One Book Away From Heaven

The blog is dead... Vive the blog!!!

2011-04-24T06:36:00.000-07:00

It's the end of an era...well ok maybe not really an era. But, it's the end of One Book Away From Heaven. As much as I loved this blog, it's not been as fun to do it alone. I'm very happy to announce you the birth of a new baby blog! Susi (from The Geeky Bookworm) and I are starting a new blog called Secret HEA Society. We're very proud of our new baby because it's so very us. It'll be crazy, it'll be simple, it'll be just like us. It's still very empty but it won't stay that way long.

I really hope to see you there!

http://secretheasociety.blogspot.com/

Hope you're having a great Sunday everyone. And don't eat too much chocolate ;)

Book Lovers Inc 1st Blogoversay!!

2011-01-14T04:54:00.001-08:00

That’s right, starting tomorrow is the start of Book Lovers Inc 1st Blogoversary!

To celebrate we decided to take a vacation and have an Authors’ Takeover! So be prepared for nearly 2 weeks of celebration. Many many authors will be taking over with guest posts, review of their own books, character interview etc… and much much more!

There will be a lot of contests every day! Twitter giveaways…PLUS a huge blogoversary giveaway.

Here’s a little taste of the authors celebrating with us:

Kieran Kramer
Lila DiPasqua
Stephanie Julian
Nancy Holzner
Susanna Ives
Linda Robertson
Julia Rachel Barrett
Gini Koch
Stacia Kane
Kelly Meding
Tracey O'Hara
Dakota Cassidy
Sara Brookes
Delilah Marvelle
Inez Kelley
Joely Sue Burkhart
Monica Burns
Megan Hart
Cynthia Eden
Chloe Neill
Carolyn Crane
Seleste DeLaney
Devyn Quinn
Teresa D'Amario
….

Check out tomorrow’s post on Book Lovers Inc to learn more about this Author Takeover!!

The List: 2011 Edition

2011-01-02T07:10:00.001-08:00

In 2010 I read 91 books. It’s more than I thought I would but I’m a bit sad I didn’t reach 100 books. Maybe I should start reading more novellas or short stories. *shrug* I did went through reading slumps that slowed me down. If you want to take a look at what I read in 2010 here’s the link to the post

Anyway, I will update this post all year long with the books I’ve read. Hopefully this year I’ll reach 100 books ;)

Books Read in 2011:

Prelude to a Scandal – Delilah Marvelle (January)
Sugar Creek – Toni Blake (January)
Shadowfever – Karen Marie Moning (January)
Night Watch – Sergei Lukyanenko (January)
The Cold Kiss of Death – Suzanne McLeod (January)
Angel’s Blood – Nalini Singh (audiobook) (January)
The Bitter Seed of Magic – Suzanne McLeod (February)
Mind Games – Carolyn Crane (February)
When Beauty Tamed the Beast – Eloisa James (February)
Touched by an Alien – Gini Koch (February)
What I did for a Duke – Julie Anne Long (February)

Tombe La Neige! Let is Snow!

2010-12-19T09:59:00.001-08:00

Happy Sunday everyone!

It’s been snowing a lot the last couple of days. We’re not used to snow so it’s the panic in the whole country lol. Snow means I can’t leave the house unless my dad drive me somewhere with his 4x4, but it can also be lots of fun when you don’t have to leave the house. I mean yeah, it’s pretty to look at from behind a window. It doesn’t show well on the pic but the snow reach the top of my knee. =P

The kids (my parents & I) made a huge Snowman. And an hour later the neighbors made an ever bigger. lol It was very very fun to make. We were also attacked by the neighbor families on each side, and had a huge snowball fight for more than 30 minutes. We all ended up soaked, frozen to death and exhausted! But it was worth it…every minute of it. I’m not sure we’ve ever had this much fun in the snow before. =)

It also doesn’t hurt that I knew that warm blankets were waiting for me inside. *waves from under the blankets*. Below, my very wet dog, napping under the blankets after playing in the snow. ;) That’s a Dog’s Life for you.

What I love about the Holidays, is being warm inside drinking Cherry beer and eating Foie Gras. OMG I love love love Foie Gras…of course I know it’s a French thing mostly and most people would find the idea of eating fat goose liver paté disgusting. NOM nom nom nom. Such a treat. My mom made some Onion and wine jam and it’s delicious on Fois Gras toasts. *drools*

So what do you guys like about the holidays?

Any special tradition?

New French covers spotted in the store!

2010-12-11T05:57:00.001-08:00

Holaaaa! This morning I went to the store and decided to take a look at the new books on the shelves. Here’s what I found:

Vampire City by Rachel Caine. Yep I looked at the blurb and this is actually Glass House (Morganville Vampires #1). It’s a nice cover but it doesn’t really catch the eyes.

I had to take a picture of this one. Vampire Academy: Soeurs de Sang <== Blood Sisters. Which is the 1st book in the Vampire Academy series.

Chamane by P.C. Cast, which is Brighid’s Quest . I LOVE this cover. SO much better than the original one
Sauve mon âme ! by Rachel Vincent. Again I like the cover way better than the cover of the original: My Soul to Keep

Those 2 covers look so great in real. The picture doesn’t do them justice.

Now onto the rant part.

This is the YA/Children part of the store. And yes, True Blood is shelved in this section O_o . I’m pretty sure they didn’t know where else to put this book. O_o. This is frustrating.

When you see a book shelved in the wrong section, what do you do?

I want to thank everyone for the birthday wishes! I had the best birthday ever! So thank you to everyone who helped make it a perfect day for me <3 A special thanks to the amazing members of Book Lovers Inc. You ladies are just awesome!

This week I finally finished a secret project for a Xmas gift (I can’t tell what it is for now lol), and I made the package yesterday…which was not a good idea. Because yesterday, I was also celebrating my Bday with lots of alcohol lol. So…to the recipient of that package… I’m SORRY! LOL

Are you all done with your Xmas present shopping/making?

I’m sooooo far from done O_o It’s scary!

Have a great weekend everyone!!!

New Hobby, In My Mailbox and a Winner!!

2010-11-15T02:55:00.001-08:00

Hey Everyone! I Will start by announcing the winner of either a signed copy of AWAKENED BY A KISS or THE PRINCESS IN HIS BED by Lila DiPasqua. Thanks everyone who entered the giveaway. It was a lot of fun to read everyone’s pet peeves!

The winner is…. Jessica (@ Laugh Love Write) who said:

Okay so pet peeves - An unhappy ending! Authors are trying to mix things up by giving a not so happy ending to their romance and it drives me crazy. Romances are supposed to have happy endings, they are love stories, they are not supposed to break your heart and leave it broken. I can handle it if the unhappy ending gets remedied in a sequel but when they leave it unhappy, it drives me nuts and makes me sad.

Congratulations Jessica! I will email you in a few minutes. You have 48h to answer my email or I’ll have to redraw.

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In My Mailbox!

I haven’t done that in quite some time, but this week I received a few review copies that made me Squeeeeeeee *g*

- Lila DiPasqua sent me a copy of The Princess in His Bed with a lovely message in it. Merci Beaucoup Lila!!! I can’t wait to meet these heroes *g*

- Kieran Kramer sent me an ARC of Dukes to the Left of Me, Princes to the Right with lots of amazing bookmarks. Again Le Squeeeeee! I had to laugh at the message encouraging me to keep knitting *g* Thank you Kieran!! (and I won’t give up knitting I promise!)

This week I also got things I’d ordered some times ago:

- Dvds of Downton Abbey. I LOVE this series. I was hoping there would be an ending but since the series will have a 2nd season next year it ends up in some kind of cliffhanger *sigh*. Still it’s one of the best shows I’ve seen in ages.

- My copy of When Harry Met Molly. Which I started yesterday *g* I couldn't resist waiting longer.

I have started reading too many books at a time and now I have to put them on hold to read books for review. I have been a very bad reviewer this last 2 weeks. It’s time I make up for it. =P

Ohhhh and my last Squeeeeeeeeeeeeeee moment? Yesterday I opened my Sony Reader to start Arcane Circle by Linda Robertson and OMG, Susi & I are mentioned in the “Extra thanks”…*swoon*

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New Hobby !

So I decided to start Knitting. It happened less than 2 weeks ago after reading a post by Alea @Pop Culture Junkie . It’s all new to me and I’m learning by myself so we’ll see how this goes ;). My main problem being that I’m learning by watching youtube videos and reading websites in English, which means I sometimes struggle to find the corresponding yarn in European sizing. Same with needles. But otherwise I think I’m doing ok.

This is the first knitting project I ever made. lol It’s a snood. It’s ugly and the stitches are very irregular but I don’t really care…I made something!! Woooot *opening Champagne bottle* lol

And here’s my stash! Ohhh and see at the top on the left? This is the bear I knitted, his named is Maurice (my MOM chose the name lol). I also have a secret project, which is not on the pictures…because it’s a SECRET! lol

So this is it for me…I spent last week knitting and listening to audiobooks. I’m getting very fond of Audiobooks. Right now I’m listening to Side Jobs by Jim Butcher. I love it so much think that when next book comes out I’ll buy the audiobooks rather than a print copy. The narrator is fantastic!!!

have a great week everyone!

Guest Post by Author Lila Di Pasqua + Giveaway

2010-11-05T03:35:00.001-07:00

I’m very happy to welcome Lila Di Pasqua on my blog today. Lila’s new book, The Princess in his Bed was released earlier this week. This is the 2nd book in the Fiery Tales Collection. I have to tell you, not only is Lila a great author but she is also a wonderful person. So it’s with great pleasure that I leave the floor to Lila today . =) Let’s give her a warm welcome!

THE PRINCESS IN HIS BED….Where did you get your ideas for that?—Part 3!

I’m on a blog tour for THE PRINCESS IN HIS BED. Today I’m super excited to be here on another of my favorite blogs - One Book Away From Heaven! Thank you so much for having me back!!

At the last two stops, I revealed where I got my ideas and inspiration for the heroes and heroines in The Marquis’ New Clothes and The Lovely Duckling—found in THE PRINCESS IN HIS BED (see my blog for details of where you can read about the inspiration behind these two “Fiery Tales”: http://liladipasqua.blogspot.com/ )

A quick recap on why THE PRINCESS IN HIS BED was written—When Berkley bought AWAKENED BY A KISS, they fell in love with the whole Fiery Tales concept (my steamy retellings of the three classic fairy tales found in that book). They wanted me to write another book with three more “Fiery Tales”. Since AWAKENED BY A KISS sold the day before the RWA National Conference in Washington D.C., I didn’t have a lot of time to come up with three new fairy tales—not to mention thoughts on how I was going to give them my own special twists.

You see, I was flying down to the conference knowing I was going to meet my agent and new editor in person for the very first time.

By the time my meeting with my editor came along, I had chosen The Emperor’s New Clothes, The Ugly Duckling and The Princess and the Pea as my fairy tales. (Thankfully my muse was with me. She can be so fickle and often abandons me on a whim!) I had a pretty clear idea in my mind how I was going to make the first two work (again, check out my blog for what inspired these stories!) But I was having a bit of difficulty with The Princess and the Pea.

First off, the original tale had an overbearing mother-in-law. She ordered her son about. That, in my mind, takes away from the hero. Makes him weak. And no one likes a weak hero! So the mother-in-law/queen in the story had to go.

Also, the story had, well…food shoved under the mattress. Ah, no. Nix the food. When my hero and heroine are in bed, I don’t want anyone thinking about the spoiling veggies under them. NOT sexy! :)

So what am I left with?

A princess who can’t sleep at night because there is something hard in her bed. OOOO! That had delicious possibilities! Yup, you know I went there. *winks* I told my editor exactly what was hard in her bed and causing the poor princess to lose sleep. There were a couple things, actually---the Marquis on it…and, oh yeah, diamonds! The ones she stole from the palace and shoves under her mattress for safekeeping.

Okay, maybe not stole. Perhaps *borrowed* is a better word. Her half-brother has gambled away his fortune at the Basset tables—a card game recently banned by the King. Knowing she has skill at the game, she dons male attire and is intent on using the royal diamonds to gamble with. If only the gorgeous man seated across from her didn’t unsettle her so. If only he didn’t see through her disguise! If only he wasn’t so stirring to her senses and utterly irresistible!

If only she knew he was a spy working for the Crown, his mission to enforce the ban the King has placed on the card game and see to the arrest of those who dare to play it.

As for our hero, Mathias, Marquis de Montfort, he has no idea that the woman he has thoroughly and deliciously debauched is none other than the King’s own daughter.

Let the games begin! *smiles*

NOTE: I must have pleased my editor because she approved the ideas and in the end, loved THE PRINCESS IN HIS BED as much as AWAKENED BY A KISS! Confession time—After she left our meeting, I ran back and took a picture of the gorgeous spot we met and talked for the first time about THE PRINCESS IN HIS BED. (Isn’t this couch lovely? It’s so old-world, as was the spot we sat. And the gardens beyond the windows were stunning!) Yes, I am dorky. I couldn’t resist taking the picture. You won’t tell anyone, will you? Let’s keep this our little secret. ;)

QUESTION: Let’s talk pet peeves! Do you have any pet peeves when it comes to any romance novels you’ve read lately? Or movies you’ve seen? Do you detest say…overbearing mothers/sisters in the hero’s life? Prolonged misunderstandings? No titles or author names, please! Let’s just keep this a fun *general* discussion. :)

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*~*~*Giveaway*~*~*

One lucky commenter will win a signed copy of AWAKENED BY A KISS or THE PRINCESS IN HIS BED---winner’s choice! GIVEAWAY OPEN WORLDWIDE.

(ends on Friday 12th)

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THE PRINCESS IN HIS BED

A Fiery Tales Collection By Lila DiPasqua

Historical Romance

Berkley (Sensation)

ISBN: 978-0425237007

OUT NOW!

Inspired by “The Emperor’s New Clothes,” “The Ugly Duckling, and “The Princess and the Pea,” Lila DiPasqua spins three sexy tales that give new meaning to the term bedtime story…

The Marquis’ New Clothes: To save her cousin, Aimee de Miran must retrieve a jeweled ring from the most sinfully seductive man at court, the Marquis de Nattes. But to search his considerable wardrobe she’ll have to get very close to the notorious rake…and soon she finds herself very close to him indeed, with his clothes—and hers—utterly forgotten…

The Lovely Duckling: Reputed for his carnal skills, Joseph d’Alumbert prefers amorous encounters without emotional entanglement—until a quick-witted lady stirs tender feelings and hot desire. Emilie de Sarron suffered burns to her body as an infant, and keeps her scars—and her heart—well hidden. But Joseph is determined to peel away her inhibitions, one slow steamy kiss at a time, to reveal the beautiful swan inside…

The Princess and the Diamonds: Princess Gabrielle can’t sleep at night. There is something hard in her bed. No, not just the stolen diamonds tucked under her mattress, but the handsome Marquis on it….whose carnal talents she can’t resist. But he threatens her secret mission, and worse, she stands to lose far more than the diamonds---her heart is at stake….

“…Strong-minded heroines you can relate to, breathtaking carnally gifted male leads…DiPasqua writes with a comfortable elegance and grace, and in turn, crafts a sexy collection that readers will love.” – Fresh Fiction.

“Ripe with steamy affairs, these lusty stories are hot enough to warm the coldest winter night.” – Publishers Weekly

Read an excerpt of THE PRINCESS IN HIS BED – http://www.liladipasqua.com/princessbook.html

Read an excerpt of AWAKNED BY A KISS—http://www.liladipasqua.com/awakenbook.html

About the Author: Lila DiPasqua writes wicked & witty historical romance for Penguin/Berkley. She lives with her real-life hero husband and three children and is a firm believer in the happily-ever-after. She loves history and enjoys traveling. She has been to four continents so far. Her novels, AWAKENED BY A KISS, and THE PRINCESS IN HIS BED are featured in Doubleday as well as Rhapsody Book Clubs. To learn more about Lila and her books, visit www.LilaDiPasqua.com

Waiting on Wednesday: Crossed by J.F. Lewis

2010-10-27T09:11:00.001-07:00

I thought this week i could tell you about a book I can’t wait for. Well there are many, but The Void City series has a special place in my heart. Why? Because this series is unlike anything you’ve read before.

Crossed by J.F. Lewis (Void City # 3)

Release Date : January 25th 2011Eric’s plan was simple: Marry Tabitha, his newest undead girlfriend, then kill his sire while honeymooning in Paris. But Eric’s already lousy memory is even further compromised by the machinations of his new bride’s little sister, Rachel, and he forgets about his honeymoon completely (not to mention the last twenty years). Unfortunately, Tabitha goes up against the True Immortal rulers of Europe so she can scour France for her missing husband, and Eric goes exactly the kind of berserk everyone has always feared he would…

This is a fun series, I really love. It’s gory and hilarious. I just can’t wait to read Crossed. Greta, on the cover is a vampire with an eating disorder, she can turn into a real psychopath when she’s hungry (which is ALL the time). Oh and the car on the cover? An undead car eating people…seriously It can’t get any better! *g*

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Crossed is the 3rd book in the series. Here, the blurbs of the first books in the series:

Book #1: Staked

UNREPENTANT. UNIMPRESSED. AND TOTALLY UNDEAD.
Being undead isn't easy. All Eric wants to do is run his strip club, drink a little blood, and be left alone. Instead, he's got business troubles (his best friend is souring on their co-ownership of the Demon Heart) and relationship troubles (his girlfriend is pressuring him to turn her so she can join him in undeath). And then there's the memory loss: He can't recall who he ate for dinner yesterday, much less how he became a vampire in the first place. But when he kills a werewolf in self-defense, things really get out of hand. Now he's got a pack of born-again lycanthropes out for holy retribution--and his head. It's almost enough to put lad off his appetite. Almost.

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Book #2: Revamped

Eric's club is in ruins, not to mention his love life, and he doesn't even have a body anymore... but he's just not going to give up!In REVAMPED, Eric takes on one of Void City's most powerful demons to rescue his beloved Marilyn's soul. With a little help from his friends, Eric manages to re-form his corporeal body, but his treasured Mustang gets caught up in the magic and winds up with an unlife of its own. While Eric and his newly made retinue of thralls go up against the demon, Eric's current almost-girlfriend Tabitha gets a first-hand look at how High Society vampires act behind closed doors and why maybe... just maybe... she never should have left Eric after all.As Eric matches wits with the soul stealing demon, he comes face to face with the origin of his powers and the history behind his family name. He'll have to delve into the depths of his own worst nightmare -- Vampire High Society -- if he's going to get what he wants and find out who's really behind this latest string of attacks. Someone's after Eric's soul, too, and it just might be someone with whom he's all too familiar...

J. F. Lewis is a member of the League Of Reluctant Adults. Which is proof that you should read the books. I love the League, so many crazy fun authors!!! Is it January yet??? *puppy eyes*

So, which book are YOU waiting for?

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Ohh and I wanted to ask you which books with a Male lead character you who recommend me? I LOVE the Dresden Files by Jim Butcher. And I love the Void City series by J.F. Lewis…what else would you recommend me?

New Tv Shows: As if I needed another addiction!

2010-10-19T03:08:00.001-07:00

2 new shows, 2 new addictions!

I’ve been to the movies earlier this year to see Sherlock Holmes with Robert Downey Jr (my future husband lol). And I really enjoyed it. I am very happy there will be a second movie in 2011…but I found a better Sherlock! (yes it’s possible) The BBC did it again, they created a show I just love to pieces. Sherlock is a new series set in 2010. Here’s the pitch:

Sherlock Holmes and Dr Watson's adventures in 21st Century London. A thrilling, funny, fast-paced contemporary remake of the Arthur Conan Doyle classic

I had my doubts (I always have with adaptations), but I can tell you, it’s brilliant. Sherlock reminds me a bit of Dr House and Sheldon from The Big Bang Theory…for those who don’t know the references, let’s say he is some kind of sociopath. He is absolutely hilarious and crazy. I love the actors playing Sherlock and Dr Holmes.

One of the best things in this series, is that often we can see what Sherlock is thinking or read his texts on the screen. It’s an inside into his head that makes it even more interesting. This season is made of 3 episodes of 90minutes each. And I am very happy to say there will be another season *squeeeeee*

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The other show I’m loving is Downton Abbey by iTV.

And here is a feature about the House, where you can see the some of the actors from this amazing cast:

This series is fantastic. Fans of period dramas, will recognize many actors from our favorite TV series. I am utterly addicted to this show. I’m so happy there will be a second season next year. 2 thumbs-up to iTV

I recommend you take a look at this post, it’s full of info about the show: HERE (and here to see all the posts about the show) . BTW this blog, Enchanted Serenity of Period Films is heaven for period drama lovers.

What do you think? Anything tempting you? Any idea when we’ll get a new BBC adaptation and what it’ll be about? Since Emma last year, I’ve suffered from serious withdrawal. I need my fix.

When ‘Currently Reading’ gets intimidating. O_o

2010-10-14T08:58:00.001-07:00

I think I need an intervention. I’ve always been the kind to read at least 2 books at the same time, but once in a while, I over-do it. I had a wake up call this morning *snort*, when I got my brand new and shiny copy of The Iron Duke *squeeeee* and I thought… ‘Hey, I should start it now!’ (in my defense I’ve been waiting for my copy for a long time!)<== yeah…right!

Only NOW, I’m currently reading quite a few books already! Here is proof:

Which means that all those books are constantly on my bed (to my mom’s despair…apparently beds aren’t nightstands) , waiting to be read one after the other. And yes I do pick them up all for reading. (proof is the update %)

The reasonable thing now would be to pick ONE book and read it all. The intelligent thing would be to stop picking up new books. lol Only I am not reasonable I guess since I still want to start The Iron Duke now! Please someone tells me to stop starting new books!

I love GoodReads, it’s really a great way to lose hours and end up adding books to TBR list…ahem…I mean keep track of what I read. I am a sucker for all those neat GoodReads widgets. Lol I think there’s enough proof of that on my left sidebar. ;)

Are you also an adept of multiple reading? Or are you a one-book-at-a-time kinda person? I am crazy? <==Wait don’t answer that one, it’s a rhetorical question lol

I Can’t Help Myself : Confessions of a Peeking Addict

2010-10-09T04:52:00.001-07:00

It’s true…I just can’t help myself from peeking at the end of a book. *runs for cover* This is one horrible habit, and a hard one to lose...

Seriously I don’t know how many times I’ve ruined a book by looking at the end. Why would I even want to peek? Easy. I want to be reassured everything will be alright. That the heroine will choose this man and not that one, that they’ll be happy together at the end…anything. I need reassurance. Especially with a love triangle…I want to know which one to root for, it would just KILL me to root for one guy and she end up choosing the other. Think of my poor nerves! *puts hand on poor heart*. I know it ruins all the suspense but I’m a very nervous person, and I’m pretty sure some books took a few years of my life from worry.

I know I’m not the only one with this problem. Many readers start by reading the last page. I’m guessing not everyone do it for the same reasons. To some people it’s blasphemy and I understand. I wish I could stop!!!! I often just look at the last sentence. Or I even only just look for a name, without reading.

I’ve been burned more than once. By that I mean that I read the last page and I drew my own conclusions about what happened and I was happy…until I finished reading the book and I was DEVASTATED. If I had read 2 more pages of the ending I would have realized I read it ALL wrong. *sob* If you wanna know it was Addicted by Charlotte Featherstone.

This post could have been called, ‘oops I did it Again’ *starts singing*…because yes, even though I promised myself I would stop peeking, this morning I did it again. I think the Peeking Addict Anonymous would be disappointed in me. I won’t tell you which book it was. LOL no Susi I won’t tell you *stick tongue’s out*. How am I suppose to stop peeking when it leaves me happy as a puppy. I’ll get burn again I know it. I WANT to stop. But it’s so hard. Ebooks are helping though…it’s harder to peek with an ebook. You can’t accidentally open it to the last page. *g*

There are books which I PROMISED no peeking. Carolyn Crane’s Double Cross. (Carolyn has nightmares of people peeking at the end of her book, so I won’t peek! I won’t). This is already a super hard promise to keep. I know there’s a huge spoiler nearing the end…so I won’t peek. I won’t peek, I won’t peek. (if i say it enough it’ll work right? lol) . Also I said I would NOT peek at the end of Shadowfever by K.M.Moning when I get it. Ah and I promised Susi I wouldn’t look at the end of Touched by an Alien by Gini Koch, that I’m currently reading. So many promises. =P

I feel like an addict. I can’t help myself. *sigh*

Do you guys peek at the ending? Why? If not, why don’t you? Have you ever looked at the ending and drawn the wrong conclusions? (Like I’ve been burned with Addicted lol) If you are recovering from a peeking addiction …how did you do it? How did you stop?

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On a different matter. This week I posted 2 reviews on Book Lovers Inc. You can check them out here:

Hurt me So Good by Joely Sue Burkhart
Scoundrel by Zoe Archer

Have a great weekend everyone!

What I read in September! Not Much that is.

2010-10-01T03:21:00.001-07:00

I kept saying for months that I’d try having a ‘monthly wrap-up’ of what I read. So this is it, I’m finally doing something about it. Ok I admit I cheated a little because I read the 1st Hunger Games at the end of August. *whispers* But shhhhht it’ll be our dirty secret!

The Hunger Games – Suzanne Collins 5 Stars
Catching Fire – Suzanne Collins 5 stars
Mockingjay – Suzanne Collins 5 Stars
The Darkly Luminous Fight for Persephone Parker – Leanna R. Hieber 4 Stars
Butterfly Swords – Jeannie Lin 4 1/2 Stars
Scoundrel – Zoe Archer 5 Stars

I devoured the Hunger Game trilogy. I didn’t think I could love a YA series like that. Truth be told, it didn’t feel like YA at all. When I finished the last book, I wasn’t feeling great. Those are very violent books and it took a toll on my optimism lol. I had a hard time picking up another book after that series. I can’t recommend this series enough though. You just can’t put them down.

Scoundrel is a very hot historical romance, packed with adventures. I really loved reading it. My review will be up on Monday on Book Lovers,Inc.

I didn’ t read much this month. I’m hoping I’ll get more time in October to read. It’s not like my TBR shelves aren’t exploding already! Ah! yeah…about that, lol I should stop buying books!!! <===not gonna happen Mouhahahahah

So what was your favorite read in September??

I’m back!!! And a Blog Party you don’t want to miss!

2010-09-29T05:05:00.001-07:00

Hey everyone! *waves frantically* Wow it’s been a while since I last blogged. I had a job for a month (trying to teach English to French students), and I’m one of those people who can’t do 3 things at the same time *wink*. I had time to blog at only one place, so you have probably seen me on Book Lovers Inc. I’m back now. Ok I’m searching for a job, but I’m definitely back. =)

I missed blogging here, and I missed talking to you all. I’ve also been a very very bad blogger, because I haven’t commented much in that last month. I’ll work on this now.

It’s good to be back! *g*

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Mark your calendars! Starting Oct. 4th to Nov. 1st, historical romance author Lila DiPasqua will be hosting a BLOG PARTY. Counting down to the release of the next book in her sexy Fiery Tales series, THE PRINCESS IN HIS BED (out Nov. 2nd, Berkley Sensation), she's hosting wonderful authors with GIVEAWAYS EACH DAY!

You won’t want to miss out! Stop by HERE and join in the fun!

I told you you wouldn’t want to miss this! *g*

Wedding Hell and a winner…

2010-08-19T08:09:00.001-07:00

Today is the end of my vacations…by that I mean my parents are home from their vacations. No more quiet house for me and my dog. No more reading for hours without being interrupted. Well it was good while it lasted lol.

I want to thank Lila DiPasqua again for coming over and answering everyone’s comment. Merci Lila!! Now the winner of Awakened By a Kiss is…

*****drumrolls*****

claudine thompson

Congratulations Claudine! I will email you in a few minutes! =)

Thanks everyone for coming over!

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On another note, I am going to a close friend’s wedding on Saturday. Of course now I’m running everywhere.I still need shoes to go with my new ‘little black dress’ . The dress needs fixing. I need a necklace too, because the dress has a big V-neck…lots of boob-showing LOL I need a necklace to make it less revealing ;)

We’re also preparing songs with made-up lyrics, games, and custom made presents…I’ll feel better when it’s over =P

Wish me luck, I’ll have to NOT fall down the stairs all night while wearing high-heels after drinking too much (because let’s face it…lots of drinking ahead!) LOL

Have a great week everyone!

Review: Ruthless by Anne Stuart (House of Rohan #1)

2010-08-18T09:57:00.001-07:00

Format Read: E-Arc from Netgalley
Number of Pages: 400 pages
Release Date: August 1st 2010
Publisher: Mira
Formats Available: Paperback, Ebook
Purchasing Info: Author's Website, Goodreads, Amazon, Book Depository US, Book Depository UK

Book Blurb:

Few outsiders will ever witness the dark misdeeds of the Heavenly Host. And among this secret society, where exiled Georgian aristocrats gather to indulge their carnal desires, fewer still can match the insatiable appetite of their chief provocateur, the mysterious Viscount Rohan.
Pursuit of physical pleasure is his both his preferred pastime and his most-pressing urge, until he encounters the fascination of a woman who won't be swayed. And while his dark seduction appalls the pure and impoverished Elinor Harriman, she finds herself intrigued...and secretly drawn to the man behind the desire.
New York Times bestselling author Anne Stuart masterfully weaves an irresistible tale of lust and privilege in decadent times. Passions will be loosed, egos will be tamed-This is Rohan.

My Thoughts:

This is my first book from Anne Stuart, so when I started Ruthless I didn’t know what to expect. Ruthless is the first book in the House Of Rohan series. There is a FREE prequel short story available on the author’s website called The Wicked House of Rohan. I read the short story but it doesn’t bring anything to the story (so you can skip if altogether without feeling guilty). The prequel is not bad but it’s very rushed. But back to Ruthless.

We meet Elinor and her sister in a very difficult situation, they have no idea how they will find money to eat the next day. The story is mostly told from Elinor’s POV but some scenes are seen through her sister, Lydia. Their mother is suffering from the ‘French disease’ and is completely mad, gambling away the little money the family has, whoring and having fits of violence. The family slowly went from wealth to poverty. Elinor doesn’t find herself pretty but she knows her younger sister is gorgeous and attracts every man. She is resolved to save her sister and do everything to protect her. When Elinor’s mother disappear with the last of their possession to gamble it away, Elinor follows her to a party to take the money back.

Viscount Francis Rohan is known for hosting orgies and the most scandalous parties in Paris. He is the worst libertine, but he is a bored one. Rumor has it that Rohan and his friends of debauchery, sacrifice babies and drink the blood of virgins. He is often called ‘the Prince of Darkness’ or the ‘King of Hell’. Let me tell you that he does look the part. Oh Boy! Elinor follows her mother to one of Rohan’s party and meets ‘Satan’ himself in the antechamber of Hell (AKA the huge orgy).

I think you either love or hate Rohan. He is a really really naughty man lol. During the whole book he plays with Elinor, he is bored and she is entertaining. Rohan does not feel guilty about his behavior, he doesn’t ‘reform’, doesn’t regret anything. He is a bit bloodthirsty too. Rohan really is ruthless. He really doesn’t fit the usual definition of ‘hero’. I would probably dub him as the ‘bad guy’. Well, I loved Rohan, I have a soft spot for cold heroes lol! For once the hero is a bit older than usual, he is 39 years old (lol my mom could kill me if she heard that, no mom 39 is NOT old). I wanted him even MORE wicked, he seemed a bit tame in the end! I won’t spoil the story but we learn quite a lot of the characters’ past that explains their present behaviors.

There is a bit of intrigue that was easily solved but it brought a bit of suspense to the story. Murder attempt, Arson, Kidnapping, Duels, Rape…the list is long! The secondary characters are a plus to the story. I really liked (I’m trying not to say ‘love’) Charles Reading and Lydia. Two characters I would have loved to read a whole novel about.

My only complaint comes from the fact that there is no epilogue. The story ends very abruptly and it’s hard to truly believe all will be well (Habits die hard…I’m a pessimist!). We have hints about what will happen but I would have loved a bit of closure. I am dying to read the next book, Reckless (*whispers* and secretly hoping we’ll hear from Rohan and Elinor).

I give Ruthless 4 1/2 Stars.

Interview and Giveaway with author Lila DiPasqua!

2010-08-10T03:58:00.001-07:00

Madame, Monsieur (I’m sure there must be one somewhere lol) today I’m happy to welcome author Lila DiPasqua on One Book Away From Heaven!!! Lila is the author of the Fiery Tales, her first sexy book Awakened by a Kiss (see my review of here) was released on August 3rd. Let’s give a warm welcome to Lila! Welcome to my humble abode =)

Pattepoilue: Lila can you please tell us a bit about yourself?

Lila: I’m a mother of three, married to a patient, understanding husband who has totally mastered laundry and cooking out of necessity. I’m a history geek, a hockey fan and an author of historical romance for Berkley. The scandalous kind.

Pattepoilue: Describe a typical day of writing? Are you a planner or pantser?

Lila: I think I’m a little of both -- I write a general outline before I start a book. I’ll know the characters and I’ll have some scenes drafted out. Then I dive into the book and let the muse take me where it wants. It’s a little scary and exciting at the same time.

A typical writing day will start after I drop off my youngest at school and grab my coffee from Starbucks. I write mostly during the day. Depending on the deadline, I may write in the evening, too. I try to write a certain number of pages per day, but some days the muse leaves the building. I visit Facebook or Twitter until it returns. :)

Pattepoilue: What do you think is the difference between a reader and a real Book Lover?

Lila: The size of their wallet. LOL A real book lover buys books. Surrounds themselves with books. Buys more books even though their TBR pile huge. Gets excited with every book purchase. Gets enthralled by characters and chats about them with their friends, even the ones who don’t read.

Pattepoilue: What can you tell us about Awakened By A Kiss?

Lila: AWAKENED BY A KISS is a collection of stories. Three classic fairytales—“Sleeping Beauty,” “Puss in Boots,” and “Little Red Riding Hood”— retold with my own steamy spin.

Sleeping Beau: Five years ago, notorious rake Adrien d'Aspe, Marquis de Beaulain, was awakened by a sensuous kiss-and experienced a night of raw ecstasy that was branded into his memory. Years later, he spots his mysterious seductress-and this time, he has no intention of letting her go...
Little Red Writing: Nicolas de Savignac, Comte de Lambelle, has been assigned by the King to uncover the secret identity of the author writing scandalous stories about powerful courtiers. He never expected his investigation would lead to his grandmother's house, or to a ravishing woman who would stir his deepest hunger...
Bewitching in Boots: Elisabeth de Roussel, daughter of the King, is accustomed to getting what she wants-and she wants Tristan de Tiersonnier, Comte de Saint-Marcel, an ex-commander of the King's private Guard. A recent injury has forced Tristan to leave his distinguished position, but Elisabeth is determined to make him see he's every bit the man he once was-and more than man enough for her...

This collection is based on the famous fairy tales by Charles Perrault. He did something no one had ever done before. He wrote down folklore that had been passed on verbally for generations – and added morals to his stories. He was the creator of the Tales of Mother Goose, and wrote Cinderella, Sleeping Beauty, Little Red Riding Hood, to name a few.

Pattepoilue: Why did you decide to write about fairy tales? Which fairy tale is your favorite?

Lila: I love fairy tales. Like most, I grew up reading them. Cinderella and Sleeping Beauty were the first romances I ever read. My favorite fairy tale has got to be Cinderella. It’s so romantic and with a great hero. All he had to go on was a glass slipper. Yet he was undeterred. You’ve just got to love a man who is that determined to find the woman he loves.

Pattepoilue: In modern times Fairy Tales are mostly for the Kids, thanks to Disney (we all know the originals were very dark). Why did you choose to make these into a sensual story for adults?

Lila: The originals were never meant for children. They were actually for adults. The setting of these stories made it easy to give them a sensual spin. The realm was ruled by a lusty King, and his court, like their monarch, were connoisseurs of the carnal arts. The pursuit of sinful pleasures was a pastime. Sex, an art form!

Pattepoilue: Can we still find the obligatory moral in your Fiery Tales? If so what would it be?

Lila: I pretty much have the same morals Charles Perrault did in the original tales.

In his Sleeping Beauty he states in his moral that none of the passion in love is lost simply because you have to wait. Adrien and Catherine had to wait five long years for their love. They proved this statement is quite true!

Little Red Riding Hood is a tale of seduction. Perrault, warns young women not to be taken in by a smooth talking man, whom he compares to a wolf. My hero, Nicolas has earned the nickname, le loup “the wolf” because of his cunning. He’s definitely a smooth-talker. Smart and charming. He knows one of the sisters staying at his grandmother’s house is the mysterious Leduc the king wants arrested and Nicolas is willing to seduce Anne in order to learn the identity of the writer. Nicolas is definitely a big bad wolf, bent on taking down Leduc…that is until he’s torn between love and duty.

In Puss in Boots, Perrault’s moral suggests one study and emulate any man capable of winning over a princess. Tristan is a great hero, strong, brave, a decorated officer who was head of the most prestigious corps in the realm, the King’s private Guard – and certainly someone others should strive to be like.

Pattepoilue: On your website I saw the photos you took from all around the world. Do you enjoy traveling? A favorite place? What is your next destination?

Lila: I love, love, love to travel! I’ve been to four continents so far! My favorite cities are Paris, France and Venice, Italy. I’ve been to Paris twice and Venice once and that’s just not enough! I plan to go back first chance I get. As to my next destination, I’m going to London, England in a few weeks. It’s my first visit and I can’t wait!

Pattepoilue: Why did you choose France as a setting for your book? I'm completely biased but I love your choice! *grin*

Seventeenth century France was when and where Charles Perrault lived. I wanted to bring the reader into his lifetime – to the very place and time when the genre of fairy tale was born. Anyone who loves Regency England will adore this setting. It has all of the same elements we love in Regencies! Handsome lords and lovely ladies, ballrooms, masquerade balls and well, plenty of scandalous behavior – especially when the King of France was a lusty man with a court that was as salacious as their monarch.

Pattepoilue: Did you listen to music while writing? If so what was on your playlist?

Lila: I listen to classical music. I write historical romance and it definitely puts me in the “historical” frame of mind. Plus, it’s simply beautiful to listen to. To change things up, I sometimes listen to new age music when I write. Either helps to keep me focused.

Pattepoilue: Your next book, The Princess in his bed is coming out in November, what can you tell us about it? Which fairy tales did you choose for this second novel?

Lila: THE PRINCESS IN HIS BED, is the second in my Fiery Tales series. It features more scorching fairy tale retellings -- “The Emperor’s New Clothes,” “The Ugly Duckling, and “The Princess and the Pea,” wickedly retold and renamed, “The Marquis’ New Clothes”, “The Lovely Duckling” and “The Princess and the Diamonds”.

This book is based on fairy tales by Hans Christian Andersen. THE PRINCESS IN HIS BED required even more research than AWAKENED BY A KISS. I had to read up on a very old 17^th century card game for The Princess and the Diamonds. In The Lovely Duckling, my heroine is a burn victim. She suffered injuries to her body in a fire as an infant. Her character was inspired by three real young women (sisters) who were burned in a fire as children. She’s a great heroine!

Pattepoilue: What is next on your schedule? Do you have other projects?

Lila: I’m writing the third book in this series. It will be out in 2011. It’s a full-length novel based on a single fairy tale – Cinderella – as it’s never been retold before. This Cinderella tale has a sinfully delicious hero and a strong quick-witted heroine, not to mention some seriously steamy love scenes! And yes, there is a ball, a loveable, yet highly opinionated fairy godmother and a cast of eccentric secondary characters to keep the hero and heroine on their toes.

Pattepoilue: Now a couple of mean questions *wink*:

Who's your favorite character?

Lila: I don’t have a favorite character, really. It’s like picking your favorite child. I love them all the same and for different reasons.

Pattepoilue: Can you give us 3 reasons why people should read your books?

Lila:

In this series, I offer up something different to readers from the usual historical romance, because of the unique and delicious setting.
They are romantic with a touch of humor.
They have scorching hot love scenes, sure to make your heart race. ;)

Pattepoilue: Thank you Lila for answering all my questions! *grin* It’s always a pleasure!

To read a juicy excerpt from AWAKENED BY A KISS click HERE

Here is the new Trailer for Awakened by a Kiss:

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~*~*Giveaway*~*~

Lila is offering a signed copy of Awakened by a Kiss to 1 lucky commenter!

All you have to do is ask Lila a question or leave a meaningful comment about the Interview

This contest is open Internationally.

Please leave me a way to contact you (twitter name or Email addy in blogger profile is enough)

Giveaway ends on Wednesday August 18, I will announce the winners on Thursday.

Bonne Chance everyone!

Hey guys…

2010-08-09T03:05:00.001-07:00

Bonjour Bonjour!

I am guest posting at Janna’s blog today!! Come say hi (I won’t bite I promise *wink*) . I am talking about French stereotypes in books. Janna is having a Giveaway while she’s on Vacation. AND you can get an entry by commenting on my post. =)

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As you all know, I’m very proud to be a member of Book Lovers,Inc! We recently crossed the 450 followers milestone!! We’re celebrating with a huge contest!

What can you win?

- 2 copies of Touched by an Alien by Gini Koch

- 1 copy of The Pace by Shelena Shorts

- 1 copy of Tempest Rising by Nicole Peeler

- A book of your choice by Cynthia Eden

- A $10 certificate for an online bookstore of your choice

Go HERE to enter!

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Tomorrow Lila DiPasqua, author of Awakened by a Kiss, will be on One Book Away from Heaven for an Interview and a giveaway! You can already read my review HERE. =) See you tomorrow *wink*

Have a great Monday everyone!

Review: Talk Dirty to Me by Ginny Glass and Inez Kelley

2010-08-05T10:43:00.001-07:00

Format Read: E-ARC from Netgalley
Number of Pages: 68 pages
Release Date: July 19th, 2010
Publisher: Carina Press
Formats Available: Ebook
Purchasing Info: Ginny Glass' Website, Inez Kelley's Website, Goodreads, Carina Press

Book Blurb:

"Tell me what you want. Talk dirty to me."

For Nora MacGregor, the sinful voice of a stranger gives her permission to explore her deepest fantasies – fantasies that only exist outside her daily drudgery in the science lab. ‘James’, challenges Nora’s icy, clinical ideas about the power of sex. The arrangement – she talks to him and he returns her lost dissertation notes, page by page. What he can’t give her is human touch, tangible sweetness, attributes she finds in the company and gentle romance of Dr. Jarod Reed.

Jarod, who seized an opportune moment and became the mysterious James, is now trapped in a mess of his own making, unable to let Nora know that he wants more than an naughty bedtime story. The anonymity of being Nora’s cell phone lover frees Jarod to reach into the not- not-so-scholarly pursuits of the flesh but may have cost him the chance to make those fantasies a reality.

My Thoughts:

Oh la la! That was HOT. I haven’t read many short stories, but often I feel that it’s not enough (Yes length matters lol) but it wasn’t the case here, the story felt ‘complete’. It wasn’t rushed and I loved it. The story in itself was very interesting. I loved the phone smex…OMG that was so hot. Ok I should rephrase this. Jarod is so hot. I love this character, he’s both sweet and romantic and wicked and naughty. The mix is explosive. And to top it all he’s a professor…*drools* well talking about fantasy, the naughty professor is on top of my list lol. I never thought it could be this hot to read about phone smex. *sits on ice* Jarod’s sex talk is a powerful aphrodisiac!

At first I thought I wouldn’t like it because it felt a bit like Jarod was a stalker/perv’ calling her to talk about sex. Well I’ve been called by pervs like that and it’s really not something I feel comfortable with lol. But after a few pages, I forgot all about how creepy this could be and I couldn’t stop reading. It didn’t feel like he was a stranger anymore. I loved both sides of Jarod/James and I couldn’t wait for her to meet ‘them both’ at the same time *wink* . Nora is discovering herself and I could relate to this character.

This is a very hot and sweet story that will turn you on! You will never see your telephone the same way *wink* I can’t wait to read the other stories in the ‘Laundry’ series.

I give Talk Dirty to Me 4 Bookies !

The great thing is that I have the 2 other books in the ‘series’ waiting for me Nom nom nom. One of them includes a Ménages! *g*

Dans ma Boîte aux Lettres! (aka…IMM)

2010-07-25T04:38:00.001-07:00

My, my…I was walking down the street (*sings* pretty woman…huh sorry couldn’t resist) when I saw the damages the last storm made on the Castle of Sedan and I had tears in my eyes.*sob* This is silly but it’s part of my childhood and I was shocked to see it damaged. You can’t see very well on the picture but the whole (centuries old) roof was blown away by the storm (at the very back of the pic). On the left, the Castle after the storm. The other picture I took a few years ago.

I’ve always been very proud of this Medieval Castle, I hope they fix it soon. =/ I’m getting sentimental…must be my old age. lol

In My Mailbox

This week I received a copy of Touched by an Alien by Gini Koch that I won at Patti’s Book Addict blog. Thank you so much Patti for the book and ALL the amazing swag!!! I had to *squeeeeee* like a crazy girl when I received it!

I also got 2 books by Madeline Hunter:

- Ravishing in Red

- Provocative in Pearls

Since we’ll be having an interview with Madeline on Book Lovers,Inc for her new release in September, I thought I should read the first 2. lol (see the excuses I find to buy books? lol) These books look awesome, so it’s no hardship. =P

I also got:

- Dark and Stormy Knights. Anthology with all my favorite UF authors.

- Unholy Magic by Stacia Kane. (I still haven’t read Unholy Ghost…I’m stubborn like that lol)

I got an email from the Book Depository telling me they were shipping And One Last Thing by Molly Harper and Waking the Witch by Kelley Armstrong. *squeeeeeee* I’ve been waiting for those 2 for months!!! I am soooooo excited!

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Cover Alert!

So you have probably seen the new Mercy Thompson book cover. River Marked by Patricia Briggs will be released next year. This is one of the best cover in the series so far in my opinion. I just love it. *sigh* There’s no way I won’t be getting the Hardcover. Too Pretty. And no I don’t care that she’s half-naked and sexy! NIA nia nia!

So that’s it for this week. You guys got anything interesting?

Review: Naked by Megan Hart

2010-07-23T14:23:00.001-07:00

Format Read: eARC from NetGalley
Number of Pages: 384 pages
Release Date: August 1st 2010
Publisher: Harlequin Spice
Formats Available: Paperback, eBook
Purchasing Info: Author's Website, Goodreads, Amazon, BookDepository(US), BookDepository(UK)

Book Blurb:

No strings. No regrets. And no going back.

I didn't think he wanted me. And I wasn't about to get involved with him, not after what I'd heard. Sure, Alex Kennedy was tall, dark and unbearably hot, but I've been burned before. When I solicited him to model for my erotic photography book, I didn't expect such a heated, passionate photo session. And now that we've crossed that line, our bodies aren't the only things that have been exposed.

But I can't give my heart to a man who's so… unconventional. His last sexual relationship was with a married couple. It's enough that my ex-fiancé preferred men, I can't take that chance again no matter how much my body thrives on Alex's touch. I can't risk it, but I can't resist it, either.

Alex can be very convincing when he wants something.

And he wants me.

My Thoughts:

Warning: This review may look negative because I keep pointing out what moved me beyond measures. But don’t be fooled… I did love Naked! If you need proof looks at the rating *wink*

This is a difficult review for me to write because reading Naked (not to be confounded with reading naked which is illegal in a public space o8O) brought up a tornado of feelings I’m having difficulty dealing with (but I still read it very fast!). I knew this wouldn’t be an easy read…after all it’s a Megan Hart book. All the books I’ve read from this author made me cry and left me with a heavy chest. It’s a wonderful book and I loved the story. I also loved Alex and Olivia. I had Alex in my heart ever since I read Tempted and I wanted a real HEA for him.

I have a love/hate relationship (ok mostly love) with this book for 2 reasons:

First, this book made me FEEL and it made me ponder my life. Which in the end always makes me physically sick. But the story is beautiful and I loved the characters. I even loved the heroine which is not often the case. Olivia is flawed yes but she’s such a great person you can’t help but love her from the first page. I laughed a lot while reading this book, the scene with the dildo made me burst out laughing in public (this is most embarrassing when you can’t STOP laughing). The constant humor helped make the book easier to bear (and who doesn’t like a funny hero? *g*).

Second, I really really didn’t like the events at the end of the book. No don’t close your eyes I won’t spoil anything, I promise (which means I’ll talk in riddles lol). Let’s just say that something came up I thought was in the past and would stay there. I knew it was a possibility but I hoped it would be different (see what I mean about riddles? lol). I am insecure, I need the HEA to be written explicitly (because my brain always imagine the worst otherwise), I need closure (which is why I love cheesy HEA epilogues lol). I think what made me sick was that it happened 3 pages before the end and I needed more time for the HEA to feel real. When I talked to Susi about it she was surprised and didn’t understand why I didn’t like the ending. We saw the ending completely differently (and I like her view of it way better), it might be that she’s an optimistic and I, a pessimistic *wink* but she was happy with it. Now I’m trying to convince myself she’s right lol (otherwise it would completely ruin this perfect book for me…and we don’t want that!)

Of course I just finished reading it so it’s still heavy on my heart. I loved it but It brought up feelings so strong I’m pretty sure it took years off my life LOL. Megan Hart’s writing is amazing. Hours after I closed the book I still can’t shake off the haze Naked inflicted on me. I recommend it to everyone (with a warning to the faint of heart *wink*). This is a heart-wrenching and beautiful story you don’t want to miss.

I give Naked 5 Stars (even though I was THIS close to throwing the Ereader against the wall when I neared the end lol)

And the winner is….

2010-07-23T02:47:00.001-07:00

I want to thank everyone for their best wishes! I hope to celebrate many more Blogoversaries with you in the future. And the winner is….

*~*~Drumrolls~*~*

MILKA!!!!

Woot! Congratulations! I will order you What Happens in London by Julia Quinn

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You can read my review of Awakened by a Kiss by Lila DiPasqua on Book Lovers,Inc HERE

And don’t miss Lila’s Guestpost today on Book Lovers,Inc. Lila will be talking about Titles and Book covers and will be giving away a signed copy of Awakened by a Kiss

One Book Away From Heaven’s 1st Blogoversary

2010-07-15T03:41:00.001-07:00

Happy 1st Blogoversary

One Book Away From Heaven

Here I am, it’s been a year since I started Blogging for the 1st time. A year ago, I realized LiveJournal was pretty lame and decided to find something that would allow me to post widgets on my sidebars…lol yep this is what I started blogging! I never would have thought that I’d meet so many amazing people in here!!! I never would have thought I’d ever get 150 followers either! lol

Since I started blogging:

I have met amazing people from all around the world, sharing the same love of book!
I have bought too many books! 1 year ago my TBR-pile was around 20 books (now it’s more like that).
I followed the recommendations from my fellow bloggers and opened up to new genres (Historical romance, Erotica, M/M…), which last year I thought I would NEVER read.<===yes I was prejudiced LOL and now I’m addicted
I started the new Adventure that is Book Lovers,Inc

To many more Blogoversary!!! *cheers*

To celebrate I’m giving away a book I read in 2010.

You can choose from this list!

All you have to do is fill this FORM.

The contest is open to anywhere the Book Depository will ship to.

Contest ends on Thursday July 22

Happy Bastille Day, with books!

2010-07-14T02:39:00.001-07:00

As said in the title today is Bastille Day so everything is closed (ok maybe McDonalds’ aren’t lol). *sob* So no mail today *sob*. It looks like France loves days off, I know many countries have shops opened on Sundays…well here Sundays are dead no shops opened, nothing. I know it’s supposed to protect workers against abuse but it makes Sundays damn boring.

Anyway I was trying to get my French cover post updated but I realized that since it’s becoming huge it takes ages to load. So now I’ll just post new French covers in a new post. I nearly never buy books in French but that doesn’t stop me from spending hours looking at books in my store. LOL …and taking pics! They must think me a spy for another store or just a crazy girl for taking so many pics of books and never buying one. But who cares!!

Julia Quinn Eloise ==>To Sir Philip With Love (All the Bridgerton books are names after the hero/heroine in French) I love the French covers mostly because the US are ugly.
Lisa Kleypas Mon nom est Liberty ===>Sugar Daddy

Rachel Vincent’s De toute mon âme ===> My Soul to Take

L.J. Smith’s Prémonitions ===> Dark Visions

I find the French cover too childish. Well the book was in the Children’s section. LOL

On this one you can see

Richelle Mead’s Cygne Noir Tome 1 ==>Storm Born
Dawn Cook’s Vérité Première ==>Kim Harrison’s First Truth under a Pen Name

US Vs French

Maybe that’s just me but I would never have guessed it was the same book if I hadn’t seen the title. I like the French cover best, for once LOL I don’t think I would have bought the US version if I’d seen it in a store. Which do you like best?

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Tomorrow is my 1st Blogoversary!!! I might do something to celebrate so keep your eyes open (you can blink though, it is allowed LOL)

And prepare your Tuxedo!

The Reading Mojo…I lost it!

2010-07-06T06:53:00.001-07:00

I think I lost my reading mojo!! Seriously, the last couple of weeks I had a lot of time to read (finished with my exams and not yet a job) and I’ve read even less than usual. It seems that the more time I have the less I read. o_O This is insane because I keep on buying books I want but I just don’t read much. The right thing would be to stop buying until I find my mojo back…but of course I’m not very sensible on this matter so I buy. lol I still read the books for review though, but very slow. Also I’m searching for a job…and it’s making me even more anxious than usual. *sigh* One might have to do with the other…

A month ago I got shelves for my ever growing TBR-piles…and it’s scary. I was joking with Susi that it was huge. It’s easier to forget how many you have when they are scattered all over the place…but when you put them all in one place it starts getting scary!

Since I love making pics of my shelves, this is what they look like after I organized them all. My TBR-books are on the right side of the room and they have to be read to cross to the left Read-side. lol I’m all for symbolic, the TBR-shelves are brown, very dark…on the left though the Read shelves are more light and bright looking. lol In this case It’s ‘be Read and you’ll go to book heaven my pretties!’

I am building myself a man…Nom!

Will you guess where I sat while organizing my books by series? LOL

I learned something…I HATE having series in multiple formats! Arghh look at the Dresden Files….3 different formats! It looks like Sh*t on my shelves! Grrrr I got UK and US paperback when I had no other choice. Because until last year I had no idea Book Depository existed and I had to do with what Amazon.fr had. Mehhhhh You should see the Sookie books…oh my, it’s even worse I think I have 4 or 5 different version/formats.

French Vs US of Moon Called…yes I do have both, coz I’m crazy like that. *cough* and UK & US of Hunting Ground *cough* lol

So after hours of packing….and hours of un-packing and organizing I was finally done!! The Dresden series, The Hollow series and the Women of the Otherworld series are the biggest I have! (translate that into ‘OMG I must have paid for the author’s Beach house!!!!!!’). Also you can’t see that on the picture but there are ‘layers’ of books…nearly all my YA books are in the back LOL

My series are finally nearly all organized! I had a lot of problems with Hard-covers being too big to fit, hence why some hard-covers aren’t with their respective series.

This is my Historical shelf…see? Lots of room to add more! LOL

And my TBR-shelves (which is on the other side of the room):

*cough* ok maybe it looked like that 4 weeks ago…lol I might have added 10 books or so since. This is my book purgatory, waiting to be read before they can access the book heaven LOL (no i promise you I haven’t smoked anything.)

So to summarize my rambling:

Different formats suck!
Hard-covers suck!
Loosing Reading Mojo sucks!
Taking pictures of all that….well took me hours. lol

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You can read my reviews of Fatal Circle by Linda Robertson and Love In the Afternoon by Lisa Kleypas on Book Lovers, Inc

We’re also having a cover contest to win a book by Richelle Mead. Come and vote and you can win the book of your choice from her YA or Succubus series.

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Last but not least, I’ve discovered a website that makes me LMAO, ROFL and LOL all the time…Susi and I already spent HOURS on it. It’s very addictive. I guess I love people’s stupidity. My favorite are the ones with moms or dads answering their children’s status LOL

Failbook!! This will make you think twice before posting anything on Facebook. I LOVE this site, I’ve laughed SO much with it.

Sunny, Yesterday my Life was filled with Rain…

2010-06-26T07:53:00.001-07:00

It’s Summer time! I have to say there’s no way I could ignore it since it’s SO hot and sunny in here today. Of course my idea of hot is probably just ‘warm’ for someone living for example…in Texas lol. Right now I’m in my favorite spot, since I have no idea how it’s called in English, I’ll show you:

The hanging thingy! It’s my favorite spot and everyone here knows it lol. Oh and my baby car is the one with the flower on it. (the other one is my mom’s)

In My Mailbox

When I feel down there’s nothing better than opening my mailbox and finding book packages waiting for me! (of course then I’d better not look at my bank account…or we’re back at the start LOL). This is dirty business, it involves a lots of bouncing, happy dancing, booty shaking and squeeing but it’s worth it. lol Since last time I got quite a few books *trying to look innocent*. This morning I got:

The Fantastic SusiSunshine went to a Lara Adrian’s signing in Berlin and got me a signed book!! And lots of swag! Woot Woot (Thank you so much hon!!) BTW Susi is having a giveaway on her blog, you can win a signed Lara Adrian book in German or if like me you don’t know one word of German, she’s giving away lots of Swag too!!

I also received Nancy’s Theory of Style by Grace Coopersmith

AND….*squeeee* Love In the Afternoon by Lisa Kleypas ! *squeeeeeee* I am a HUGE Lisa Kleypas fan, as you can see. lol

A few days ago I received:

Zero at the Bone by Jane Seville (Why? Coz Christine pimped it!)
Unholy Ghosts by Stacia Kane (Why? Coz Susi pimped it!)
The Ultimate Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy by Douglas Adams

As you can see, I listen too often to my crazy book pushers lol. Zero At the Bone is a M/M and it looks awesome! BTW this is my first PRINT M/M o_O Yes I’m a closet reader, and I usually buy M/M in E-book format. So this one is special to me, first Print Man-Love! I’m so proud of myself *pats one’s head* lol. I bought The Hitchhiker's book for a few reasons:

I laughed a lot watching the movie. (42, Marvin, the Whale, the Towel…)
I bought the book to my Best Friend who didn’t believe me when I told him there was a book before the movie. (He’s stubborn like that) He said it couldn’t be as funny as the movie, it was not possible, it did NOT exist. o_O (of course now he’s revised his judgment lol). So I needed to read it too to follow him.
It’s a classic
+ 800 pages of British Humor

I also ordered:

Lady Isabella’s Scandalous Marriage by Jennifer Ashley
Royal Blood by Rona Sharon
One Dance with a Duke by Tessa Dare
Twice Tempted by a Rogue by Tessa Dare

Ahem…Yes I might have indulged myself a little here. I wanted Jennifer' Ashley’s book since I finished The Madness of Lord Ian Mackenzie last year (which was one of my favorite book of 2009). I bought Royal Blood because I wanted a Tudor book, and since I’ve never read a paranormal books set in Tudor time, I felt really adventurous and ordered it. (Yes there’s a Vampire Henry VIII!)

Received for review:

By Leanna Renee Hieber: (Both signed Thank you so much Leanna!!!!)

The Strangely Beautiful Tale of Miss Percy Parker
The Darkly Luminous Fight for Persephone Parker

By Megan Hart (on NetGalley):

Exit Light

Tovah Connelly would rather be asleep than awake. Since her accident, she’s become a shaper in the dream world, the Ephemeros, where she can manipulate places and people with just a thought. Tovah’s friends there, Ben and Spider, encourage Tovah to develop her skills, but the one ability she doesn’t want is to control the dreams of others— it’s a power she’s wary of, and a responsibility she’s not ready for.
Nobody can sleep all the time, though— not if they want a waking life that bears a semblance of normalcy. And Tovah’s waking life is vastly different from her dream life: she’s rebuilding and regaining her sanity after nearly losing it in the accident’s aftermath.
But when nightmares begin rocking the Ephemeros, Tovah’s two worlds begin to collide. As those she cares about are threatened, Tovah may discover that the one responsibility she doesn’t want is the only defense she has.

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Waiting For (…anything but Godot please o_O)**

I’m also very very impatient to read And One Last Thing by Molly Harper. I can’t wait for July 27! I’m soooooo excited. *boucing* (oh and Molly will be on Book Lovers, Inc on July 26!)

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PS: About the post title, I have no idea why I have Boney M. stuck in my head, but I don’t feel guilty about sharing my suffering LOL *evil grin* (And Susi if you’re reading this….Ale-Alejandroooo Don’t call my name Robertooooo Mouhahahahaha)

**Yes I do laugh at my own stupid jokes LOL

EDIT: *headdesk* I forgot one book! I also got last week :

Traking the Tempest by Nicole Peeler

Valentine's Day is fast approaching, and Ryu - Jane's bloodsucking boyfriend - can't let a major holiday go by without getting all gratuitous. An overwhelming dose of boyfriend interference and a last-minute ticket to Boston later, and Jane's life is thrown off course.
Ryu's well-intentioned plans create mayhem, and Jane winds up embroiled in an investigation involving a spree of gruesome killings. All the evidence points towards another Halfling, much to Jane's surprise...

Please Help me with my Historical obsession!

2010-06-23T06:16:00.001-07:00

Sooooo….I am in a Historical phase! Yes I’ve been reading a lot of historicals lately, but I’ve also been watching a lot of movies and TV adaptations. Many of those made me cry like a baby but I still need more. (I think I might stick with Jane Austen’s adaptation for now on lol…I’m sure I won’t cry this way!)

Lately I’ve watched the 2009 adaptation of Wuthering Heights , It was a good movie but I have to admit that I had never read the book nor watched any adaptation before. Of course I pretty much knew what happened in the book (Yes I do remember a bit of High-school). I don’t think I could bear reading this book, It’s so dark, so much anger…bahhh. But it was a good movie.

After watching it I thought I needed something ‘lighter’, I watched Bright Star and I ended up crying even more! Of course I didn’t know what the movie was about when I started watching lol (Note to self: Look at the TV guide first)

London 1818: a secret love affair begins between 23 year-old English poet, John Keats (Ben Whishaw), and the girl next door, Fanny Brawne (Abbie Cornish), an out-spoken student of high fashion. This unlikely pair begin at odds, he thinking her a stylish minx, while she was unimpressed not only by his poetry but also by literature in general.
However, when Fanny heard that Keats was nursing his seriously ill younger brother, her efforts to help touched Keats and when she asked him to teach her about poetry he agreed. The poetry soon became a romantic remedy that worked not only to sort their differences, but also to fuel an impassioned love affair.
When Fanny's alarmed mother and Keats' best friend finally awoke to their attachment, the relationship had an unstoppable momentum. Intensely and helplessly absorbed in each other, the young lovers were swept deeply into powerful new sensations, "I have the feeling as if we're dissolving," Keats wrote to her. Together they rode a wave of romantic obsession that only deepened as their troubles mounted.
When Keats fell ill a year later, the two young lovers faced no marriage but separation. In Keats' own poignant words, "forever panting and forever young."

After all those pretty depressing movies, it was really time to watch something really LIGHTER! I really should start asking people to choose for me coz I’m a depressing movies magnet. Yesterday I watched The Young Victoria. This is a beautiful movie, I loved it from the start, absolutely gorgeous. Meh, of course if I’d paid more attention in class I would have known that Albert died at the age of 42 (well I knew she lived until 81, that’s already something lol…my lack of culture is impressive). So I ended up crying again (seriously it’s embarrassing how often I end up crying lately lol). Victoria’s dresses are SO beautiful!!

Watching this movie reminded me of my love for books and movies about the Royal Court. So…I’m asking for help. I have read The Other Boleyn Girl (yes I know it’s not historically accurate, I don’t mind) and the following book and I loved them. I would love to know which books you would recommend (and movies). I love court intrigues. But I don’t want something too sad please. lol So what would you recommend? Any ideas?

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Cover Alert!

Patricia Briggs’ Masque will soon be published again with new a cover! I have always wanted to read this book but it was nearly impossible to get it. Now we will also get the sequel Wolfsbane. Out in the Fall! Woot woot

Now I don’t know anything about The Perfect Play by Jaci Burton but the cover is so yummy I just had to post it. Of course now I’ll be waiting for 2011 if only to get it in my hands lol. Jim Butcher’s Ghost Story will ne out next year too…damn that’s so far away!

Review: Crazy For Love by Victoria Dahl + Stuff !

2010-06-11T05:43:00.001-07:00

Format Read: E-ARC from NetGalley
Number of Pages: 384 pages
Release Date: July 1st 2010
Publisher: HQN Books
Formats Available: Ebooks, Paperback,
Purchasing Info: Amazon, Author’s Website, Book Depository

Book Blurb:

Chloe Turner thought she was going to marry the perfect man-until her fiancé's plane crashed. And then she got the really bad news: he'd tried to fake his own death to avoid marrying her. Now America's most famous bridezilla (a tag she most definitely does not deserve), Chloe escapes to a remote island to avoid the paparazzi. And right next door is a man who just might be the cure
for Chloe's heartache....
A magnet for wild, complicated women, Max Sullivan is relieved to have finally found someone "normal." Chloe is his girl-next-door fantasy come to life, and best of all, she gets him. With her, he can be himself, a treasure-hunting millionaire who desperately wants out of his sexy but reckless job. But when Chloe's notoriety catches up with them, will their torrid romance make it to the mainland?

My Thoughts:

This is a fun original and sweet book! I shouldn’t be surprised I enjoyed reading this book, Victoria Dahl is a funny author with a wicked wicked mind! I’m always unsure when it comes to reading contemporaries, but I couldn’t put this book down. I laughed from page #1 till the very end.

The story is unlike anything I’ve read so far, it’s very original and I loved it. Chloe is living hell on earth, she’s being harassed by paparazzi making her look like a Bridezilla ever since her fiancé faked his own death, by crashing a plane!!! (See I told you it was original *wink*). She decides to take a vacation with her best friend on an Island before the beginning of the trial. During this week she meets the 2 Sullivan brothers who decided to take a vacation in the same place. Max is such a great character, I loved him to pieces…he has ‘issues’ that shouldn’t be funny but he was so cute!

His brother is a bit nerdy and I loved him too, he’s a fun secondary character. I can’t tell you what happen because it would ruin it for you, but there’s a scene with him that I couldn’t stop laughing at when it was really not funny in real life (I’m talking in riddles now lol).

Chloe’s life is very complicated and she doesn’t need any more drama, she decides to be ‘care-free Island Chloe’ for a week to forget the Hell that is waiting for her back home. Max doesn’t know who Chloe is and he is attracted to her for many reasons (some of them connected to his little problem lol). I laughed a lot with this book and the relationship between the characters are fantastic.

It’s a beautiful love story, very original and funny. The only thing I didn’t like so much is the ending…I mean I’m used to cheesy endings and I never mind but in this case it was a bit too stereotyped. Well I still loved this book it’s a solid 4 out of 5 for me!

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On Book Lovers,Inc this Week

You can read my Review of Sanctuary’s Price (Red Rock Pass #3) by Moira Rogers on Book Lovers,Inc

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Go Vote for Your Favorite Cover!

This week this SusiSunshine we’re having fun discussing our favorite International covers for the Psy/Changeling series by Nalini Singh. Come and Vote for your Favorite!

How my TBR Books found their New home!

2010-06-05T14:43:00.001-07:00

I am finally done with packing all my books (and other crap!)…I have no idea how many boxes I used I stopped counting at 25! Not all of them are book related though. I had to free all the shelves from one side of the room so my parents could renovate a bit my room (the whole story on my post: Are My Parents trying to kick me out?). Not 3 weeks ago I finally organized all my shelves but it was all for nothing since I learned since then that I had to pack them all now. You will now assist to the very boring packing of my stuff! LOL You’ve been warned!

(You can click on the pictures to see the details…but you don’t have to!)

Pre-Bookocalyspe

My shelves are organized in 3 different sections: The French Books and Books I read for school/college, The Books in English and the Freakily Old and Musty French Books.

There are 3 ‘layers’ in my shelves…it is always a problem when I want a book which is at the back lol. As you can see I have Dawson’s Creek Dvds o_O Don’t judge. LOL

Here is my old books section (well one of my old books sections LOL). The oldest is from 1804. I LOVE them, my precioussssss…but I’m pretty sure it’s not safe to have them in my room O_o Most of those spent decades (centuries?) in attics and weird places. I can’t wait for the time when I’ll have room to have them on REAL bookshelves. *sigh* It might never happen though, but it can’t hurt to dream.

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And then it was the Bookocalyspe…

So I did have to pack them all and the rest of the stuff I had there. I can’t believe how much crap I had there. LOL Let’s start with my TBR-Piles (which is NOT crap…just huge! lol)

This is a bit scary…it didn’t look as impressive when it was in the shelves LOL How In Hell did that happen?!! I need to stop buying books and start reading faster o_O. Below on the right are my books I read for College…Under The Volcano is the ONLY book for college I never finished…It’s…*shudders*…I might have to go burry it in the wood to be sure never to see it again otherwise I’m sure it’ll come back to haunt me LOL

Yeah I know you’re all jealous of my Walt Disney collection, admit it! I have LOTS of old books and Old photographs…most are too old for even my grandparents to recognize who is on them though. I think some are the grand-parents of my grand-parents. I feel so small right now.

See on the left that’s my FIRST book in English! My parents bought me this book when I was 5…so it’s 15 years old (LOL yeah right…). On the right you can see my Old Key chains collection from when I collected them…there are around 400 of them I think. o_O lol All this stuff takes too much room!

My room was in complete Chaos for 3 days…

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Post-Bookocalyspe

I only kept a few boxes in my room, the others are in the garage…my poor dad can’t park his car in it any longer LOL (MOuahahahah this is what happens when you try to get rid of me *evil grin*)

And today I bought 2 small bookshelves to put my TBR-Piles on it! Woot Woot! Before/After. I won’t tell my parents those are unread books… I think that would give them a stroke. lol I did hide the bad books behind…*cough*Covet*cough*LoverEnshrined*cough*. I dare you to tell me they aren’t bad!!!! LOL

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I’m still reading the same books as last time…probably because I spend so much time taking pictures of my books and not enough time actually READING them LOL O_O

Thanks for staying with me until the end I hope I haven’t bored you to death lol! I won’t take responsibilities for any suicide by papercuts while reading this post!!

Are my parents trying to kick me out? narrows eyes

2010-06-01T04:58:00.001-07:00

And I finally did it! Woot woot I organized by books…after months of saying ‘I will do it’ it’s now done. Of course my parents waited until I was finished to tell me they would ‘do renovation work in my room’ (because we have lots of humidity and spider problems *shudders*) so I have to put all my books away….IN BOXES…in the GARAGE *sob*. I’m suspecting them of trying to ‘renovate’ the room for their own future use of it! LOL I’m pretty sure it will take months and I’m scared for my babies (and yes I know it’s silly lol but I take good care of them).

I have 3 kinds of books in my room: (I’ll take pictures)

The books I read in school (In French for high school /In English for college). Also known as Books I’ll never EVER open again, Burn Book BUUUUUUUURN!
The books I’ve been reading these last few years. My preciousssssssss
The very very old books (from 1801 to 1945). Also known as Let’s catch the plague or a Pneumonia while browsing the book o_O

I started packing yesterday and OMG I didn’t know I had that many books. lol My room is in complete chaos. I took pictures…I’ll post them when I’m done. The thing is I have already 4 boxes of Read books, and I haven’t even started on the French and Old books o_O

And while packing yesterday I joked with my father about how much work it will be when I move out….and funny funny dad answered ‘Oh we won’t reopen those boxes, we’ll leave them in the garage’….to which I answered ‘Is that your way to tell me you want me to leave soon???’…and what did he do? He smiled at me! LOL Very very subtle message dad!

In France there’s a famous movie called ‘Tanguy’, it’s about a couple trying to do everything to get their 28 years old son to move out. They get very nasty in the end but it’s a funny movie. lol This movie has been a success here because it rang too true…A lot of young adults stay very long at their parents now. I’m 24 *cough*and-a-half*cough* and I still live at my parents. I think there’s a US movie with the same theme ‘Failure to Launch’. Anyway, I’m not going to leave anytime soon! *points finger* AH! I’ll leave when I have a job dear parents *grins*. OMG I hope if/when I have children they won’t be like me LOL Go little birds goooooo !

In My Mailbox!

I received an ARC of Awakened by a Kiss from/by Lila Di Pasqua *squeeee* Thank you so much Lila I can’t wait to meet those three sexy rakes (so far I’ve only met Adrien *drools*)! I took the pictures on a cloudy day and they are blurry and colorless but we can still see the book at least. Lila is such a nice person, I’m happy to announce that she will be on Book Lovers,Inc in July and on One Book Away From Heaven in August!!

Book Blurb:

Three classic fairytales—“Sleeping Beauty,” “Puss in Boots,” and “Little Red Riding Hood”—cleverly retold with enough sensual twists to prove wickedly ever after does exist…

Sleeping Beau: Five years ago, the notorious rake, Adrien d’Aspe, Marquis de Beaulain, was awakened by a sensuous kiss—and experienced a night of raw ecstasy that was branded into his memory. Years later, he spots his mysterious seductress—and this time, he has no intention of letting her go…

Little Red Writing: Nicolas de Savignac, Comte de Lambelle, has been assigned by the King to uncover the secret identity of the author writing scandalous stories about powerful courtiers. He never expected his investigation would lead to his grandmother's house, or to a ravishing woman who would stir his deepest hunger…

Bewitching in Boots: Elisabeth de Roussel, daughter of the King, is accustomed to getting what she wants—and she wants Tristan de Tiersonnier, Comte de Saint-Marcel, an ex-commander of the King’s private Guard. A recent injury has forced Tristan to leave his distinguished position, but Elisabeth is determined to make him see he's every bit the man he once was—and more than man enough for her.

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Last Read:

Last week I read Married By Morning by Lisa Kleypas, my review will be posted on Thursday on Book Lover,Inc. (Hint: I LURVED it)

Currently Reading:

Yeah…I know I started a whole lot of books, I’m currently fixing that. I got completely absorbed by Married by Morning and now by Magic Bleeds. (Curran….*swoon*)

Alright time to go back to the book packing *sob*

Cover Alert: Shadowfever by Karen Marie Moning

2010-05-26T04:17:00.001-07:00

FINALLY! We get the new cover of the last Fever book!! Woot Woot I just can’t wait to get this book in my hands. This series drives me crazy I tell you.

From Karen Marie Moning’s blog:

Shadowfever has a gorgeously designed acetate dust jacket, that is printed at the top and bottom but the clear box behind my name and title gives you a glimpse of what’s printed on the hardcover beneath it. […]. It’s a thing publishers don’t do very often, because of the expense. The jpegs don’t do it justice. To see it go to Shadowfever.com. I hope you love it as much as I do!

The Synopsis:

"Evil is a completely different creature, Mac.
Evil is bad that believes it's good."

MacKayla Lane was just a child when she and her sister, Alina were given up for adoption and banished from Ireland forever.

Twenty years later, Alina is dead and Mac has returned to the country that expelled them to hunt her sister's murderer. But after discovering that she descends from a bloodline both gifted and cursed, Mac is plunged into a secret history: an ancient conflict between humans and immortals that have lived concealed among us for thousands of years.

What follows is a shocking chain of events with devastating consequences, and now Mac struggles to cope with grief, while continuing her mission to acquire and control the Sinsar Dubh--a book of dark, forbidden magic scribed by the mythical Unseelie King that contains the power to create and destroy worlds.

In an epic battle between humans and Fae, the hunter becomes the hunted when theSinsar Dubh turns on Mac, and begins mowing a deadly path through those she loves.

Who can she turn to? Who can she trust? Who is the woman that haunts her dreams? More importantly, who is Mac and what is the destiny she glimpses in the black and crimson designs of an ancient tarot card?

From the luxury of the Lord Master's penthouse, to the sordid depths of an Unseelie nightclub, from the erotic bed of her lover, to the terrifying bed of the Unseelie King, Mac's journey will force her to face the truth of her exile, and make a choice that will either save the world...or destroy it.

OMG that last part in bold is so intriguing!!! Can it be December already??? I am absolutely obsessed with this series and I want so many answers! I leave you with MY Barrons listening to music in the Pink Atrocity. nom nom nom

A Bunch of News: Wanted Reviewer, Blogoversary & Review…

2010-05-24T05:58:00.001-07:00

The fun is over…my parents are back from their vacations! lol Not that I did anything while they were away, but I loved having the house for myself *sigh* This week I have one of my Oral Exams (it could sound dirty…well I’d rather it sounded dirty lol)…and I’m really not good at those. I get sweaty, I stutter and I look like a dumbass ! Bahhhhh! Anyway I have a bunch of news for you so let’s get to it:

Review

You can read my Review of Tempted by Megan Hart on Book Lovers,Inc

Oh and we’ve got new signatures! Check this out:

Also Today on Book Lovers,Inc we have Lisa Mantchev talking about her new book Perchance to Dream. You can check it out HERE!

Announcement : Wanted Reviewer !

Every Book Lover needs time for the actual reading and we as Book Lovers Inc think we could use a bit help to achieve that for ourselves more often. ;)
So here it is! The big opportunity to join our group and become a full member of Book Lovers Inc.
What are we searching for?
- someone who loves books as much as we do
- a good reviewer with at least a bit of experience
- a team-member who wants to work with us
- an open mind full of ideas
- a reliable person with a bit of time to spare for us ;)
Sounds like you?
We would love to hear from you.
If you are interested please fill out this form and we will get back to you ASAP.

Come to the dark side…we’ve got cookies!

Event: Blogoversary!

This week is SusiSunshine is celebrating her first Blogoversary!! YAY!!

She will be celebrating the whole week The Geeky Bookworm’s 1st blogoversary . There will be interviews and Giveaways! (I know you will love what she came up with!) You can enter her Blogoversary Giveaway HERE.

Happy Blogoversary my Young Padawan!!!!

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In My Mailbox

Other than that, I’ve been a good girl and I only bought 2 books this week! (I know I said I would stop, those were the last I promise lol):

By Lisa Kleypas:

Dreaming of You
Then Came You

Those are the the first 2 books in the Gamblers series.

Oh and I got the latest Alexisonfire album:

Old Crows / Young Cardinals
1. Old Crows
2. Young Cardinals
3. Sons Of Privilege
4. Born And Raised
5. No Rest
6. The Northern
7. Midnight Regulations
8. Emerald Street
9. Heading For The Sun
10. Accept Crime
11. Burial

I love this album! I keep singing aloud and it annoys the hell out of my parents *grins*

Have a great week everyone!

In My Mailbox: Or how to give your banker a stroke!

2010-05-18T06:44:00.001-07:00

In My Mailbox

It’s been a while since I last made my In My Mailbox post! I think I also avoided posting it so I wouldn’t have to deal with the fact that I buy too many books! Yes there is such a thing as too many books…well for my bank account at least! It’s easier to forget you bought too many this way ;) I think I need an intervention…

So this is what I bought these last 2 weeks: (with 100% pure ME commentaries)

In the category ‘covers that could get you pregnant’ we have:

Sinful by Charlotte Featherstone (Why this book? Because I LOVED it and I couldn’t wait to be able to pet it *grins* BTW the epilogue is online!!)
Coming Undone by Lauren Dane (I had problems getting it, but now it’s safely home lol)
Tempted by Megan Hart (I listened to Susi and I’m so happy I did! This book is SO hot! And look at that cover! Nom nom nom Alex is Teh Smex on a Stick)

In the category ‘I think I am Addicted to Historicals please help me’ I got:

by Meredith Duran: (Ok I went on a Meredith Duran shopping spree, good thing she doesn’t have 56 books in her backlist o_O LOL)

The Duke of Shadows (You can see my review if you follow the link!)
Written on Your Skin
Wicked Becomes You

I’ve also ordered books #3, #4, #5, #6, #7, #8, in the Bridgerton series by Julia Quinn: (I know I went a little crazy there lol but book 1&2 were amazing!)

An Offer from a Gentleman
Romancing Mister Bridgerton
When he was Wicked
To Sir Phillip, With Love
It’s in his Kiss
On the Way to the Wedding

I also bought: Broken Wing by Judith James (Why this book? Because I read KristieJ’s review and I had to buy this one)

Set during the chaotic beginnings of Napoleon's rule, this saga tells the story of Gabriel St. Croix, a street survivor searching for a place to belong. Abandoned as a child and raised in a brothel, he has never known friendship or affection. Hiding physical and emotional scars behind an icy façade, his only relationship is with a young boy he has spent the last five years protecting from the brutal reality of their environment. But all that is about to change. The boy's family has found him, and they are coming to take him home.
Sarah Munroe blames herself for her brother's disappearance. When he's located, safe and unharmed despite where he has been living, Sarah vows to help the man who rescued and protected him in any way she can. With loving patience she helps Gabriel face his demons and teaches him to trust in friendship and love. But when the past catches up with him, Gabriel must face it on his own. Becoming a mercenary, pirate, and professional gambler, he travels to London, France, and the Barbary Coast in a desperate attempt to find Sarah again. On the way, however, he will discover the most dangerous journey and the greatest gamble of all is within the darkest reaches of his own heart.

In the category ‘can’t I have them already? I’d even scrub you toilets to get them now, please!’, I’ve pre-ordered:

Married by Morning by Lisa Kleypas (Nom nom nom nom)
Magic Bleeds by Ilona Andrews (Miam miam miam<===French for Nom nom nom LOL)

Ebooks:

Silent Blade by Ilona Andrews (<===That’s Ilona Andrews' awesomeness + HOT smut)

Old hatreds die hard. Old love dies harder.
On Meli Galdes’ home planet, the struggle for power is a bloody, full-contact sport—in business and on the battlefield. For years her lethal skills have been a valuable asset in advancing her family’s interests. She’s more than earned her right to retire, but her kinsmen have one last favor to ask.
Kill the man who ruined her life.
Celino Carvanna’s razor-sharp business acumen—and skills with a blade—won him the freedom to do as he pleases. There’s only one thing he can’t seem to control—his reaction to the mysterious woman who tantalizes his senses. Her eyes alone set his blood simmering, stirring ridiculous adolescent fantasies about breasts and honey. With a few words she dissects his soul. Who is she? And how does she slide so easily under his well-guarded skin?
It’s almost too easy to draw Celino within the kill zone. Meli plans to revel in him. Drink him in. Wring every drop of pleasure out of every moment.
And when she’s sure he belongs to her, she will finally repay a decade’s worth of pain—in a single, brutal dose of reality.

by Tere Micheals: (<===Christine is responsible for that!*points finger*)

Love & Loyalty
Faith & Fidelity
Duty & Devotion

Wolf Signs by Vivian Arend (ok seriously it’s not my fault I had ‘virtual money’ to use on this ebook website…lol I blame them! *g*)

Talk about getting your signals crossed… Granite Lake Wolves, Book 1 Robyn Maxwell doesn’t care that her brother has to cancel out on their backcountry ski trip. She can do it alone. The fact she’s deaf doesn’t make her survival skills any weaker. The chance to get away from it all and relax in the Yukon wilderness is just what she’s been craving. Meeting wilderness guide Keil at the cabin starts cravings of another kind. Keil’s one hot hunk of ripped, tasty male. Now she has to deal with raging hormones as well as strange questions about wolves and mates and challenges to the death. Keil was trying for a nice reflective retreat before challenging for the Alpha position of his Alaskan pack. He wasn’t planning on meeting the woman destined to be his mate, or finding out she’s not aware she has the genes of a wolf. Between dealing with his accident-prone younger brother, a deaf mate with an attitude and an impending duel to the death, his week—and his bed—is suddenly full. Far from the relaxing getaway any of them had in mind… Warning: Gives a whole new meaning to the phrase “talking with your hands”. Includes dangerous use of sarcasm and hot nookie in a remote wilderness sauna.

FREE Ebook: Questing Beast by Ilona Andrews

‘On a world far far away, where cute things eat computers and the sky is emerald green, a small team of scientists struggles to save the planet and their own careers by mixing genetic engineering and Arthurian legend. Too bad they had forgotten the first rule of planet exploration: Nature always has the last laugh.’

From NetGalley: (<===awww come on! I can’t resist this website I just can’t)

The Master and the Muses by Amanda McIntyre
Naked by Megan Hart (and look, it says ‘naked’ in the title!! NAKED!)
Libertine’s Kiss by Judith James

OMG I have no self-control whatsoever…the worst part is that I do not read fast. lol Well I’ll have to go easy on the grocery shopping this month (<=== good thing I need to loose weight LOL)

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Cover Alert

On another subject Dark Faerie Tales posted the cover of book #4 in the Persephone Alcmedi series by Linda Robertson and I LOVE this cover!

So what you got in your Mailbox this week? Anything I shouldn’t know about? LOL

The Download Dante Party!!

2010-05-15T03:12:00.001-07:00

The Download Dante Party!
Released Today!

You Burn Me: A Tale of the Eververse

A priestess of The Morrigan, Xxieda Rolla is a woman who has known success in her business, fulfillment in her family life and is only missing one thing: the love of the man that would have her for always. Sent to Shadow Heights New York by her goddess to find him, she meets the ever tasty, ever surly Dante Barratt. Sparks fly, and so does Amaretto Latte.

Dante, a dealer of rare and illegal commodities, and a very tempestuous fire demon might want the woman who's brown eyes haunt him, but knows better then to get involved with someone who just screams purity. Shes hot, and successful in ways he never could be, and knows a man that just gave away his soul like he did didn't deserve a woman like that.

After a chance encounter on a dark street corner, and an earth shattering kiss, Both are powerless to deny the chemistry between them... until Xxieda tells him her secret: shes a virgin.

Caught between his head and his heart, can Dante accept the fact that Fate sometimes gives us exactly what we really need, not what we think we want?

Authors Note:

This is a novella and answer to the question several readers have had of "What happened to Dante?" after his little cameo in Sugar and Sin.
And guess what? the book is Amazingly priced at 99 cents! that's right, a full 45k novella for only 99 cents! You know you wanna read about Dante and the woman that turns his world upside down, and now you can, for CHEAP!

Contest!!!!

And how would YOU like to win 3 Ebooks from our backlist, YOUR CHOICE? Its simple! You have three chances to win:
1. Send your snail mail address to: stella@stellaandaudra.com with "Dante's contest" in the subject
2. Follow our Blog (http://stellaandaudra.blogspot.com) And let us know you have
3. Buy 'You Burn Me' and answer the question: "Who do we thank first and foremost in the dedication? Send your answer to stella@stellaandaudra.com with "Dante's book answer" in the subject.
Winner will receive 3 books from our backlist in e book form.

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I want to start reading this series!!

Can I be random again? puppy eyes

2010-05-14T07:29:00.001-07:00

And I’m baaaaaack!!! Well not that I was really away, but I did try not to spend too much time online during my exams (giving myself good conscience and all that crap lol). First thing first….

You can read my review of The Duke Of Shadows by Meredith Duran on Book Lovers Inc.

Also I don’t know if you are aware of it, but in addition to having reviews, Interviews and contests, Book Lovers Inc is having a monthly ‘We Love your Comments giveaway’ go check it out!

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I’ve somewhat neglected to post my In My Mailbox the last couple of weeks but I'm planning on fixing that this weekend. But you know I also said I would organize my book shelves LOL…I've been saying that for months ( a year?). I have books everywhere…my bed is currently hosting 8 books, 3 Dvds and a study book (Arghhhhhh why is there a study book on my bed!! Damnation!!!). I kid you not:

(I have no idea why I would need 3 half-empty bottles on my bed)

I think I should take pictures of my ‘shelves’ to show you he extend of my problem lol. My TBR pile is WAY too big…and I keep on buying books! (lol I'm not even talking about ebooks bwahaha) I’m planning on BURNING the notes I took in class this year. Yep you heard right, I will make a huge fire in the garden and burn them all lol It will accomplish 3 things:

I will greatly enjoy burning them! *evil laugh* The Economics/Law class notes in particular lol
I will have more room for my books woot woooot!
I will LOVE burning them…wait did I say that already?

I said I would be random didn’t I? I’m listening to my favorite Canadian band right now, Alexisonfire!! I love the singer (not the one shouting mind you lol) Dallas Green…I have is solo albums too (City and Colour). lol I’m such a fan Girl when it comes to him. I love this band!

My favorite songs from this band:

See I’ve been a good girl, I’ve limited myself to 9 songs lol.

Also I’m re-watching for the 100 times my DVDs of That 70s Show… I still laugh even though I know them by heart lol

I love this shown it’s hilarious! I need cheering up TVshows right now, so this will have to do! Do you have a Tvshow that you keep watching time after time but never get bored of?

Here Comes the Review: Sanctuary by Moira Rogers

2010-05-06T10:08:00.001-07:00

(This was originally posted on Book Lovers Inc)

Format Read: Ebook
Number of Pages: 296 pages
Release Date: April 2010
Publisher: Samhain Publishing
Formats Available: Ebooks, Paperback Purchasing Info: Good Reads, Author Website, Amazon, Book Depository

Additional Information: Sanctuary contains book #1&2 in the Red Rock Pass series by Moira Rogers. Cry Sanctuary & Sanctuary Lost are also available for individual purchase in Ebook format

Cry Sanctuary

Book Blurb:

Keith Winston is tired of fighting. The war between werewolves and wizards rages on in Europe, but he's come home to Red Rock, Montana in hopes of finding a bit of peace. Instead he finds more strife as he struggles against the pack’s dictates that he resume his place as the alpha’s right hand man.
When he rescues a new wolf on the run, he knows his instant attraction to her could cause trouble. What he doesn't expect is to find himself embroiled in another battle that goes against all his instincts—and his heart.
Abigail Adler learned about the existence of werewolves only when she became one. With her life is threatened by a corrupt alpha, she flees to the only sanctuary she knows: Red Rock. While she’s grateful for the pack’s protection, she chafes under its unbreakable rules of conduct—except when it comes to submitting to the passion Keith stirs in her.
Then her tormentor kidnaps her sister in an attempt to lure her out of hiding. To save her, Abby and Keith must be willing to do the very thing that could get them all killed—break all of the rules.

My Thoughts:

This book is a novella (or short story? I never know the difference), and I think it’s difficult to write a good story in so few pages…but Moira Rogers (Bree and Donna) did an amazing job at creating a new world and making us crave for more. This is the first book in the series so we are still discovering everything. Red Rock Pass is a sanctuary for werewolves who need a place that is safe. The Alphas in this sanctuary helps those who need it.

Cry Sanctuary is about Abby who was turned against her will by an abusive Alpha in Helena. She escaped with the help of a friend (Dylan…such a cute character!) and asked for sanctuary in Red Rock Pass. We learn with Abby what it means to be a werewolf, she’s still very newly turned and knows next to nothing about what it means and all the rituals that must be done. Abby needs a Guide to help her through the full moon and she needs to choose who it will be.

Then there’s Keith…ahh Keith, he is back in town after 5 years abroad. We learn that he left after something terrible happened and he’s still haunted by this event. Keith and Abby are attracted to each other (I can’t blame her seriously!!) , he agrees to help Abby through her Initiation and let me tell you it is very hot!

I loved the fact that it’s not only about Keith and Abby getting together, there’s a more complex story, there’s drama and there’s action! Abby’s sister (Brynn) is kidnapped by the Alpha of Helena, he wants her back and he won’t hesitate to torture her sister to get what he wants.

We meet Brynn and Joe (another werewolf from Red Rock Pass *wipes drool*) and I was glad to learn that the next book was about them. But back to Cry Sanctuary, in less than 200 page we are introduced to a new and very interesting world when it ends you want more and that is amazing. This is a very good start for a series. It’s always difficult to set up a new world in a novel it’s even more difficult in a novella, Moira Rogers did it perfectly! I’m giving 4 bookies to Cry Sanctuary

Sanctuary Lost

Book Blurb:

If there's one thing that Brynn Adler hates, it's feeling helpless and vulnerable in unfamiliar territory. Three weeks ago, life tossed her into a just such a world. A world of werewolves she never knew existed-until she found out her sister is one of them.
The pack seems determined to hurry her back to the normal world of humans. But after everything she's witnessed, she's not sure she wants to go-especially if it means leaving not only her sister behind, but the one man who makes her forget her life is falling apart.
Now all she has to do is convince him to agree to a plan to force the pack to let her stay.
Joe Mitchell has been battling his protective instincts since he rescued Brynn from her kidnapper. Getting involved with her is a bad idea for a lot of reasons. She's on shaky emotional ground, and a supernatural war is no place for a human woman. He's not about to let her make a hasty decision, one that will only bring her pain and regret.
Now all he has to do is let her go.

My Thoughts:

As I said previously, we meet Brynn and Joe in the first book. Sanctuary Lost takes place a few weeks after the end of Cry Sanctuary and we are thrown into the action from page 1! Brynn is human and she feels helpless, she’s worried the alpha from Helena will find a way to take her back and change her in order to torture her endlessly. Brynn wants to be able to fight, she wants to become a werewolf, but this decision is not only hers to make. Joe is worried this hasty decision is made for the wrong reasons…and once it’s done, there’s no coming back.

Joe usually helps new werewolves through their Initiation but he never gets close to them (He’s got a past as you can imagine!). I loved the fact that there’s a lot of Werewolf politics at stake here. Again it’s not only a story about 2 characters falling for each others, it’s a fast-paced book, filled with actions. I was shocked at some events in the book, because I really didn’t see them coming and while it was an intense read, I really enjoyed being surprised.

I’m usually always complaining about how short novellas are, well this time I will not! It was just perfect in my opinion, I love the story, I loved the characters and it never felt rushed or anything.

I think what made it different is that everything is not magically right in the end, and for once I think it’s a good thing (yeah I surprise myself every day) . It felt realistic (lol listen to me talking about werewolf story being realistic ). I think I loved this book even more than the first one because the world was already known to me, so I can only hope that next book will be even better (even though that means rethinking my whole grading system *wink*).

I love Joe…I just love him to pieces and it was a pleasure to read about him and Brynn…I’m just going to say that Joe is a bit into BDSM (Hot Hot Hot). We also get to see more of Keith and Abby in this book, this is always a perilous affair to find old heroes as secondary characters again but this was very well done. We see a different side of Abby here. This book deals with very dark stuff and I was a bit shocked at some events happening, it’s a cruel cruel world we’re dealing with.

I give Sanctuary Lost 5 bookies. It was a real pleasure to read this book and I cannot wait to start Sanctuary’s Price.

***FTC Disclaimer: Most books reviewed on this site have been provided free of charge by the publisher, author or publicist. Some books we have purchased with our own money and will be noted as such. Any links to places to purchase books are provided as a convenience, and do not serve as an endorsement by this blog. All reviews are the true and honest opinion of the blogger reviewing the book. The method of acquiring the book does not have a bearing on the content of the review.

Spongebob wants to tell you the contest winner…

2010-05-02T04:39:00.001-07:00

I want to thank you all for answering my questions about skipping a book and about Phury’s book. I have a bit of a hangover right now (mehhhh) , so I’ll keep it short. The winner of this contest is :

Stella (Ex Libris)

I already sent an email to the winner. Have a great day everyone….(now I’m going back to bed!!!!)

When Getting Sarah MacLean’s book Becomes an Adventure!

2010-04-28T11:46:00.001-07:00

This week’s Adventure : Find that Book!

(A story about how stubborn I can be)

Today I received an email from Book Depository CANCELLING one of my orders…I think I have to go a little while back to explain the situation. Last week I read a review of Nine Rules to Break When Romancing a Rake by Sarah MacLean on Book Lovers Inc and decided I wanted it. I went on the French Amazon…not on sale anymore. I went on Book Depository…not on sale anymore. (by then I was a little annoyed) I looked at BooksOnBoards…there you go…the ebook was right there. I tried adding it to my cart…‘NOT AVAILABLE FOR YOUR COUNTRY’ o_O (By then I was very angry).

This weekend I checked the Book Depository again and the damn book was ‘in stock’ again, so I ordered it…which leads us to Today (actually yesterday now) and the email telling me they were refunding my account and cancelling the order because they weren’t able to get the book.

I don’t know about you, but if I can’t have the book I want…I want it even more. And NOW. I could have just waited, of course but where’s the fun in that when you can stalk every bookstore online *cough*instead of studying*cough*. At least, I found 1 ebook website explaining why they didn’t have the book. Diesel-ebook Store:

The publisher has pulled this title temporarily from all online retailers while it switches from a wholesale to agency pricing model. We expect the title to be available very shortly.

Heh! I can be very stubborn if I want to…but FINALLY…I found it on eBooks.com. Of course since this is not a European Website I will pay extra fees, but who care I got the damn book! lol Now I can only hope I will enjoy this book. I don’t think I’ve ever had so much problems finding one.

You’ve ever had a hard time getting a book? I’m really getting used to ordering what I want and getting it 2 days later. Are we getting comfortable here? lol

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A lady does not smoke cheroot. She does not ride astride. She does not fence or attend duels. She does not fire a pistol, and she never gambles at a gentlemen's club.

Lady Calpurnia Hartwell has always followed the rules, rules that have left her unmarried—and more than a little unsatisfied. And so she's vowed to break the rules and live the life of pleasure she's been missing.

But to dance every dance, to steal a midnight kiss—to do those things, Callie will need a willing partner. Someone who knows everything about rule-breaking. Someone like Gabriel St. John, the Marquess of Ralston—charming and devastatingly handsome, his wicked reputation matched only by his sinful smile.

If she's not careful, she'll break the most important rule of all—the one that says that pleasure-seekers should never fall hopelessly, desperately in love . . .

Sarah MacLean’s Website, Twitter, GoodReads

Help! Fans of the BDB I need your Help! +contest

2010-04-24T10:44:00.001-07:00

Today is the Day I finally skip a book in a series…there I’ve said it! pheww Yes this is about the Black Dagger Brotherhood, so for anyone who thought BDB stood for some kind of BDSM, sorry (I’ll call you back later *wink*)

I’ve never skipped a book before, I just couldn’t bring myself to read books out of order or skip a book altogether (OCD much?) But after months of trying to get my mind around reading Lover Enshrined by J.R.Ward I have finally given up. I want to read Lover Avenged and Lover Mine…and I tried and tried starting Phury’s book but I just can’t. I already know ‘most’ of what happens and I know I won’t enjoy reading it.

So today I decided to skip this book o_O Not an easy task I tell you, because I know I’m missing on the good parts… John Matthews, Blay and Quinn…Revh and his sister, all the Brothers!…Arghhh It’s killing me, but I'm afraid It’s skip the book or stop the series. I might go back to reading this book later, but I hate that I will miss quite a few things in the storyline.

Christine sent me a few quotes from Lover Enshrined to share some of the good parts and that made me think! So I thought I could ask you guys your favorite quotes of this book I would be very very happy to know them! *puppy eyes*. What should I know about this book? What did you like? What am I missing? I want spoilers! I want to know everything I need so I can start Lover Avenged. Summaries, Quotes, impressions, spoilers,tidbits…anything about Lover Enshrined! If there were Cliffsnotes of this book that would be perfect lol.

If you haven’t read this book, you can answer this question:

So the big question is how do YOU deal with this kind of stuff? Did you ever find yourself in a position where one book in a series prevented you from going on? What did you do? Did you force yourself to read it or did you skim through it? Or did you just cross the series from your list?

I’ll make a contest out of it! Please help me learn everything I need about Lover Enshrined (not the following books in the series. JUST Phury’s book) or if you haven’t read this book answer the other question and you’ll be entered in the contest to win either (Winner’s choice) :

- paperback copy of Lover Mine (or any book in the BDB series)

- Touched by an Alien by Gini Koch

- Mage in Black by Jaye Wells

-Changeless by Gail Carriger

This is open Internationally (anywhere the Book Depository ships to). The contest ends on Saturday May 1st 2010. Either leave me a way to contact you or come back to see if you’ve won.

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Thank you for your help! I really want to keep reading this series and I can’t do that without knowing what happened in Lover Enshrined.

Suzanne McLeod’s Contest! and Molly Harper Cover Alert…

2010-04-12T11:14:00.001-07:00

(Click on the Banner to see the contests)

I often talk about Suzanne McLeod’s books the Spellcrackers.com series, well Suzanne is having a few contests on her website and you can win her books.( you know you want them). Suzanne McLeod is a wonderful person and her books are amazing.

This was taken from her website:

1. Thinking of buying The Sweet Scent of Blood, or have you recently bought it? Then enter my Thank You for Buying My Book Contest (photo of purchase receipt required - date of purchase to be between 31st March 2010 - 31st July 2010)

2. The Sweet Scent of Blood - Spellcrackers.com #1 releases in the US on 27th April 2010 Join in the Virtual Book Tour and enter the contest to win a copy of my books (no purchase required)

3. Already a Spellcrackers.com Fan? Then enter my I *LOVE* My Readers! contest (no proof of purchase required)

If you want to know how you can win her books just click on the links above.

Suzanne McLeod will be our guest on Book Lovers Inc in July and September!! I’m super excited!

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Cover Alert!

YAY, Molly Harper posted her new cover for her future release And One Last Thing, which will be released on on July 27, 2010… only 3 months left! *grins* I’m super excited and I can’t wait to read this book.

A romantic comedy about a woman who publishes the details of her husband's affair in his company newsletter, and then must deal with the consequences.

Unofficial Book synopsis from Molly’s Blog:

AND ONE LAST THING is the story of Lacey, who responds to her husband’s philandering by adding some special content to his office newsletter: stunning Technicolor descriptions of the special brand of “administrative support” his receptionist gives him. The e-mail to Mike’s family, friends and clients blows up in her face, and before you can say “instant urban legend,” Lacey has become the pariah of her small Kentucky town, a media punchline, and the defendant in Mike’s defamation lawsuit.
Her seemingly perfect life up in flames, Lacey retreats to her family’s lakeside cabin, only to encounter an aggravating neighbor named Monroe. A hunky crime novelist with a low tolerance for drama, Monroe is not thrilled with a newly-divorced woman moving in next door. Random nudity and romantic hijinks ensue.

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In my Mailbox!

This week the books I had pre-ordered arrived! Woot woot!

Changeless by Gail Carriger

Touched by an Alien by Gini Koch

The Mage In Black by Jaye Wells

Silver Borne by Patricia Briggs

Lol I pre-ordered the UK version of Silver Borne but Book Depo said it was ‘out of stock’ so I ordered the US version on Amazon.fr and I thought I would just cancel the slowest order. LOL They were BOTH sent the same day. So I’ll have the 2 versions. ;) Silly me.

I also received a Signed Hardcover copy of First Drop of Crimson by Jeaniene Frost Woot Woot! *happy dance*

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New French Covers Vs US Covers Vs UK Covers

I want to share some Cover Love with you. (Lol if you haven’t realized it by now, i LOVE book covers!)

Morsure Secrète = A Hunger Like No Other
Le Baiser du Démon= Working for the Devil

So any new book I should excited about?

Here Comes the Review: Sinful by Charlotte Featherstone

2010-04-12T09:37:00.001-07:00

(This review was originally published on Book Lovers Inc)

Format Read: E-book
Number of Pages: Paperback, 336 pages
Release Date: May,1 2010
Publisher: Spice
Formats Available: Paperback, Ebooks
Purchasing Info: Author's website, GoodReads, Amazon

Book Synopsis:

In Victoria England vice of every kind can be purchased, and Matthew, the Earl of Wallingford, makes certain he avails himself of every possible pleasure. Bored and jaded, he is as well-known for his coldness as for his licentious affairs with beautiful women.
While these numerous dalliances fulfill Matthew's every physical need, they secretly leave him numb and emotionally void. Until one night when he finds himself beaten, eyes bandaged and in the care of a nurse with the voice of an angel - and a gentle touch that soothes the darkness in him and makes him yearn for more.
Yet Jane Rankin is a lowly nurse, considered shy and plain by most. There is no place for her amongst the lords and ladies of the aristocracy - despite Matthew's growing craving for the fire that burns behind her earnest facade. And then there is Matthew's secret. A secret so humiliating and scandalous is could destroy everyone he loves. A sin, he fears, not even the love of a good woman can take away...

My Thoughts:
I read Addicted a few weeks ago (here is my review) and I couldn't pass the chance to read Sinful, which is Lord Wallingford’s book. I received this ARC for review from NetGalley.
I should wait for the tears to dry before attempting to write this review, but I can’t. I need to share with you why this book moved me so much. I am torn, because just like Addicted it left me crying and I hate to cry but Sinful is wonderful, it’s heart-wrenching, it’s beautiful…It’s damn near perfect in my opinion.
Let me start at the beginning. I can’t say too much for fear of revealing spoilers but I'll try to convey the feeling I had while reading this book. Lord Wallingford, Matthew is a very wicked man(translation: HOT HOT HOT), we met him in Addicted and I was eager to read more about him. Matthew hates women, he use them for sex and only for sex. He’s never allowed himself to see women for anything else. When he is badly injured and transported to an hospital a nurse takes care of him...Jane, he is attracted by her voice, the softness of her skin. The thing is that his eyes have been injured and he can’t see her while she’s taking care of him and Jane doesn’t know who this man is. There’s a spark between them, chemistry, but when they decide to meet again Matthew has recovered his sight… *puts hand in mouth* (See, that’s how I avoid telling spoilers lol)
When they are thrown together as Maid of honor and Best man at their friends’ wedding (The characters from Addicted) they have to bear each other's company, even when they despise each others so openly. Matthew does no recognize the sweet Jane he met at the hospital and Jane cannot believe this rake, this heartless man can be the man she felt so attracted to when she nursed him. I loved how the characters would go from passionate attraction to hate within a few pages. The characters are flawed, they are proud and prejudiced and they are both scarred- the ghost of their past is still haunting them. It was very hard to close this book. I knew (because of course I can’t stop myself) before reading this book that it would leave me with a bittersweet taste, but I tell you… it’s worth it.
Matthew is an artist, he loves to paint and I thought that the sex scenes in this book looked like Art. Wonderful, beautiful sex scenes, just like a work of Art. Also in this book we meet again Matthew’s sister, Sarah that we glimpsed in Addicted, his love for her is amazing, he do his best to protect the poor child, we learned in Addicted that she is ‘slow’, she might look like a young lady but she stuck as a child in her head.

I know you’re thinking that after all this praise there must be a catch…well there is something that did make me cry (and I resent crying!). Just as with Addicted, this book deals with dark matters. I had a pain in my chest for the last 100 pages. My heart was breaking. I could hear it tearing. This is the only problem I have with this book…the ending is too realistic! (well I’m not the HEA Lover for no reason!) You have some kind of HEA at the end of the book but you can’t forget that all is not well. I was angry (Which prove how passionate I became about this book!!)when I got to the end and realize I would have to wait until May to read the ‘epilogue’ online. I NEED m epilogue IN the book, not on a website, to make it real. I can try all I want my brain will know it’s not in the book! It feels like the author is trying to make it up to us by giving us the awaited epilogue (a real HEA I’m hoping) as an afterthought. Of course this is MY opinion, I know a lot of readers that will be happy about the ‘realistic’ HEA we get in the book. That being said, I still LOVED this book, even taking into account the Heart-wrenching-too-realistic-ending so that’s saying a lot about how amazing I found Sinful.
Sinful is getting 5 bookies because it’s beautifully written, because it broke my heart and made me cry but still made me love the story, because I am awaiting the ‘epilogue’ with all my heart…just like Addicted I know I’ll have a hard time getting over it, it will be haunting me for a while. I can’t recommend this book enough, It’s a wonderful book, don’t let the ‘not so HEA’ part scare you away, It really IS worth the tears. I cannot wait to read more books from this author.

Edit: I feel better knowing that the epilogue was meant to be in the book!!! This is what Charlotte Featherstone wrote in answer to my review on GoodReads:

Thank you for your honest, heartfelt, impassioned review. I'm glad the book worked for you, and would like to apologize for not having the epilogue in the book. The truth is, I was already 5000 words over the maximum word count, and was not allowed to include the epilogue. There was an offer however from my editor, include the epilogue, and delete the last scene of the book, which I just could not do. Because Wallingford needed that closure, and he needed it for his own growth. So, I couldn't take it away from him. so, I made a deal with the publisher to keep the last love scene, and put my epilogue online. I wanted them to have the perfect happy ending--and they do. I promise.
I just wanted you to know that the epilogue has that traditional happy ending!

May 1, the epilogue will be up. I'm doing a website redesign to coincide with Sinful's release,so everything will be all fresh and new for his book!

Just to be clear, I’m glad they kept that last scene, it’s a really important one. I hope you will all enjoy this book as much as I did.

OMG Look at Ilona Andrews new French Cover!

2010-04-05T04:32:00.001-07:00

Since I started taking track of the French covers out there for my on-going post French Covers: The Good and The Bad, (Which I updated only an hour ago) I often go take a look at the new books being translated in French. And what a surprise when I found this morning the new cover for Ilona Andrews third book in the Magic series, Magic Strikes:

L’attaque Magique, Kate Daniel –Tome 3

I just have to say that I love this cover. I for once will go buy a book in French just because I think it rocks. Would you look at those Beasts!!! And Kate is badass…

The first books in the series were already more daring than the US covers. But it’s the first time we get to see Curran’s Beast form (I mean that must be him right, right?). I’m impressed by Bragelonne (the French publisher) for coming up with great covers.

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Bragelonne is also responsible of the amazing covers of Jenna Black’s Morgan Kinglsey series. I even found them in my store, which is amazing since I live in a very small city, in a part of France know one knows lol. *precioussssss*

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Well while we’re talking covers, on a totally different note I saw the cover for Last Sacrifice by Richelle Mead. (I can’t remember where I saw it though…humm) It’s not the final cover but I’m still very excited. It’ll be release in December!!! ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Lol sorry I was (still am) very excited about the new Ilona Andrews cover, I had to share my excitement with you. So what do you think? Yay or Nay?

I just discovered a LOT of new French releases…guys…I have to show you those! I’m going to write a post about those new covers, they just rock! Seriously I’ve never been so happy with French covers before. I have to track down better quality pictures of those books and I’ll be ready to show you. I’m still updating my French Covers: The Good and The Bad post if you want to check out what I’ve found so far.

The Truth about where Easter Eggs come From!

2010-04-03T05:26:00.001-07:00

Happy Easter!

So this 3 days long weekend will be a busy one! Tomorrow is my Mom’s birthday, she’s turning 38….lol ok that’s what I wrote on her Birthday Card…She is really 47 but since that she’s gonna cry if I point that out (seriously I’m not joking) I’ll just pretend she’s 38. ;) I wrapped all her presents individually (yeah 7 of them) and wrapped them in huge boxes…I even wrapped boxes with nothing in them (Surprise!!!)… lol She’s getting crazy because she can see the boxes but can’t know how big the presents really are. (lol just like a child, this is fun)

And this weekend is also the first time I’ll see again my friends since New Year’s Eve…I’m so happy to see them again! We’ll go shopping, Eat and then go see a movie…(nothing fancy, but that’s tradition whenever them come home), I’d love to see Alice in Wonderland or How to train your Dragons. Ok I have to be ready to leave in 15 minutes and I’m still not ready, I should at least put clothes on lol !! OMG my friend just called telling me he’ll be there in 10 minutes…Ok I have to get going! Have a great Weekend everyone =)

Review

SusiSunshine and I (Aka the Geeky Lover and The HEA Lover) posted our Dual Review of Dear Sir, I’m Yours by Joely Sue Burkhart on Book Lovers Inc.

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Cover Alert!

Woot Woot! Bring On the Night by Jeri Smith-Ready will be released in August 2010. This is the 3rd book in the WVMP Radio series.

What's Blood Got to Do With It?

Recovering con artist Ciara Griffin seems to finally have it all. A steady job at WVMP, the Lifeblood of Rock 'n' Roll. A loving relationship with the idiosyncratic but eternally hot DJ Shane McAllister. A vampire dog who never needs shots or a pooper-scooper. And after nine years, it looks as if she might actually finish her bachelor's degree!

But fate has other plans for Ciara. First she must fulfill her Faustian bargain with the Control, the paranormal paramilitary agency that does its best to keep vampires in line. Turns out the Control wants her for something other than her (nonexistent) ability to kick undead ass. Her anti-holy blood, perhaps?

Ciara's suspicions are confirmed when she's assigned to a special-ops division known as the Immanence Corps, run by the Control's oldest vampire and filled with humans who claim to have special powers. To a confirmed skeptic like Ciara, it sounds like a freak fest. But when a mysterious, fatal virus spreads through Sherwood—and corpses begin to rise from their graves—Ciara will not only get a crash course in zombie-killing, but will be forced to put her faith, and her life itself, in the hands of magic.

Chosen is the 6th book is the Anna Strong series by Jeanne C. Stein. It will be release on August 28th

Pretty Covers that make me go ‘I WANNNNNNNNNNNNNT’

I want to read Clockwork Angel by Cassandra Clare! This is the first book in a new trilogy. It’s somehow connected to the Infernal Device series (that I read and really enjoyed), so I can’t wait!

I don’t know ANYTHING about those books but I just know I want them! Do you know this author? Don’t these covers look amazing? lol Nom nom nom nom

In My Mailbox

No books in my mailbox this week (lol with what I already pre-ordered it will soon be full) but I got 2 Dvds I love! Pride and Prejudice and Jane Eyre

Have Fun !!!

About Covers and How they will be the end of Me!

2010-03-31T08:17:00.001-07:00

You know, I must be a bit shallow *cough* a lot*cough* but in my opinion, a good book needs a good cover! I’m one of those people that will check out a book because they found the cover interesting…I’m not saying I will read a book only because I loved the cover, but that will get me interested. I’ll pick up a book for a few reasons:

the author is on my auto-buy list because I worship everything they wrote so far. (Eg. Ilona and Gordon Andrews!)
I love the cover and the book synopsis looks interesting (<=== This is still risky)
I read great reviews of this book.(<=== well there’s always the chance I won’t like it)
the book came highly recommended to/for ME. (<== that’s the best kind!!!!)

While a book might look good, if it has a horrible cover, I’m not sure I’ll have the courage to pick it up (See shallow! I told you). And sometimes…I can’t resist buying different copies of books just because the UK/US/NEW cover is so pretty! It’s the case with the Psy/Changeling series by Nalini Singh, the new UK covers are just amazing.

And this morning I found that…How in the world am I supposed to resist buying this book? lol I already have Dead to the World (my favorite in the series)…but…but It’s Eric!! *drools* I’ve had this photo as wallpaper on my Iphone for over 6 months!!! It’s going to be hard to resist I tell you.

So while we’re talking about covers, I think I should mention Dan Dos Santos. He is the man behind a few of my favorite book covers. I just LOVE the cover for Bone Crossed. I was surprise when I realized he’s behind a lot of my favorite covers! Here are a few of them…

Patricia Briggs : Mercy Thompson series

Alpha and Omega series

Gini Koch

Jim Butcher’s Dresden Files

And some from authors I haven’t read.

You can see many more on Dan Dos Santo’s website: HERE

So have you ever bought a book you already had because of a different cover? Any cover crush? Ever bought a bough ONLY because of its cover?

I’m still hitting myself on the head for having ordered the UK edition of Silver Borne when I really LOVE the US cover…*sigh* But really those hardcovers are just SO expensive! *headdesk*

In My Mailbox and the Crazy Naming of the Reader!

2010-03-27T07:48:00.001-07:00

If you know me on Twitter you already probably know that I have a migraine that has now been lasting for 2 weeks. lol I’ve been venting and rambling on twitter all the time! (well more than usual). I’m getting on my OWN nerves lol So I’m sorry, I promise I’ll be back to my own self when that migraine goes away (and if it doesn’t please someone end my suffering lol). Anyway…

In My Mailbox!

I won :

a Signed copy of Blood Promise by Richelle Mead on The Book Pushers *Squeeeeee* *and Squeeeee some more*

an EBook of As you Are by Ethan Day at The Blackraven’s Erotica Cafe (Nom nom nom)

Operation Danny…that’s all bartender and recent college graduate, Julian Hallowell has had on his mind the past year. Julian may have no idea what he wants to do with his life, but he definitely knows he‘s in love with the boy next door: the next door down the hall to be exact, housing his roommate and used textbook store owner Danny Wallace.
While Julian has done his level best to make Danny fall for him, all his hard work has been in vain. Danny doesn’t seem to view Julian as anything other than a roommate and friend. So when new guy in town Andy Baker asks him out on a date, Julian can’t think of a good reason to say no.
Instead, he institutes a Reverse Operation Danny plan, which he’s positive will purge all thoughts of love and lust for his roomie out of his head. He’s ready to move on and start looking for his next Mr. Right, and Andy just might fit the bill. But has he given up too soon?

I bought and received:

Succubus Shadows by Richelle Mead

Although I still haven’t read all the previous books in this series. lol I just couldn’t resist.

Ebooks I bought:

Black Ice by Anne Stuart

The job was a killer.

Living paycheck to paycheck in Paris, American book translator Chloe Underwood would give anything for some excitement and passion -- even a little danger. So when she's offered a lucrative weekend gig translating at a business conference in a remote chateau, she jumps at the chance to shake things up.

Then by chance Chloe discovers her employers are anything but the entrepreneurs they appear, and suddenly she knows far too much. Her clients are illegal arms dealers, and one of them is ordered to kill her. But instead, Bastien Toussaint drags Chloe away, and the next thing she knows she's on the run with the most terrifying and seductive man she's ever met. What were his motives -- and would she live long enough to find out?

Crux by Moira Rogers

Jackson Holt makes a decent living as a private investigator in New Orleans, home of one of the largest underground supernatural populations in the United States. He and his partners have never met a case they couldn't crack...until a local bar owner asks him to do a little digging on her newest hire.
New Orleans is the fourth destination in as many months for Mackenzie Brooks, a woman on the run from a deranged stalker. After all, any man who shows up on her doorstep claiming to be her destined lover has more than a few screws loose. But crazy doesn't explain why he always finds her no matter how far she runs.
When her well-meaning boss puts a PI on her case, Mackenzie comes face to face with the incredible truth: magic is real, and whatever spell has kept her hidden and separate from the paranormal world is rapidly deteriorating.
With time running out, she has no choice but to trust Jackson as he struggles to uncover the truth of her past-and her destiny.

Crossroads by Moira Rogers

Coming from a family with psychic gifts, Derek Gabriel was aware of but separate from the dangers of the supernatural world, until a rogue wolf shifter stripped away his humanity. The change he barely survived didn’t drive him insane, but the cultural bias against him as an inferior transformed wolf might. And it doesn’t help that he’s fallen for the daughter of the most powerful wolf in the country.
Almost from the moment she was born, Nicole Peyton started planning her escape from the strict confines of elite shapeshifter society, an old-fashioned world where women are valued only for their bloodlines and bank accounts. In New Orleans she has a bar she loves, friends in decidedly low places, and a smoldering sensual tension with an incredibly attractive and deliciously unsuitable man.
Their forbidden longing erupts into unbridled need—until Nick’s sister burns into town with a strike team hard on her heels. Saving her means Nick has to play by the Conclave’s rules…and give up the man she is growing to love.
Unless Derek does something completely crazy—issue a challenge that could shake the foundations of their world.
Warning: This book contains forbidden lust, strip poker, instinct-driven sex in odd places, devious shapeshifters, and love and loss in a world of paranormal politics and supernatural schemes.

The Rose of Shanasson by Joely Sue Burkhart

Shannari is destined to unite the Green Lands.All she has to do is survive a battle with a barbarian, marry the barbarian, escape the very sexy barbarian and his elite warrior band, kill her former fiance,and make it home in one piece. The men in Shannari's life don't take no for an answer easily, and she's definitely worth fighting for. She doesn't believe in love with good reason--her last lover tried to kill her at a most inopportune time. It's a good thing she has fast reflexes, even when she's distracted. Now Rhaekhar has to convince her that his love is worth fighting for, and keep her alive while doing it.

The Road to Shannasson by Joely Sue Burkhart

The long awaited sequel to Joely Sue Burkhart's first Shanhasson novel, The Rose of Shanhasson, is finally here. The Road to Shanhasson is the second in the "Blood and Shadows" series, and continues the breathtaking story of Shannari, rightful queen of the Green Lands.
Shannari is about to be made the Khul’lanna of the Plains, wife to the Khul, leader of the 9 camps of the Sha’Kae al’Dan people. Unusual in the land of her birth for her skills as a warrior and prized as the rightful ruler of the Green Lands before being stolen away by Rhaekar, the Khul of the Sha'Kae al'Dan, Shannari is as foreign to these people as they are to her.
Shannari has admitted her love for Rhaekar, and, reluctantly, that she also loves Gregar, the Shadowed man who, along with the other eight Blood guards, protects Rhaekar from danger. Rhaekar, far from being angered by her love for another man, is man enough to give her what she wants, and determines that Gregar shall be her co-mate.
Some of her new people welcome Shannari, but others are angry that a hated Outlander is to become their new queen. Controversy and danger swirls around Shannari and the men she loves, threatening to tear apart the camps. Shannari works with Rhaekar, Gregar, and some new allies to bring peace to the camps, but she forgets that Theo, the current ruler of the Green Lands, will stop at nothing to debase and destroy her, and his bloody pact with Lygon, the god of Shadow, will bring Shannari to her knees.

No Rest for the Wicked by Kresley Cole

A soldier weary of life . . .
Centuries ago, Sebastian Wroth was turned into a vampire -- a nightmare in his mind -- against his will. Burdened with hatred and alone for ages, he sees little reason to live. Until an exquisite, fey creature comes to kill him, inadvertently saving him instead.
A Valkyrie assassin dispatched to destroy him . . .
When Kaderin the Cold Hearted lost her two beloved sisters to a vampire attack long ago, a benevolent force deadened her sorrow -- accidentally extinguishing all of her emotions. Yet whenever she encounters Sebastian, her feelings -- particularly lust -- emerge multiplied. For the first time, she's unable to complete a kill.
Become competitors in a legendary hunt.
The prize of the month-long contest is powerful enough to change history, and Kaderin will do anything to win it for her sisters. Wanting only to win her, forever, Sebastian competes as well, taking every opportunity -- as they travel to ancient tombs and through catacombs, seeking relics around the world -- to use her new feelings to seduce her. But when forced to choose between the vampire she's falling for and reuniting her family, how can Kaderin live without either?

Books I pre-ordered:

The Mage in Black by Jaye Wells

Sabina Kane doesn't have the best track record when it comes to family. After all, her own grandmother, leader of the vampire race, wants her dead. So when she arrives in New York to meet her mage relatives, the reunion puts the fun in dysfunctional. Not only is mage culture completely bizarre, but everyone seems to think she's some kind of 'Chosen' who'll unite the dark races. Sabina doesn't care who chose her, she's not into destiny. But the mages aren't Sabina's only problem. In New York's Black Light District, she has run-ins with fighting demons, hostile werewolves and an opportunistic old flame. Sabina thought she'd take a bite out of the Big Apple - but it looks like it wants to bite back.

I can’t wait to read this book, smexy mage AND crazy cat demon! Woot Woot!

Silver Borne by Patricia Briggs

Being a mechanic is hard work. Mercy Thompson, for instance, just spent the last couple of months trying to evade the murderous queen of the local vampire seethe, and now the leader of the werewolf pack - who's maybe-more-than-just-a-friend - has asked for her help. A book of fae secrets has come to light and they're all about to find out how implacable - and dangerous - the fae can be. OK, so maybe her troubles have nothing to do with the job. But she sure could use a holiday ...

I regret ordering this one…nope I don’t mean this book, I mean this edition. The US cover is absolutely gorgeous. *sigh* But it was more than twice as much and huge. So I went with the UK paperback version. I can’t wait to read it! So excited.

Changeless by Gail Carriger

Alexia Tarabotti, now Lady Maccon, awakens in the wee hours of the mid-afternoon to find her husband, who should be decently asleep like any normal werewolf, yelling at the top of his lungs. Then he disappears -- leaving her to deal with a regiment of supernatural soldiers encamped on her doorstep, a plethora of exorcised ghosts, and an angry Queen Victoria.
But Alexia is armed with her trusty parasol, the latest fashions, and an arsenal of biting civility. Even when her investigations take her into thebackwaters of ugly waistcoats, Scotland, she is prepared: upending werewolf pack dynamics as only a soulless can.
She might even find time to track down her wayward husband, if she feels like it.

Well Soulless rocked pretty hard so I had to buy this one too. I hope it will be as good as the first one.

Touched by an Alien by Gini Koch

How can a sexy marketing manager join forces with an Alpha Centauri male in Armani to save the planet-using hairspray, a Mont Blanc pen, and rock n' roll?
Easy...She's Touched by an Alien
Marketing manager Katherine "Kitty" Katt steps into the middle of what appears to be a domestic dispute turned ugly. And it only gets uglier when the man turns into a winged monster, straight out of a grade-Z horror movie, and goes on a killing spree. Though Kitty should probably run away, she springs into action to take the monster down.
In the middle of the chaos a handsome hunk named Jeff Martini appears, sent by the "agency" to perform crowd control. He's Kitty's kind of guy, no matter what planet he's from. And from now on, for Kitty, things are going to be sexy, dangerous, wild, and out of this world.

This cover is amazing and the synopsis looks really interesting! I am really looking forward reading this book. And well Alien Tango will be released in December. I love Dos Santos cover Illustrations. Amazing stuff. He’s the artist behind the Bone Crossed cover (and all the books from Patricia Briggs in fact) and so many great covers. I’ll post about his work soon.

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No you ain’t dreaming I went on what you could call a mini book shopping spree. You were right, having a Reader is NOT helping tame down MY TBR pile lol. Most of the books I’ve bought have been heavily recommended to me, so I’m not worried, I’m pretty sure I’ll love them! (I just have to stop buying more lol)

I’m currently reading the Fever series by K.M.Moning…I finished Bloodfever this week and I’m now reading Faefever. Exciting stuff, of course I can’t stop now. I just LOVE Barrons. Love him to pieces…which means I have a serious problem because I tend to love psychopaths (eg of favorite book Boyfriends : Trent Kalamak, Clayton Danvers, Jude Deveraux, Jericho Barrons…). And yes, I know I’ll hate myself for reading them now when I get to the end of book 4. (Damn it, I hate cliffhangers!) I’ve been warned!

What’s in your Mailbox this week?

Oh by the way my Reader is now called ‘T.C.B’… as in ‘Trent Clayton Barrons’ LOL My perfect book BF. (I’m blaming this on the migraine) *grins* I know… I’m crazy. I should just be happy I restricted myself to 3 names LOL, It could have been worse ;)

Here Comes the Review: Addicted by Charlotte Featherstone

2010-03-22T10:34:00.001-07:00

(This was originally published on Book Lovers Inc)

Addicted by Charlotte Featherstone

Format Read: Print
Number of Pages: 443 pages
Release Date: February 1st 2009
Publisher: Spice
Formats Available: Paperback, E-book
Purchasing Info: Goodreads , Author’s Website, Book Depository

Book Synopsis:

Friends since childhood, Anais Darnby and Lindsay Markham have long harbored a secret passion for one another. When they finally confess their love, their future together seems assured, sealed with their searing embrace.

But when a debauched Lindsay is seduced by a scheming socialite, a devastated Anais seeks refuge in another man's bed while Lindsay retreats to the exotic East. There, he is seduced again—this time by the alluring red smoke and sinister beauty of opium.

Back home, Lindsay's addiction is fed by the vogue for all things Oriental—especially its sensual pleasures—in fashionable London society. In his lucid moments, Lindsay still lusts after Anais, who can neither allow him near nor forget his smoldering touch. Tortured by two obsessions—opium and Anais—Lindsay must ultimately decide which is the one he truly cannot live without.

My thoughts:

I fell in love with the cover months ago when I first saw it on a few blogs. Then I read amazing reviews of this book, and knew I had to read this book. I am not disappointed I did but I’m afraid I won’t make justice to how beautiful this book is.

I think I have to explain a little something about myself so that you understand my view of this book. I’m the HEA Book Lover…and not for any reason, because I NEED Happy endings in my books. I get distressed by too depressing book (panic attacks and all that), this is one of the reasons why I read reviews before reading a book…to make certain it has a HEA. And when there’s no review I do something many other readers do I read the last page of the book to see if it ends well (Yes you know who you are!). I know, it’s silly but I have to be sure the book won’t make me sick. Anyway I did exactly that with Addicted, I read the last page of the epilogue not even the whole epilogue just the last page…and I jumped to conclusions about the story. *headdesk* So I read the book thinking that I knew how it was going to end, and Oh boy, how I was wrong ! lol I’ve learned my lesson I can tell you (But I’m pretty sure it’ll happen again).

Let’s start from the beginning. At first I wasn’t sure I’d like this book, why? because I started reading it and I was shocked at how different it was from all the historical romances I’m used to read. I’m not saying this novel is not historically accurate, but I was used to reading Julia Quinn or Lisa Kleypas where a girl would be mortified at the idea of being ‘ruined’…and here the heroine is very ‘open' with her sexuality she knows quite a lot for such a young Lady of good family and is often left un-chaperoned with the hero many times. But after a few chapters I realized I was reading it all wrong, I was reading the book as an Historical Romance while in fact it is an Historical Erotica!! When I realized my error I started enjoying it more and more…and then I just couldn’t stop reading it!

The story is very intense, I loved the Hero, Lindsay. He is torn between the 2 loves of his life…Anais and Opium. His addiction to Opium is the result of a heartbreak. Lindsay has been smoking/eating Opium since College but he thought he was the master of it but when things get terribly wrong with the love of his life he seeks refuge in Opium and the balance is reversed…now Lindsay NEEDS opium, he is addicted. I was worried the Opium addiction would get too sordid but it wasn’t, we get to understand why he sought oblivion and peace in drug. This matter was handled very well, I’m usually not very understanding when it comes to drug addiction but in this book you feel for the hero and understand his choices.

The other addiction of Lindsay is Anais, she is the love of his life and there’s no doubt in his mind that he will be with her for the rest of his life. Even after ‘the Event’ (See, no spoilers! lol) he seeks her in every way he can…even if it’s only through opium. I wasn’t happy about her choices but I could understand them, she was heartbroken and scared and she had to go through hard times. I was often frustrated with her, but near the end there is a letter addressed to Lindsay relating what she went through and I was near crying. It was heart wrenching to know she had to make choices that would forever change her and Lindsay’s life. I was crying by the time she realized she could never go back. The scene in the Church was very emotional. I can’t possibly say more without revealing spoilers (It’s silly but I have tears in my eyes only thinking about it, let’s hope I don’t have to re-read this review too many times lol).

There is a HEA in the end. But the story is so intense and the consequences of the main characters’ actions are so heart wrenching that it left a bittersweet taste in my mouth. It’s not what I’d call a conventional HEA. Don’t get me wrong I loved this book and they do get their happy ending, It’s only because I jumped to the wrong conclusions when I peaked at that last page and I wanted to bang my head on the wall for being so stupid *wink* (Maybe I’ll learn my lesson now).

I had a little Twitter Chat with a few bloggers that have read Addicted and/Or Sinful (the next book coming out in May) and I realized I’m not the only one that wasn’t ready for the depths of this story, It deals with dark subjects but it was beautifully done. I loved reading Addicted and I had a hard time closing the book, I fell in love with the characters and I’m happy to know that we’ll see more of Anais and Lindsay in Sinful. This book won’t leave you indifferent, you will either love it or hate it. I give this book 4 and a half Bookies and I can’t recommend it enough. I am really looking forward to reading Sinful.

I finished reading Addicted yesterday 2 days ago and it’s still haunting me, such a beautiful book.

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I have started reading Sinful and I’m hoping it will be as good as Addicted.

Happy Sam Day!

2010-03-17T06:16:00.001-07:00

I watched Supernatural when it first aired but only saw the first season, last month I decided I should get to watch all the seasons of this great show (I’m still on season 1 btw) . We all know that Dean is Hot and Funny and he already got his own Day, so now it’s time to celebrate the awesomeness that is Sam!!

Today is Sam Day

I love how cute Sam is. Look at that smile!!!

But cute doesn’t mean he’s not Hot too! *drools* Look at that nipple! Nom nom nom Ok don’t look, he’s all mine anyway…

Who doesn’t like a man that gets dirty for you? (Makes me want to slash my tires lol)

I love my men intelligent, funny and HOT. Sam’s all that, what’s not to love?

Happy Sam Day Everyone!

Mom, Dad, I’d like you to meet my new BF…huh Reader!

2010-03-13T07:33:00.001-08:00

Last week I did it…I bought a Reader! I received it on Wednesday and I can’t stop petting it ever since. I’m very excited to present you my new Sony Reader Touch Edition PRS600 Special Red Leather case Edition…yeah that’s quite a mouthful to talk about a Reader. Soooo, I’m thinking I should Name that Baby! I know it’s silly but I AM silly *grins*. I have a couple of ideas but I’m still unsure about it (Right Now ‘Trent’ is winning lol). I LOVE it to pieces! Anyway I now present you my new Toy:

Taaaaaadaaaaaaaaaaaaaa!!! The Red one that is… The black thingy wrapped around my Reader is called Romeo *winks* (Mommy Loves you sweetie…just stay AWAY from mommy’s slippers okay?! Good boy!)

I’m aware that the pictures are a bit blurry, I can’t find my camera so I used my IPhone and It’s not so great for taking pictures. Anyway, so this is the Special Edition coming with the Red leather case with flowers, it’s gorgeous, the picture is not doing it any justice. And it’s so soft in my hands I can’t stop petting it. The case is perfect to read, It feels like you have a book in your hand rather than a Reader.

There’s a little bit of glaring when there’s a light, but it’s not enough to bother me. I was worried It would hurt my eyes but It’s not! It’s exactly like reading a book.

I won this little Light at Book Reader Time and It’s perfect to clip on my Reader! (The glaring looks worse on the picture that It is in reality). So I really love this Reader, until last month I didn’t think I would enjoy reading eBooks. But it’s so perfect!! But I realized that It won’t help my TBR list…lol It’s even worse. I already bought 4 eBooks in 4 days. I bought Devils and Tigers by Sean Kennedy, Dear Sir, I’m Yours by Joely Sue Burkhart, Crux and Crossroads by Moira Rogers. The Arcana series I bought because I had a 25% Off coupon that was about to expire (<=== Oh the convenient excuse!lol).

Do you guys know great eBook websites? What about Europeans? I’m asking because when I buy Ebooks on a US website, I got additional fees on my bank account, so if I could avoid that, that would be perfect. Also Janna showed me that I can read Netgalley ARCs on my Reader which is PERFECT! (Thank you Janna!!!) I thought I would have to read them on my laptop (Which is not a fun prospect).

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In My Mailbox

This week I received a signed copy of Her Vampire Husband by Michele Hauf !!! *bouncing*

An arranged marriage between a werewolf and a vampire.
There will be blood.
She may resist his bite, but she can't resist his charms...
Werewolf princess Blu Masterson won't allow her seductive vampire husband to consummate their marriage with his bite, marking her forever. Alone in a secluded estate with her sworn enemy, Blu curses the marriage arranged to bring their rival nations together, especially since Creed Saint-Pierre calls out to her most feral desires.
When Blu uncovers her pack's secret plot to destroy the vampire nation—and Creed—she is forced to confront her growing feelings for her sexy undead husband. Will she choose the only life she's ever known or accept his vampire bite?

Yep that’s all I got In My Mailbox…but since I got eBooks it adds up to my TBR-pile and TBR-e-pile lol

Have a great weekend!!

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Mom, Dad, I’d like you to meet my new BF…huh Reader!

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