Review: Dragon Bound (Elder Races #1) by Thea Harrison

"Half-human and half-wyr, Pia Giovanni spent her life keeping a low profile among the wyrkind and avoiding the continuing conflict between them and their dark Fae enemies. But after being blackmailed into stealing a coin from the hoard of a dragon, Pia finds herself targeted by one of the most powerful - and passionate - of the Elder races.

As the most feared and respected of the Wyrkind, Dragos Cuelebre cannot believe someone had the audacity to steal from him, much less succeed. And when he catches the thief, Dragos spares her life, claiming her as his own to further explore the desire they've ignited in each other.

Pia knows she must repay Dragos for her trespass, but refuses to become his slave - although she cannot deny wanting him, body and soul .."

Paperback, 312 pages

Published May 3rd 2011 by Berkley

more details...

ISBN 0425241505 (ISBN13: 9780425241509)

Everyone kept saying you have to read this, you must read this.Of course I am like what is so special about this book? Its just another paranormal romance. But OMG I was wrong. When I started this book I was truly captured from the maybe the third page all the way to the end. This has to be one of my favorite books of the year, hell maybe even ever! I was asked if I could save a few books from a fire and this wasn't on the list but it sure is now. This book is will not only capture your attention but hold it like no other will.

Pia has spent her whole life hiding and keeping a low profile from the Wyrkind and their conflicts. Well, that was until she was blackmailed into stealing something from the hoard of a dragon. Finding herself targeted by one of the most powerful of the Elder Races. He is the most feared and respected, Dragos can not believe someone has actually stolen from him and succeed in even doing so. Now the hunt begins. 

Dragos is not only hotter then hot but possessive. But this hot alpha male can also be sensitive when needed, but that's still in the learning process. Pia is not only  half human but half wyr who is looking for love and acceptance in her life. Now she on the journey of her life and is involved with the Wyrkind. Not only is Pia frustrated, but Dragos wants answers that only Pia can help with and since now she is in danger he wants to be the one their for her and to protect her. He wants her his.
 

The plot is not only the most exciting I have read in a long time but keeps you entertained until the very end. The first scene takes place in New York City but as the story progresses the scenery begins to change. You cant help but fall in into each one with wonder beyond belief. The way Thea Harrison explains every little detail you can see it as if it were a movie you are watching. I honestly just couldn't get enough. Even the romance scenes will have you swooning over and over. The sex is scenes will have you shivering and panting for more.

Every single one of the characters were lovable in their own way. Pia is able to balance and challenge Dragos like no other. I loved that. The way their relationship ends up playing out is out is super funny. He tries to dominate her through the whole story but Pia makes it known that she is not his property every chance she gets. The secondary characters are just has fun and exciting as the two main ones. I am dying to read about each and every single one of them. I love Graydon. The friendship that he forms with Pia was to die for. They even have these little nicknames for each other. You will also meet Constantine, Rune, Bayne, Tiago, and Tricks.

This paranormal is full of fae, witches, goblins, elves, and so many magical events that will keep you on your toes and turning the pages faster and faster. This is a sexy, action packed, magical, passionate story that I couldn't put down even if my life depended on it. After the first read I was left speechless. I didn't even know what to say. So many surprises that will have you more than tongue tied. After the first read I automatically wanted to pick it back up and re-read it. I loved how Harrison created the story. I fell more then in love with it. It was captivating, beautiful, and intriguing. This paranormal world  that I got to explore was strong and just overall amazing. A for sure a must read!!!! I really did love everything about this book and I am so looking forward to the second book in the series, Storm's Heart, Which is set to release August 2, 2011. August truly can not come fast enough. Storm's Heart will follow Tricks. This is an absolute must read for any romance or paranormal fan. With all the action and romance you will not be disappointed because I know I wasn't. Happy Reading!!!

Guest Post & Giveaway with Teresa D'Amario

Please give a warm welcome to Teresa D' Amario

 

 

Hi Danielle, and thanks so much for having me at your most awesome blog!

 

Everyone knows I'm the worlds worst blogger, but today is a special day for me.  It's the finals of American Idol!  wooot!  Ok, why is that special?  Just cuz I like it is all.  I think this year is kind of special because it shows that the American people don't always want the "bad boy" or "girl" to win, because both in the finals are good kids.  Both have good voices, and both care about others.  They are a bit young, but hey, they're kids. 

 

So anyway, I was talking with someone on facebook and realized how much like authors these kids are.  They have to learn the hard way how to handle the rejection in their chosen field, and unlike us, theirs is quite public.  Me, if I get rejected, I run a nice hot bubble bath and hide amid the suds.  They get cameras shoved into their faces,and mics, and their lives will never be the same.

 

But there's one thing the kids on American Idol have probably NEVER had to deal with that authors have to deal with.  They never had to choose between vinyl and digital.  Or for books, paper and digital.  For those two youngsters, since they were old enough to care, there's always been an ipod or an mp3 player.  They had the choice of buying their music on cd or on digital computer files. 

 

They are the first to be totally digital with music.  In my parent's day there were vinyl records, and that was all.  Then in the late 60's came reel to reel tape and vinyl.  And then in the 70's came cassette tapes and vinyl. In the 80's came cd's and vinyl.  And lastly, in the 90's came the mp3's and vinyl.  Interestingly one of those choices has always remained the same.  Vinyl.  Sure, it's a more rare choice, but the ability to buy records still exists.  DJ's use them all the time.  Don't ask me the price, because I haven't bought one since the 80's.  It's kind of nice, though, to know the old faithful that's been around for about 90 years.

 

Authors and readers, though, are in the burgeoning new society and our life is changing just like the music industry.  We now have something more than just paper.  In the old days most books were hard cover and they looked amazing on our bookshelves.  I still have some I've collected from back in the 30's and 40's.  The oldest book I have was published in 1890.  I keep it in the same condition I acquired it in.  Then, through the years came the paperbacks.  I remember as a child reading every paperback my grandmother kept in the house.

 

And now, I have a kindle, and I read nothing but ebooks.  I think, in the time I've had my kindle, the only print books I've purchased were ones that I use for research.  Like the vinyl of today, for me print books have a place.  They will have a place for many years to come.  There will always be the hardcore reader who refuses to move into anything other than print.  That's okay.  Why?  Because it's their choice. And those books have their place.  My office is filled with two bookshelves layered three deep with novels and research books.  My desk is filled with my special keepers, and in my hallway are more reference books and an old encyclopedia set which is probably worth nothing.

 

And yet, I read ebooks.  I write ebooks, and as such I support both!  For me, the world of ebooks opens up a whole new world of books I wouldn't have had the chance to read otherwise.  It opens up a speed in which I love being accustomed too.  I don't have to rush to the book store when my desired book is released so I can get it on release date.  Instead, I hang around till 3 in the morning on the day of release, waiting for amazon to let it go. Or, waiting for their different epublishers to release it. 

 

Even though the music world has been turned on it's ear in the last 20 years, the old, trusted vinyl still exists.  And like that, I believe the print book will always be around, for those of us who love them.  For those of us who collect them.  And then, there's the awesome ebook, for those of us who have no patience, and love the convenience of speed.

 

So, here's the ultimate question - Do you believe, like I do, that the print book will always remain? or do you believe, like others, think if the continuation of the ebook market will kill the print book? 

 

One person who leaves their opinion will receive a copy of one of my books.  Which they receive will be based entirely upon the comment they leave. After all, both print and ebooks both have their place.

 

Keep it nice and friendly, please!

 

Blurb for Tigress by the tail:

 

Lance is a Wizard. He’s not a great wizard, but he’s all right. Descended from a long line of wizards, his brothers taunt him for being slow to learn. And as the youngest, it’s his due course to accept such teasing. Life is good, and normal. For a wizard that is.

Cassie is a Shifter. A tigress to be exact. Raised by her father after her mother’s death she’s as well adjusted as any shifter can be, and still live in the human world, hiding who and what she is.

Bliss comes to a screeching halt the night Satanist kidnap Cassie and her best friend to use as sacrifices to bring forth their Dark Lord. When Cassie literally collides into Lance, she begs him to help them escape their captors, despite the dangers. The couple work together to save the life of Cassie’s friend, only to discover a shocking passion driving them closer together at a time when both should be devastated. But when Lance overhears Cassie’s father threaten his life, he heads for the hills. Cassie follows, determined to clear up the confusion. But evil is still afoot and Cassie is taken by a secret government organization dedicated to the eradication of all things magick. Is Lance willing to put his life on the line for a woman he believes is out to kill him? Especially when he realizes the organization that’s taken her, is the one he works for?

 

Thank you Teresa for stopping by. I really Appreciate it and I hope to have you back soon. 

Skyrockets In Flight Blog Hop Delight .....

Skyrockets In Flight Blog Hop Delight

July 4th - 10th 

                                             Hosted By:

                                   Bells of HangingWithBells

        

                                                  &  

  

                            Tigris of TigrisEden's Garden of Books

         

                                                   &

                             Danielle of Lush Book Reviews

    

                                                 &

                            JoJo of JoJo's Book Corner

    

What - Skyrockets In Flight Blog Hop Delight

When - 12:01 AM July 4th until 11:59 PM July 10th

Where - All around the blogging world!

How this will work:

~Each blog participating is hosting a giveaway of their own. Their is no minimum to participate , and your giveaway can be anything you would like. Books, bookmarks , swag, coffees, teas, hand made crafts, anything you would like.

~All blogs participating in the Skyrockets In Flight Blog Hop Delight Giveaways will be linked up through the linky below. Then you can just copy the code from the below linky and add it to your giveaway post. All blogs will be linked together from this automatically on each blog for the Skyrockets In Flight Blog Hop Delight giveaways.

~Please keep the steps to enter your giveaway as simple as possible. The long lists of many different things followers can do to earn extra entries tends to scare people off.

~Please help spread the word. Feel free to copy this post, or write a post of your own. The more blogs participating the better! It will mean more visitors and new followers for your blog. We have created two Skyrockets In Flight Blog Hop Delight buttons and have added it below for you to paste it everywhere!

~Giveaways can be open to ship anywhere you would like

~If you have any Questions please email lushbookreviews AT yahoo DOT com

~Please create your Skyrockets In Flight Blog Hop Delight Giveaway post before the giveaway starts. Set it to post at 12:01 AM on Monday July 4th.

Skyrockets In Flight Blog Hop Delight Sign Up To sign up. Please add your name and where you are willing to ship to the linky below

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Don't forget to grab one of the Skyrockets In Flight Blog Hop Delight Giveaway buttons:

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Q & A with Lynsay Sands & Giveaway!!

Today I want to welcome one of my favorite authors of all time. Not only has she brought me a new world to get lost into, but they keep coming and I just can’t get enough. Please give a warm welcome to New York Times Best Selling Author Lynsay Sands.

I know you have tons of books out and I am trying to make it through your back list, but out of curiosity how long have you been writing?

I’ve been writing since I learned to string sentences together to make a sentence. However, I’ve only been published since 1997.

Wow. That is great! I love your Argeneau series! It’s really to die for. How did you come up with the wonderful world that you have created?

It was a fluke.  Two writer friends and I were chatting on MSN, one of them was Christine Feehan who writes the Dark series, the other, Melanie Jackson, didn't write vamps, but suggested the three of us should write an anthology together for Halloween. CF could do a dark story, I could do humorous and Melanie would do her own version. I laughed and said if we did that you know my vamp would have to faint at the sight of blood or something. I threw out a couple more ideas we laughed over (I was known for humorous historicals at the time) and then we changed the subject. We never did the anthology but the ideas stuck with me and I finally had to write them down. The minute my editor heard I was writing it, he asked to see it and then contracted for the first three books.  It was easy as that.

That seems like fate, but Up to date what is your favorite book you have written and why?

Christian Notte’s story, which is coming out December 27^th, 2011.  Oh, I had such a good time writing his story.  I didn’t want it to end and actually went about 50,000 words over the allowed word count and then had to shrink it down.

I think part of the reason I enjoyed it so much is because I was able to bring in a whole new set of characters and bring back a couple of older, much loved ones that worked so well together. But the main reason is I just fell in love with Christian. He’s a doll. A hottie. And the chemistry between he and Caro was great. Plus, I put the poor guy in some lovely pickles. Seriously, if he was a real person, he’d probably hate me for what I did to him, lol. But I got him out of the pickles in the end too so maybe he’d forgive me… He might not forgive his relatives so easily for their “help” in “hooking him up” with Caro.

OMG!! I cant wait to read Christian!! You have me super excited now! He has interested me since he first arrived!!

Your upcoming release is The Reluctant Vampire. What can we expect from Harper and Drina?

Hmm… Well see, Harper lost his lifemate, Jenny, during her turn and has been pretty depressed. He blamed himself for her death and has remained in Port Henry to be around his newfound friends (Elvi, Vincent, Mabel, D.J., etc.), who have become like family to him. Then Drina Argenis (aka Argeneau) arrived to look after Stephanie. Sounds pretty depressing so far, huh? But trust me it isn’t. It just couldn’t be with Stephanie McGill there playing cupid to the pair. Good Lord! She shocked even me a time or two with her antics. And Harper…well, the poor man is just at a loss against the teenager. It was lot’s of fun!  <WG>

I totally want to be paired with one of these hot Immortals. How do you decide what male/female end up together?

Hmm… actually my characters are the ones that decide who ends up with whom.  If they don’t come forward when I’m writing a story then they don’t get written.  Unfortunately, if I try to force a couple together, they usually don’t work very well together and I end up having to start a fresh story.

Now I have to ask this. I love Bricker! Will he make an appearance in the new book ? And when will he have his book?

Justin will eventually get his story but not quite yet.  You will have to wait for his but in the meantime he will be the comic relief. Besides he’s pretty young yet and still enjoying life and all the liberties that immortality has brought him.  He can handle a little wait. 

Justin will be appearing in Teddy Brunswick’s novella called  “The Bite Before Christmas” in his usually humorously helpful role but then he’ll be taking a little hiatus until he reappears in Jeanne Louise’s story coming out next year.  

O_o Jean Louise? I am really excited to see how her story plays out. Okay I will try and wait for the man of my dreams but in the mean time... Are you working on any upcoming series that we will have to look forward to?

I just finished the final book (Lisa Madison’s book) in the Madison Sisters’ series, which is coming out in April, 2012.  Other than that I have no immediate plans to write anything as I am due for a vacation, which will hopefully be soon and in Italy! 


I have to say so far I love the Madison Sisters and Lisa is on my list to read. I can't wait to read her side of events!

Now my question for you and your readers… Any ideas on good places to visit or eat when I go to Italy?  I’m all ears! 

With the best answer I will be giving away her newest release The Reluctant Vampire. Help Lynsay out and give her some wonderful ideas on Italy. In meantime I want to Thank Lynsay Sands for taking the time to speak to me and get the scoop on your upcoming releases. I hope you will stop by again soon and have a wonderful trip in Italy : ) 

Review: Hush (Lodestone Trilogy #1) by Cherry Adair

 Post was Originally posted on hangingwithbells

"A reckless adventure in a deadly paradise.
Thrill seekers Zakary and Gideon Stark travel the globe in search of extreme adventure, but a trip to Venezuela to jump off the world’s highest falls catapults them into a perilous game of life or death—where they don’t know the rules.
A one-night stand that will change his life forever.
Kidnapped with a woman Zak knows nothing about, the brothers are held prisoner deep in the jungle. A risky, deathdefying escape separates them and nearly claims Zak’s life . . . until his recovery reveals a baffling new sixth sense.
An unexpected diversion with lethal consequences.
Now, to find his missing brother, Zak and the mysterious Acadia Gray will have to out-smart, out-gun, and out-maneuver not just the brutal kidnappers but also a new player who joins the adrenaline game: a ruthless opponent who wants the Stark brothers dead—at any cost."
This just so happens to be the first book for me by Cherry Adair. I was told I had to read her so when I was asked to do this review I was super excited! And I can honestly say I will be reading more Adair in the near future.


Hush tends to start off when Zak and Acadia are Kidnapped after having a one night stand. Now that I couldn't believe, but Cherry made it all work. Anyhoo, Zak is action packed hero and Acadia is a woman who wants no adventure in her life, but after winning the lottery she takes a tiny vacation with some of her girls. Now Zak and her have to trust in each other to get themselves out of this mess with there lives still intact.

Acadia tended to be a tad on the annoying side but there were some parts I would she had a good sense of humor so it made her bearable. I thought it was amusing that she was prepared for this little trip through Venezuela. For instance she has this suit she wears and so many little pockets. In the those little pockets is everything and I do mean everything. I was a big fan of  the banter between Zak and Acadia. Zak's had an attitude and knew how to use it but made it all the more fun. Although, Acadia was scared, I liked her not backing down attitude all the most. This woman wasn't going to let these men get the best of her or nor was she going to stand a side and them them do all the work. Zak is used to getting himself out of tough situations, but even with this one he will need a little help from his sexy counter part. 
 

Cherry Adair did an excellent job of describing the scenery (hell makes me what to go there). The action was no stop so it felt as if you were just right there along with them. The plot moved at a steady pace that I loved. Before I knew it the story was finished and I for sure wanted more. The book was nothing but action and suspense. The one thing I had a problem with was they kept saying they smelt wonderful while everyone else stank. Now lets be serious if your stuck in the jungle for days without a shower and you are sweating...let me be honest you will not smell so wonderful.

This is an action packed romantic suspense you will enjoy HUSH. Tons of questions are brought up and some are even answered. It for sure will keep you guessing. Even I was surprised who the bad guy was. All I kept saying to myself is "WOW, never would have thought." If you want an exciting and thrilling ride get lost in this deadly paradise.

Guest Post & Giveaway with Amy Redwood

Hello Everyone!
I’m Amy Redwood and I’d like to thank Danielle for having me around today to celebrate my new release from Ellora’s Cave – an erotic contemporary romance with paranormal elements.


Jillian has a five-octave voice, a singing gig at a diamond exhibition in Hong Kong and a nonexistent sex life. During the flight to Hong Kong, she meets an electrifyingly sexy stranger. She’s never experienced sexual energy so intense. She falls deeply into a charged affair with many firsts—first orgasm, first-time sex in a bathroom stall, first time throwing all caution to the wind. He’s the best lover she’s ever had—and unbeknownst to Jillian, he’s also the most deadly.
Parker can control and harness electricity. It makes him a talented thief. Until he meets Jillian. His ability goes haywire and sparks are flying, literally. Seducing her out of her clothes while trying not to kill her is a challenge he’s willing to take. Jolt by sensual jolt, he breaks through her sexual inhibitions. Lust, not love, is his goal. He plans to steal diamonds, not her heart.

But with sex so powerfully addicting, even the best-laid plans can change.

You can read the first chapter at my website.

Writers are supposed to write what they know, right?
Sextricity is set in Hong Kong, and I was lucky enough to have lived a year in this amazing city—no research was required to make the setting come alive.

However, my singing voice is best suited to give small children nightmares. And I’ve never met a man who could control electrical energy—some research was required. Did you know that everything we do is controlled and enabled by electrical signals running through our bodies? Without electricity, you wouldn't be reading this blog right now, because your brain wouldn't work. And…wait a second, I just noticed I’m pimping an erotic romance using science facts. Will stop being a geek now, sorry.

So, my question to you, dear blog readers, for the chance to win a copy of Sextricity, what city or place in the world you’d like to visit someday?

Amy will be picking her own winner by herself so good luck!!!

Review & Giveaway : Going Cowboy Crazy & Make Mine a Bad Boy By Katie Lane

"DOUBLE TROUBLEFaith Aldridge wants answers. Bramble, Texas is the only place she can find them . . . as well as Hope, the identical twin sister she never knew she had. But the townsfolk reckon that shy city-girl Faith is really her long-lost sister Hope, back in Bramble at last. And they're fixin' to do whatever it takes to heat things up between her and Hope's long-time flame, Slate Calhoun. If that means rustling her car, spreading rumors like wildfire, and reining in some explosive secrets, well, there's no way like the Lone Star way . . .
But Slate's no fool. The woman in his truck may look like Hope, yet the way she feels in his arms is altogether new. He's determined to keep this twin in his bed and out of his heart. Trouble is, the real Hope is headed home, and she's got her own designs on Slate. If Faith wants to avoid heartbreak, she'll have to show a certain ruggedly handsome cowboy that this crazy-impossible love is worth fighting for."

Mass Market Paperback, 400 pages

Published May 1st 2011 by Grand Central Publishing

more details...

ISBN

0446582786 (ISBN13: 9780446582780)

primary language

English

original title

Going Cowboy Crazy

series

Deep in the Heart of Texas #1

My Review:

At first I wasn't sure what to think of this book. What came to me some so light hearted fun. I really enjoyed it even thought I didn't think I would. A cute story that not only takes you on a fun ride but an emotional one as well. In this you meet Faith and Slate. Faith heads to Texas to find her twin sister Hope that she never met. *wow*  But she ends up meeting the sexy cowboy, Slate. In the beginning Faith is shy and unsure on what to think of not only on Slate but the rest of the townspeople. By the end of the story she is grown to the woman she was looking to be. Now can she claim Slate for herself or is the evil twin back for good?

This book is of sure a one of a kind. Although I wasn't a fan of Holly and I thought of her as a total bitch, I did in fact love all the other characters. They were so friendly and even more than likable. I enjoy this story because Lane left me with unfinished questions and what it would have been. A woman who thinks not to be wanted is suddenly the most wanted in there town.

The plot was off the top, L.A. girl heading to a small town in Texas for answers about not only her sister but her family. It was filled with not only fun but so many emotions. It was also big on family. The growth of the characters and the plot were very well done and I am looking forward to reading more from Lane. 

Getting in the book was never a issue and  the anticipation was killing me. Very well drawn out but never boring. It is just enough to keep you on edge for what is about to come and boy oh boy does it come.

"THERE'S A NEW BRIDE IN TOWN!
Hope Scroggs is finally ready to get hitched. After years of sowing her wild oats, the former head cheerleader and homecoming queen has returned to Bramble, Texas, to marry her high school flame. But her perfect wedding plans are stomped to smithereens when her adoring cowboy two-steps down the aisle with someone else. Now Hope is stuck with the one man from her past she can't shake: Colt Lomax, an irresistible bad boy whose sultry kisses are hotter than the Panhandle in August . . .
Colt lives for freedom and the open road; he never gets attached, never looks back. Still, he can't forget the night of passion he once shared with Bramble's sweetheart—a night he wouldn't mind repeating. So, he piles on the Texas charm to tease the feisty beauty back into his bed, while she tries her darnedest to resist. But something unexpected is about to tie their fates together . . . and oh, baby, will it ever!"

Mass Market Paperback, 400 pages

Expected publication: June 1st 2011 by Forever

more details...

ISBN

0446582794 (ISBN13: 9780446582797)

primary language

English

original title

Make Mine a Bad Boy

series

Deep in the Heart of Texas #2

My Review:

Now I didn't enjoy this book as much as the first.Like I said in my first review I wasnt a big fan of Hope but I loved Colt. Her attitude bothered me and I couldn’t see why people let her get away with things the way they do because I really wanted to slap her off the face off the earth.  I did grow to like Hope towards the end of the book. 

I absolutely loved Colt!! Being the town bad boy wasn't easy but he always made it through it. I gave him a lot of correct. The whole bad boy thing just stuck close to home. I mean who doesn't like a bad boy?  Again in this book there were a lot of emotional moments and not just between the main couple but the families and friends of the townspeople. I also loved how close knit they all tended to be and always looking out for each other. 

Its so hard not to give anything away but boy was I surprised on how things all came together and worked out. I am also hoping that series will continue. I was left with some answer questions which only makes me feel that this Texas town has more stories to be told. 

Katie Lane is a truly a breath of fresh air, Her stories are unique and wonderfully written. I just cant wait to read more by her in the future even if it has nothing to do with these stories that she has written. So way to go Lane you have me hooked and I can only hope you will have everyone else hooked as well. Keep up the awesome work. And believe me after reading these books if you never wanted a cowboy , you will for sure now *winks*

Going Cowboy Crazy & Make Mine a Bad Boy

 ~~~GIVEAWAY~~~

Thanks to the wonderful folks at Grand Central Publishing, I am able to giveaway 2 copies of both Going Cowboy Crazy & Make Mine a Bad Boy to 3 lucky people who comment! Follow the instructions below to enter:

• Giveaway is open ONLY to commenters  in the U.S. and Canada.
• When you leave a comment be sure to include a email 
• No P.O. Boxes please.

Please include email in comment if you want to enter giveaway. Giveaway will end on 5/26/11 at 12 pm. Winner will contacted via email and their name posted on the blog the same day. Please remember your copy will be sent out by Grand Central Publishing so please give the book ample time to get there.

Good Luck!!!!

**winners will be picked by Random.org**

 

 

 

Review & Giveaway : Ripe for Pleasure by Isobel Carr

Mass Market Paperback, 295 pages

Published May 1st 2011 by Forever (first published April 13th 2011)

more details...

ISBN

0446572756 (ISBN13: 9780446572750)

Received Book from publisher for review.

"Second in line, first in love
A secret society of younger sons, sworn to aid and abet each other, no matter the scandal or cost.... Their fathers and brothers may rule the world, but they run it . . . and when it comes to passion, they refuse to accept second best.

Searching for hidden treasure,
finding forbidden fantasy.
London's most sensual former courtesan, Viola Whedon, is incapable of being seduced-she does the seducing. Until she meets Leonidas Vaughn. Her salacious memoirs have made her the target of half the lords in England, and Vaughn is the only man she can turn to. When he promises to protect her-and to make her beg for his touch-the alluring beauty finds both offers impossible to refuse.

Leonidas Vaughn secretly believes Viola possesses a fortune given to his family by the King of France. So the strong and sexy Vaughn charms his way into Viola's life . . . and her bed. But when their arrangement is consummated, he'll experience pleasure far beyond his wildest fantasies-and realize his heart may need the most protection of all."

Review:

I haven't been a big person on reading Historical Romances but Rips for Pleasure was honestly one of my favorites. This book was fun and different for me. It was hard to find a book that gave me a breath of fresh air. I was caught up after the mixed matched eyes. *swoon* I totally have a thing for that. I was excited to read this book.  I loved the fact that this was described as an erotic historical romance only made me want to read it more and more.

Viola has spent her whole life in danger and that might have to do with the fact that she is caught up writing some memoirs. Lord Leonidas (Leo) approaches Viola, offering to be her protector in exchange for her services. Little does Viola know, Leo's motives are not altogether the hero he is pretrating to be. 

Ripe for Pleasure started off with promising plot that kept you very involved and invested. Viola has lived her life without apologies which I loved about her.  Her overall goal was to make some money from her books so that she could live out her life not needing anyone. When Leo comes into play, she is more than grateful for his help and is more than willing to be his lover until her threat is finally gone. Although she wasn't really expecting to find him so alluring and attracting.

After a while I began to have a crush on Leo, Although he had a secret he was hiding there was just something about him I couldn't get enough of. It took some time to build up to the sex scenes but I thought they were going to way hotter than they were.  I was really disappointed considering this is an erotic romance. The details just didn't do it for me. I wanted more details on the sex scenes. Isn't that the point of it being erotic? Or maybe that's just me.

Ripe for Pleasure was a good book for me but I am hoping as the series goes on the books will get better. I was unable to enjoy the story as much as I thought I would. I also thought it has way too much background of the history but I understand most books are like that in a series. The author provides a lot of historical facts  which I also loved only because it made me feel as if I was living in this period. Overall the love between Leo and Viola was there and I enjoyed that the most. 

This book will ignite fire that will have you living in the excitement of the 1700s. Jealously, scandal, and  gossip is a must read for all fans of Isobel Carr's. I am so looking forward to the next book of Isobel's. I hope you enjoy!

                             ~~~GIVEAWAY~~~

Thanks to the wonderful folks at Grand Central Publishing, I am able to giveaway 3 copies of  Ripe for Pleasure to 3 lucky Followers! Follow the instructions below to enter:

* Leave a comment with your email address so I will be able to contact you if you should win

* Giveaway is open ONLY to followers in the U.S. and Canada.

* No P.O. Boxes please.

Please include email in comment if you want to enter giveaway. Giveaway will end on 5/25/11 at 12 pm. Winner will contacted via email and their name posted on the blog the same day. Please remember your copy will be sent out by Grand Central Publishing so please give the book ample time to get there. Winners will be chosen by Random.org

Good Luck!!!!!

Guest Post & GIveaway with Gabi Stevens

Today I want to welcome Author Gabi Stevens *waves* Hi Gabi !!! Thank You so much for stopping by to tell everyone about  your escapes and about your novel As You Wish.

More than anything, I read for escape, sweeping adventure, and an emotionally satisfying ending. That usually means a happy ending. I like it when the good guys win, the bad guys get what they deserve, and I can cheer at the action. Call me shallow, but I don’t want to leave despairing at the human condition, the futility of life, or lost in the mire of unanswerable questions. Reality entertains us (ha!) with enough surprises to depress the best of us; so reading about depressing things is the last thing I want to do. Wait, I take it back. Don’t call me shallow. Call me optimistic.

In my novel, AS YOU WISH, Regina Scott has overcome a childhood of not belonging. The only non-magical being in a family of Arcani, she has made a success of her life and helped her friends along the way. When she discovers she’s next in line to be a fairy godmother, her world changes. Suddenly she has to deal with burgeoning powers, a new love interest, a megalomaniac, and her too enthusiastic mother. The makings of a great story, if I do say so myself. Not only do you have the good fight, there’s also a love story. Sigh.

That doesn’t mean every problem is solved. Reggie runs a bakery, and her bakers are the friends she made while in special education at the magical school she attended (she didn’t have powers, remember). Tommy and Joy are two individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). Instead of seeing what they can’t do, Reggie focuses on what they can and gives them the chance to prove themselves. Of course, Tommy and Joy have it a little easier because they have magic, but they are based on reality. I should know. My daughter has IDD. She is a typical teenager in more ways than not—fiercely independent, filled with attitude, and more concerned with her cell phone than her chores. For the first time in her life, she receives and sends texts and calls all thanks to a wonderful group.

Best Buddies International is a group that focuses on forming friendships between people with IDD and peer buddies. That’s it--friendship. My daughter has become more confident, takes an active part in her community, and has friends because of this group. Best Buddies™ opens up opportunities for individuals with IDD through programs in schools, colleges, and the community. So in honor of my two bakers and my daughter, I’ve pledged ten percent of my royalties from AS YOU WISH to Best Buddies™. Best Buddies™ fights the despair of reality. See, happy endings do exist in real life. Good guys do win, one can cheer at the ending, and despair can be defeated.

And I hope AS YOU WISH will give you that feeling too.

Here is a brief list of books and movies that left me cheering:

The Shawshank Redemption

Second Hand Lions

Dandelion Wine

Notting Hill

The Lost Duke of Wyndham

Bewitching

So what books or movies have left you cheering? One lucky commenter will receive a copy of AS YOU WISH. To win you MUST leave your email to be contacted or you will miss out!!!

--Gabi Stevens

AS YOU WISH (Available now)

THE WISH LIST (May 2010)

WISHFUL THINKING (March 2012)

Visit Gabi Here : 

www.GabiStevens.com

www.GabiStevens.blogspot.com

or at Facebook and Twitter

Again Thank You Gabi for stopping by and I hope you have a chance to visit with me again soon : )  

Gabi will be picking her own winner by herself so good luck!!!

Guest Post & Giveaway with Vicky Dreiling

Today I want to Welcome Author Vicky Dreiling talking about

  ALPHAS, RAKES, AND CHARMERS – OH, MY!

Many years ago, I got hooked on historical romance. One of my favorites was Judith McNaught’s WHITNEY MY LOVE. The hero, Clayton Westmoreland, the Duke of Claymore meets the young Whitney at a ball and is entranced by her wit, vivacity, and beauty. He decides on the spot that he wants her for his own.  When Whitney first sees him, she thinks he looks like Satan. He is the quintessential alpha rake, and I found him irrisistable.          

 I’ve been hooked on bad boys ever since. J

Now in real life, most of us would hate these arrogant dudes, but in romantic fiction, it’s all about the fantasy--a strong, rich man who knows what he wants and is determined to do whatever it takes to get it.  Yet, these guys invariably have their own code of honor and a hidden vulnerability, one the heroine often comes to recognize. But the relationship won’t work well if the heroine is weak. She is the one woman who stands up to the powerful aristocrat. This type of hero is the archetype known as the Chief. He’s in charge of his domain. 

But there’s a variant on the chief.  The charmer is the hero who hides his vulnerability with his sharp wit.  In my upcoming historical romance HOW TO SEDUCE A SCOUNDREL, Marc Darcett, the Earl of Hawkfield, better known as Hawk, uses his charm and his wit as a defense mechanism.  No one, not even his oldest friend, knows Hawk hides secrets. Even I didn’t know—and I’m the author! 

Hawk starred as a secondary character in my first book HOW TO MARRY A DUKE. In that story, Hawk played the role of friend and comic advisor. Yet, he did demonstrate a serious side when his friend needed help.  I knew that Hawk would be the hero of the second book, but there was much I didn’t know about him. Then one morning I awoke, and a scene played out in my head DVD-style. I won’t spoil the surprise, but I will tell you that I was stunned by this revelation.  

In HOW TO SEDUCE A SCOUNDREL, Hawk reluctantly agrees to act as a guardian to his best friend’s sister, Lady Julianne Gatewick.  He believes she’s a good girl and will pose no problems – ha!  He has no idea that Julianne has long held tender feelings for him. Then one night at a ball, he unknowingly crushes all of Julianne’s dreams.  Julianne, however, is no shrinking violet.  She realizes that all the reluctant bachelors put off marriage in favor of unsavory pursuits, and she’s determined to make those rakes pay—all the way to the altar.

From the backcover copy of HOW TO SEDUCE A SCOUNDREL;

SCOUNDRELS, RAKES, AND ROGUES BEWARE . . .

Lady Julianne Gatewick is in a pickle. It started when her brother’s best friend—for whom she’s long nursed a secret tendre—agreed to act as her guardian for the Season, only to seduce her with a risqué waltz.

But when the music stopped and the expectant ton waited for the Earl of Hawkfield to claim her as his own, he made his disinterest clear. Rather than succumb to humiliation, Julianne does what any recently discarded, wickedly witty young miss would do. She secretly pens a lady’s guide to enticing unrepentant rakes . . . and it becomes the hottest scandal in London.

Every honorable rake knows that friends’ sisters are forbidden. But suddenly Julianne has a spark of mischief in her eyes that Hawk can’t resist. Try as he might to push her away, he spends his days listening for her laughter and his nights dreaming of her kisses. He’s always avoided innocents and their marriage-minded mothers, but has the man least likely to wed finally met his match?

ALL’S FAIR IN LOVE AND WAR

HOW TO SEDUCE A SCOUNDREL will be on the shelves June 28, 2011

About Vicky

Vicky Dreiling is a confirmed historical romance junkie and Anglophile. Frequent business trips to the UK allowed her to indulge her passion for all things Regency England. Bath, Stonehenge, and Spencer House are among her favorite places. She is, however, truly sorry for accidentally setting off a security alarm in Windsor Castle.  That unfortunate incident led her British colleagues to nickname her “Trouble.”

When she’s not writing, Vicky enjoys reading, films, concerts, and most of all, long lunches with friends. She holds degrees in English literature and marketing. A native Texan, she shares her home with her daughter and a spoiled mini-lop rabbit that lives in a slightly gnawed cardboard cottage. 

For more information about Vicky’s books, visit her website: www.vickydreiling.com

Vicky will be give away 2 copies of HOW TO MARRY A DUKE to commenters - US & Canada only.Good Luck!!!!!

Vicy will be picking her own winner by herself so good luck!!!

Blog Tour: Giving Up The Ghost By Melissa Ecker

 

"Kylie McAllister has it all until her world is shattered by the death of her husband, Jackson, in a car accident. After a year of grieving, Kylie uses the proceeds from Jackson's life insurance to purchase a plantation home on the outskirts of New Orleans to start over with their daughter, Abby. Confirmed bachelor, Ryan LaCroix, has no intentions of settling down with anyone, let alone his best friend's widow, but somehow Kylie and Abby find their way into his heart.

After discovering an old Ouija board in the attic of her new home, Kylie unwittingly opens a cosmic door to an incubus who pretends to be the dead husband she is so desperately struggling to let go of. She falls deep under his potent spell of delicious sex and malevolent obsession while he gradually drains her life to fortify his own. By the time she realizes he's an imposter, she is powerless to stop him. Together, with Jackson's subliminal guidance and the help of a kind voodoo practitioner, Ryan and Kylie wage a fight for her life against the evil entity."

Review:

So this is my very first Blog Tour so be gentle with me. LOL It's not a secret that I love Melissa Ecker and I love her writing. She tends to bring out so many damn emotions in her characters that I just can't get enough of. As much as I loved her previous books I had a problem with this one. In this book the dialogue didn't sound like her from her previous books. Giving Up The Ghost was not what I was expecting at all. I know she has made a excellent name for herself in the erotic/ romance genre but I am not really sure what to think about her heading into the paranormal genre.

I honestly had a hard time connecting to the characters. Was the book emotional sure, I mean she lost her husband. Now I have a husband and I couldn't imagine what in the world I would do. One minute your seeing them as a couple, which I loved. Their family was all warm and how I want my family to be until the day her family is torn apart by this car accident. To be honest I wanted more Jackson and more of the family life.

What caught me off guard is when his best friend steps in.  I think that's all great but I couldn't see me doing and going through all that. I also thought it lacked on the smut and usually Melissa brings all the smut in the world. Kylie over all had a great family and that's all I can say I connected with. 

I have high hopes for Melissa Ecker's next release and I am really looking forward to it. Just because I wasn't totally in love with this book does not mean at all that someone else wont fall in love with it. I think I just wanted more love and not so much more paranormal. Overall Ecker will always be on my auto buy list.

Guest Blog & Giveaway with Jeeper Wade

Today I want to Welcome Author Jeeper Wade on the blog. Hi Jeeper *waves* I am so happy to have you hear today. So take it away Cowboy...

Sylas Hanson, an accomplished executive chef, was growing tired of his life. He was frustrated with his stagnant career, as well as his reputation for being a ladies man. After yet another rough dinner shift and a meaningless one night stand, Sylas decided he needed a change. Taking charge like always, Sylas made a few phone calls. Within weeks he will start a new job, in a new city. He was confident that his career would explode. He wasn't so sure about his love life, until he walked into La Joie and saw Veronica for the first time. She was everything he wanted and more, or was she?

Would she look past his attitude long enough to see the real Sylas? Would she approve of his relationship ideals, even if it involves spanking? If Veronica agreed, Sylas knew he would care for her and cherish her like no other man before.

So that is a brief blurb about my book Refired.  The idea to write a book was born on Twitter.  I have met many authors and readers this past year.  I have written in the past as a way to escape from reality.  So the idea of putting a story on paper was not a foreign concept to me.  It was through their encouragement that I decided to move forward with the idea I had. 

I pulled the inspiration for Sylas and Refired from bits and pieces of my own life.  I have worked in the restaurant industry in various capacities for the last 20 years.  The profession is a tough one, long hours, stress; it all leads to a lack of free time.  It is a struggle for many people behind the scenes in a restaurant to find long lasting love.  Many have (including me) but it can be tense at times working holidays, etc.  The partner of a restaurant employee needs to be understanding.  That is where the frustrations Sylas felt in his love life were born.  He has the great career as a successful chef, but now he wanted love.  Sylas desired a love that would last forever with a partner that understood him, his career and his beliefs.  That can be a very hard thing to find in the restaurant business. 

I truly hope everyone enjoys Sylas’s journey as much as I did writing it.

Jeeper Wade has been so generous that he is offering 2 copies of his book Refired for a giveaway. All you have to do is tell him what gets you all fired up and you have a chance to win.

Contest will end on 5/20/11. Winners will be notified by email so please include that if your comment. Jeeper will be picking his own winner by himself so good luck!!!

Don't forget to follow him on Twitter  @Jeeper68

And Good Luck!!!