Indie Book Review: Southern Seduction by Luna Zega

Author: Luna Zega
Format: Ebook (PDF)
Release Date: January 12, 2012
Pages: 39
Publisher: The Wild Rose Press
Genre: Erotica/Romance

Buy here:

Amazon |  The Wild Rose Press

Synopsis from Goodreads

Ramona Squires fell in the love with Ross Spears the first day she saw him in the second grade. Twenty-two years later when his truck breaks down in front of her house, she discovers that her crush wasn't unrequited. Neither had the guts to reveal their true feelings when they were teenagers. After years of wild, erotic wet dreams, will reality live up to the fantasy? Or will it be better?

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     Southern Seduction was a quick and very erotic tale of missed opportunities. A woman named Ramona is out gardening when Ross Spears shows up to her house. Ross was a guy she has been in love with since the second grade, but he never seemed to noticed. Now that he has bought the house behind hers, those old feelings she had come back with a vengeance.

      I really liked this. Now as I had said before, erotica is new for me, I am still getting a handle on how it works. So certain words I am not use to specifically those on the human anatomy. So that did catch me off guard. But this book is about nothing but sexual escapades and fantasies coming true. Ramona is so into Ross, but I am not sure how into Ramona Ross is. Holy crap, I didn't mean for that to sound dirty, but just roll with it a second. Throughout the story, Ross came off as the let-me-get-mine-you-get-yours type. So I didn't really like him no matter how hot he looked in jeans or without them. There was even a time when Ramona reminded Ross who she was and he got upset. I didn't get that. I didn't get a real grasp on either character really. There wasn't much of a plot. But like I said, this was about years of fantasies coming to life. And boy did they.

      Nonetheless, this was a super fast, super sexy read. This is something you definitely read late at night, very very late at night. Definitely NSFW kind of reading. I was unsure of the actual romance until the very end and that sort of came out of left field for me. I would have liked it more if that was expressed more. But overall, a good read. Zega definitely knows how to bring the heat.

Rating:

*This book belongs to the following challenges*

BCC's 100 Books In A Year Reading Challenge 2012

Dead Book Darling's The 2012 Short Story Challenge!

Book Review: Blood Possession (Blood Curse #3) by Tessa Dawn

Author: Tessa Dawn
Series: Blood Curse
Number in Series: 3
Format: Ebook (Kindle)
Release Date: April 15, 2012
Pages: 376
Publisher: Ghost Pines Publishing
Genre: Paranormal Romance/Dark Fantasy/Urban Fantasy/Horror

Buy here:

Amazon|  Barnes & Noble  |  BetterWorldBooks  |  The Book Depository  |  IndieBound

Synopsis from Goodreads

Napolean Mondragon is no ordinary man. He is the sovereign lord of the house of Jadon, the very heart-beat of the Vampyr race, and a fearsome leader who rules with absolute authority and power. While he carries the blood of every vampire in his veins; he also carries a dark secret of shame in his heart…

A secret that will soon be used against him by his enemies.

When Brooke Adams comes to Dark Moon Vale for a conference, she is unaware of the hidden danger that dwells within the valley’s majestic forest. A rising star in the corporate world, she has only one goal: to sale a leading-edge concept to her boss and advance her career. Little does she know, her life is about to change…forever.

Caught in a tangled web of vengeance and deception, Napolean and Brooke are forced to confront their inner demons. Together, they must fight to survive a BLOOD POSSESSION

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     Book 3 in the Blood Curse series, Blood Possession, follows the one and only Napoleon. Not only is he the leader of the House of Jadon (Light Vampires), he is the most powerful of all the vampires. But given that the House of Jaegar (Dark Vampires) want revenge on Napoleon after he single-handedly killed 88 of their evil brethren, they are intent of destroying the King. The death of the King would bring the House of Jadon crumbling. But after trying to manipulate Napoleon with the guilt of his father, they find that his destiny Brooke has been revealed. And the Dark Ones come up with a plan that not only put the King and Brooke in danger, but has devastating consequences on the entire House of Jadon.

      Dawn has once again written a story so intriguing, so passionate, and so emotionally draining. It truly is a wonder where she comes up with this stuff. Napoleon's story is full of so much guilt, triumph, and vulnerability. It is hard to not to be head over heels for him. Even though he is scary, very very scary, he is surprisingly warm and lovable. Nothing like Marquis who I also love, but the guy comes off as a block of ice.

      I loved the destiny that was chosen for Napoleon. Brooke was incredible. She had her head on straight and was brilliant. She is a master at her job even though she is the only woman. She is quite a fighter and has a dreadful past. I love how Napoleon handles this. The justice system didn't do anything and he took matters into his own hands without physically moving a finger. Man, that scene gave me chills. And of course the Dark Ones do everything their power to kill Napoleon, so Brooke is instantly a pawn. This brings forth some horrific events that were just so heart wrenching torturous.

      We get plenty from the other Brothers as well. Marquis is still he mean self, but he still saves his smiles for his wife and child. Nathaniel and Jocelyn are great as well. What I loved most was Nachari and Braden. They always make me laugh when they are together. Braden is once again testing the limits of his powers with his experiments. I love that we are beginning to see how Braden may be the only human turned vampire in existence, but the powers that he possesses may be bigger than any of the older vamps realize. I also love that we finally get to know Kagen. He is definitely more emotional compared to the other Brothers and that makes him scarier than the rest. I love that even though his profession isn't warrior or wizard, he is the Healer, he is still a force to be reckoned with.

        And even after all of that, Dawn still gave us more with Tiffany, Brooke's best friend. After her mind had been wiped, her memories come back in her dreams. She becomes desperate to save Brooke. The band of vampire hunters she hires though are less than honorable and definitely have their own agenda. But what was worse was when they attacked and who they attacked first. Bad move guys, very very bad moves. You don't know blood and gore until you have read this. Damn Nathaniel! He really is the "creative one".

       We are getting the beginnings of Nachari's story which I have been dying for. Nachari is perhaps my favorite of the group. He gives up everything to save Napoleon and Brooke. I am trying hard not to spoil here, but Nachari is definitely in for the battle of all battles. I loved the epilogue in the book. Honestly, I wish Dawn didn't put it in the book because I am too excited for more as it is. Wow, just wow.

     Why is it so hard to review a book you love so much? This is truly one of the best series I have come across. Dawn's imagination and no-holds-barred writing always leaves me breathless and in awe. All of her characters are so rich and just out of this world incredible. Goodness, why can't I have one of these guys?! Dawn's worldbuilding is so amazing and unique. I love that this is a vampire story that truly stands on its own. And I must say it for those that don't know, this is an adult book. It is very graphic and dark, so read with caution if this is not your sort of thing. It isn't for everybody. Nonetheless, start this series today. It is a must-read.

Rating:

  +1

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Check out my reviews for books 1 and 2

Blood Destiny (Blood Curse #1)

Blood Awakening (Blood Curse #2)

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*This book belongs to the following challenges*

Babbling About Books and Stuff's Ghostly Reading Challenge 2012!

BCC's 100 Books In A Year Reading Challenge 2012

BCC's Horror & Urban Fantasy Reading Challenge 2012

BCC's Speculative Romance Challenge 2012 

Book Review: Grave Mercy (His Fair Assassin #1) by Robin LaFevers

Author: Robin LaFevers
Series: His Fair Assassin
Number in Series: 1
Format: PDF (Netgalley)
Release Date: April 03, 2012
Pages: 528
Publisher: Houghton Miffin Harcourt
Genre: Paranormal Romance/Young Adult/Historical Fiction/Mystery

Buy here:

Amazon|  Barnes & Noble  |  BetterWorldBooks  |  The Book Depository  |  IndieBound

Synopsis from Goodreads

Why be the sheep, when you can be the wolf?

Seventeen-year-old Ismae escapes from the brutality of an arranged marriage into the sanctuary of the convent of St. Mortain, where the sisters still serve the gods of old. Here she learns that the god of Death Himself has blessed her with dangerous gifts—and a violent destiny. If she chooses to stay at the convent, she will be trained as an assassin and serve as a handmaiden to Death. To claim her new life, she must destroy the lives of others.

Ismae's most important assignment takes her straight into the high court of Brittany—where she finds herself woefully under prepared—not only for the deadly games of intrigue and treason, but for the impossible choices she must make. For how can she deliver Death’s vengeance upon a target who, against her will, has stolen her heart?

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     Grave Mercy is about a young woman named Ismae who has been dealt a terrible hand in life. She is the spawn of a demon. Her mother was so scared of what she would become, she hired a witch to create a poison that would kill her before she was born, but it didn't take. Instead it left her horribly scarred. But her horrendous father has married her off to a brutal man that finds out what she is. Ismae escapes him and ends up with the convent of St. Mortain.

      It is here she is taught to serve the god of Death and learns of many ways to kill to fulfill his wishes. She is to become an assassin. That is right, a nun assassin. She has passed a couple of tests, but to stay at the convent, she must pass her biggest challenge. She must find who is trying to betray the duchess of Brittany. It is harder than she expected given it to be. Not to mention serving Mortain is a bit more complicated than she or the convent thinks.

      Ismae is definitely going on my great heroines list. She is a no-nonsense kind of woman. She knows how to be deadly and know how to do do it quietly. She did scare me a time or two. But I love that there is still a certain innocence about her. She was quite the character. I am a huge fan of Gavriel Duval. As a matter of fact, he is my new book boyfriend. He is honorable and would bend over backwards for his sister Anne, who is set to be the next duchess. He let Ismae see that things are not as black and white as the convent led her to believe. They were an exceptional team and I love the chemistry. Romance isn't the forefront of the book, but it was no less amazing. It wasn't instant, it grew page by page. I loved it.

      I loved Anne, Duval's sister. She was so young, but truly wise beyond her years. I love the relationship she forms with Duval's family. Even when it comes to the ones who have tried to stab him in the back. I also loved Duval's right-hand men, Beast and de Lornay, especially Beast. They really would do anything for Duval. Definitely men you would want to have your back. I am definitely curious about Sybella. She was a sister at the convent who has seemingly escaped. Her mind seems to have been broken, but she was way ahead of Ismae and helped her throughout. Her story will be told in book 2, so I am more than excited to read it.

      The plot was absolutely mind-boggling. I love the idea of a nun assassin fighting for her country. Trying to figure out the traitor is was a riot. Usually I am good at figuring it out way ahead of time, but not here. This is a story that will keep you on your toes until the end.

      I honestly didn't know what to expect with this book. But it definitely surpassed my expectations and will be going on my Favorites list. A story full of mystery, political intrigue, and murder. You will blast through this book. This is more for mature YA I think. But still can be enjoyed by YA fans and adults alike. I don't read a lot of political thrillers and even if political thrillers aren't your thing, I think this book will change your mind. It certainly did for me. Grave Mercy was an unexpected page-turner. I truly couldn't put this book down. Make sure to grab your copy today.

Rating:

*This book belongs to the following challenges*
Babbling About Books and Stuff's Ghostly Reading Challenge 2012!

BCC's 100 Books In A Year Reading Challenge 2012

BCC's Mystery & Suspense Reading Challenge 2012

BCC's Speculative Romance Challenge 2012

Indie Book Review: The Foul Mouth and the Cat Killing Coyotes (The King Henry Tapes #2) by Richard Raley

Author: Richard Raley
Series: The King Henry Tapes
Number in Series: 2
Format: ePub
Release Date: March 12, 2012
Pages: 214
Publisher: Self-published
Genre: Paranormal/Urban Fantasy/Humor

Buy here:

Amazon

Synopsis from Goodreads

King Henry Price, honored and learned graduate of the Institution of Elements, has settled back into his normal life, running his Artificer shop, creating new designs, selling old ones, and ignoring the occasional explosion when testing goes haywire. He's been minding his own business...only when he happens across a bunch of bullies picking on a woman, he can't resist the opportunity to smash faces, can he?

King Henry never expected the bullies would be part of the Coyote Nation, he never expected that he could be starting a war, and he surely never expected one of his lost sisters would be on the other side.

Jordan Josephine Price...found you at last.

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    In the sequel of The King Henry Tapes series, King Henry is back and has managed to really step in it. After playing hero to save a woman being harassed in a parking lot by a group of men, he quickly finds out that the men aren't human. They are Were coyotes. And King Henry thinks nothing of it until he finds out their leader is so fearsome, even his mentor Ceinwyn is afraid of them. And what is worse? His sister Jojo, who he hasn't seen in years, is married to the big bad coyote. But before he can save her from him, the Coyotes have something planned for King Henry as payback.

     I really enjoyed this book just a much as the first one. King Henry is still his same old self; a smart ass, rude, and still jumping the gun. As I said with book 1, I love the idea of him recollecting his life at the Asylum. The story of the camping trip was great and funny. Scary, but still funny. There was something about that camping trip that reminded me of an episode of Naruto. It made me love it more. I love how King Henry is suspicious of anything and anyone and he has plenty of reason to be.

     I love that we get more of King Henry's friend Tyson or T-Bone as King Henry calls him. Tyson hates it which is all the more reason he does it. I wondered through this book and Tyson asked it as well; why are they friends? King Henry always has some geek or racist joke in store for Tyson and he doesn't tell him everything specifically the vital information. But throughout the book and especially near the end there is such a great dynamic and understanding between them, it is actually nice. Not a word I would use to describe King Henry, but it is true. I also like when going through the past, he has the same kind of relationship with Pocket. I hope to see him with grown up King Henry. Well as grown as King Henry can get.

      This was such a great story. The whole possibility of war. Mancers and coyotes have a certain kind of peace between them. And it takes King Henry just a couple days to threaten that and start a war, all for his sister. King Henry and his assumptions makes you think of how he  has survived this long. But I loved where this went. I love that Raley makes his fight scenes so action packed and funny. Goodness, this would make such an awesome movie.

       I can't wait for book 3. When we finally meet the coyote leader, Horatio Vega, you aren't sure about what makes him scary. But there is something about him that rubs you wrong way. And when you learn why he is so scary, you will be shouting "Shit!". It is not pretty. I am also very curious about the fairy that contacts King Henry when he is younger. It keeps warning him about the wind and wants to protect him. I wish we got more as to why it chose him and why it wants to protect him. But that is a mystery that I am dying to have uncovered. So it is very suspenseful for me.

      I am a huge fan of this series. It is so entertaining. Raley definitely has a way with words. I already have some quotes highlighted in this book I plan to live by. And again, the mancy idea is so fresh and cool. It is nice to have some fresh blood in the supernatural world. As I said with book 1, Raley's idea of vampires is so unique. And his take on Weres is just as original and fresh. I love it! So if you are looking for something truly unique and out of the box, start this series today.  You won't regret it.

 

Rating:

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Check review for book 1 here:

The Foul Mouth and the Fanged Lady (The King Henry Tapes #1)

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*This book belongs to the following challenges*

BCC's 100 Books In A Year Reading Challenge 2012

BCC's Horror & Urban Fantasy Reading Challenge 2012

Book Review: Horizon (Aftertime #3) by Sophie Littlefield

Author: Sophie Littlefield
Series: Aftertime
Number in Series: 3
Format: PDF (Netgalley)
Release Date: January 24, 2012
Pages: 384
Publisher: Luna
Genre: Dystopian/Romance/Urban Fantasy/Post-Apocalyptic/Horror

Buy here:

Amazon|  Barnes & Noble  |  BetterWorldBooks  |  The Book Depository  |  IndieBound

Synopsis from Goodreads

Cass Dollar is a survivor. She's overcome the meltdown of civilization, humans turned mindless cannibals, and the many evils of man.

But from beneath the devastated California landscape emerges a tendril of hope. A mysterious traveler arrives at New Eden with knowledge of a passageway North—a final escape from the increasingly cunning Beaters. Clutching this dream, Cass and many others decamp and follow him into the unknown.

Journeying down valleys and over barren hills, Cass remains torn between two men. One—her beloved Smoke—is not so innocent as he once was. The other keeps a primal hold on her that feels like Fate itself. And beneath it all, Cass must confront the worst of what's inside her—dark memories from when she was a Beater herself. But she, and all of the other survivors, will fight to the death for the promise of a new horizon….

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     The final book in one of my favorite reads definitely ended with a bang. Cass and the other survivors have found a new camp, New Eden. Things are as good as they can be. Cass has her daughter and is working with the plants that are essential to the camp's survival. Smoke is in recovery after the huge take down in Rebirth (click for review)and people are surviving as best they can. Of course, they are not perfect, especially Cass. Cass is having an affair with Dor even though they both are with someone else. Unfortunately, Sammi finds out and things take things for a turn. Add that to the fact that Beaters (zombies) are more determined to get to them and there is a mysterious group of men who are willing to help them. But at what cost?

      Littlefield has done it again. I am so in love with this series. As much as I hate that it is over, it ended on a high note and left me in awe. Horizon is definitely on my Best Reads of 2012.

       Cass has been to hell and back and she is more than a survivor, she is a warrior. And that couldn't be more clear in this book. She fights with all she has for those she cares about including a character I can't bring up, but certainly surprised the hell out of me. Smoke is in recovery in this book, but that doesn't change anything. He is still thinking ahead. Dor is protecting Cass and I like that we more of how capable he is with a group. Sammi even has a little bigger part in this. She is angry as hell at what is going on between Dor and Cass. I think she was out of line quite a bit in the book, but I felt bad for her. I can't imagine how it must be like being a teenage girl whose life has been snatched from underneath you.

       The plot was once again epic and flawless. I loved it. Littlefield knows how to write a story that consistently puts you on edge. Such an adrenaline rush. The Beaters are not only determined as I have mentioned, but they are advancing. At their new camp, what is keeping them safe is the fact they are on an island and Beaters can't swim. Now, they have learned and they are once again on the run. They run into a group of men who may or may not be trustworthy. But they have a plan that could save their lives and may be a new beginning for them.

       I also love that we finally learn how Cass survived. In Aftertime (click for review), she just woke up after being a Beater. How is it that she turned into a Beater and why she ended up where she did? What did she do when she was Beater? We also get Smoke's story as well. We know he has a knack for putting his life on the line for people and his story explains why. I knew it was big, but trust me, it is bigger than you would think. He plays quite a role in the scheme of things that left me speechless. A definite "Oh shit" moment.

       Highly recommended for zombie and non-zombie fans alike. This is such a beautiful and powerful story. It ended well and was unforgettable. This is a story you have to check out. A real work of art.  

Rating: 

 +1

*This book belongs to the following challenges* 

BCC's 100 Books In A Year Reading Challenge 2012 

BCC's Horror & Urban Fantasy Reading Challenge 2012 

BCC's Zombie Challenge 2012 

Book Review: Some Girls Bite (Chicagoland Vampires #1) by Chloe Neill

Author: Chloe Neill
Series: Chicagoland Vampires
Number in Series: 1
Format: Paperback
Release Date: April 07, 2009
Pages: 341
Publisher: NAL Trade
Genre: Paranormal Romance/Urban Fantasy/Mystery

Buy here:

Amazon|  Barnes & Noble  |  BetterWorldBooks  |  The Book Depository  |  IndieBound

Synopsis from Goodreads

First in a brand new series about a Chicago graduate student's introduction into a society of vampires.

Sure, the life of a graduate student wasn't exactly glamorous, but it was Merit's. She was doing fine until a rogue vampire attacked her. But he only got a sip before he was scared away by another bloodsucker-and this one decided the best way to save her life was to make her the walking undead.

Turns out her savior was the master vampire of Cadogan House. Now she's traded sweating over her thesis for learning to fit in at a Hyde Park mansion full of vamps loyal to Ethan "Lord o' the Manor" Sullivan. Of course, as a tall, green-eyed, four-hundred- year-old vampire, he has centuries' worth of charm, but unfortunately he expects her gratitude- and servitude. But an inconvenient sunlight allergy and Ethan's attitude are the least of her concerns. Someone's still out to get her. Her initiation into Chicago's nightlife may be the first skirmish in a war-and there will be blood.

 

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     Some Girls Bite is about a young graduate student named Merit. One night when she made the silly mistake of walking on campus alone she was attacked by a vampire. But that vampire was scared off by another vampire who has different plans for Merit. Starting by making sure she doesn't die. Now she has to pledge allegiance to the Cadogan House. All vampires have different houses and she is now attached to one due to its sexy and somewhat overbearing leader, Ethan, who saved her life. For better or worse, Merit isn't sure yet. So having the vampire life thrust on her and a new job, it is up to her to also find out who is draining women and leaving them for the Houses to find. Or else it will be war.

      Yes, this is the same book I read back in January apart of the Some Girls Bite Book Discussion. I told you my life is really out of whack. Nonetheless, I remember this book vividly. What a blast this was. The characters were incredible. I really loved Merit. She was strong and even though her life has been stripped from her, she didn't let that weigh her down. I think that  was partially due to the people she surrounded herself with. Her best friend Mallory was the greatest best friend ever. Instead of being scared and leaving Merit alone, she had her back at every step.

       We also had Catcher, Jeff, Ethan, and Morgan. All sexy and intriguing men in their own right. Ethan is the Master of Cadogan House.  Him and Merit definitely have chemistry. But both of them are incredibly stubborn and were fighting their feelings for each other. It did get annoying at times and I wanted to slap them both. But I liked the tension. Jeff was the geek and probably my favorite. He was adorable as hell and a shapeshifter. Catcher is a sorcerer  and was super sexy. Him and Mallory definitely had a huge thing in this book and I hope to see more of it in he future. Morgan was a vampire but he belongs to the Navarre House, the Cadogan's rival. I am still on the fence about him, but him and Merit had chemistry and didn't fight each other...as much.

      I loved the plot. It was a really good mystery. Someone is trying to blame one or all the houses for the deaths of these girls who all have striking similarities to Merit. It definitely kept me guessing. Even after we find out the who is behind it all, it is things are more complex than they seem specifically with one character in particular. I hope to find out more in book 2.

       A couple of complaints though. The mystery is great, but does go on the backburner a little in the middle. I love the tension between Merit and Ethan, but it does get annoying at times as I have said. I don't think I have liked two people so much, but still have the urge to slap some sense into them. But I like that this also puts us in the amazing world Neill has created for us. Not only are vampires known, but they have lives and careers. They even eat food which makes for some pretty entertaining scenes in this book. I still can't get over that mega sandwich. I think Scooby and Shaggy will have a run for their money.

      Definitely start this series now if you haven't. The characters are so lovable and have so much energy. Merit's world is definitely worth diving into especially given her new job. If you are looking for a sexy, action packed, mysterious ride, grab a copy of Some Girls Bite right now.

Rating:

*This book belongs to the following challenges*

BCC's 100 Books In A Year Reading Challenge 2012

BCC's Horror & Urban Fantasy Reading Challenge 2012

BCC's Mystery & Suspense Reading Challenge 2012

BCC's Speculative Romance Reading Challenge 2012

Book Review: The Immortal Highlander (Highlander #6) by Karen Marie Moning

Author: Karen M. Moning
Series: Highlander
Number in Series: 1
Format: Audiobook
Time: 10 hrs. and 5 mins.
Narrator: Phil Gigante
Release Date: July 10, 2008
Publisher: Brilliance Audio
Genre: Paranormal Romance/Urban Fantasy/Science Fiction/Historical Fiction

Buy here:

Amazon|  Barnes & Noble  |  BetterWorldBooks  |  The Book Depository  |  IndieBound

Synopsis from Goodreads

Enter a world of timeless seduction, of ancient intrigue and modern-day passion. Enter the dazzling world of Karen Marie Moning, whose acclaimed Highlander novels have captivated readers, spanning the continents and the centuries, bringing ancient Scotland vividly to life. In a new novel brimming with time-travel adventure and sensual heat, the nationally bestselling author of The Dark Highlander delivers a love story that will hold you in thrall—and a hero you will most certainly never forget.

BEWARE: lethally seductive alpha male of immense strength and dark eroticism, do not look at him. Do not touch him. Do not be tempted. Do not be seduced.

With his long, black hair and dark, mesmerizing eyes, Adam Black is Trouble with a capital T. Immortal, arrogant, and intensely sensual, he is the consummate seducer, free to roam across time and continents in pursuit of his insatiable desires. That is, until a curse strips him of his immortality and makes him invisible, a cruel fate for so irresistible a man. With his very life at stake, Adam’s only hope for survival is in the hands of the one woman who can actually see him.

Enter law student Gabrielle O’Callaghan, who is cursed with the ability to see both worlds: Mortal and Faery. From the moment she lays eyes on this stunning male, Gabby is certain of one thing: He could be her undoing. Thus begins a long, dangerous seduction. Because despite his powerful strength and unquenchable hungers, Adam refuses to take a woman by force. Instead, he will tease his way into Gabby’s bed and make her want him just as he wants her.

Now, no matter how hard Gabby tries to avoid him, Adam is everywhere, invisible to all but her—perched atop her office cubicle in too-tight jeans, whispering softly from behind the stacks of the law library, stealing her breath away with his knowing smile…all the while tempting her with the promise of unimaginable pleasure in his arms. But soon danger will intrude on this sensual dance. For as Adam’s quest to regain his immortality plunges them into a world of timeless magic and the deadly politics of the Faery queen’s court, the price of surrender could be their very lives. Unless they can thwart the conspiracy that threatens both mortal and Faery realms…and give them a shot at a destiny few mortals ever know: glorious, wondrous, endless love.

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   Immortal Highlander follows the story of Adam Black. Adam is Fae, a very powerful Fae prince who was the queen's favorite. Being a favorite has its advantages since Adam pretty much got away with everything. Well not today. The Queen is tired of Adam's crap, so as a punishment, not only is he forced to stay in the mortal world, but he is also invisible to everyone...except to Gabrielle. Gabrielle is a smart attorney living on her own. She was raised on the terrible stories of what the Fae have done. She hates that she can see them because she knows of the tricks they play. But she hasn't come across any such as Adam. He is more than interested in Gabrielle and she is scared because she might be returning those same feelings.

     I had to get this on audiobook which is both a good and bad thing. Good thing: I love Moning and knew she would make Adam's story unforgettable. Bad thing: I drove in my car while listening to this and I got so distracted, I almost caused a wreck or two. Any regrets? Hell no! If Phil Gigante doesn't have the same effect on you, you are a corpse. His voice isn't just sexy, it is sex.

     It is hard to believe this is the same Adam Black from Beyond the Highland Mist. He was quite cruel. But here, I was melting like ice cream. He definitely had a lot of passion (by the boatloads) and a lot of personality. You can't help but love him. Gabrielle was amazing. She definitely had a mind of her own and wasn't putty in Adam's hands from the get-go. Their chemistry was out of this world. I love when she realizes she wants him and how jealous she got when other women looked at him. The lies she spread had me laughing so hard there were tears in my eyes. To be honest, I would have done the same thing.

     I loved this. I love the journey Adam and Gabrielle had to endure to get Adam to his normal self and the trials he had to face. One being Darroc. Given I started the Fever series before the Highlander series, I knew I didn't like him then. This just confirms that more. He is out to rule the Fae world and thereby controlling the Mortal world (we Fever fans know how that went). But I love that this story shows us a different side of Adam though. That he isn't like his cruel and heartless brethren. He may be as old as time itself, but this was about him growing up and it made me love him more. Same for Gabrielle. Through Adam, she learns that she can't just accept everything she has been told. She learns so much about Adam and Fae in general.

     I could talk about this book all day. I was expecting great and it surpassed that and more. Adam is my second favorite of all the men in this series so far. Drustan from Kiss of the Highlander is my favorite who makes an appearance in this along with his twin Dageus. This book is full of passion, love, laughs, and sacrifice. I still can't believe I nearly overlooked this series. High recommendation if you haven't read it yet and an even higher recommendation for the audiobook version.

Rating:

*This book belongs to the following challenge*
BCC's 100 Books In A Year Reading Challenge 2012 

Babbling About Books and Stuff's Ghostly Reading Challenge 2012

Book Review: The Girl in the Steel Corset (Steampunk Chronicles #1) by Kady Cross

Author: Kady Cross
Series: Steampunk Chronicles
Number in Series: 1
Format: Hardback
Release Date: May 24, 2011
Pages: 473
Publisher: Harlequin Teen
Genre: Paranormal Romance/Young Adult/Steampunk/Historical Fiction/Science Fiction

Buy here:

Amazon|  Barnes & Noble  |  BetterWorldBooks  |  The Book Depository  |  IndieBound

Synopsis from IndieBound

In 1897 England, sixteen-year-old Finley Jayne has no one…except the "thing" inside her

When a young lord tries to take advantage of Finley, she fights back. And wins. But no normal Victorian girl has a darker side that makes her capable of knocking out a full-grown man with one punch.

Only Griffin King sees the magical darkness inside her that says she's special, says she's one of them. The orphaned duke takes her in from the gaslit streets, against the wishes of his band of misfits. And Finley thinks she might finally be a part of something, finally fit in—until a criminal mastermind known as the Machinist threatens to tear the group apart….

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      The Girl in the Steel Corset is about a 16-year-old girl named Finley. On the surface, she is nothing but a servant who has had some unfortunate run-ins with past masters. But actually she is possessed. Finley knows something is wrong with her and thinks she is a freak because of the girl that possesses her. Whoever she is, she is very strong. Super strong. So after a near tragic run in with her master, Finley runs for her life only to run into (well, run over by) a young man, a Duke, named Griffin. He knows instantly that Finley isn't normal because he isn't either. He takes Finley into his mansion where he is surrounded by extraordinary people. And he wants Finley a part of his team to take down someone terrorizing London.

     I am quite new to the Steampunk genre. I absolutely love it. The style, the technology, the era; it is hard not to be captivated by it. And that couldn't be more true for Girl in the Steel Corset. I fell in love with everything in this book. It is bursting with personality, energy, robots, cylons (for us BSG fans), suspense, and so much more. The book is just as eye popping as its cover.

      Finley was a great heroine. She was definitely scared of her other self, but I love that she still keeps her head on and had a lot of fire. I love that her other self protects them whenever a threat arises. I love that Griffin doesn't treat her any differently. I love that he treats everyone equally and he bends over backwards for his friends and family. I loved Sam. I felt so sorry for him given what has happened to him and what he is. He definitely had a lot of anger and took that out on Finley, but I didn't hate him for it.

      A favorite was actually the super genius Emily. She was so adorable and wasn't afraid of anyone even though everyone was taller than her. I loved Jasper; the flirtatious American cowboy. He will definitely put a smile on your face. The next book will be about trying to save him actually, so I am hoping we get some more story about him. I think my absolute favorite was Jack Dandy. Even though Griffin is the guy Finley swoons over, her and Dandy also had great chemistry. The problem is that Dandy is a criminal. Well, not like a big criminal, but not overall bad. I am very curious as to what his part will be in book 2. I think he plays a bigger role in things. A very intriguing character.

      I love the story. They aren't sure where their powers come from. But they discover it could be from something their parents lost their lives for. There is also a chance this mystery is connected to the machine man; the man that is out to destroy England. He builds automatons that conveniently go insane and kill anyone in their paths. I loved how this story flowed. It really left me on the edge of my seat until the very end.

      I highly recommend this. If you are new to Steampunk or haven't read it before, start with this. The technology and mechanics are so cool and lots of fun. Cross did a beautiful job describing the fashion and the era. Adding that with all the machinery, everything was so vivid and imaginative. Since every YA book is becoming a movie now I think Hollywood should get their hands on this. This world would look spectacular on the big screen. Not to mention there aren't a lot of Steampunk movies out there. This would be perfect. This is going on my favorites list and I hope it will be on yours as well. 

Rating:

*This book belongs to the following challenges* 

Babbling About Books and Stuff's Ghostly Reading Challenge 2012

BCC's 100 Year In A Year Reading Challenge 2012

BCC's Speculative Romance Reading Challenge 2012

Movie Review: The Devil Inside (2012)

Synopsis from IMDB

In Italy, a woman becomes involved in a series of unauthorized exorcisms during her mission to discover what happened to her mother, who allegedly murdered three people during her own exorcism. 

     The Devil Inside follows a woman named Isabella (Fernanda Andrade) who wants to find out what is wrong with her mother. Her mother Maria (Suzan Crowley) has been sent to an asylum in Italy because she was said to be possessed. While an exorcism was being performed on her, Maria killed three people. So Isabella wants to get to the bottom of it since she is not sure she believes in this type of thing. But will do what she can for her mom and to see if it is hereditary. She finds two priests that are willing to help even though they are working against the Church's wishes.

     Being a fan of horror films is tough. I grew up with them. They play a big part in my childhood and I still love them. Problem is, horror has been treated badly. For a horror film to work, it doesn't need truck loads of blood and gore or just some mad person with an ax. It needs suspense, depth, atmosphere. Unfortunately, like many horror films today, The Devil Inside didn't have any of that. This movie had the chance to be interesting and add a little soul, but didn't rise to the occasion until the last 15 minutes.

     I am not sure what to make of the characters because I didn't get a true feel of any of them. Isabella is scared about her future; whether she will be possessed or not. We find that she had an abortion and that is something the Church frowns upon. Then we have the priest that help her. Father David (Evan Helmuth) loves the Church and doesn't want to act against their wishes. You see that it truly means the world to him. And then there was his apprentice, Father Ben (Simon Quarterman). He pushes Father David to help Isabella. We also get a tiny, one line glimpse into his past. There was something in his past concerning his uncle. Something that made him want to become a priest at the age of 14. But does the movie tell us what happened? Of course not!

     The plot is pretty simple; just show the proof and exorcise the devil. The movie has a few disturbing displays of possession which were the only entertaining parts of the movie. I won't lie, I was freaked out for sure. Like I mentioned, the last 15 minutes I found the most intriguing. They did something a little different in the final stretch. The very end though was horrible. It just stops. I expect films like this to stop like that, but it was more dreadful given that I didn't learn shit. Instead, they decided to insult us by ending the movie advertising to go to the website to find out more. Really? Advertisement?!

       Overall, avoid this movie. We don't learn anything about any of the characters, who they are, where the came from, nothing. They had the opportunity to give us something, but I guess they thought they were being mysterious. Instead, they pissed me off. We have seen the chick crawling up the walls like a spider with contorted limbs many times before. What else do you have to show me? Nothing apparently. The Devil Inside is pretty much a cut and paste job of other exorcism films and it doesn't even have the audacity to copy the good stuff.

Rating:

Winner of the Siege Giveaway!

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Big congratulations Denise Zaky! You won a paperback copy of Siege by Rhiannon Frater! I have just sent you an email address, please respond within 3 days with your name and address. If not, the book will be given to the runner-up. Thank you all so much again for participating. Big thanks to Rhiannon Frater for visiting. I loved the interview. You all have been amazing. Hope to see you all soon. I hope to have something for you guys soon. Thank you and congrats again Denise!

Winner of the Tessa Dawn Giveaway!

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Big congratulations to Jody Fuller Stoltz! You won the Kindle version of any book in the Blood Curse series by Tessa Dawn! I have sent you an email, please respond within 3 days to confirm your email address. If not, the prize will go to the runner-up. Thanks to all who have participated. I am such a big fan of Tessa Dawn's and so happy to spread the love of her work. Thank you Tessa Dawn and congratulations on the book release. Thank you all again and I hope to see you soon. Congrats again Jody!

Winner of the Seeking A Scribe Giveaway!!!

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Big congratulations to my good blogger friend, Kat McCarthy (@Smitten With Bad Boy Heroes)! You have won a copy of Seeking A Scribe by Marsha A. Moore. I have sent you an email, please respond within 3 days to confirm your email address so Marsha can get the book out to you pronto. Thanks a million to all who have participated. You guys have been amazing and I hope you all start reading the book. It is truly a great read and I am dying for the sequel. Huge thanks to Marsha for dropping by. It was great having you. I hope to do it again. Thank you all so much again and congratulations again Kat!

Indie Book Review: Unknown Futures (1Night Stand #77) by Jessica E. Subject

Author: Jessica E. Subject
Series: 1Night Stand
Number in Series: 77
Format: PDF
Release Date: December 31, 2011
Pages: 31
Publisher: Decadent Publishing
Genre: GLBT/Science Fiction/Erotic Romance

Buy here:

Amazon | Jessica's Blog

Synopsis from Goodreads

Attacked as a young adult, Jewel is left scarred and alone. She applies to the 1 Night Stand service, believing no one can see past her appearance to love her. But she doesn’t expect to be sent to a space station where her date could be any number of unusual alien species.

Flavia left everything behind to be one of five humans working for the Space Service space station. Extremely homesick, she is excited to learn she will be a guide to a woman from Earth visiting the station for a couple days. She is immediately drawn to the petite woman, seeing past her scars to her true inner beauty, stirring unforeseen desires.

Unfortunately, Jewel is there for a date which Flavia hasn’t been told about. Can she contain her lust and simply show her a good time? Or will she let her desire lead them into an unknown future?

    Jewel was attacked at the age of sixteen that left her permanently scarred. When not giving what some guy wanted, he threw acid in her face and now she feels like a monster. So to feel some kind of connection, she applies to Madam Evangeline's 1Night Stand service. But the service sends her to a station...in space. This of course doesn't make her feel better because she thinks it means no humans would want her. Flavia or V is one of only five humans lucky enough to be sent to space. But she wishes for more. That is until Jewel arrives and V will be her guide. V is disappointed that Jewel has a date and doesn't know if she can persuade her otherwise.

      This is my very first GLBT story. So I want to thank Jessica (@Mark Of the Stars ) even more for making it such a beautiful and erotic experience, I fell head over heels for these characters especially Jewel. She has been through so much. I remember reading one of Jessica's guest post that she had of Jewel and her father. It is truly obvious that Jewel felt abandoned. I loved how things blossomed between V and Jewel even though Jewel didn't think she was worthy because of her scars. I love that V slowly but surely takes Jewel out of her comfort zone and shows her to enjoy life no matter what planet she is on. V had a real strong personality and confidence and seeing her help Jewel feel the same way was just beautiful.

     The plot of this book isn't really revealed until the very end. It does take you by surprise and it put a big smile on my face. You are kept guessing where things will go and I am happy it had such a wonderful ending. I love how the story develops. Just the idea of being sent to space to work and live is very exciting. I love that even though this is a short story, the romance builds and isn't absolutely instant. I wish the characters scenes together were a little longer, but still, I can't complain. 

    Some complaints however. I wish they really revealed their feelings for each other. I just love it when they say it to each other and they didn't in this. You know they love each other, true, but still. I would have liked to have experienced the world that was built a little longer as well. This isn't so much of a complaint, but more that I wish it was longer. Jessica always comes up with amazing sci-fi worlds and I really loved what she gave us in this story. I wish I could have seen more of it. It was breathtaking.

    Overall, I highly recommend this if you want a sexy, short read. Jessica has once again given us an original and beautiful love story that truly puts a smile on your face and sticks with you. It is a lovely read with Jessica amazing sci-fi attitude. Definitely worth reading.

Rating:

*This book belongs to the following challenges*

BCC's 100 Books In A Year Reading Challenge 2012

Dead Book Darling's The 2012 Short Story Challenge