Book Review - The Dead Girls' Dance (Morganville Vampires, Book 2) by Rachel Caine

Book Description
Claire Danvers has her share of challenges--like being a genius in a school that favors beauty over brains, dealing with the homicidal girls in her dorm, and above all, finding out that her college town is overrun with vampires. On the up side, she has a great roommate (who tends to disappear at sunup) and a new boyfriend named Shane...whose vampire-hunting dad has called in backup: cycle punks who like the idea of kiling just about anything.

Now a fraternity is throwing its annual Dead Girls' Dance and Claire and her equally outcast best friend, Eve, have been invited. When they find out why, all hell is going to break loose...

***

December 20

This is the second entry into the Morganville Vampires series and was an entertaining book. In many ways, there were improvements in the story and characterizations. But, I can't help but feel as if, overall, the first was a better and more well-rounded book (minus the cliff-hanger ending of course). I don't always understand Claire's reasons for doing things and how she goes about them are completely dumb. I can get over that because even though she has a high IQ, she's still only sixteen. Not to mention, many geniuses don't have common sense, or much of it at the very least. However, nitpicking aside, I look forward to reading future books in the series.

3.75 - 4 stars

Note: The title and description are misleading; the fraternity or dance don't have much to do with the whole basic plot. In fact, I don't really get the title at all. They should have saved that for a future book and thought out a new one.

Book Review - The Tidal Poole (Elizabeth I Mysteries, Book 2) by Karen Harper

Book Description
It is the crowning day of twenty-five-year-old Bess Tudor's life as she returns from exile to become England's queen. But even as her magnificent procession wends its way to Westminster Palace, a shot rings out, muffled by the jostling crowd.

Within moments of becoming England's ruler, Elizabeth learns of the brutal murder of a highborn lady of the court, the sister of one of her dearest friends. Elizabeth cannot refuse her friend's request to find the killer -- especially since the prime suspect is too close to the crown -- and her friends -- to overlook.

Elizabeth must be circumspect. Trust can be deadly. So she summons her small band of loyal retainers and plunges into a cauldron of conflicting loyalties and deadly intrigue.

From the pomp, pageantry, and insidious gossip of the court to the lethal tidal pools swirling under London Bridge, the passionate young queen must seize the reins of her empire -- and find a killer determined to destroy the crown itself....

***

December 17

Not the most plausible series, but it is entertaining and that's why it's called fiction. I did enjoy the first book better, but The Tidal Poole kept me reading and the mystery was well-done. If you're a history buff, better skip it, but if you enjoy reading just for the sake of reading, I recommend the series. :)

3.5 stars

Book Review - House of Whispers (Book One Of The Supernatural Properties Series) by Margaret Lucke

Book Description
Claire Scanlan is launching a new career in real estate and has a chance to sell a spectacular oceanview home designed by a world-renowned architect. But the home has a problem that frightens off buyers - it was the site of a vicious mass murder. As Ben Grant, the handsome, successful brother of one of the murder victims, shows Claire and a real estate rival the empty house, Claire experiences strange sensations. The unexplainable experiences continue and the idea that the place might be haunted both fascinates and repels her. Claire is also fascinated, and not at all repelled, by Ben Grant. Claire realizes the psychic experiences are real and must solve the mystery of the bloody tragedy - even though Ben seems to be a suspect.

***

December 8

4 stars

Book Review - Marked (House of Night, Book 1) by P. C. Cast & Kristin Cast

Book Description

The House of Night series is set in a world very much like our own, except in 16-year-old Zoey Redbird's world, vampyres have always existed. In this first book in the series, Zoey enters the House of Night, a school where, after having undergone the Change, she will train to become an adult vampire--that is, if she makes it through the Change. Not all of those who are chosen do. It’s tough to begin a new life, away from her parents and friends, and on top of that, Zoey finds she is no average fledgling. She has been Marked as special by the vampyre Goddess, Nyx. But she is not the only fledgling at the House of Night with special powers. When she discovers that the leader of the Dark Daughters, the school's most elite club, is misusing her Goddess-given gifts, Zoey must look deep within herself for the courage to embrace her destiny--with a little help from her new vampyre friends.

***

December 6

Admittedly deeper than my last read (Glass Houses by Rachel Caine), it's still in the same basic genre that I felt like reading at this time. Even though Zoey is a bit of a Mary-Sue character (practically perfect in every way), I still liked her, and it probably helped it was written in first person so that I could read her insecurities and such. I loved the basic plot and the side characters, Damien and Stevie Rae (oh, and Nala!) were great. On the other hand, I could probably do without the 'Twins,' but beggars can't be choosers. :P If I had read this as a teenager, I know I would have loved it even more than I do. The book reminded me of Laurie Faria Stolarz's books; it had the same basic feel to it as those do, even if it's totally different in concept.

The book could have done another editing sweep. I had to reread many sentences so they would make sense to me. Now, I don't know if it's because I'm not that up on teenage slang. Now, I'm not that old, but old enough to not know every slang word or phrase. For example, there is a sentence that reads: "Just please with the taking so long." Now what is that supposed to mean? To me it sounds like it's two unfinished sentences stuck together. Hopefully, there won't be too much pop culture thrown into the series, because more often than not, it dates the book and doesn't really add anything. Nitpicking aside, I honestly can't wait to explore more of this world.

4.5 stars

Book Review - Glass Houses (The Morganville Vampires, Book 1) by Rachel Caine

Book Description
From the author of the popular Weather Warden series. Welcome to Morganville, Texas.

Just don't stay out after dark.

College freshman Claire Danvers has had enough of her nightmarish dorm situation, where the popular girls never let her forget just where she ranks in the school's social scene: somewhere less than zero.

When Claire heads off-campus, the imposing old house where she finds a room may not be much better. Her new roommates don't show many signs of life. But they'll have Claire's back when the town's deepest secrets come crawling out, hungry for fresh blood.

***

December 6

Fast, fun, and thoroughly absorbing. I loved the main characters and thought the story was done well. I have a bit of an issue with the cliff-hanger, but luckily I'll get to the next book soon. This isn't what I'd call a 'deep' book, but I had fun reading it and look forward to the others in the series. :)

4.5 stars

Book Review - Girl in the Mirror by Mary Alice Monroe

Book Description
Charlotte Godowski was used to the horrified stares she received from strangers. She'd learned to accept her facial deformity, until one cruel incident compelled her to have the surgery that changed her life forever.

Charlotte Godfrey is beautiful beyond compare. In Hollywood, where such beauty is power, her rise is meteoric. Suddenly she has everything she could want: acceptance, a future and a love she believes can see to the true beauty within.

Charlotte Godowski and Charlotte Godfrey are two sides of the same women -- a woman who can trust no one with her secret. But when fate forces Charlotte to deal with the truth -- about her past, about the man she loves, about herself -- she discovers that only love has the power to transform a scarred soul.

***

November 19

"Girl in the Mirror" is one of those Jackie Collins-lite books; a mixture of Lifetime movies, soap operas and Jacqueline Susanne. I occasionally have an urge for such type a book and I have to say that this was an entertaining one! The story was rather engaging, the characters were just about as good as they could be for this type of book (I don't mean that disparagingly in any way), and it was an easy, breezy read. Yes, a lot of it is implausible and the surprises really aren't, but it's pure fun and fluff! :)

3.5 stars

Book Review - Slightly Married by Mary Balogh

Book Description

Meet the Bedwyns…six brothers and sisters—men and women of passion and privilege, daring and sensuality…Enter their dazzling world of high society and breathtaking seduction…where each will seek love, fight temptation, and court scandal…and where Aidan Bedwyn, the marriage-shy second son, discovers that matrimony may be the most seductive act of all.…

Like all the Bedwyn men, Aidan has a reputation for cool arrogance. But this proud nobleman also possesses a loyal, passionate heart—and it is this fierce loyalty that has brought Colonel Lord Aidan to Ringwood Manor to honor a dying soldier's request. Having promised to comfort and protect the man's sister, Aidan never expected to find a headstrong, fiercely independent woman who wants no part of his protection…nor did he expect the feelings this beguiling creature would ignite in his guarded heart. And when a relative threatens to turn Eve out of her home, Aidan gallantly makes her an offer she can't refuse: marry him…if only to save her home.

And now, as all of London breathlessly awaits the transformation of the new Lady Aidan Bedwyn, the strangest thing happens: With one touch, one searing embrace, Aidan and Eve's “business arrangement” is about to be transformed…into something slightly surprising.

***

November 13

I don't have too much to say about this first (actual) entry into the Bedwyn/Slightly series. The pacing was good, the hero and heroine were nice and likable characters, and their romance was sweet and charming. The only thing I had a problem with were the loves scenes, they just felt 'off' and didn't quite fit into or with the flow of the storyline. Especially the second one, which struck me as odd. Otherwise it was a nice and easy story to read.

I don't dislike Freyja as much in this book, but for setting a series on a whole family of six, why did Ms. Balogh write them so unlikable? Or at least, they don't make me want to read the next book immediately, as I feel it should be. I am interested in Wulfric's intended and how she is able to break through to him. That ought to be something! :P

Now that I've read three in a row in the series (this and the two 'prequels'), I think I'll take a break. I've heard that there is a bit of repetition and it's better to break them up. :)

4/5 stars

Book Review - A Summer to Remember by Mary Balogh

Book Description

"Matchless storyteller"(Romantic Times) Mary Balogh weaves a tantalizing web of wit and seduction in her new novel—an irresistible tale of two unlikely lovers and one unforgettable summer.

A SUMMER TO REMEMBER

Kit Butler is cool, dangerous, one of London's most infamous bachelors — marriage is the last thing on his mind. But Kit's family has other plans. Desperate to thwart his father's matchmaking, Kit needs a bride...fast. Enter Miss Lauren Edgeworth.

A year after being abandoned at the altar, Lauren has determined that marriage is not for her. When these two fiercely independent souls meet, sparks fly — and a deal is hatched. Lauren will masquerade as Kit's intended if he agrees to provide a passionate, adventurous, unforgettable summer. When summer ends, she will break off the engagement, rendering herself unmarriageable and leaving them both free. Everything is going perfectly — until Kit does the unthinkable: He begins to fall in love. A summer to remember is not enough for him. But how can he convince Lauren to be his...for better, for worse, for the rest of their lives?

***

November 12

In a lot of ways I liked A Summer to Remember better than it's predecessor, One Night for Love. Lauren turned out better than I had hoped (or feared, rather :P), and the love story between her and Kit was very sweet, realistic, and lovely. I couldn't ask for more! I loved how Lauren gradually opened herself up and became a whole person - it was just wonderful. Pure magic in this book. That's all I have to say - definitely a keeper for me. :)

Now...I'm not sure how I'll be able to like Freyja with how she is written in this book. I wish her book was the first in the Bedwyn series so I can get it over with. I'll just have to have faith in Ms. Balogh and how she writes her and her story, because I didn't like her in the least here. I'll cautiously go in. :D

5/5 stars

Book Review - One Night for Love by Mary Balogh

Book Description

One reckless man . . . One passionate woman.

Enter the world of Mary Balogh—the glittering ballrooms and vast country estates of Regency-era England, where romance, with all its mystery, magic, and surprises, comes vibrantly alive.

IT WAS A PERFECT MORNING IN MAY . . .

Neville Wyatt, Earl of Kilbourne, awaited his bride at the altar—when a ragged beggar woman raced down the aisle instead. The cream of the ton saw him stare, shocked, then declare that this was his wife! One night of passion was all he remembered as he beheld Lily, the woman he'd wed, loved, and lost on the battlefield in Portugal. Now he said he'd honor his commitment to her—regardless of the gulf that lay between them.

THEN LILY SPOKE HER MIND . . .

She said she wanted only to start a new life—wanted only a husband who truly loved her. She had to leave him to learn how to meet his world on her terms. So Lily agreed to earn her keep as his aunt's companion and study the genteel arts. Soon she was the toast of the ton, every inch a countess fit for the earl, who vowed to prove to his remarkable wife that what he felt for her was far more than desire, that what he wanted from her was much more than . . .

ONE NIGHT for LOVE

***

November 11

One Night for Love was a lovely book, with a touching love story. Yes, I'll admit the story is a little heavy-handed, but Ms. Balogh did a nice job of anchoring it with believable, and likable, characters. I especially liked how she let the heroine be her own person, had her find herself, and had the hero accept her the way she was before any of it! That in itself is unique in the romance genre, in particular in historical (Regency) romances. I felt for everyone - Lily and Lauren, mostly. I'm not sure how I feel going into A Summer to Remember right after this, but hope Mary Balogh can work her magic and I'll grow to love Lauren as I do Lily...just in a different way. :) I know how Lily felt, never feeling like she was home, so I'm glad she was able to become a whole person with a new and extended family. :D

4.5/5 stars

Book Review - The Return of the Earl by Edith Layton

Book Description

PASSION COMES HOME
After fifteen years in cruel exile, Christian has finally returned to England to claim his rightful title. The new Earl of Egremont was a mere child when he was banished. Lovely and charming Julianne Lowell, who knew him then, must now determine if this suave and handsome mystery man is who he claims to be.

But why would she not remember those eyes that sparkle like flawless gems? Christian is like no man she has ever met - elegant and well-bred, but secretive and quite possibly dangerous, and seething with a sensual fire that steals her breath away. To trust this dashing stranger could place Julianne in grave peril if he is, in fact, playing a game of deception. But with her heart leaping madly at his slightest touch, how can she deny Christian the love and passion they both fervently desire?

***

November 11

The Return of the Earl was an enjoyable book, but I felt that the romance wasn't as developed as it should have been. The first half itself, was incredibly slow and a tad boring, so not until the halfway point was I hooked. I liked both the main characters, but even by the end, I didn't totally believe they were so much in love with each other. If some of the blather and other pointless moments in the first half had been condensed and in it's place some more time with Julianne and Christian, it would have much better. However, I did enjoy the story, even if I did figure out the whole 'scheme' ahead of time, and it was a nice way to pass some time.

3.5/5 stars

Book Review - Even Vampires Get the Blues (The Dark Ones, Book Four) by Katie MacAlister

Book Description

Paen Scott is a Dark One: a vampire without a soul. And his mother is about to lose hers too if Paen can’t repay a debt to a demon by finding a relic known as the Jilin God in five days.

Half-elf Samantha Cosse may have gotten kicked out of the Order of Diviners, but she’s still good at finding things, which is why she just opened her own private investigation agency.

Paen is one of Sam’s first clients and the only one to set her elf senses tingling, which makes it pretty much impossible to keep their relationship on a professional level. Sam is convinced that she is Paen’s Beloved -- the woman who can give him back his soul...whether he wants it or not.

***

November 7

A good stand alone book in the Dark Ones series, but I felt as if something was missing. The relationship was nice and I liked the two main characters, Sam and Paen. I loved the idea of a Scottish Dark One, and even though some of Paen's dialogue was stilted, I still thought he was a good character. However, Sam's cousin, Clare, was trying and she didn't add any comedic value, she was just a self-absorbed nuisance. The ending was a little dumb, but not the worst I've read. I liked how Katie MacAlister expanded the Dark Ones universe, but wished there had been at least one character from previous entries so it felt as if it were part of the series. Overall, it was a nice way to spend some time, but not much is memorable and not a keeper for me.

4/5 stars

Book Review - Sex, Lies And Vampires (The Dark Ones, Book Three) by Katie MacAlister

Book Description

CHARM SCHOOL 101

Instructors: Nell Harris, Charmer
Adrian Tomas, Dark One

Class Desc.: Are you responsible for lifting a centuries-old curse from the sexiest vampire you've ever seen? Does a demon lord want to destroy you? Have you somehow inadvertently bound several mummies to your soul? If you answered yes ... well, you're in big trouble. Let us show you how the power of love can salvage even the worst of situations ... not to mention the most tormented of men.

Duration: A lifetime

***

November 7

Definitely my favorite of the series thus far. Nell was a practical, yet stubborn and light-hearted match for the tortured (and nummy LoL) Adrian. Sex, Lies, and Vampires is a slightly more serious entry into The Dark Ones series. Seems to me that Katie MacAlister's writing has gotten better through the years (as one would hope) and I hope to see more Dark Ones in the future! She's the only one that could have thought up Mummy followers. LoL :P I love the zaniness and cheesiness, along with more serious moments within the romance. The only gripe I have is that I have no clue what Nell looks like. Besides her left side being either weak or slackened, the only other clue is that she's tall(ish). I do like to have a picture in my head as I read. Oh well, I'll live. :)

5/5 stars

Book Review - I Went to Vassar for This? by Naomi Neale

Book Description

How exactly did a microwave mishap blast a hip and sassy modern-day Manhattanite back to 1959? Cathy Voorhees has no idea. But even without her trusty PalmPilot, she can still manage to sort through any trouble with a list.

Reasons to Stay Reasons to Go

1. These clothes give me a killer figure. ----> Two words: granny panties.
2. I can change history - save JFK, end racism, break the glass ceiling! ----> The only history you know is from VH1.
3. At least here I don't have to work for a short-sighted fuddy-duddy anymore. ----> Yes, now you have a boss who thinks goosing is appropriate office behavior.
4. I wish our landlord would goose me. He's dreamy. ----> Maybe if you wow him with predictions of the future, he'll at least ask you out.
5. Or commit me to an institution. ----> Oooh, padded walls could be fun...
   

***

July 5

My mind is dead right now so I'll just note that I enjoyed the book, didn't quite like the ending, and thought overall it was a fun ride through time. I'll write more (and more intelligently [I hope!]) at a later date. :)

July 22
Let's see... I'll start at the end, which was way too rushed and I thought that there was another opening for a specific time travel element, something to do with being lost. I know nobody will get what I mean w/o reading the book but hopefully it'll be clear after it's read. Otherwise, just comment and ask what the #$%! I mean. :P I just don't want to give anything away. Suffice it to say that the ending was abrupt and it should have been better.

I didn't mind Cathy at first, but then she began to grate on my nerves at times. What the heck does she think she's doing? Like she's really going to help end segregation and racial issues with her stupid actions? Just act normal for goodness sakes! And what did she think (man I sound like a broken record) with sending letters to JFK and Martin Luther King, Jr.? What an idiot, I swear!

On the second Cathy... You would think she might have learned something being in present times. It would seem from her letters that she did not.

Seeing as I read this over two weeks ago, that's about all I can remember about it. I can't even remember the things I liked, although there were probably some to give it a decent rating. Sorry this is a piss poor review, but that's the way it is. :P

3. 5 stars

On What Grounds (Coffeehouse Mysteries, Book One) by Cleo Coyle

Book Description

Clare Cosi used to manage the historic Village Blend coffeehouse . . . until she opted for quieter pastures and a more suburban life. But after ten years and a little friendly cajoling from the owner (a fresh pot of Jamaican Blue Mountain was all it took), she's back to the grind, serving coffee and solving crime - one cup at a time . . .

With a sprawling rent-free apartment directly above The Village Blend, her cat Java by her side, and plenty of coffeehouse redecorating ideas, Clare is thrilled to return to work. Until she discovers the assistant manager unconscious in the back of the store, coffee grounds strewn everywhere. Police arrive on the scene to investigate. But when they find no sign of forced entry or foul play, they deem it an accident. Case closed. But Clare is not convinced. And after the police leave, there are a few things she just can't get out of her mind . . . Why was the trash bin in the wrong place? If this wasn't an accident, is Clare in danger? And . . . are all detectives this handsome?

***

June 30

On What Grounds is a good start to this series, but not great by any means. The mystery was lacking and there weren't enough clues for the reader to even get close to figuring out whodunnit or why. The explanations about the different types of coffee are very interesting, but come close to taking over the storyline. Some of the things I did not like about the writing style, were that, at times, the writing could be condescending, such as a Tanya Harding example that didn't sound natural and seemed to imply that the reader has been living in a cave for the last twenty or so years, then there's the backtracking into past events for around twenty pages and then returning to the cliffhanger which is where we left off of and then trying to remember where that was exactly (ugh! Sorry, but doing that three or four times is unnecessary and annoying), and the end was way to preachy about Anabelle's life and choices - this isn't an after school special or a Lifetime movie, get over yourselves (the authors that is :P). Another thing (yes there's more!), I don't like the love triangle aspect. For the most part, an ex should stay an ex (I know there are some exceptions, but that's just my preference in this case), and I much prefer Quinn, who I really hope isn't married.

Oh, and one more thing... I took a little offense to the disdain of decaf drinkers. I just don't handle caffeine that well - yes, I might be an anxious person, but I don't have imagined allergies or neuroses or whatever else she describes most decaf drinkers as. Not to mention, it makes me very shaky, in a bad way, and I cannot fathom drinking as much coffee as she does all the time - I need sleep! LoL Yes, I'll imbibe in coffee that isn't decaf, but for the most part, I'd rather have decaf. Gotta problem with that?! :P

What I did like...
Clare - some other reviews I've read have been iffy about her, but I blame how the authors wrote the book.
Java - I know it's a cozy mystery cliche, but I love cats in books. :)
Learning about coffee - it's really rather interesting.
Recipes - gotta love those!
The promise of a good series - the writing overall is good and I hope that now that most of the history has been written about, the next books will flow better.

4 stars

Book Review - Stay With Me by Beverly Long

Book Description

Something strange has happened to Sarah Jane Tremont...

One moment, she was walking along a beach outside Los Angeles, contemplating her future. The next, she was wandering through an unfamiliar wilderness...

Confused and exhausted, she stumbles upon a small farmstead, where she's taken in by a handsome, rugged man who behaves as if he knows her - and isn't exactly her number one fan. Soon Sarah learns not only where she is, but also when she is: Wyoming Territory, 1888. Her host's name is John Beckett. He's an authentic cowboy - but there's clearly a case of mistaken identity going on, because even though he's agreed to help her, he's holding on to one mighty big grudge.

Sarah believes that the reason she was sent back in time is to heal John's wounded heart. But first she much convince him to see her for who she truly is...

***

June 23

Stay With Me was a lovely romance, with a likable hero and heroine. And also a nice secondary romance that almost rivals the main romance. I don't understand exactly why Sarah became the 'first' Sarah, and why she didn't just say that she's a different person entirely, but it doesn't matter much. I liked the reason why she was sent back and thought that was a nice touch. The story as a whole was very well executed and I can't wait to read the next. :)

4 stars

Book Review - Silver Tomorrows by Susan Plunkett

Book Description

Colorado, 1882. Royal Tremaine's family had been torn apart by the Civil War. But he'd vowed to restore their place within Virginia's elite society -- and he wouldn't let anyone alter his plan.

COLORADO, 1996.
A wealthy socialite, Emily Fergeson never felt like she fit in. But when an earthquake thrust her back in time, she knew she'd landed right where she belonged...

Emily Fergeson had spent her life trying to please others. But the day she decided to start living life for herself, an earthquake sent her back to a simpler time. Trapped near a Colorado silver mine, she was forced to rely on a total stranger for her survival. Handsome Royle Tremaine could be arrogant and stubborn, but Emily felt at home in his rustic cabin -- and in his life. Like Emily, Royle battled demons from his past -- a past that seemed destined to keep them apart.

Royle had his whole future ahead of him.
But for Emily, true happiness lived in the past.

***

June 23

Silver Tomorrows was a beautiful romance with wonderful characters. Emily is a modern day woman who's never felt at home in her time and is sent back to 1882 Colorado. She meets two men, Teigue and his nephew, Royle. While Teigue adopts her as his daughter and believes she's a good person, Royle refuses to see the good in her and is suspect.

I picked this up after reading a Civil War time-travel and wanted another set in the same era. Even though I'm somewhat organized, I still have books scattered around and the only time-travel romance I could find was set in post-war time, so it would have to do. I am so glad that I had this around to read!

The story unfolds marvelously and I love how logical Emily is, it's really refreshing change from a lot of romances. She doesn't try to convince them she's from the future, and really, the time-travel plays a very little part in the book. Royle is pigheaded in ignoring his feelings for what he thinks he has to do, but of course he can't fight forever (although it might seem so at times) and the chemistry between him and Emily is sizzling. I loved what Teigue added to plot and the direction the story went. I don't want to give too much away but I loved every second of it - a lot was covered, from mining in Colorado to a bit of society in post-war Williamsburg, Virginia over the course of six or so months.

For some reason I'm holding back on a perfect rating, the only thing I can think of is that I didn't get to read it in one sitting. The more I think about it though, the more I appreciate the book and how the author brought everything to life. Even if you don't like time-travel, I would recommend this because it's not an issue in the book, except for Emily finding a home and her logic. The romance is just lovely and that's why romance lovers should read it.

4.5 stars

Book Review - The Last Cavalier by Heather Graham (Pozzessere)

Book Description

Silhouette Shadows #1 - The Last Cavalier
by New York Times Bestselling Author Heather Graham Pozzessere

From the back cover:

Timeless...

The battle was raging, the air hot with smoke, loud with rifle fire. Then the air turned dim with an eerie mist, and for Jason Tarkenton, captain in the Confederate cavalry, the true nightmare began.

Vickie Knox was today's woman dressed like yesterday's, wearing Yankee garb to play a part. But playacting ended when a Reb stepped out of the mist and took her prisoner - for real.

They never should have met, never should have battled - never should have loved. But something had gone wrong with time itself, weaving together past and present like torn threads of a tattered tapestry. Something had gone wrong, and in mending such shredded silk, their loves - and their lives - might be the final sacrifice.

***

What a lovely book! I started this a few hours ago and couldn't put it down. I always love to read a time-travel and the romance is lovely between Vickie and Jason. So I thought the love scene came a bit early on, but I must not be in a picky mood so I won't quibble about it. I really didn't know what the outcome was going to be exactly, except the typical HEA, so that kept me turning the pages. All in all, it was a wonderful book to pass the time.

4 stars

Book Review - Dark Defender (Paladins of Darkness, Book 2) by Alexis Morgan

Book Description

Alexis Morgan continues her dazzling paranormal series about larger-than-life warriors and the women they love....

As a Paladin warrior, Blake Trahern fights and dies again and again to keep mankind safe from the Others. Sensing his humanity slipping away with each battle, he retreats from the world...until the one person who still has a claim on his soul needs his help. It's been twelve years since Blake vanished from Brenna Nichols's life, years that have turned her from a love-struck teen into a headstrong, sensual woman. He'll fearlessly give his life to protect her -- yet he dare not risk his heart.

Brenna is stunned by Blake's reappearance, and by a shocking discovery about her father. Everything she has ever believed is thrown into question -- everything except the desire that Blake still ignites. But as they search together for a traitor among the Paladins, danger looms: the next battle could tip Blake into madness, destroying his life, his soul...and the only woman he has ever loved.

***

June 21

I enjoyed this book even more than the last in the Paladin series. Everything was fleshed out more and there weren't as many spots that needed some editing.

I loved Blake, he was wonderful, and I liked Brenna too, after she got over her having to argue over every little thing in the beginning of the book. I get that people grieve differently and it took her a time for the death of her father to hit her, but I do not like romances where the heroine argues against everything the hero asks (or sometimes demands) she do, especially when it's for her own good - you know like living. I actually felt their love for each other in the book, where Dark Protector was lacking, and I liked how there was more background on the Paladins, so the book was wholly enjoyable.

The end was nicely done without being too sappy, and I ended up reading the excerpt at the back for the next book, which I cannot wait to read! I hadn't looked up the books at all and didn't know Barak was getting his own book (and then Cullen, yay!). It's going to be hard for me to wait, but I don't have the money to get either of those books (poor me :P) right now. I guess I'll just have to impatiently wait with other paranormal romances.

4.5 stars

Some of my first crochet projects...March '08

My best friend, Jodi, taught me how to crochet in March and here are a few of my first accomplishments.

No pattern for the hat; I just learned how to make it from a video on youtube.

Asked Jodi for advise on how to make fingerless gloves (after she made some) since I couldn't find a good pattern online. They turned out pretty good, but since I know more now, I'd do a better job at this time. Oh well, they're good for a beginner I guess.

My mom wanted a pair for when she drives and shovels snow in the winter. That won't be for a while yet. :P

Book Review - Dark Protector (Paladins of Darkness, Book 1) by Alexis Morgan

Book Description

Devlin Bane: Born a Paladin, he is a member of an ancient band of warriors locked in a centuries-old war against evil.

His destiny: To die over and over again to protect mankind from the Others, only to be revived each time by his mortal Handler.

But his fierce strength and courage cannot save him from gradually becoming one of the monsters he was born to destroy.

Dr. Laurel Young, who has spent years training to become a Handler, must remain detached from her patients. But each time she revives the darkly compelling Devlin Bane, he claims a little more of her soul and incites in her desires that grow wilder and wilder -- even as he inches closer to losing his humanity. As the war against the Others grows more desperate, Laurel and Devlin can't help but give in to the fierce hunger that's sizzled between them for so long. Now they'll face the ultimate battle together -- to save a dark, passionate love that goes against every rule as they join forces to fight an enemy who is closer than they ever imagined....

***

June 18

Dark Protector introduces an interesting new concept in the paranormal romance field. If there are other books that deal with something like a paladin and this sort of plot, I don't know about them and haven't ever come across anything similar.

Laurel and Devlin were nice characters but that was about it; there wasn't much depth to them or back story. I would have liked to know more about Devlin and how he came to be a paladin exactly (at least I don't think it was mentioned). I mean he was about three times Laurel's age, so he had to have lived some outside the paladin world. You don't just start fighting in diapers. What is the whole history of the paladins and how do they come back? Also, I'd love to know more about the Others, which I suspect is to come, but they sound so intriguing! Why do they cause chaos to the human world? Why are they on the other side? What are they like? Were they really humans long ago but were sent/punished/whatever to be on the other side?(My hypothesis) I hope Ms. Morgan answers these questions in the future!

I still can't help but feel that there was something missing (besides my before mentioned questions :P) - I'm not sure what it was, maybe because the whole book was an introduction to the paladins and the rest of the series, but I don't know. Or it could be the relationship itself, which wasn't quite believable - nice but not something I'll remember. Still, I will read more in the series, especially Trahern's and Cullen's books, and hope they progress nicely in the future.

*note
Excuse me if I've missed things mentioned in the actual book but I had started it a couple months ago, couldn't concentrate on reading at all, and just picked it back up yesterday.

4/5 stars

Update (Taken from my MySpace Blog)

Some of you may have noticed how anti-social I've been lately. Or not. That's perfectly fine too. :) My mom and I have recently found out that we have a very high rating of mold in our apartment. The landlord has been pretty much ignoring it but finally said that they'll replace the carpet in the living room and fix under the sink where it's the worst. However that's not going to get rid of the mold. It's a temporary fix and unless they do something to the subflooring too, we'll still have mold and it'll come back. But until we can move and get legal aid involved, it'll have to do. We don't have the money to move and there aren't many places available around here right now either. Mom just found out she has an immune deficiency, which isn't helping, and since it's genetic, I'm going to have a blood test to determine if I have the same thing.

We've lived here for almost nine years and I don't know how long we've had the mold exactly, an area in the living room has been mildewy smelling for probably five or six years. I've never had much energy and always thought it was allergies, but since I've been having shots, it really hasn't helped and I am allergic to the two molds we do have. So no wonder. Then I was diagnosed with depression and now my instinct is that I don't have depression, which would explain why Cymbalta hasn't been working for me and if I take a higher dose, it gives me side effects.

In the last year, year and a half, my attention has deteriorated, I find it hard to concentrate on stupid television shows it's so bad, I can't read (which is a nightmare since I've always been a bookworm), I can't remember words, phrases, what I was going to say a second ago, what I was going to do a second ago, even my long-term memory has been affected, I'm tired all the time, have lack of energy, sleep problems where I stay up for long periods of time, sleep for a couple hours, stay up for hours again and then after a few days just crash for close to a day. I've had other things too but I can't remember them either. All these can be caused by many things, so it's no wonder I was diagnosed depressed. But my gut tells me it's the mold. Right now I'm dizzy and that's happened a few times these past few days. Has to be the mold because there's nothing else it could be. The sad thing is I'm too tired to go out and by staying in I'm getting worse and worse. It's a lose-lose situation. I think it's also affected my trichotillomania too. Ugh.

It's just so sad how it's caused so much trouble in my life. I had to drop so many classes that my financial aid was almost taken away. So I have to be sure that I'm up to taking classes when I finally get better because I'm going to be watched closely, which is close to how they put it. My education has been put on hold indefinitely for now. Gosh, I'm twenty-five and I feel like I'm never going to get anywhere in my life. It makes me wonder if we had lived somewhere else in the last few years if I would be done with college by now and have a job. Or at least be close to it. Sometimes I just want to lie and say I'm nineteen when someone asks. lol Then I won't feel so bad about where I am in life. My best friend is going through a mid-twenties crisis, and I think I am too. Although I've felt this way since I was twenty, although it wasn't as bad then. I felt I still had time, now I don't know.

I wonder if it has anything to do with my two cats' deaths. Who knows? Nothing I can prove or even do anything about. I do feel guilty though. It's not only affecting our lives, but also our cats. I want to move so badly. I hate it here. It's a low-income apartment complex and the people moving in have been getting worse and worse. Not to mention there have been more kids too, and no offense to those with children, but I really dislike them. At least the loud, obnoxious, nosy kids. I know if I live long enough, I'm going to be that scary, witchy, cat lady that the children dare each other to go and knock on the door. lol I'm serious though, they are really nosy, but so is everybody here. Mind your own d@mn business will you? Like I want or need to be watched taking out my darned trash?! Drives me nuts.

On a completely different note, I've been really interested in crafty things. Crochet is one of the only things that can keep my attention and it does keep me from pulling my hair out. Not that I've stopped doing that since the top of my head is almost completely bald but I know I'd be even worse without yarn and a hook. So anyway, I've wanted to expand doing other things too and have been finding some really interesting projects. The only problem is with the ones I most want to do, I don't have the money to buy things for 'em. Luckily I do have some things to do other crafts and I'm really enjoying looking at recycling crafts people have done. They are so creative and it reminds me how I used to be. I used to love to draw, write poetry, make crafty things, and all this other stuff I haven't done for years, (and back to the mold again), makes me think that the mold has zapped my creativity too. Arglebargle, what a nightmare. At least I think by looking at what others have done, that it'll help my creative juices maybe not flow, but trickle a little. :P One can only hope!

Okay, well I guess that's all I really have to say right now. Hope everyone else's life is better than mine, I really do.

Flowers!

Random

Book Review - Irish Lore and Legends Selected and Edited by S.M.W. Dunnit

Book Description

Readers ...will marvel at the variety of characters, some familiar and archetypal, others mysterious and provacative, who inhabit the Irish imagination. In these seventeen tales, nobility mingle with simple folk; princess change into swans; and giants and fairies (known as Little People) are ubiquitous -- helpful in some takes, menacing in others.

...Each of the stories in this collection fairly glistens with wisdom, wit, or some wonderous happening.

We learn of fairy castles deep inside mountains, of quaking bogs, and burning forests. We watch the men of Ulset overcome a curse to rise victorious in battle. In two different tales, we see a hero and heroine suffer trials that lead to transformation and love. The story of Owain belongs to the King Arthur cycle and reminds us of Lancelot. There are dragons, of course, along with druids, monks, and nuns.

***

May 16


I've read this off and on for the last year and finally finished it today. The tales are wonderful and I enjoyed most of them thoroughly. I love reading myths, legends, and the like and haven't read too many from Ireland, so it was really entertaining to me. I highly recommend this small selection of tales!

5 stars

Book Review - A Witch Alone by Margaret Higgins

Book Description

There is evil abroad in the sleepy East Anglian village of Talbot Magna - an evil that transcends rationality, that reaches back to preChristian times, that feeds on the Power of Darkness....

Kate Hargreaves, visiting her sister and brother-in-law in Talbot Magna, cannot believe that the 20th century would lend itself to indiscriminate cabalistic malevolence, or that anyone in the drowsy, centuries-old village would be involved in the eerie charade that was taking place.

But when Kate, trying to save the life of the man she loves, finds herself drawn into a vortex of violence, she finally faces an invidious evil that even her 20th century rationality cannot dispell.

***

May 12

An interesting anthropological look into small town life in England, which also has a coven of witches who appear to rule the place. The book felt pretty timeless and kept my interest throughout. I'm glad I read it but don't really have much else to say about it. :)

4 stars

Book Reviews - Miscellaneous Astrology Books

Book Description
In this wickedly funny guide, professional astrologer Hazel Dixon-Cooper casts off sugar-coated astrology in favor of exploring the maladjusted side of the universe. If you want the inside scoop, the real deal, the lowdown on each sun sign, then look no further.

It's time to forget those traditional astrology books where Sagittarians are gregarious, Capricorns are ambitious, and Pisceans are dreamers. Instead, enter a world where Archers are loud-mouthed bores, Goats are pompous social climbers, and Fish are chronically helpless. Dixon-Cooper debunks the myths, reveals the flaws, and examines the dubious virtues of each sun sign. Discover how to use your own inner brat to outwit bullies, outmaneuver manipulators, and win those endless games that lovers play. Learn how to deal with those dysfunctional people you encounter every day, including how to:

• contain a Ram's oversized ego
• calm a raging Bull
• keep a fickle Twin faithful

Irreverent, biting, and laugh-out-loud funny, Born on a Rotten Day exaggerates the bad, exorcises the good, and puts a new spin on the age-old question -- what's your sign?

***

Fun and funny, this is a good little book that will interest and entertain astrology novices to the advanced. While I don't think Pisces totally describes me, I also read Virgo (which is where my Moon sign is) and think that a combination of the two is fairly accurate. So I'd recommend reading not only your sun sign, but also your moon sign and rising sign (ascendant) too.

4 stars

***

Book Description
It’s about time for Friends on a Rotten Day, the first astrology book to focus entirely on friendships. After all, lovers come and go, but our girlfriends sustain, nurture, and protect us from cradle to grave. Friends on a Rotten Day explores the supportive, uproarious, and sometimes complex, relationships between girlfriends through an in-depth astrological analysis of each Sun sign. Dixon-Cooper shows readers what makes their friend tick on a soul level, revealing each friend’s inner character, friendship style, love style (including what to do or not do if a pal picks a loser), and party style. She offers suggestions on the best gifts to buy your friend, how to calm her down, cheer her up, and return the unconditional support and love that she gives you. Readers will discover why their Gemini buddy changes her mind so often, why the Virgo gal pal sweats the small stuff, why a Scorpio girlfriend sometimes seems distant, and why the Leo chum needs frequent headpats. They’ll also learn why a Pisces pal should never be forced to make a snap decision, why a Capricorn girlfriend might seem too serious for her own good, the truth about a Taurus friend’s hidden anxieties, the competitive side of an Aries chum, what causes Cancer pal’s emotional train wrecks, why the Aquarius buddy has a rebellious side, and why the Sagittarius girlfriend has occasional angry outbursts. "Dixon-Cooper reveals what every astrologer knows but none has dared say. (She) takes us on a seriously humorous ride through the land of truth and consequences. I highly recommend it." (Suzanne White)

***

Overall, I thought this was even better than Born on a Rotten Day. Pisces in this book described me better than in Born on... and I liked that the author included Moon signs, guy friends, and Venus signs (although I've never had luck with Venus sign descriptions, they never describe me). Although not as funny as Born, it seems far more accurate and I thought that the other signs sounded like my friends and family also. I'd highly recommend this book.

5 stars

***

Book Description
Colorstrology is a fascinating blend of astrology, numerology, and color theory that offers exciting new insights about our lives and relationships. Written by renowned astrologer Michele Bernhardt with the artists at Pantone, Inc., the global authority on color, the system features 366 "birthday colors" that illustrate who we are and how we behave.

For example, people born on January 29 (like Oprah Winfrey) share the color Keepsake Lilac; they are "ambitious" and "tender" and "born to make a difference . . . it is not uncommon to find [them] in front of an audience." People born on May 11 (like Salvador Dal ) share the color Green Tea. They "have a vivid imagination and can see new ideas and concepts more readily than others."

Using Colorstrology, you'll quickly understand how to enhance your best personality traits with your birthday color. This full-color book features detailed profiles of everyone you know plus 366 perforated swatches so you can take your birthday color wherever you go.

PANTONE , COLORSTROLOGY , and other Pantone, Inc. trademarks are the property of Pantone, Inc.

***

Colorstrology really doesn't say all that much about 'what your birthday color says about you.' But it is a great book to look at what colors you are most attracted to and what they might mean about you. The whole birthday aspect of it is a general description and the book is best used for figuring out what you might need in your life by what colors speak to you the most. Not to mention it could really help you out if you're thinking of redecorating. :)

5 stars

***

Book Description
Any name is magickal if it's the right name for the person, animal, character, object, group, or event. How do you know if it is the "right" name? By examining the elements it's composed of: number value, astrological correspondences, mythological associations, historical significance, spiritual implications, origin, and meaning. Each of these components contributes its own energy and vibrations to a name.

Your Magickal Name is an indispensable guide that covers all the naming basics, including: * Reasons for choosing a magickal name.

• Customs and rituals associated with naming.
• The folklore of the mysterious powers attributed to names.
• How to create original names.
• Methods for discovering the most appropriate name.
• How to use the science of numerology, the art of astrology, and the mythology associated with the names of popular goddesses and gods to help you find the perfect name every time.
• And much more.

***

I was really disappointed in this book and was hoping for something way more helpful. Everything in this book you can find on the Internet easily and didn't cover anything new. Yes, the naming rituals were interesting, but this book didn't help me out at all. It's basically a beginner's guide to astrology, numerology, a little mythology, and has a decent list of male and female names, and that's it. Nothing that could help me with a magickal name in the least. It's more for finding a name for fictional books or a baby or something, and NOT anything magickal.

1.5 stars

Book Review - Night Life (Nocturne City, Book One) by Caitlin Kittredge

Book Description

The first book in a thrilling, addictive new series by a talented new voice in dark fantasy. Welcome to Nocturne City, where werewolves, black magicians, and witches prowl the streets at night…

Among them is Luna Wilder, a tough-as-nails police officer whose job is to keep the peace. As an Insoli werewolf, Luna travels without a pack and must rely on instinct alone. And she’s just been assigned to find the ruthless killer behind a string of ritualistic murders—a killer with ties to an escaped demon found only in legend…until now.

But when she investigates prime suspect Dmitri Sandovsky, she can’t resist his wolfish charms. Pack leader of a dangerous clan of Redbacks, Dimitri sends her animal instincts into overdrive and threatens her fiercely-guarded independence. But Luna and Dimiri will need to rely on each other as they’re plunged into an ancient demon underworld and pitted against an expert black magician with the power to enslave them for eternity…

***

May 11

After skimming some mixed reviews at Amazon, I was pleasantly surprised by how much I enjoyed Night Life. I thought that Luna was a great character; she had the perfect blend of good and bad personality traits, without being a complete b!tch or too perfect, as some urban fantasy heroines can be. Of course there will be some who find her b!tchy, but I didn't and she's what I think Chris Marie Green and Kit Whitfield were each trying for with their heroines in their respective books, The Night Babylon Series and Benighted. The other characters: Sunny, Dmitri, and Mac all added to the story and were great also, especially Dmitri.

The plot held my interest and moved at a swift pace without too much action or getting too bogged down with details. I cannot wait until the next book comes out to read what happens with Luna next!

5 stars

Book Review - The Vision by Heather Graham

Book Description
The gift of sight comes at a dangerous price

When Deep Down Salvage begins the hunt for the Josephine Marie, it seems like any other dive . . . until Genevieve Wallace sees the vision of a dead woman in the water, her vacant eyes boring into Genevieve's very soul.

Terrified and confused by what she saw, Genevieve is haunted by the memory, but no one -- including her diving partner Thor Thompson -- believes her. When a dead woman washes up on shore, everyone assumes this is Genevieve's "vision," but Genevieve knows the truth: the dead woman is not the ghost she saw but another victim of the same brutal killer.

Sensing that the threat of death is coming closer, she and Thor are forced to acknowledge that some things can't be explained, but simply are. Somehow they have to link a violent past with a present-day mystery or risk losing themselves in an abyss of terror.

***

May 5

While at the beginning I wasn't too sure I would like Thor - he was too arrogant and jerky - and then I wasn't too sure about Gen - can you say prickly? - I ended up liking them and their story all the same. Actually the plot and mystery is what really kept me reading. I liked that it was harder to figure out whodunnit then the others in this 'series,' but I did have it narrowed down to two suspects and did pick the right one. Although I'm still not sure exactly why they did it, but then again, when you're a serial killer, do you really need a reason?

The only thing that really bothered me was everyone's outlook on Gen. She's a frickin' Mary-Sue when it goes to someone else's point-of-view or if they're talking about her when she's not around, and I really got sick of hearing how sensual she is, how perfect, how tall and slim, how her smile is perfect - gag me. When it was through her eyes, everything was fine and I liked her, but really, I can only take so much of hearing how perfect she is. At one point, a local musician said something to the affect that she's Key West's 'jewel' (or gem, something like that) and it was like come on, give me a break. Talk about overkill. There was nothing in the book to even get the impression that she's that well known about the island.

Anyways, aside from my rant, I liked it and thought that the mystery aspect was the best part of the book and it kept me guessing and hooked until the end.

4 stars

Book Review - Haunted by Heather Graham

Book Description
Love is everywhere. . .

When does a gift become a curse?

Matt Stone doesn't believe in ghosts. But there are those who are convinced his home, a historic Virginia estate that dates back to the Revolutionary War, is haunted. Pressured to get at the truth about some strange happenings at Melody House, he agrees to let Harrison Investigations explore the house. But he isn't ready for beautiful, intriguing Darcy Tremayne.

As a paranormal investigator, Darcy has learned to believe in the unbelievable. And she's given Matt fair warning: sometimes people don't like the skeletons she finds. She never dreamed that the warning would apply to herself. For she's about to discover that Melody House holds much more than a simple mystery form the distant past. What it holds is a very real and lethal danger, one that will cast her into a struggle against the worlds of both the living and the dead.

***

May 4

I picked up Haunted after I had finished The Seance, and I was unaware that they both feature Adam and Harrison Investigations. I'm all set to read The Vision that I just picked up from the library. Even though I've completely juggled around the order of when they were written, it's lucky for me that they are standalones. In the prologue it gave background information about Adam's son, Josh, who was mentioned just briefly in The Seance, and he plays a big part in this book, so I was happy to find out all that information before I get to next book that features Harrison Investigations.

Now to get to the main story in Haunted...
Even though with the way Darcy was written you would think she was a Mary-Sue, she wasn't and I liked her just fine. Now Matt on the other hand, well he was a jerk, plain and simple. I never could like him much and that detracted a lot from the book. It seems that Heather Graham must make the male lead a hard-core skeptic that just will not believe (until the end of course) in anything paranormal and thinks the female lead is crazy or delusional or something. It would be nice if it was reversed or if maybe, just maybe, the hero is open-minded enough to say, well maybe there is 'something' out there that cannot be proven. *gasp* Is that even possible? Can a hero ever truly be open-minded? Not in these books. He has to be so narrow-minded that his thought-blocks must fit neatly into their right-shaped holes (e.g. triangle block into triangle hole, etc.).

I really enjoyed the whole Darcy/Josh/Adam/Ghost hunting thing. I thought the author did a good job describing how Darcy went about finding out about the ghosts and that's what made this book good. I really did like Darcy a lot and she was a sympathetic character who stood up for herself and acted like an adult with poise and class (unlike some other character I could mention). The mystery did keep me guessing because I was never quite sure who the ghost was or what had happened, although I had narrowed down who was behind everything to two people, leaning more on the actual culprit (yay me!), for lack of suspects. So overall, the mystery was very good, though I wish Ms. Graham would bring in more people so it isn't as easy to figure out. All in all, not as good as The Seance, but a good and entertaining read.

3.5 stars

I forgot to mention that there were tons of editing problems, which seem to be a mainstay in H.G.'s books. Once Clint's name is changed to Cliff and Josh was referred to as Matt, plus numerous other things that cropped up everywhere.

Book Review - To Die For by Linda Howard

Book Description
Blair Mallory lives the good life. She’s pretty, confident, and the owner of a thriving up-scale fitness center. But in the shadow of success, a troubled member of the club develops a strange fixation on Blair, imitating her style and dress. Matters take a darker turn when the look-alike is shot dead–and Blair witnesses the horror.

As the media speculates on the tawdry details of the homicide and pushes Blair into the harsh spotlight, she locks horns with police lieutenant Wyatt Bloodsworth. He wants to lead an investigation without interference, while Blair is determined to probe the dead woman’s life on her own. But when someone begins to menace Blair with mounting threats, Wyatt takes notice: Was this murder indeed a lethal case of mistaken identity–and was Blair the intended victim?

***

May 2

Hmm, I'm having a hard time describing how I feel about this book. I liked it enough, Blair was a decent character, but there was something (or things) missing. I'm not one of those who hate first person narratives (I really have no preference - both first and third person narratives are fine with me, as long as they work for the book), but for some reason it felt weird in this book and didn't quite work for me. Also, I don't know how I feel about Wyatt. His reason for leaving Blair two years ago was lame and I can't believe she let him off the hook so easily; not to mention he was rather one-dimensional. The mystery was hardly that and it seemed as if the author forgot all about someone trying to kill Blair until the end, deadline was near, and just added some cockamamie, loony-tune ending that was a total let down and came from left field. Not to mention, the whole someone-wants-to-kill-Blair thing was pushed aside for all the petty arguing and sex. Now I liked Blair giving Wyatt a hard time and all, but some of the stuff she said or did was overkill and the editor needed to trim a good fifty or so pages of it out of the book. It didn't help that going into the book, I thought it was a more serious romantic suspense, which is what I really wanted to read at the time.

Some of my petty annoyances with the book came fairly early on: I don't get why Blair (and/or the author) thought Jason Carson or Jenni Mallory rhymed. Now if his name was Jason Cayson, I'd understand, or Jenni Menni, but just because Jason and Carson both end with 'son,' it doesn't rhyme because it's the same thing. I don't know if I'm saying that right but oh well. My other thing was that Blair couldn't wear some underwear because the bra got ruined. Uh, okay. Now I like my undies to match but that wouldn't mean I'd never wear the underwear again because the bra that matched got ruined. That's just snobby and stupid. Yeah, I know, ridiculous things to find annoying in the book, but we all have something. LoL

After I finished the book and went to Amazon I saw that there's a sequel. I'm not sure if I'm up for another trip into Blair's mind or not, but if I come across it real cheap or someone gives it to me, I might read it. That's not to say I didn't enjoy the book, I did, but I liked Blair up to a point, but when it got to around page 250, she was just a bit too much for a 378 page book. Maybe if we weren't in her head the whole time, or the book was shorter, I would have liked the book better.

3.25 stars

***

Here's part of an Amazon review I liked:

'Wyatt had stayed away from his soul mate for two years and only came running with an engagement ring when he thought she had been murdered. How long would he have stayed away if nothing had happened to Blair? Also, Blair was supposedly only a 'dumb blonde' when it suited her. But I question the intelligence of anyone who thinks someone who cuts her brake line is just stupid and someone who shoots her with intent to kill is just a nitwit. I wonder if these things bothered anyone else. Still, these problems did not take too much away from my enjoyment of the book.'

Book Review - Night Rising (Vampire Babylon, Book One) by Chris Marie Green

Book Description
In this first book of an all-new trilogy, life proves stranger than the movies when a Hollywood underground coven of vampires comes to light-and gets targeted by the tough-as-nails daughter of a sexy screen siren.

Stuntwoman Dawn Madison hasn't been on the best of terms with her father since her movie star mother died. Still, he is her dad, and when he vanishes while investigating the bizarre sighting-caught on film-of a supposedly long-dead child star, she comes home to Tinseltown to join the search for him. Working with his odd colleagues, she discovers an erotic and bloody underground society made up of creatures she thought existed only on the screen.

***

April 26

I'm having a hard time coming up with my thoughts on this book. I did like it and will read the next one, but there was just something off about the whole thing. Maybe because there were a bunch of loose ends at the end of the book than was necessary, but who knows. I didn't get the whole promiscuous thing, mostly because it didn't feel like it belonged in the book. Yes, I am a bit of a prude, but since it's fiction that doesn't come into play much. In this book, I just didn't get it and felt like it was added for the whole "sex sells" thing. I mean that thing with "the Voice" was just plain weird and creepy. Quite few times I thought Dawn needed to get over herself and quit whining about her mother. She's twenty-four, she needs to act like it, not like some angsty teenager. I get it - it's hard to grow up with a beautiful mother who died too young and being compared to her when you're only average looking is hard (Although the cover model is above average looking. Marketing? I think so. :P), but deal with it already. I really didn't care about her and thought overall that Kiko was the best character of the bunch. Hopefully in the next book they are all developed better and Dawn grows up.

You can tell the author has taken some things from other medias: The Crow, Buffy the Vampire Slayer, especially with Dawn being the "key" and probably from other things I haven't seen or read so can't compare. I think that detracted from the book because I don't want to compare the stories; I'd rather the book stood alone as it is.

Nearer the end it had me wondering about a certain character and if that was a hint to what's to come in future books. That's probably the main reason I'll read on, although there are some interesting concepts in the book too, especially the vampire world. It is very interesting and they don't appear to be only good or only evil, as most other books make them, there are some of varying degrees of good and evil - like humans - and they're just trying to survive without being found out - at least that's how I took it. All in all it was a decent read, just slightly better than the average urban fantasy book.

3.5 stars

***

Here is part of an Amazon review that I agree with:

3.0 out of 5 stars I'd like to read her second book perhaps, February 19, 2007
By R. Kyle (Knoxville, TN)
"Meanwhile, a rash of current stars are starting to die mysteriously. The Vampire Underground is investigating Limpet. Dawn is feeling attraction both to her boss and Matt Lonigan.

"Night Rising" had a lot of promise for a first novel. Ms. Green introduced some interesting and quirky elements, but the blend of fantasy-mystery-thriller didn't quite come off.

For starters, there wasn't enough procedural knowledge doing both the PI and crime scene work to actually qualify it as a mystery.

Additionally, I didn't feel that Ms. Green's world was as fully realized as it could be.

While Green's characters were interesting, they were more 'paper tigers' than real people. She needed to work on depth and motivation of the characters instead of just giving them toss-off lines, etc.

Pacing was also slow--for a book with thriller elements, this was a slow read. Action scenes needed to be shortened. Better hooks needed to be planted to keep the reader moving forward.

I did not feel that the world was as complete as it could be. The hierarchy of vampires was interesting as well as the interaction of their human servants. I'd like to see a little more developed world in a published book. I have hopes that Green will do more work on this aspect in future works.

Finally, Ms. Green did not fully sum up any of the plotlines. While I am very willing to buy serial fiction, I prefer at least one major line of the story being resolved with a few teasers added to bring me back to the author's world. The summation felt like just an invite to buy the next book."

Book Review - Hatfield and McCoy (Part of the Destined for Love Antholoy) by Heather Graham (Pozzessere)

Book Description
The search for a missing child brought psychic Julie Hatfield and FBI agent Robert McCoy together. But was the powerful, sensual attraction between them enough to stop their feuding and join them forever?

***

April 24

The first book, Hatfield and McCoy, by Heather Graham was a nice, fast-paced read. While Julie and McCoy's bickering might annoy some, I felt that there wasn't too much to irritate me. The story was interesting and just light enough that I had an easy time reading it, which is great since my concentration hasn't been the best lately.

4 stars

Book Review - Rising Darkness (Dark Enchantments, Book 2) by Cynthia Cooke

Book Description
CAN TRUE LOVE TRIUMPH OVER EVIL?

Demon hunter, vampire and member of the Cadre, Damien Hancock has come to Wolvesrain to help Emma McGovern defend herself against a powerful demon. For if Emma finds love - and consummates that love - the demon Asmos will fulfill a generations-old curse and claim her soul. Damien knows just how powerful the ancient demon is, but he never anticipated the all-consuming effect courageous Emma would have on him.

Having led a sheltered life within the walls of her ancestral estate, Emma senses that Damien, like her, carries too much pain and loneliness in his heart. But as their attraction proves impossible to resist, Emma fears it is the curse that is drawing them together. Can the love she has found in Damien's strong arms now help her fight the rising darkness?

***

April 24

I'm having trouble forming sentences from my thoughts so I'm just going to list them instead. :)

Emma and Damien were likable enough characters, even if their 'woe is me' routines got a bit annoying, luckily that got progressively better as the book went on. My main problem was that their romance took a bit of a backseat to the curse and vampires and I didn't quite buy it at the end.
The concept of the Cadre was interesting and I'd like to read the other Dark Enchantment books for an expansion on the organization.
Some scenes were rather graphic and took me a bit by surprise because I don't usually find those things in a Silhouette book, but they weren't such a big deal.
The writing was very good, even if some spots were a tad boring, and I'll be sure to look for more Cynthia Cooke books in the future.
Overall it's not the best paranormal romance I've read, but it kept my interest and entertained me all the same.

3.5 stars