rasputin's shadow by raymond khoury

Title: Rasputin's Shadow
Author: Raymond Khoury
Rating: 3/5
Summary:
On a cold, bleak day in 1916, all hell breaks loose in a mining pit in the Ural Mountains. Overcome by a strange paranoia, the miners attack one another, savagely and ferociously. Minutes later, two men—a horrified scientist and Grigory Rasputin, trusted confidant of the tsar—hit a detonator, blowing up the mine to conceal all evidence of the carnage.

In the present day, FBI agent Sean Reilly’s search for Reed Corrigan, the CIA mindcontrol spook who brainwashed Reilly’s son, takes a backseat to a new, disturbing case. A Russian embassy attaché seems to have committed suicide by jumping out of a fourth-floor window in Queens. The apartment’s owners, a retired physics teacher from Russia and his wife, have gone missing, and further investigation reveals that the former may not be who the FBI believe him to be.

Joined by Russian Federal Security Service agent Larisa Tchoumitcheva, Reilly’s investigation of the old man’s identity will uncover a desperate search for a small, mysterious device, with consequences that reach back in time and which, in the wrong hands, could have a devastating impact on the modern world.

My 2 Cents:
Let me get this straight, I had so struggle so much to while reading the book. There was time when I felt giving up to read, but thank god I keep on reading it to the end. Patience was what I need. The book for me, at the beginning of it, too hard to feel connected to. It was like so much things going on and with lack of my understanding of different language, I need more help to understand. English is not mother tongue and leave me quite a time to understand other language as well. But, no pressure.The good part is, this book had so much intrigue and elements of interest.I actually liked the fact that the author chose to incorporate the life of Grigory Rasputin into the story. He's really is something. Mystery and sometime mean. The whole story is quite slow for me, not that fast-pace and all. But the fact that there's so many facts incorporated in it, made me wants to know all and everything about the characters. All in all, it was a new experience for me. Might as well check his other books to check his other writing styles.

About the Author

RAYMOND KHOURY is a New York Times bestselling author of several novels, including The Last Templar, The Templar Salvation and The Sanctuary. Born in Beirut, Khoury and his family fled to Rye, New York when he was 14 to escape Lebanon’s civil war. Khoury worked as an architect and investment banker before becoming a successful screenwriter and producer for networks such as BBC. Today, he focuses on his writing career. Rasputin’s Shadow is his sixth book.

declan's cross by carla neggers

Title: Declan's Cross
Author: Carla Neggers
Pages: 314
Rating: 3.5/5
Cover rating: 4/5
Summary:
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 driver who invited her to Ireland has disappeared. And now Emma and Colin are in Declan’s Cross. 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.

My 2 Cents:
Reading from the summary, we could see there's a lot are going on. What makes me really happy with the book is, it is about a marine biologist. It was exciting to read something close to you in fiction books. I used to live by the sea when I was growing up, and it was superb! The setting of the book is perfect - a seemingly idyllic seaside town in Ireland. It's romantic and old world - a perfect place for romance and mystery to occur.And to add a lot of adventures into it, even more awesome. This was a great romantic suspense novel that had me eagerly turning the pages until the end. I've never read the author's work before, it can be a good stand alone as well as I wasn't that confused by the plot or the characters and their relationships. The characters were very well written, especially the two main characters of Sharpe and Donovan. We get to see their strengths, weaknesses, personalities, and their pasts. The plot was fast paced and flowed naturally, making it hard to put down. The mystery was intriguing and full of twists, which mystery and suspense lovers will find excitement and fun to keep up with.

About the Author

Carla Neggers has been spinning stories ever since she climbed a tree with pad and pen at age eleven. Now she has millions of copies of her books in print in more than 30 countries, and more than two dozen of her books have placed on the New York Times, USA TODAY and Publishers Weekly bestseller lists. Declan’s Cross is the third novel in her acclaimed Sharpe & Donovan romantic suspense series that launched with Saint’s Gate and Heron’s Cove and has been praised as “a breathtaking reading experience” (Providence Journal), “gripping and suspenseful” (Nashua Telegraph), and “outstanding” (USA TODAY). Her popular Swift River Valley series debuted with Secrets of the Lost Summer, which spent four weeks on the New York Times bestseller list and garnered rave reviews, including a starred review from Booklist and a Top Pick from RT Book Reviews. Growing up in rural western Massachusetts with three brothers and three sisters, Carla developed an eye for detail and a love of a good story. Her imagination, curiosity and sense of adventure are key to creating the complex relationships, fast-paced plots and deep sense of place in her books.

getting rowdy by lori foster

Title: Getting Rowdy
Series: Love Undercover #3
Author: Lori Foster
Pages: 448
Rating: 4.5/5
Cover rating: 4/5
Summary:
Charismatic bar owner Rowdy Yates isn't the kind of man women say no to. So when he approaches waitress Avery Mullins, he fully expects to get her number. However, the elusive beauty has her reasons for keeping her distance; including a past that might come back to haunt them both.

Avery spends her nights working for tips; and trying to forget the secret Rowdy is determined to unearth. But when history threatens to repeat itself, Avery grows to rely on Rowdy's protective presence. As the sparks between them ignite, she will be forced to choose between the security she's finally found; and the passion she's always wanted.

My 2 Cents:
Her previous book that I've read Bare It All is one of my favorite. Now, this new one will be equally one of my favorite also. Lorry's writing always amaze me. I dont think she ever try so hard so hard to make it believable. Every words and sentences seem to be effortless but it works for me. One thing that really bugged me was his introduction character. To have regular sex for him to fill in his emptiness because of a girl who played getting hard to get is quite disturbing for me. LOL. But as the story went on, I totally understand. The reason why Avery acted like that, gave a different twist to jazz up the plot. Running away from something you cant handle  sometime make you loose your sanity. All in all, the book really has a lot to offer. A little of romance, heat, steamy scene and a little bit of thrill in one single book. I had a great weekend with this book. So will you ;p

About the Author

Since first publishing in January 1996, Lori Foster has become a Waldenbooks, Borders, USA TODAY, Publishers Weekly and New York Times bestselling author. She also received the Romantic Times “Career Achievement Award” for Series Romantic Fantasy and Contemporary Romance.

Lori believes it is important to give back to the community as much as possible, so she routinely arranges events among authors and readers to gather donations for various organizations.

guest post: author daniel friedmann

Was Adam the first man? Was man created by divine act in less than one day almost 6,000 years ago, as the Bible suggests?

Or did man appear 200,000 years ago as the culmination of numerous human-like species that existed during a span of millions of years, as the scientific record shows?

Both cannot be right. Or can they?

Why look at both sources of knowledge?

I initially came to think that science books answered everything. Yet, by my fourth year at university, some fundamental questions concerning our origins began to re-appear.  Teens who experience a very detailed science education on origins seemingly in conflict with Sunday school teachings are confused.  I realized that my nephews were asking the same questions and so where other kids their age. Like me, they were not getting satisfactory answers.

I decided to work through the issue when I wrote my book “The Broken Gift.” The book covers such topics as when humankind appeared, from a spiritual and scientific perspective; who was the first man and what did he look like.  Why we are in some ways similar to apes and in others completely different; What does it mean?

The Broken Gift is based on the Book of Genesis which is part of the Judeo-Christian biblical canon. Genesis is also a major source for the Koran. Thus, The Broken Gift is applicable to Christians, Jews and many Muslims. As well as science enthusiasts and readers who love to explore intriguing possibilities.
There is also a free companion iPhone app, Bible Clock (http://danielfriedmannbooks.com/the-genesis-one-code/), enter Scientific time in the Bible Clock to find the corresponding biblical time and explore what other events were going on around the same time.

About the Author

Daniel Friedmann is CEO of MDA Corp., specializing in robotics. He has a master's in engineering physics and 30 years' experience in the space industry. He has published more than 20 peer-reviewed scientific papers on space industry topics. He is also a longtime student of cosmology and religion. The Genesis One Code is currently available on Amazon.com and the Broken Gift at Amazon.com and at his website: http://danielfriedmannbooks.com/.

you got to be kidding: the cultural arsonist's satirical reading of the bible by dr. joe wenke

Title: You Got to be Kidding: The Cultural Arsonist's Satirical Reading of the Bible
Author: Dr. Joe Wenke
Pages: 206
Ratings: 3.5/5
Summery:
Why did God turn Lot's wife into a pillar of salt? Were there no other seasonings available? Why don't we know anything about the early years of Jesus? Did someone lose his baby book? Who reported the desert encounter between Jesus and Satan? Jesus-or Satan? And why does the Holy Spirit like to show up as a bird?

As irreverent as the musical The Book of Mormon, Joe Wenke's YOU GOT TO BE KIDDING: The Cultural Arsonist's Literal Reading of the Bible is an engaging, provocative and hilarious investigation into the bestselling book of all time. Written to "cause trouble" cultural arsonist Wenke, a keen observer of human gullibility, tempts readers to more closely examine the stories they think they know about the Bible.

Drawing upon the same pool of incendiary and cerebral humor as Bill Maher, Jon Stewart and the late, great George Carlin, YOU GOT TO BE KIDDING is a call for humor to restore our sanity and our ability to think for ourselves. Just as it was written in the Bible-or was it?

My 2 Cents:
Let me get this cleared, I am not a Christian, Catholic etc. I dont know much about the religion and traditions that related to it but I love to get to know new things. I've never try to read any Bible but I have to tell you that his book is hillarious! It has a twist that makes you think even when everything is clouded with humours. My recommendation is please read it before you judge it. I have read a few other reviews and yes, lots of mixed reviews. Some find it very bad, but not to forget that most of readers thought it is great. I understand that a Bible is a Holy book, and I think it would be quite lenghty and need serious understanding. Compared to the author's book,  in my opinion, he has his simple way to make people to understand Bible in such interesting way. Give it a go, and later, you can decide whether it's as good as I claimed it.

About the Author:

Dr. Joe Wenke, an outspoken and articulate LGBT rights activist, is the owner and managing partner of Xperience, a multi-million dollar marketing communications and production company with offices in New York, Boston and Detroit. He is the founder and publisher of Trans Über, a publishing company with a focus on LBGT rights, free thought and promoting equality for all people. His next book, PAPAL BULL: An Ex-Catholic Calls Out the Catholic Church, will be published this summer. He partners with Gisele Xtravaganza in Gisele New World, which produces events for the ballroom community. Wenke began his career as an editor at the Foundation Center in New York City.  He was a speechwriter at Avnet for Tony Hamilton, the founder of the global electronics distribution industry, and wrote speeches for George Conrades, the head of IBM US. As a senior vice president at Caribiner International he served as the company’s lead communications strategist and head of global accounts. Wenke received a B.A. in English from the University of Notre Dame, an M.A. in English from Penn State and a Ph.D. in English from the University of Connecticut.

Website: http://joewenke.org/

candy and the cankersaur by jason sandberg

Title: Candy and the Cankersaur

Author: Jason Sandberg

Rating: 4.5/5

Recommended Age: 3-9

Summary: This is the sweet and funny tale of a young girl named Candy and her Cankersaurus Rex! Candy receives a dinosaur as a gift and is determined to train him to be a good pet. This playful homage to Syd Hoff will make all dinosaur-crazy boys and girls happy! Enjoy!

My 2 Cents: Personally, I think the book is awesome. However, I actually asked one of my little cousin to read and give his opinion. He said, even though Candy has a cool Dinosour, he thought it would be great if a boy has it instead of a girl. He claimed he would be a better friend to his Dinosour. LOL. I really thought that was funny for him to actually be jealous of Candy! That being said, have to agree that having a dinosour as a pet is like every little kid's wish, me no excluded. The book is fun, fresh, creative and very easily feel connected to the story. I would be delighted to recommend to my friends and mommy friends to read to their loved ones as a nice bedtime story.

About the Author

Jason Sandberg, born in Minneapolis in 1971, discovered the artwork of Jacob Kurtzburg in 1977 and soon acquired a love of drawing. He received a Scholastic Art Award before studying History and Studio Arts at the University of Minnesota from 1989 to 1993. Sandberg has had several exhibits in Minnesota and his drawings and paintings were published in various national indy art magazines throughout the 1990s. PREVIEWS magazine described his Pop Art as "base alternative art on mescaline." Critic and historian Scott McCloud classified his art as "uncategorizable," and Alternative Press Review described him as a talented artist who defies expectations. Sandberg specializes in acrylic painting and his work has been purchased by collectors in Europe and Asia. A one man exhibit of his realist paintings was held in Manhattan in September of 2004. Sandberg's work has appeared in PREVIEWS, NEW YORK QUICK GUIDE, JUPITER and NEW ART INTERNATIONAL. His primary influences are J.M.W. Turner and Edward Hopper.

Website: http://www.jasonsandberg.com/

the king's deception by steve berry

Title: The King's Deception
Series: Cotton Malone #8
Author: Steve Berry
Pages: 402
Rating: 5/5
Summary:
Cotton Malone and his fifteen-year-old son, Gary, are headed to Europe. As a favor to his former boss at the Justice Department, Malone agrees to escort a teenage fugitive back to England. But after he is greeted at gunpoint in London, both the fugitive and Gary disappear, and Malone learns that he’s stumbled into a high-stakes diplomatic showdown—an international incident fueled by geopolitical gamesmanship and shocking Tudor secrets.

At its heart is the Libyan terrorist convicted of bombing Pan Am Flight 103, who is set to be released by Scottish authorities for “humanitarian reasons.” An outraged American government objects, but nothing can persuade the British to intervene. Except, perhaps, Operation King’s Deception. Run by the CIA, the operation aims to solve a centuries-old mystery, one that could rock Great Britain to its royal foundations.

Blake Antrim, the CIA operative in charge of King’s Deception, is hunting for the spark that could rekindle a most dangerous fire, the one thing that every Irish national has sought for generations: a legal reason why the English must leave Northern Ireland. The answer is a long-buried secret that calls into question the legitimacy of the entire forty-five-year reign of Elizabeth I, the last Tudor monarch, who completed the conquest of Ireland and seized much of its land. But Antrim also has a more personal agenda, a twisted game of revenge in which Gary is a pawn. With assassins, traitors, spies, and dangerous disciples of a secret society closing in, Malone is caught in a lethal bind. To save Gary he must play one treacherous player against another—and only by uncovering the incredible truth can he hope to prevent the shattering consequences of the King’s Deception.

My Two Cents:
Steve Berry is not a normal author. Is he any good? He's one of the best. The 8th book in the series, The King's Deception is well-paced thriller story that will caught your attention from the first page until the last one. Nevertheless, I feel that this time, the story seems to have a lot of characters i.e villains. Dont get me wrong, I still like the whole scenes, flows and everything. It's hard to hate somthing you already adored for so long, right? There's another thing that intrigued my interest, his relationship with his son after got divorced with his wife. Sometimes, I think it is quite mixed feelings about it, but either way, it just adding up some spices to the story. As a whole, I the writing was tremendous with excellence like always. Not to forget to remind you that a little injections of fascination about Tudor and Elizabethan history behind as the story background. I felt it was brilliant. Any thriller fans will love this for sure.

About the Author

Steve Berry is the New York Times and #1 internationally bestselling author of The King’s Deception, The Columbus Affair, The Jefferson Key, The Emperor’s Tomb, The Paris Vendetta, The Charlemagne Pursuit, The Venetian Betrayal, The Alexandria Link, The Templar Legacy, The Third Secret, The Romanov Prophecy, and The Amber Room. His books have been translated into 40 languages with more than 15 million printed copies in 51 countries. They consistently appear in the top echelon of The New York Times, USA Today, and Indie bestseller lists. History lies at the heart of every Steve Berry novel. It’s his passion, one he shares with his wife, Elizabeth, which led them to create History Matters, a foundation dedicated to historic preservation. Since 2009 Steve and Elizabeth have crossed the country to save endangered historic treasures, raising money via lectures, receptions, galas, luncheons, dinners and their popular writers workshops. To date, nearly 2,000 students have attended those workshops.

In 2012 and 2013 Steve’s devotion to historic preservation was recognized by the American Library Association, which named Steve it’s spokesperson for National Preservation Week. Among his other honors is the Royden B. Davis Distinguished Author Award, and the 2013 Barnes & Noble Writers for Writers Award given by Poets & Writers. Steve was born and raised in Georgia, graduating from the Walter F. George School of Law at Mercer University. He was a trial lawyer for 30 years and held elective office for 14 of those years. He is a founding member of International Thriller Writers—a group of more than 2,000 thriller writers from around the world—and served three years as its co-president.

guest post: author karolyn james

Hot Guys to Die For

For fans of Nashville the TV show and Bella Andre, the BROTHERS OF ROCK series is dramatic, sexy, romantic,and entertaining. It sizzles!

Here’s a chance to ‘meet’ the guys in Chasing Cross, the band from my romance series, Brothers of Rock!

Johnnie – lead singer -  He’s the unclaimed leader and hero of the band.  He’s also in the first book – All Access – where readers get to know him, the band, and get to see Johnnie’s emotions as he has to make some life changing decisions in both love and life.

Danny – guitar - He’s Johnnie’s younger brother.  He’s a little wild, always relying on the protection of his big brother.  He’s the main character in book three (Bitter Farewell – coming June 2013) and for the first time in his life, he must face the world on his own.

Davey – guitar -  In the second book – Broken Sound – Davey must come to grips with something potential in his past.  A woman shows up with a baby and says it’s his.  If that’s not heavy enough to deal with, Davey falls in love with a woman that isn’t the baby’s mother.

Chris – bass -  Chris will appear in the fourth book and will have to face something similar to Davey.  His life and his decisions are called into question and this normally quiet, partying rockstar has to find a way to grow up and man up fast.

Rick – drummer -  In the fifth book, you get to meet perhaps the most complicated man in the band.  He’s hiding so much emotion and hanging onto so many demons (especially those hiding at the bottom of a bottle), Rick finds himself struggling between trying to deal with his past, capture his present, and not lose his future.  To top that off, he makes a life changing decision… life changing for himself and for the band.

Right now Chasing Cross will be featured in the first five books of the series… from there, perhaps, a new band will come forward and take the reigns of the series!

Book #1 All Access

With ALL ACCESS, a contemporary romance series begins that explores, life, love, and music. Join the five band members of Chasing Cross as they find that there's more to life beyond the stage.

Book Description:
Jess is caught off guard when a sexy stranger buys her a cup of coffee and asks her to sit with him. He's mysterious, nice, and even though he says the right things at the right time, Jess can sense that there's something hidden about him. As Johnnie sits across from the beautiful woman, he can't believe she doesn't recognize him. Everyone does. It comes with the territory when you're the lead singer of one of the hottest bands in the world, Chasing Cross. With one more show to go before taking a small break in touring, it feels like luck is on Johnnie's side. That is, if he can find a way to tell Jess who he is, without scaring her off.

After her best friend begs her to come to a concert, Jess finds herself standing in the middle of a crowd. The lights are off, music begins, and the crowd erupts in cheers. She doesn't know much about the band, but that's all about to change. When the lights come on, Jess can't believe her eyes. The lead singer of the band is the man from the café. Plucked from the crowd during the show, Jess makes her way backstage. The encore may have ended on stage, but the real show is just about to begin. Johnnie's passion quickly turns to romance but the more time he and Jess spend together, the more things get complicated. Johnnie has a big decision to make about himself and the band, testing his loyalty and love for the music, and when Jess's dreams start to come true, she starts to realize that true love exists, but it's not always an easy path to take.

Book #2 Broken Sound

The second book in the Brothers of Rock series is BROKEN SOUND, where lead guitarist, Davey, is faced with life changing decisions involving love, family, and as always, music.

Book Description:
Rockstars expect women to show up at their hotel room, but when a woman shows up with an infant and tells Davey he is the father, his world is turned upside down. Anna is a teacher and part-time waitress, desperate to make enough to pay off debts left to her by an ex-boyfriend who made her life a living hell. When her boss schedules her for an extra shift, he tells her it's her job to take care of a special guest... lead guitarist of Chasing Cross, Davey. The second Anna meets eyes with Davey, she feels something she's wanted for a long time. But with someone famous? That's impossible. Besides, Davey is there with a date.

When Davey returns to the restaurant, sans date, he asks to see Anna. She doesn't understand what he would want with her. He is a man with a big heart, kind eyes, and the true power that only a real rockstar could have. Then Anna learns the truth of Davey's life, from his haunted past to his rocky present. Still, she longs to be part of his future.  But when Anna's own past turns potentially deadly, life and love suddenly collide in a way that could hurt everyone and leave someone dead.

About the Author

Karolyn James has been published over 100 times, reached bestseller lists on Amazon, and writes in both romance and erotic romance.  Her two newest series are the romance hit, Brothers of Rock, and the erotic romance series, Rock Her Curves.

Twitter:  @KarolynWrites
Facebook:  http://www.facebook.com/KarolynJamesAuthor
Blog:  www.KarolynJames.wordpress.com

Amazon | Barnes&Noble

platinum by jeffe kennedy

Title: Platinum
Series: Facets of Passion #2
Author: Jeffe Kennedy
Rating: 3.5/5
Book Description:
Althea Grant's Charleston gallery might be suffering from the bad economy, and her artistic aspirations have gone nowhere, but she's doing just fine, thank you. When bad-boy sculptor Steel rides up on his motorcycle looking to rent studio space, his infusion of cash is more than welcome. But his art is raw, visceral, sexual—and completely inappropriate for her pastel world of watercolor landscapes. Steel, fascinated by Althea's rare albino coloring, sees in her the key to his next piece: a metal satyr designed for bondage games. Moving into her gallery basement is the first step; seducing the cool Southern belle into modeling for him is the second. As Steel peels away her careful manners and tasteful outfits, Althea begins to realize her life isn't just fine at all—it's as pale and washed-out as the watercolor paintings she's failing to sell. Can she transform her life and accept her most secret desires?

My Say:
When a good girl gone wild, this will happen. The story was short, and I dont know, this time I feel everything was a little bit rushed for me. It happened so fast like so fast you dont know what is happening. It is understandable that Althea's decision is because she's struggling with her gallery and his whatever boyfriend, she just need a getaway and Steel happened to her gateway. Everything that happened really like I dont feel the connection, does it because Althea's running away? I don't know. At times, I felt Althea's relationship with Steel even in the end just plain and bland. When the romance happens, it was okay but not really thrilled or kind of not drawing me in. I think the series should be more on chemistry. Sometimes it is just not sex. But please give it a try, and maybe you like it even more the I do.

a shade of vampire by bella frost

Title: A Shade of Vampire
Series: A Shade of Vampire #1
Author: Bella Forest
Rating: 3.5/5
Book Description:
On the evening of Sofia Claremont's seventeenth birthday, she is sucked into a nightmare from which she cannot wake. A quiet evening walk along a beach brings her face to face with a dangerous pale creature that craves much more than her blood. She is kidnapped to an island where the sun is eternally forbidden to shine.
An island uncharted by any map and ruled by the most powerful vampire coven on the planet. She wakes here as a slave, a captive in chains. Sofia's life takes a thrilling and terrifying turn when she is the one selected out of hundreds of girls to join the harem of Derek Novak, the dark royal Prince. Despite his addiction to power and obsessive thirst for her blood, Sofia soon realizes that the safest place on the island is within his quarters, and she must do all within her power to win him over if she is to survive even one more night. Will she succeed? ...or is she destined to the same fate that all other girls have met at the hands of the Novaks?

My Say:
I would want myself being abducted and get to be with a handsome guy even if he's a bad guy. But a pale face, wold be a different story. Even if I love reading about romance of vampires, doesnt mean I want me to be a slave for my blood. Some chills either makes me intrigued and pique my interest.

Because I don’t believe that you are a slave to what you’ve become. I don’t believe that you simply can’t.

I cant resist myself from liking the book. Such chills mixed with intense creates such an ovelwhelming satisfaction. I have no complaints with book. I feel good and the stroy is a great. Fully recommended.

About the Author

"I guess my life as a writer started when I was five; I'd sit under the kitchen table with my box of multi-colored wax crayons (I miss those) and create picture books. Creative writing was always my favorite subject and I used any free time I had to sit down with a notepad. Not much has changed, except that now I have developed vampirish habits: my writing "day" typically starts at 1am.

I'm an avid reader, a big fan of cookie ice cream and I'm often travelling. When working I have to disconnect the internet for fear of being endlessly distracted by websites such as www.icanhas.cheezburger.com . Oh, and unlike the beautiful girl on my cover, I'm camera-shy..."

Email: bella [at] forrestbooks.com
Facebook: www.facebook.com/ashadeofvampire
Amazon: Click Here
Goodreads: Click Here
Twitter: www.twitter.com/AShadeOfVampire

Note: The author gave me a copy in exchange for an honest review. It will not in any way affected my review.

sapphire by jeffe kennedy

Title: Sapphire
Series: Facets of Passion #1
Author: Jeffe Kennedy
Rating: 4.5/5
Book Description:
A successful executive, M. Taylor Hamilton is on track with her ten-year plan. Too bad her personal life consists of hitting the gym and grocery shopping. Enter the seductive Adam Kirliss. They may have a working relationship, but everything changes at an office party when he handcuffs her to the rail of a yacht. Taylor writes off the adventure as too much champagne, but when Adam challenges her to a date, she agrees to meet up with him. And follow his rules. They share a night of exquisite intimacy, brimming with both pain and pleasure. But afterward, fearful of losing her heart, Taylor pulls back emotionally. Adam is determined to prove that she longs for the loss of control he can give her--and the passionate release it provides. How can he make her see that he wants her, and not just her body?

My Say:
I thought Sapphire as safe word is generically quite bold. As bold as the story would be. M is really a word that intriguing me to guess what it is. As an elegant and high class woman, yeah, I dont think Molly is suited to that kind of character. But Adam did everything to unfold the story behind the word M. He may just not get only one but also peeling so many layers of Taylor /M. Yeah, who could ever resist such a good-looking man in the first place? Even though I kind of hate Adam at first, hey, he came out to be a real better man after all. I think the book is overall is nice, sexy and bold story. It is whatever in between, romance, kinky, wild and sizzling. The book is fully recommended!

beauty and the beast by carole remy

Title: Beauty and the Beast
Author: Carole Remy
Rating: 4.5/5
Book Description:
Mary Jane Andrews is what Texans call a pistol. She thinks fast, acts faster, and takes the consequences with a laugh. The year is 1950. Young reporter Mary Jane isn’t sure what SM is, but she’s heard that it’s going on outside Austin, and she’s determined to investigate. Once she meets the Master, she’s both enthralled and scared spitless. What’s a Master to do when his hotter-than-sin sexual soul mate shows up at the door of his highly illegal sex house? Don’t worry, he has lots of ideas. Trouble is, Mary Jane wants the story. And the Master won’t spend the rest of his natural life in jail. The sex is explosive, inventive, and addictive, both ways. Will it be bend or break for the insatiable Beauty and the masterful Beast?

My Say:
I totally like the book. A sheer hotness like melting cheese. Sexy, bold and thrills are mixed together to become such a great ending. Reading something sexy before sleep in my cosy bed, next to my husband, yeah, that is sure made me feeling great. Ok, enough.  The thing is, I felt the Mary Jane nature of character is one of the reason I like the book. Her curiousity brought the readers to discover something beyond mind could think. It's like peeling a blossoming petals of a flower. You have to investigate to know things deeper. And the master? Wallah! Sure I could die in hotness! The book is incredibly sexy! Whoot whoot!

About the Author

Carole Remy lives in Mexico with her beloved dog Gemma. When she isn’t writing and touring her novels, you can find her rescuing dogs, learning wood sculpture, and salsa dancing!

Blog | Pinterest | Twitter: @Carole_Remy

bare it all by lori foster

Title: Bare It All
Author: Lori Foster
Series: Love Undercover #2
Rating: 4/5
Book Description:
"A cop's craving to know more about the woman next door could prove fatal in the steamy new novel from New York Times bestselling author Lori Foster"

As the person responsible for taking down a brutal human trafficker, Alice Appleton fears retaliation at every turn. No one knows about her past, which is exactly how she prefers it...until the sexy cop next door comes knocking. Detective Reese Bareden thinks he knows what makes women tick, but his ever-elusive neighbor keeps him guessing like no other. Is his goal to unmask Alice's secrets? Or protect her from a dangerous new threat? One thing is certain: their chemistry is a time bomb waiting to explode. And with no one to trust but each other, Reese and Alice are soon drawn into a deadly maze of corruption, intrigue and desire-and into the line of fire.

My Say:
The book is totally a swoon-worthy! I was so caught up with the story and yes, it has made my day. Should I say that reading the book made me stares at my husband in such twisted mind. LOL!

I didnt read her first book. However, whoever can easily pick up and read as it is. The elements of suspence and romance somehow has it upside downs, but I'm glad this one completed each other as Reese and Alice complement each other. I must say Reese is such a character that I would totally approved of, not because he is what I want him to be but his role is perfect. I easily related to him. Alice was otherwise not so much for me. Maybe because she doesn't act like a grown woman? I must say she's quite odd or weird? I can't tell much but I think her personality is influenced by the mystery that Reese has to solve. Eventhough I found Alice was like that, one thing that I can be assured of was that their chemistery was really a time bomb waiting to explode as they claimed! I think the pace of the book is quite ample for us to know more the character and how their relationship is developing. What I like most about the book, it just grabbed my attention from the moment I opened to read it. Awesome!

About the Author

Since first publishing in January 1996, Lori Foster has become a Waldenbooks, Borders, USA TODAY, Publishers Weekly and New York Times bestselling author. She also received the Romantic Times “Career Achievement Award” for Series Romantic Fantasy and Contemporary Romance.

Lori believes it is important to give back to the community as much as possible, so she routinely arranges events among authors and readers to gather donations for various organizations.

Website: www.LoriFoster.com

caged heat by milly taiden

Title: Caged Heat
Author: Milly Taiden
Series: Black Meadow Pack #2
Rating: 4/5
Book Description:

After five years traveling through third world countries to teach impoverished children, Samira Suarez has returned home to Black Meadows. What Sam didn’t expect was to be instantly overwhelmed by the desire to be with the one man she’s wanted since she was a teen, Riel Karven.

Riel has been patiently waiting for Sam’s return. For five long years he’s backed off and watched her come and go. This is it. His mate is back and he’s taking a stand. Sam’s need for Ry grows to unimaginable proportions. It’s almost as if she were in heat. But she’s a human…isn’t she?

There’s more at stake than Sam and Ry’s future relationship when she inherits her grandmother’s estate. One of her many relatives wants her out of the way. It’s going to take all of Ry’s determination and help from his friends to keep her alive. And it’s going to take delving into her past to find out why a human is going into mating heat.

My Say:
I must say Sam and Riel really have a good chemistry. I love reading their passion and love. So intense, racey and I couldnt put down the stroy. Even though this is the second book in the series, I can still feel related to it and the character themselves are enough to complement the storyline. The book is very enjoyable and engaging. I totally feel connected to the story, and it is quite revealling. It is recommended!

About the Author

Milly Taiden was born in the prettiest part of the Caribbean known as the Dominican Republic. She grew up between New York, Florida and Massachusetts. Currently, she resides in New York City with her husband, bossy young son and their little dog Speedy. She began writing when she learned to put words together and her first book consisted of two homeless dogs living in a park for her second grade English class. She didn’t win a prize, but she acquired a love for writing that never went away.

When she’s not working full-time, texting with her best friend Heidi in England, chastising her son for pulling the dog’s ears, shopping with her sister Jewel or watching scary movies with her husband, she can be found writing on her laptop. She’s addicted to shoe shopping, chocolate and Dunkin Donuts coffee. A major reader when she can get her hands on a good book, she loves reading all Mina Carter, Cynthia Eden, Cynthia Sax among others.

Website: http://millytaiden.com
Twitter: @millytaiden
Facebook: Milly Taiden

the faulkner's apprentice by val muller

Title: Faulkner’s Apprentice
Author: Val Muller
Published: April 30th, 2013
Content Warning: Suggestive themes, non-graphic sexuality, and mild violence
Summary:
Lorelei Cecelia Franklin broke a twenty-year streak of bad luck when she won the L. Cameron Faulkner fiction contest. Apprenticed to the reclusive and famous author, Lorei will spend three weeks with the master of horror himself in the secluded mountains of Virginia. On her way to Faulkner's mansion, Lorei meets a leathery man who snares souls that desire too much, and everything in the mansion screams warnings against him. But with her lust for Faulkner, her appetite for fame, and her wish to protect her ailing mother, Lorei's chances for escape are slim.

My Say:
It is quite a long time since I've read such a chilling story. The Faulkner's Apprentice is actually will keep you up all night and assure you that you wont switch off your light while you're sleeping. At first I though loving dark places is such a weird and odd way to embrace creativity and inspirations. I love the character, Lorelei because she's willing to do anything to save the one she loves and achieve her dreams. It's quite a journey but I was intrigued by the storyline as well as the creativity of how the author relates the whole story and the characters. Sometimes I felt it was quite dragged a bit, but overall the story is good. I fully recommend to whoever loves horror book.

About the Author

English teacher by day, writer by night, Val grew up in cold and haunted New England, which seems to have colored her works with a tinge of the macabre. She currently lives in Northern Virginia with her husband and two corgis, a rambunctious and curious dog named Leia, and a kind and obedient (yet terrified) dog named Yoda. Val writes for children and adults and, when not performing her day job as an English teacher, attends book events and elementary schools to conduct writing workshops.

Amazon Author Page | Facebook | Twitter | GoodReads | Blog | Website

black venus by james macmanus

Title: Black Venus
Author: James MacManus
Pages: 368
Rating: 3.5/5
Book Description:
Addictive as opium the voluptuous Haitian cabaret singer Jeanne Duval tortured and inspired Charles Baudelaire to create poetry that would forever change the world of literature. Their love played out against the backdrop of 19th-century Paris in the Left Bank cafes and taverns frequented by such giants as Édouard Manet, Honoré de Balzac and Alexandre Dumas.  Reviled by Baudelaire’s family, friends and publisher, Duval was Baudelaire’s muse, leading him to create the poetry whose dark and passionate imagery forever changed and influenced modern literature.

Baudelaire was squandering his small fortune on alcohol and women when he met Duval, who he called Black Venus and claimed as his mistress. Their fiery relationship became the catalyst for his work—without her he couldn’t write a word. Ironically, Duval scorned Les Fleurs de Mal—The Flowers of Evil—the slim volume of poems she inspired that outraged French morals causing Baudelaire and his publisher to be forced into a scandalous public trial for obscenity.  What hold did she have on him that he allowed her to betray him in every possible way, driving him into debt and opium addiction even as she openly slept with his friends?

My Say:
The book is totally a jurney that I thought it would never end. So much depth in it. I was facing a quite hard time to finish the book. It started quite boring at first and slowly blooming into something I love to be in. I love the Paris setting in it. The story brought me to many lovely places that I wish I would be. Paris is just lovely and I think it's a good place for some romance story to take place. Relationship between Charles and Jean for me, is so complex. The storyline is more than just about a person, its about how the character lived and move on. Charles went through so many hardships and scandalous moments. There were times I felt the book is so flat and there's so many details like been dragged too much. Nevertheless, I love reading a new thing like a historical romance/story.

About the Author

James MacManus, who was born in London, began his career with The Guardian first as a reporter in the London office and then as a foreign correspondent in France, Africa and the Middle East. Following a position on the diplomatic staff of the Daily Telegraph in London, he joined The Times, eventually rising to Managing Editor then Managing Director of The Times Literary Supplement. In 2006 his first screenplay became the major motion picture, The Children of Huang Shi, and in 2010 his critically acclaimed first novel, Language of the Sea, made its debut.

more than friends by jessica jayne

Title: Beauty and the Beast

Author: Carole Remy

Rating: 4.5/5

Book Description:
Jeni Acerna is a twenty-eight year old woman, whose longstanding sexual relationship with her best friend, Brian Hamilton, has been both blissful and troublesome. She has been unable to commit herself to another relationship because no one can compare to Brian in or out of bed. She has been in lust (and love) with him for years. But she is afraid to tread down the romantic path with Brian for fear of losing his friendship. After several months of not seeing each other, Jeni and Brian meet in Cleveland for a friend’s wedding. Their weekend getaway, however, is anything but normal. They agree to not have sex for the first twenty-four hours they are together. The first to beg for sex owes the other $500. Jeni’s intent is to see if there is something more to her and Brian that just unbelievable sex. After a tortuous night, their sexual attraction is more than either can bear. Their passion erupts and their sexual relationship picks up where it left off…hot and heavy. However, this time, Brian wants Jeni… and not just in his bed. Can he convince her the risk is worth taking?

My Say:
I like the book since it is short and the pace is quite fast. It has a verything in one story, romance, love, sex and frienship. I love all the characters, the chemistry is great and I felt every page of the book really captured my interest to read it in one sitting. I would say I want to read and learn more about the characters, but without it, I still like the book no matter what.

About the Author

Jessica is a born and raised small town Ohio girl, who moved to the Sunshine State after graduating from college. She graduated from college with a bachelor's degree in English. What college major could possibly be better than one that makes you read novels and write about them! Now she is thrilled to be able to share all the stories floating around in her head! Jessica loves to travel and travel often! She’s a huge sports fan, especially college football and the Ohio State Buckeyes! She’s a wine-making (and wine-tasting) aficionado. She loves all music. And nothing is better than sunset at the beach! In the journey of life, she also married a wonderful man and had three beautiful (and sometimes crazy) children. Life is always an adventure. 

angel bait by tricia skinner

Title: Angel Bait 

Series: Angel Assassins Series #1

Author: Tricia Skinner

Publisher: Crimson Romance

Date of Publication: February 18, 2013

Number of pages: 204

Word Count: 65,000

Book Description:

Saved by the angel sent to kill them, four half-angel boys are trained and employed as Heaven’s assassins. Jarrid and his nephilim brothers are raised as members of The Eternal Order, and must enforce Heaven’s laws by hunting down those who defy the Directorate. His only shot at freedom is Ascension, but his employers won’t permit the ancient ritual. Then Jarrid learns a Renegade angel is in Detroit. Such a high-level take­down is the answer to his prayers—all the leverage he needs to Ascend. For freedom, Jarrid is willing to do anything to lure his elusive enemy out of hiding. Even use an innocent woman as bait. News reporter Ionie Gifford has no clue an angel outlaw wants her dead. She agrees to help Jarrid, the enigmatic nephilim with penetrating silver eyes and a worship-worthy body, but only because he accepts her terms. He’s her all-access pass into the city’s supernatural underworld where she hopes to locate her mother’s killer.

Blind­sided by Ionie's beauty and tenacity, Jarrid soon finds the eternity-old glacier around his heart thawing. With duty and desire at war within him, he’s forced to make a choice—either save Ionie from the trap he snared and stay chained to Heaven, or allow her to become collateral damage.

My Say:

The book is totally a sassy, saucy and sexy romance. The story is told in very delicate and breathtaking. I like the pacing of the book, I cant believe I can finish the book, and this is quite important for me as a reader.    The characters might be one of the reason the story so compelling and interesting. I can never get tired of the romance, including some heart-racing romance with thrilling scenes. I was like begging for more, and even it's paranormal or urban, it is still as good as any other romance books. I'm looking forward the author's new work in future.

About the Author

After spending several years as a newspaper reporter and corporate communications director, Tricia Skinner cast off traditional journalism for the freedom of novel writing. ANGEL BAIT is her urban fantasy romance debut. Her reading tastes are all over the place, but she’s mainly drawn to fantasy (and its subgenres), paranormal, sci-fi, and history.In those rare moments when she’s not writing, Tricia is a newbie “green” practitioner, a fitness procrastinator, and a technology geek. She is a mother and a wife. Her family includes two Great Danes. Tricia stays active in various writing communities. She is represented by Laurie McLean of the Larsen Pomada Literary Agency.

She welcomes correspondence from readers. Visit her online at www.TriciaSkinner.com.

Website: http://www.TriciaSkinner.com

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/AuthorTriciaSkinner

Goodreads: http://www.goodreads.com/triciaskinner

Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/author/triciaskinner

Twitter: @AuthorTrish

Pinterest: http://pinterest.com/kaziwren/

promises by amber garr

Title: Promises
Series: Syrenka Series #1
Author: Amber Garr
Pages: 177
Rating: 4/5
Cover rating: 4/5
Summary:
With power comes the responsibility to accept its consequences. After the betrayal of those closest to her, Eviana Dumahl struggles to cope with her new reality. Kidnapped, broken, and confused, she is forced to engage in a war that will alter merfolk politics forever. With her estranged father leading the charge, Eviana has no choice but to stand by his side. Her continued existence hinges on the acceptance of the power growing inside her, even when that means embracing the family’s dark lineage. Kain Matthew will sacrifice the world for Eviana. And he is not alone. As time runs out, her friends fight to save her life and theirs. An unlikely alliance gives them the edge they need to take a stand, although it keeps Eviana’s heart trapped in the past. A new discovery explains some of her previous mistakes, but it may not be enough to stop her father’s plans. Merfolk, selkies, and water sprites work together to save their kind, only in this final battle, not everyone will survive. In the striking series conclusion, Eviana will learn the true meaning of power, sacrifice, and love.

My Say:
I love the story so much eventhough it is quite close to a typical love story between two different people. First of all, I love it when the story is about merpeople. It's quite different from what I've used to read, maybe that's the reason I want to read the series badly. Eviana is a great character of a mermaid. She got engaged, then like someone else. It's a triagle love story and I know she's struggling a lot with herself to choose. The conflict between merpeople also comes in between. She has a lot of responsibilities and sometimes I could feel she's reluctant and doubting herself. I love her character and how the character deals with everything. She's independent, tough, and in the end, I think she can figure everything out. The story is also has a quite a pace, so it's light and you could finish in one sitting. I would recommend it to be read.

About the Author

Amber Garr spends her days conducting scientific experiments and wondering if her next door neighbor is secretly a vampire. Born in Pennsylvania, she lives in Florida with her husband and their furry kids. Her childhood imaginary friend was a witch, Halloween is sacred, and she is certain that she has a supernatural sense of smell. Amber is a multiple Royal Palm Literary Award winner and the author of The Syrenka Series and The Leila Marx Novels. When not obsessing over the unknown, she can be found dancing, reading, or enjoying a good movie.


Find her here:
Website | Blog |  Facebook | Twitter | Goodreads | Email | Series Website


There's a giveaway during the Syrenka tour. The first place winner will get signed paperbacks of all three books, the second place winner will get eBook copies of all three books. Contest is international.

 a Rafflecopter giveaway

the reluctant goddess by af firebird

Title: The Reluctant Goddess
Author: A.F. Firebird
Pages: 251
Rating: 4.5/5
Cover rating: 4/5
Summary:

Ellena Ripley is a bookshop owner from a rural town in the south of England – or so she thinks. But lately, she has a growing sense that life is not as it seems. At night, she dreams of a serene man who appears to be trying to tell her something; In the day, she can't shake a feeling of expectation. But of what?

Meanwhile Hector, servant of LIFE and the man from Ellena's dreams, has a dilemma. How do you tell someone they are a goddess? His previous attempts have met with disaster so he must be cautious, particularly when his new trainee, Boudica, formerly Queen of the Iceni tries to help. The question is can they succeed before it is too late?

My Say:
The book is actually in my favourite list. I like it a lot. It's totally different and even if it has a little similarity with some other books, I still thinks the book tells magic interestingly. I never read anything about goddess before, well, I think so. What made it even more interesting is they can appear like any other cute animals, like cats and dogs! There's also something reincarnation that I found so cool about it which made me so happy about it. That being said, the plot is intriguing and very well-developed. I like all the characters especially Ellena and Hector. There was very few since I read a hero character named Hector, but it's cool. I enjoyed the time I read this. However, there are a few times I felt lost and to repeat reading the whole pages. I felt like I left out an important part, but I dont know what it is. However, I can forgive it because I like the story. Please give a chance reading this book and I think you too will feel the same.

About the Author

A.F. Firebird is the alter ego of a sociologist/psychologist turned web developer from the UK. While A.F. Firebird has worked in several fields her primary focus is the exploration of six virtues: appreciation, forgiveness, compassion, humility, understanding and valour. Her first novel, The Reluctant Goddess, numerous short stories and children’s books, all investigate aspects of these virtues.

Where to find: http://www.posegroup.org/books/trg/

succubus rising by br kingsolver

Title: Succubus Rising
Author: BR Kingsolver
Series: The Telepathic Clans Saga #3
Pages: 155
Rating: 3.5/5
Cover rating: 3.5/5
Summary:

The Goddess has plans for Brenna and Rebecca, and the Goddess has a wicked sense of humor. Rebecca Healy is a true wilder, growing up with no contact or knowledge of other telepaths. Discovered by a Clan member on the streets of San Francisco, she felt like she’d hit the jackpot. Finally, she knew what she was, or at least she thought she did. When Brenna O’Donnell, long-lost heir of the O’Donnell Clan, and the strongest telepath in history, is returned to her family, she and Rebecca form a tight bond. Brenna has it all, looks, money, power, and men falling all over her. Rebecca isn’t jealous, but it would be nice to find someone who would really love her and stick around in the morning. She’s intrigued by a handsome South American general, but of course, he has his sights set on Brenna. Carlos de Vargas wants more than love. His Clan has its back to the wall, and they hope for an alliance with O’Donnell. An alliance that would lead to war. The story began in The Succubus Gift and continued in Succubus Unleashed. In Succubus Rising, questions are answered and new mysteries are revealed.

My Say:
I have not read the first two books in the series but, I can relate to the story. I think this is my few times I'm reading something about succubus thingy. I also feel that the girls are the strongest team in this story. It's fast pace storyline, interesting plot and funny in between. Sometimes I felt like the story is a bit over the top, exagerative kind of way. Or maybe in a simple way, there are times I felt anoyed with the character and most of the scenes. However, I still like the book, maybe it would be different if I read the other two book. It's still good to read something out of our comfort reads. I guess anyone who likes succubus or paranormal would love this.

About the Author

I made silver and turquoise jewelry for almost a decade, ended up in nursing school, then took a master’s in business. Along the way I worked in construction, as a newspaper editor, a teacher, and somehow found a career working with computers.
I love the outdoors, especially the Rocky Mountains. I’ve skied since high school and I’ve hiked and camped all my life. I love to travel, though I haven’t done enough of it. I’ve seen a lot of Russia and Mexico, not enough of England. Amsterdam is amazing, and the Romanian Alps are breathtaking. Lake Tahoe is a favorite, and someday I’d like to see Banff in Canada.
I have a very significant other, two cats and two Basset Hounds. I’m currently living in Baltimore, nine blocks from the harbor, but still own a home in New Mexico that I see too infrequently.

Find her here: BRKINGSOLVER | Facebook | Website | Amazon

some like it wicked by stacey kennedy

Title: Some Like It Wicked
Author: Stacey Kennedy
Rating: 4/5
Cover rating: 4/5
Pages: 80 (pdf)
Publisher: Ellora’s Cave (Twilight)
ISBN: 9781419942235
Length: Novella
Heat Level: Sizzling
Release date: March 1, 2013

Book Description:
Bryanna is far from the perfect witch. Shunned by her coven and her boyfriend for her unruly magic, she seeks a new life for herself in a new town—Charmstone. When Bryanna arrives in Charmstone, Zeke, a demon gone good, is burning with fire over her. Not only has she set his world ablaze, but he’s found one soul he can save. He’s determined to free her from the insecurities that have damaged her soul. Together they experience lava-hot passion as they weave their way through a tornado of emotions. But when Bryanna’s ex returns for her, Zeke will need to take a stand and hope that their lust leads to a forever love.

My Say:
It was as it says, sizzling hot! The storyline is good, and everything was easily indulged. I was totally drawn by it. Maybe I was so into the romance and I could feel the heat, it was intense! I cant imagine the attraction between Zeke and Bryanna. They are so sweet and they are seems like meant to each other. The connection also look real and the chemistry was there.

My review was quite amatur. This is my first time reviewing an erotic. But anyone who loves romance, hot-blazing coupling, this is one of the story you would like to read. Since it's a novella, you could finish it in one sitting.

Publisher’s Note: This story was previously published elsewhere under the title Whatnots & Doodads in 2011, and has been revised and expanded for Ellora’s Cave.

About the Author

Stacey Kennedy writes romance that sometimes gets very naughty. She’s an urban fantasy lover at heart, but she also enjoys losing herself in dark and sensual worlds. She lives in Southwestern Ontario with her husband who gave her a happily ever after. Together, they have two small children who can always make her smile, and who will never be allowed to read mommy’s books. If she’s not plugging away at a new story, you’ll find her camping, curling up with the latest flick, or obsessing over Sons of Anarchy and Games of Thrones.

Website – http://www.staceykennedy.com/

Blog – http://www.staceykennedy.com/blog

Facebook – http://www.facebook.com/AuthorStaceyKennedy

Facebook Fan Page – www.facebook.com/StaceyKennedyFanPage

Twitter – https://twitter.com/#!/Stacey_Kennedy

Goodreads – http://www.goodreads.com/author/show/3473046.Stacey_Kennedy

Amazon Author Page – http://www.amazon.com/Stacey-Kennedy/e/B004G9KR9A/

dagger heart by ronnell d. porter

Title: Dagger Heart
Series: The Odin Blood Series #1
Author: Ronnell D. Porter
Rating: 3/5
Cover Rating: 4.5.5
Summary (GoodReads):
Norway, 704 A.D.
The valiant King Ulfur defeated the evil that swept the seaside village of Nornör into despair; Morgan, the demon witch, has been dead for nearly twenty years. The truce between King Úlfur and the Queen of the Fae has remained intact since the day that Morgan’s dark curses vanished. It seemed that peace had finally come to the wounded souls of the village. But this peace is shaken when three curses that Morgan promised with her dying breath are placed upon the Norwegian village: who among them has cast the spell? Seventeen-year-old Erica finds herself trapped in the middle of a witch’s deadly revenge scheme with no way out but to fight for survival. On top of trying to end the curses devouring her village like a savage beast she finds herself at the center of attention when it comes to Viking King Úlfur’s three sons: Kriger, Paul, and Finn.

Three of them will fight alongside her.
Two of them want to marry her.
One of them could be the son of King Úlfur… and Morgan.

My Say:
First of all, I totally admire the book cover. Sensual and very descriptive, but I don't know if it looks Norwegian enough. Still, I like it. The story grabbed my interest from the start. The construction of the story is nearest to perfection. Until I was not so sure when all the conversation doesn't sound like it was in 704 A.D. I felt it was in the present day. Nevertheless, the book is still an attention grabber. Your eyes will keep you on the every words of the story. Another reason I like the book is because it has witchery in it. Plus, the love interest between Erica and Finn is another romance you will look after. Sweet and brief yet intense. All in all, I think we should give try the book. And I cant wait to read the sequel.

Note: I got a copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.

Promo: The Odin Blood Series #2

Title: Ebon Heart
Synopsis (GoodReads):
"You know not of King Bersek, Lord of Berserkers... The Berserkers are men of darkness; heartless and unyielding. They know no fear, they know no pain – and the sound of them ripping and slashing and tearing people apart by their limbs: chaos incarnate."

One year after triumphing over the events surrounding the cursed Blackthorn Dagger, Queen 'Dagger Heart' Erica receives an ominous warning from a group of survivors that arrives in her village of Nornör: an army like no other, steeped in dark necromancy, heads for her Norwegian shores. With the winter solstice quickly approaching and no sign of the black wolf that used to roam the woods of her lands, she races against time to uncover the mystery of The Necromancer, as well as the absence of her dear friend and love, Finn.

Author Guest Post

What makes Norway your choice to write about in the book?

I've had a certain attraction to the Germanic and Scandinavian cultures. This fascination goes back as far as I had remember. My mother is of Norwegian ancestry, and so genealogy was the main deciding factor in choosing a region to establish my story, but it turned out to be the driving force behind every decision made as far as building the land and the people. I remember having a very vague, very slight interest in Vikings, but nothing beyond what was involved in their traditions, myths, and fables. "Oh, that bloke was a Viking king - that's nice, now tell me all about the monsters!" And then, after being burned out on a different book series that I'd been trying to wrap my head around enough to keep going, I happened upon a History Channel documentary about Viking culture, and I was very surprised to learn just how complex they were, and how misrepresented they had been during my adolescence. They were not, in fact, horn-helmed barbarian warriors with godly statures. In fact, they weren't even remotely intimidating as far as we're concerned today, having an average height of 5'6". So I thought it would be nice to explore this very different era and research it, and Norway 700AD is quite different from Norway 2013AD, but not in terms of savagery. There was a complex system of laws to uphold a great sense morality. For all the pillage and plunder of kings, most of their society happened to be exemplary at the time. However, like most cultures of old, there was still the unfortunate societal acceptance of women as property, and that was something of a focus for me, since I had a young female lead who was in the age range of being bartered off by her father, and I placed her in an unusual situation where she had a greater sense of freedom than even her young male companion, but in the end she was still bound by her gender. So Norway also helped build up her character as more of a resistance fighter than a simple girl who just falls in love and does what she's told. Her role is somewhat a fighter against the people, but for the people at the same time.

About the Author

Ronnell D. Porter was raised in Ogden, Utah, and now resides in Denver, Colorado. During his free time he plays the violin, dabbles in graphic design, and, of course, thoroughly enjoys writing stories. He believes that a novel written simply to entertain does its readers a disservice; instead, a book's narrative should always change the way we perceive the world around us, and grant us a little more wisdom than we had when starting the story.

Follow him: Amazon Author Page | Facebook | GoodReads

Giveaway Details:

There is a tour wide giveaway. 

Prizes include the following:

Grand Prize: A Kindle Touch, pre-loaded with 5 books by Ronnell D. Porter

10 eBook copies of Ebon Heart

The grand prize is available to the US only!

The eBooks are worldwide.

a Rafflecopter giveaway