Alexander are bound by something even stronger, as one becomes hunter and the other prey. And Sarah’s only chance of survival is to surrender to the final – and most unimaginable – desire of her life.

*****

ETERNAL KISS

Mark of the Vampire, Book 2

AVAILABLE AT: Amazon / B&N / Audible.com / Tantor Audio

Sacrifice will be their downfall. And their resurrection.

Family is blood.

His father unknown, his mother dead, Nicholas Roman was raised by the vampire Breed with one wish: to live as a normal vampire. But once he’s transformed against his will into a gifted immortal, Nicholas now has one goal: to stop the Eternal Order of vampires from controlling his life and from transforming more males from his bloodline for their vicious reign. Then comes a beautiful stranger with a startling secret.

Vampire Kate Everborne claims she’s sheltering Nicholas’ long-lost son. If this is true, then who is the mother? And how endangered are they if, indeed, Nicholas does possess the bloodline so coveted by the Order? These are questions that with every seductive whisper, every silken touch, draw Nicholas and Kate intimately closer and nearer still to the truth. But aroused too are Nicholas’ fears that this tantalizing woman has even more secrets—both dangerous and provocative—she has yet to share.

*****

ETERNAL BLOOD

Mark of the Vampire E-special, Book 2.5

AVAILABLE AT: Amazon / B&N / Kobo

Gray Donahue is crippled by the guilt he feels for his father’s death. An Impure vampire cursed with the ability to hear the thoughts of others, he indulges in blood and sex to stave off the pain of his existence. He is then abducted by the Eternal Order of Vampires, who subject him to a nightmarish ritual. But when he is rescued by the icy pureblood vampire Dillon, he finds something that is worth living for, dying for, killing for….

*****

ETERNAL CAPTIVE

Mark of the Vampire, Book 3

AVAILABLE AT: Amazon / Barnes & Noble / Kobo

Lucian Roman knows he must stay away from Bronwyn Kettler for sanity’s sake. Since feeding her his blood, he can think of nothing else but possessing her—fighting an uncontrollable desire to kill her, if need be, and the vampire she has sworn to wed.

Bronwyn, a brilliant vampire genealogist, can never escape her connection to Lucian. He sustained her when she was starving. He still rules her dreams. And when the nights get dark enough, she still craves him. Though his essence still courses through her body, she has found a true mate in someone else.

But when a dangerous enemy threatens Bronwyn, only Lucian—bound to her forever by blood—can save her life. Even if it means sacrificing his own…

*****

ETERNAL BEAST

Mark of the Vampire, Book 4

AVAILABLE AT: Amazon / Barnes & Noble / Kobo

Ever since his abduction by the Eternal Order of Vampires, Gray Donohue has finally found his true calling: vengeance. He will stop at nothing to bring his fellow Impure vampires the freedom they deserve. Now if he could just release his primal need for the beautiful vampire who saved his life-and rules his thoughts and desires . . .

After nearly killing the senator she was assigned to protect, Dillon is now in mortal danger. The jaguar within her has been unleashed, and she can no longer control it. Sex is the only thing that can tame her shift. And Gray is the only man who can make her surrender to a passion strong enough to overpower her inner beast. But she doesn’t want to surrender-she wants her life back. Because she is determined never to belong to anyone, especially not Gray-the man who destiny claims is her mate.

*****

ETERNAL BEAUTY

Mark of the Vampire Series E-special, Book 4.5

AVAILABLE AT: Amazon / Barnes & Noble / Kobo

He is captivated by the one who saved him from death—until he finds out who she is…

When his lover is murdered by evil vampire-beast, Cruen, the grief-stricken Synjon Wise believes his life over. Enraged, he flashes her away to a remote spot in South America to give his beloved’s body a proper burial. But when the sun blazes overhead and takes her body before his eyes, Synjon’s mind completely unravels. Mad with the need to join her, he walks into the sun a morphed male, prepared to die.

He awakens to find himself amongst a breed known as Shifters. As he is nursed back to health by Petra, who saved his life, Synjon feels no gratitude—only anger and guilt that he is still alive. But this female is strong and refuses to let Syn waste away. For the bond that will form between them will be enduring: as nurse and patient, male and female, savior and saved.

Betrayer and betrayed

*****

ETERNAL DEMON

Mark of the Vampire, Book 5

AVAILABLE AT: Amazon / Barnes & Noble / Kobo

When Erion’s son is kidnapped by the evil vampire Cruen, Erion vows to stop at nothing to find his hideaway—including intercepting the traveling party of Cruen’s beautiful bride-to-be. But instead of a vulnerable caravan, Erion is met by a feral band of female demons that includes Hellen, the bride—a creature of dark magic and darker passion.

Though the safety of his son is foremost, Erion can’t deny his unexpected connection to Hellen—inflaming a manic desire as primal as it is irresistible. As their bond intensifies, they move toward an inevitable and terrifying battle. With time running out, Erion realizes he must not only find and rescue his son but protect Hellen from Cruen and the underworld forces waiting to destroy her for her betrayal.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR:

Author of the Bestselling Mark of the Vampire series, Laura Wright spent the early years of her life immersed in the worlds of singing, acting and competitive ballroom dancing. But when she started writing, she knew she’d found her true calling. Laura lives in Los Angeles, California with her husband, two children, three dogs, two frogs and two fish. She’s been thrice nominated for a Romantic Times Reviewer’s Choice Award, and loves hearing from her readers.

Connect with Laura:

Website / Facebook / Twitter / Goodreads

November 8, 2013November 3, 2013

Kelly reviews Eternal Sin by Laura Wright

TITLE: Eternal Sin
SERIES #: Mark of the Vampire #6
CHARACTERS: Synjon Wise & Petra
AUTHOR: Laura Wright
PUBLICATION DATE: Nov. 5, 2013
ORDER LINKS: Amazon| B&N

BOOK SYNOPSIS:
Love and Vengeance…

REVIEW:
4.5 Hearts I have to admit I have loved Synjon since he first walked on the scene. I would have to say that Syn is my second favorite character only to Nicky in the Mark of the Vampire world. But at the end of Eternal Demon I was very worried that my fun loving, teasing, sweet talking, dreamy Brit was lost forever. As I began Eternal Sin I had to remember that someway and somehow Ms. Wright would make everything right. She would wouldn’t she????? But oh Synjon is a total unfeeling a$$nut at the beginning of the book. I had to remember that it was not really his fault. But let me tell you Ms. Wright put me through the ringer waiting and waiting and waiting for Syn to stop being will an a$$.
This was a great story in the Mark of the Vampire series. We are introduced a few new characters. We get a bit of a look at love triangle, which I am a little worried about. We learn that the threat to the Order is not gone, but out for vengeance yet again.
If you are a fan of the Mark of the Vampire series you will really enjoy Eternal Sin.

Disclaimer:
I received a complimentary copy of the book in exchange for an honest review. This review is my own opinion and not a paid review.

November 6, 2013November 3, 2013

Winter Romance Wednesday! Kimberly reviews The Keepers: Christmas In Salem by Graham, Leblanc, Pickering and Ciotta

TITLE: The Keepers: Christmas In Salem
CHARACTERS: Various
AUTHOR: Graham, Leblanc, Pickering, Ciotta
PUBLICATION DATE: 11/05/13
ORDER LINKS: Amazon | B&N

BOOK SYNOPSIS:
This holiday season, armed with love and passion, can the Keepers stop the reign of Darkness?

Christmas is coming to Salem, but so is an evil force that threatens all mankind. In this memorable collection led by New York Times bestselling author Heather Graham, four powerful Keepers must save their community as a strange, eternal night creeps over the town. Forced to choose between their time-honored responsibilities or the lovers their hearts desire, these four extraordinary women must risk their own happiness to save the holiday. But Christmas is a time for miracles, and as each Keeper’s greatest longing is met, the Season of Light returns. Don’t miss this magical holiday collection from Heather Graham, Deborah LeBlanc, Kathleen Pickering and Beth Ciotta.

REVIEW:
2.5 Hearts This just didn’t do much for me. I enjoyed the story by Graham and was looking forward to the others but they just got repetitive. They were just too much alike so by the third story I was bored.

Not a great book to put you in the holiday spirit. Think I will stick with Graham’s Krewe Of Hunters series and leave the Keepers to others.

Disclaimer:
I received a complimentary copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.

November 5, 2013November 5, 2013

Book Spotlight & Review: Hell Bent by Devon Monk

Instead of the deadly force it once was, magic is now a useless novelty. But not for Shame Flynn and Terric Conley, “breakers” who have the gift for reverting magic back to its full-throttle power. In the magic-dense city of Portland, Oregon, keeping a low profile means keeping their gifts quiet. After three years of dealing with disgruntled magic users, Shame and Terric have had enough of politics, petty magic, and, frankly, each other. It’s time to call it quits.

When the government discovers the breakers’ secret—and its potential as a weapon—Shame and Terric suddenly become wanted men, the only ones who can stop the deadly gift from landing in the wrong hands. If only a pair of those wrong hands didn’t belong to a drop-dead-gorgeous assassin Shame is falling for as if it were the end of the world. And if he gets too close to her, it very well could be….

Amazon/ B&N

About the Author:

Devon Monk writes the Allie Beckstrom urban fantasy series, the Age of Steam steampunk series, and the occasional short story. She has one husband, two sons, and a dog named Mojo. She lives in Oregon and is surrounded by colorful and numerous family members who mostly live within dinner-calling distance of each other. She has sold over fifty short stories to magazines and anthologies in five different countries, including a Year’s Best Fantasy collection. When not writing, Devon is either drinking too much coffee or knitting silly things.

Website/ Twitter/ Facebook

Jennifer’s Review of Hell Bent

4.5 Stars: I have been a fan of the Allie Beckstrom series and I was excited to see that one of my favorite characters, Shame, was getting his own book. I loved Shame because he was such a mysterious guy and I just wanted to learn more about him. He has always been such a bad boy and it was a treat to see how his world has changed since magic isn’t so readily available as it was before the apocalypse three years ago.

In Hell Bent, Shame is struggling with his death magic and worrying that someday his need to kill will consume him and there will be nothing left of his humanity afterwards. He is partners with Terric Conley, who is his Soul Complement, the one person that can join forces with Shame to harness magic and use it at its full power. While dealing with his own personal demons, Shame discovers that they have a new threat. Someone is out there killing people from their past with magic and the government is looking to use their magic as a weapon. And a beautiful redheaded assassin named Dessa needs Shame’s help to find her brother’s killer and becomes more than Shame bargained for.

Terric and Shame have a very difficult relationship together. They are stuck together as partners and have a brotherly love/hate relationship and both are bordering on losing control of the magic that almost consumes them. I could see how hard it is for Shame and Terric to have this relationship with one another knowing that you will always be connected to this one person who is the exact opposite of you which causes quite a bit of conflict between Shame and Terric. Shame wants to push everyone away in his life and just let go but finds that the people that care about him pull him back from the brink and convince him to keep going.

Hell Bent is a great start to a new series and I’m still a big Shame fan after all this. The book was a little slow in the beginning but picked up the pace nicely and was a thrill-ride of emotions for me, both good and heart-breaking. It was nice to get updates on Allie and Zay as well as other characters from previous books to see how they were doing three years later. I loved the addition of Dessa because she was just a kick-ass character that just seemed to be perfect for Shame and wasn’t afraid of anything that he could dish out. Kept him on his toes which was fun to watch. Devon Monk has created a well-written paranormal adventure in a world that I love and can’t wait to visit again. Looking forward to the second book, Stone Cold, which is expected to be released sometime next year.

Disclaimer: I received a complimentary copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.

November 4, 2013November 3, 2013

Kimberly reviews Perfect Mate by Aubrey Rose

TITLE: Perfect Mate
SERIES #: A Werewolf BBW Romance #2
CHARACTERS: Julia & Damien
AUTHOR: Aubrey Rose
PUBLICATION DATE: 09/25/13
ORDER LINKS: Amazon | B&N

BOOK SYNOPSIS:
The standalone romance novella which follows the #1 Bestselling Shifter Romance Blind Wolf!

Julia always thought that she was human. When the blind leader of a pack of straggling misfits claims her as his one true mate, she accepts that she is in love with Damien despite their radical differences.

But after another shifter wolf attacks them, he points to her as he dies and utters words that will change Julia’s life forever:

“…she’s not what you think she is…”

REVIEW:
2.5 Hearts This is the second in the novella series and I have to say it was just ok for me. The writing of the character was a bit immature. The story is sort of interesting but not much different than many others except Damien in blind. It is a short story so I won’t make this long but I do think you need to read the first novella before reading this one if you do chose to read it. There is not much to the BBW part and not much to the erotica part but if you like shifters you could possibly enjoy it.

Disclaimer:
I received a complimentary copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.

November 1, 2013October 24, 2013

Interview & Giveaway with Thea Harrison

Books-n-Kisses is pleased to welcome Thea Harrison to the blog today.

New York Times and USA Today bestselling author Thea Harrison is the pen name for Teddy Harrison. Thea has traveled extensively, having lived in England and explored Europe for several years. Now she resides in Colorado. She wrote her first book, a romance, when she was nineteen and had sixteen romances published under the name Amanda Carpenter.

She took a break from writing to collect a couple of graduate degrees and a grown child. She experienced waitressing as a teenager, has worked as an activist for a non-profit consumer rights organization, has been a receptionist, an office manager, a penniless graduate student, a director of development and research, and a single mom. Her graduate degrees are in Philanthropic Studies and Library Information Science, but her first love has always been writing fiction.

Her paranormal Elder Races series began May 3, 2011 with Dragon Bound, which won RT Book Review’s Book of the Year Award, and the Romance Writer’s of America RITA in the paranormal romance category.

All five of her full length novels in the Elder Races series have won Top Picks from RT Book Reviews. Book two in the series, Storm’s Heart, and book four, Oracle’s Moon, hit the USA Today bestseller’s list, while book three, Serpent’s Kiss, hit the New York Times extended bestseller list. Her fifth book, Lord’s Fall, hit both the USA Today and the New York Times extended lists.

She adores animals and currently resides with two small dogs that have very large personalities.

Q: What is one of your favorite Myths/legends to write about?

A: When I started to write my reply to this question, I realized it wasn’t going to be a simple or easy answer! I’ve had so much fun with the world building in the Elder Races series. It’s almost impossible to pick just one.

I really enjoyed taking the Oracle of Delphi and putting it into a modern context for Oracle’s Moon. When I turned my attention to the witches’ demesne in Louisville, I wanted to make sure it felt as rich and developed as the rest of the world building I’d done for the other demesnes and mythological creatures. That story was fun for a lot of reasons, because I also really enjoyed building the Djinn society based on Middle Eastern legends.

Another favorite has been developing the Elves, in Lord’s Fall and continued in Kinked. And a third was when I created my own version of Vampyres in Serpent’s Kiss. I have two more Vampyre stories that I’m dying to tell. When I get excited about a story, it’s hard to wait for the right time to tell it!

Q: You’ve been gifted (or cursed) with the ability to shift into another form by a witch. What kind of shifter are you and why? (All creatures, including mythological, apply.)

A: Awesome question! I think I have two answers for that one. If it was a gift, then I think it would have to be something winged and strong. I think there’s something to be said for being as fearless as a harpy, although I’m quite sure I wouldn’t win any popularity contests!

If the ability was a curse and meant to be nasty, the witch would probably turn me into my phobia—a spider! That would be the meanest, nastiest thing anybody could ever do to me!

Q: Since Aryal is a harpy and considered an immortal Wyr, how did you approach her character development in order to make her believable and someone that readers can identify with?

A: I’ll be honest, I was worried about writing Aryal. I really didn’t want to compromise her identity. Aryal has strong emotions but no real morals in the abstract sense, no true compulsion to do what is right for its own sake. She’s abrasive and dangerous… And I had to figure out how to also make her sympathetic.

My first decision was to not be in a hurry to write her story. I wanted to take the time to show her character from a couple of different points of view. The reader first sees Aryal from Pia’s perspective in Dragon Bound, but then in Storm’s Heart I was able to show Aryal from Tricks’ point of view, someone who loved her. I also wanted to make sure that humor came into the mix. Still, the real test came when I sat down and actually started writing Kinked. Then I had to get close enough to her to write her as a main POV character. It helped that I had so many established relationships and characters to work with—such as Grym, Dragos and Graydon—and the world-building in place. With that in place, I could concentrate on developing Aryal herself. I’m very grateful to my editor Cindy Hwang for providing such a supportive platform to write Kinked.

Q: Do you have an Elder Race Bible to help keep your facts start? If not, how the heck do you keep your facts start?

A: So far I’ve had two things in my favor—I’ve got a bit of a freakish memory for detail when it comes to writing, and I also have fantastic beta readers who are good at spotting issues. Still, the world has become big and complicated enough that I’ve got someone working on a series bible right now. It’s over a hundred pages by now and should be done by the end of the year.

Q: Who was the harder character to write Aryal or Quentin and why?

Neither character was as hard as I had feared they would be when I started Kinked. Still, Quentin was easier. I felt more confident writing his character, and I felt the stakes were pretty high on getting Aryal’s character right.

Q: Was there anything about Aryal that surprised you as her story unfolded?

A: I think I probably had the same experience as a writer that several readers have had so far in reading the book—I was surprised at how much I ended up liking and enjoying her. I wouldn’t want to rush out and befriend a real-life Aryal, but I think she’s pretty cool between the pages, and I’m really looking forward to writing more about her.

Q: In the event of an apocalypses (zombie, alien, solar flare or 4 horsemen) which of your characters would you like to team up with?

A: I would absolutely like to team up with Dragos—as long as I was someone he valued, otherwise he might ditch me in a heartbeat.

Q: What is next for the Elder Race series?

A: I’m now contracted for books 7-9, so I’m writing Graydon’s story which will be released around August of 2014. The main characters have also been decided for books 8 and 9, and I’m eager to get to those stories!

I also wrote a self-published project, a novella entitled Dragos Takes A Holiday, which releases November 25^th. I loved spending time with Dragos and Pia, and their little son Peanut gets his POV debut.

It’s been a pleasure to visit with you. Thanks for having me!

*****

Kelly’s review of Kinked:

TITLE: Kinked
SERIES #: Elder Races #6
CHARACTERS: Quentin Caeravorn & Aryal
AUTHOR: Thea Harrison
PUBLICATION DATE: Nov 5, 2013
ORDER LINKS: Amazon| B&N

Two opponents must confront the cause of their obsessive fury in the latest Novel of the Elder Races…

As a harpy, Sentinel Aryal is accustomed to dealing with hate, but Sentinel Quentin Caeravorn manages to inspire in her a burning ire unlike anything she’s ever known. Aryal believes the new Sentinel to be a criminal, and vows to take him out as soon as the opportunity arises. But the harpy’s incessant wrath has pushed Quentin to the limit, and forces him to make a deadly vow of his own.

To put an end to the conflict, Dragos, Lord of the Wyr, sends them on a reconnaissance mission to the Elven land of Numenlaur. Forced to work together, Aryal and Quentin’s mutual antagonism escalates. Each fight draws forth more passion—culminating in an explosively sexual confrontation. But when their quest reveals real danger, Aryal and Quentin must resolve their differences in ways beyond the physical, before the entire Wyr is threatened.

REVIEW PROVIDED BY: Kelly
NUMBER OF STARS: 3 1/2
REVIEW:
Aryal has been on a mission since the moment she met Quentin. She wants to air out all his dirty laundry and then kill him. But Aryal has been finding that a little difficult she can’t find anything on him.
Quentin has avoided getting close to anyone for so long, that even sex is a hand off act. But Aryal brings something to the surface that he doesn’t like or can control.
Forced together to work on a mission these to are either going to kill each other, come back to no jobs, or learn to work with each other and finally bury the hatch.
Which one will it be.

I enjoyed this story, it was not love until the end. I really enjoyed watching Aryal and Quentin fight each other, the attraction and fate. But there were parts and pieces of the story that were a little boring for me but overall it was a good story. Lots of action, lots of drama and lots of words that I don’t have a clue how to pronounce. 🙂

Disclaimer:
I received a complimentary copy of the book in exchange for an honest review. This review is my own opinion and not a paid review.

*****

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November 1, 2013October 29, 2013

Kelly reviews Darkness Awakened by Katie Rues

TITLE: Darkness Awakened
SERIES #: Darkness #1
CHARACTERS: Finn Stavros & Lyra Marius
AUTHOR: Katie Reus
PUBLICATION DATE: November 1, 2013
ORDER LINKS: Amazon

BOOK SYNOPSIS:
Years ago he ended things between them to protect her…

As leader of one of the fiercest werewolf packs in the south, Finn Stavros is in full battle mode 24/7. He has no choice—he’s one of the few beings strong enough to fight the Akkadian demons, whose mysterious escape from hell threatens the entire world. With the battle turning bloodier by the second, Finn is ready for anything…until his vampire long lost love shows up on his doorstep in desperate need of his help, sending his heart into a tailspin. He agrees to help her, unaware that she carries a shocking secret that will turn his life upside down.

This time, he’s not letting her go…

Vampire Lyra Marius curses the day she met Finn. The ruthless werewolf promised to love her forever, but he rejected her instead—before she could share her life altering news. Pregnant, kicked out of her coven, and cast aside by the love of her life, Lyra struggled to raise their rare shifter-vampire daughter Vega alone among humans. When the 16-year-old is kidnapped and used to fulfill a frightening prophecy, Lyra swallows her pride and turns to Finn for help. But how long can she fight her feelings for him and keep him from guessing the truth about who Vega really is? As they race against the clock to save their daughter, they must defeat the lethal threat imposed by demons infiltrating the human world and a hell gate that could not only reveal their existence to mankind, but destroy the world in the process.

REVIEW:
3.5 Hearts After a very short romance Finn & Lyra were forced to go separate ways. Not really forced by Finn tried to do the right thing in order to protect Lyra. But after 17 years a day has not gone by that Finn has not regretted his decision. But when Lyra shows up unannounced asking for his help. Finn plans move to heaven and hell in order to help her and find her daughter.

Lyra has always loved Finn and will until the day she dies, even if he caused her so much hurt 17 years ago. But asking for his help knowing the secret she is keeping from him is to much. If she can just find her daughter then maybe they can sit down and talk everything through. But Vega’s safety is the most important thing right now.

I enjoyed this story. I can’t say that I was totally in love with it until about 3/4 of the way through. The last 1/4 of the book is really good and I am looking forward to learn more about Drake.

Disclaimer:
I received a complimentary copy of the book in exchange for an honest review. This review is my own opinion and not a paid review.

October 25, 2013October 20, 2013

Kimberly reviews Captive by A.D. Robertson

TITLE: Captive: The Forbidden Side Of Nightshade
CHARACTERS: Sarah & Tristan
AUTHOR: A.D. Robertson
PUBLICATION DATE: 10/22/13
ORDER LINKS: Amazon | B&N

BOOK SYNOPSIS:
The first adult novel set in the world of the New York Times bestselling Nightshade series, Captive delivers a steamy, forbidden romance between sworn enemies drawn together by an irrepressible desire.

Twenty-five-year-old Tristan Doran enjoys a life of incredible power and privilege. As a direct descendant of the Keepers—witches who have embraced dark magic—he defers to no one but his overlord, Lord Bosque Mar. For most of his life, Tristan has been kept out of the centuries-old Witches War, his bloodline too valuable to risk in battle.

But when a beautiful, young human Searcher named Sarah is captured and made a prisoner in his Irish castle, Tristan’s infatuation with her flings him headlong into the fray. Captive and captor, unable to contain their longing, embark on a passionate, forbidden romance together—only to learn that their love is at the heart of a prophecy predicting the downfall of the Keepers’ ages-old reign.

Captive explores the darker side of the richly imagined Nightshade universe, a fantasy world of powerful dark witches, shape-shifting wolf warriors, and fascinating history. The first of three erotic novels, Captive delves deeply into the fiery, illicit romance of two young lovers whose very desires invite their doom.

REVIEW:
2.5 Hearts Ok so here is the deal. I have no idea what Nightshade is and what it is all about. I’ve never heard of it so even though it has Nightshade in it’s title I didn’t realize it was referring to a series by someone else. So when I started this book I was lost. Totally completely lost. I have no idea who the characters are or what they do. There are a bunch of titles like Guardian, Arrow, Keepers, etc and it was just too much to try and comprehend.

I also could not get excited about Tristan. Honestly he seems like a wuss. Sarah is the one who wears the pants in this relationship and that just doesn’t work for me. And while I can see where the sex scenes are plenty I really am not sure I would say this is erotica. Based on the information that Nightshade is a YA series I can understand it being classified as Adult and not for YA readers but erotica? Nope.

Based on all that I tried to enjoy it. I just couldn’t.

Disclaimer:
I received a complimentary copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.

October 23, 2013October 20, 2013

Kimberly reviews Red Hot Dragon by Lolita Lopez

TITLE: Red Hot Dragon
SERIES #: Dragon Heat #2
CHARACTERS: Avani & Griffin
AUTHOR: Lolita Lopez
PUBLICATION DATE: 10/01/13
ORDER LINKS: Amazon | B&N

BOOK SYNOPSIS:
Griffin Cadogan is shocked to see Avani Monroe, sworn enemy of his dragon family, walk into his gym. With his mating phase soon approaching, Griffin is curious as to why she has to come enemy territory knowing the risks. Not only does she surprise Griffin and his cousin, Mad, by coming to enemy territory, but what she wants is borderline insane-Griffin must help her have a baby.

After her mother’s line was annihilated by the Knights, Avani accepted her duty to ensure the continuation of their unique dragon breed. She’s searched the dragon registries and Griffin is the most likely candidate for her crazy plan. Working up the courage to approach a man who considers her an enemy wasn’t easy but she manages to calmly lay out her carefully orchestrated plan.

But Griffin isn’t about to agree to her harsh terms. If she wants him to father her child, he intends to play an active role in his offspring’s life, not simply walk away as she requires. Shocked by her instant attraction to him, she agrees to his terms. Once together, they realize their connection is about more than creating a child, but that happiness is short-lived when Mad suddenly disappears. Knowing the dragon slayers are behind it, Griffin must risk it all to save the ones he loves.

REVIEW:
This is a very short story of about only 80 pages but somehow the author gets the full story into these pages. The characters connect immediately and while there is a bit of drama most of it is romance. I enjoy the dragon shape-shifters. Until the first in the series I had not read a dragon shape-shifter but it is different and enjoyable.

This is a great short paranormal romance to have ready to read between books and while second in the series it can be read as a stand alone.

Disclaimer:
I received a complimentary copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.

October 22, 2013October 22, 2013

Kelly reviews Darkness Rises by Dianne Duvall

TITLE: Darkness Rises
SERIES #: Immortal Guardians
CHARACTERS: Etienne & Krysta
AUTHOR: Dianne Duvall
NARRATOR: Kristen Potter
PUBLICATION DATE: Oct 1, 2013
ORDER LINKS: Amazon | B&N | Audible

BOOK SYNOPSIS:
Krysta is used to getting the drop on vampires. Her “special abilities” aren’t much, but the plan is simple–she plays helpless pretty young thing to lure them in. Then her shoto swords come out and it’s bye-bye, bloodsucker. Until one night she finds herself with an unexpected ally. He’s a vampire, all right, but different. Mysterious. Handsome. And more interested in saving her skin than draining it.

Etienne has been an Immortal Guardian for two hundred years–long enough to know that Krysta is special. He can’t stop thinking about her long legs, even more than her short swords. Then he discovers the vamps she’s exterminating have friends in high places, and the Guardians are in danger too. He’ll have to accept Krysta’s help to save them. The stakes for a mortal are high. But the cost to his heart might be higher.

REVIEW:
Immortal Guardians are suppose to protect the humans from the threat of vampires. But what is an Immortal Guardian suppose to do when a human takes it upon themselves to fight vampires? Well be amazed, a little shocked and a whole lot intrigued. Well that is if you are Etienne and you just happen to stumble upon Krysta kicking some serious vampire butt!!

Etienne & Krysta make an awesome couple. They are so much fun yet fierce. They both love to fight, to protect and to keep their loved ones safe. Together they are stronger than ever. But the only problem is that Krysta is human and Etienne is Immortal. But neither seem to care about that. That is until Krysta almost gets herself killed during a battle.
But this is not the only threat that the Immortal Guardians have. A threat from the past has raised it’s heads and this time the stakes are even higher.

I am totally in love with Dianne Duvall’s Immortal Guardians. They are all so dreamy and kick a$$. Darkness Rises is an amazing book. I had the great pleasure of reviewing this book for Tantor Media. I love Kirsten Potter as a narrator. Kirsten is amazing and reading the story to you. It feels like she is telling the story not reading. By this I mean that if never feels like she is just reading words. Kirsten is in gulfed in the story. She makes you feel like you are there in the middle of the action. And the voices!!! Dang this girl is talented with voices. If you love audio books and love Dianne I would recommend picking up a copy of any of the Immortal Guardian books. All 4 are narrated by Kirsten and all are fabulous.

Disclaimer:
I received a complimentary copy of the book in exchange for an honest review. This review is my own opinion and not a paid review.

October 22, 2013October 22, 2013

Kelly reviews Black And Blue by Gena Showalter

TITLE: Black and Blue
SERIES #: Otherworld Assassin #2
CHARACTERS: Corbin Blue & Evangaline Black
AUTHOR: Gena Showalter
PUBLICATION DATE: Oct 22, 2013
ORDER LINKS: Amazon | B&N

BOOK SYNOPSIS:
The sizzling second book in New York Times bestselling author Gena Showalter’s Otherworld Assassin paranormal romance series.

He is every woman’s fantasy…

Corbin Blue is a man of many talents. One of the most powerful otherworlders ever born, he is wealthy, a professional football star, and a legend in the bedroom. But only a select few know he is also a black ops agent…and there is no better killer. When he and his crew are attacked and separated, he’s forced to turn to his boss’s daughter for help—a woman with even more secrets than Blue.

She becomes his only obsession…

Evangaline Black has always been wary, guarded. No man has ever breeched her walls. Until Blue. He has never been denied something he wants, and now, he’s decided he wants her. As he sweeps her into his double life of seduction, intrigue, and danger, he helps her see beyond the darkness of her own past. But as an enemy closes in, Blue will have to let Evie go to keep her safe—even though he’d rather die than live without her

REVIEW:
You know you love a book when you stay up until 1:30 am reading after being up since 5:30 am and having to wake up at 6am the next morning. Yes that is how much I loved Black and Blue. How can you not love this book.
Let’s start with the cover: amazingly gorgeous!!
The Hero: Tall+ tattooed + brooding + famous + football player + lady killer + violet eyes = YUMMY with an edge of if you mess with me I can kill you with a thought.
The Heroine: Dark + mysterious + fierce + determined + closed off + has a thing for poisons = a lady you don’t ever want to mess with and always hope is on your side.
In short this book was AWESOME!!!!

I really want to go on and on about this story. But I try not to do spoilers in my reviews. So let’s just say I loved Blue & Evie’s story. These two are so beyond perfect for each other it is not funny. This story will tug on so many of your heart strings. We learn so much about Blue and Evie. Blue & Evie are a great example of never judge a person without walking in their shoes. So loved this book. I am looking forward to the next book in this story. I don’t want to say excited because of what happens in this books but a serious case of anxiety has set in for John’s book.

Disclaimer:
I received a complimentary copy of the book in exchange for an honest review. This review is my own opinion and not a paid review.