Xan Marcelles has been content with his existence in the out of the way town of Pinecliffe, Colorado. He has settled in with his life as a bassist for his band Crooked Fang and just wants to be left alone. Being an asshole and a vampire just seems to suit him. There are couple of problems with this. He is a bad boy biker dude and looks really good in a pair of jeans. Did I mention he is sexy as hell? Not such a low key image. Trouble just seems to find him.
One night at the Pale Rider, Xan is minding his own business when a blue eyed damsel catches his eye and an abusive boyfriend is giving her grief. Since Xan has a thing for the ladies, his natural instinct is to come to the rescue. This is just the beginning of his troubles. His past manages to comes back and haunt him and bite him in the ass.
This is a fantastic story that had me in its clutches until the end. I could not put it down. The story line flows beautifully and gives you everything I like, suspense, vampires, sex and mystery. Xan, who wouldn't love him? Anyone who has seen anything posted from me knows I have this love affair for him. He is just the kind of guy I wanted as a teen, but never had the nerve to go after. His best friend, Scot, is a pretty awesome dude also. Frankly, I hope he ditches that wife of his and finds himself in more of Xan's trouble. The entire story just flows and keeps you reading to see what is going to happen next. The one thing Xan was trying to avoid the most, is his past. This is not to be and he has to face it head on. He ends up on quite the exciting adventure. I don't want to say too much because I wouldn't want to spoil it for you. Just make sure you get your copy to read for yourself. You don't have to be a fan of vampires to like this story. If you just want a great read, pick up your copy. It will be available soon.
Disclosure: I was provided an ARC for reviewing purposes.
Bailey Craig promised herself she would never return to her hometown of Yancey, Alaska. She has a reputation and a past that the townsfolk will not forget. She has to return to bury a loved one who was killed in a plane crash. During the investigation, evidence comes to life that will require Bailey's expertise to unravel.
Cole McKenna faces dangerous rescues all the time; but facing Bailey again is another story. She broke his heart; but neither one of them is the person they were ten years ago. Both must get beyond the past, because the body count is rising.
This is the first book in the Alaskan Courage series. It is a wonderful story of faith, forgiveness, love, and moving on. The story line flows smoothly and my interest was maintained throughout. Bailey is the polar opposite of what she was as a teenager; but she has difficulty letting go of her past. Her conscience constantly tells her she is not good enough. Cole stills has the same feelings for Bailey, but she broke his heart once, will she do it again? The only problem I had with the story was how Bailey all of a sudden is in love with Cole. It's almost as if she isn't and then she is. If you like a good clean romance full of faith and good Christian values, this is the book for you. I will definitely be looking for the next book in the series.
Disclosure: I was provided a copy from the publisher for reading and reviewing purposes.
After a great deal of deliberation back and forth on the issue, I have decided to retire my blog at the end of 2012. It may be sooner depending on the commitments I still have in the works. I have every intention of reviewing all that I still have promised to various individuals, as well as, the interviews and such. I will continue to give everything the attention that I have over the last couple of years. Even though I will be closing up the blog, I will continue to promote any and all publishers and authors on facebook and twitter. If any of my trusted authors and publishers want me to review, I will continue to post on amazon and goodreads. I just won't be doing it on a full time basis as I am now. I am regrouping and setting my sights on other things gearing up for retirement in the next couple of years. This does not mean I will be reading less; but the emphasis will not be on getting out all the reviews I do now. I am also planning on getting rid of some of the social site stuff except for facebook, twitter, goodreads and shelfari. I cannot give up my friends on these sites; but some of the others are a waste of precious time. I find myself spending way too much time on the computer. Enough for now. Will keep everyone posted as time draws closer.
This book is mainly about Dan Laguna's life while in the Special Ops. It also includes the story about the accident that caused his brother's death.
In many ways, I am probably not the best person to give an opinion of this book. Don't get me wrong, I have nothing but respect for our men and women in uniform. I was a bit disappointed in this book because I actually thought it would encompass the lives of all involved including the author's brother who died. The cover does say one man's life in special ops; but I misconstrued the meaning of this. I actually had a difficult time finishing the book. No disrespect is intended toward Dan Laguna, but I felt like it was the story of one man tooting his own horn. The story goes on and on about all of the awards and medals that he has won. In addition, he goes into extensive details about all of his various injuries and how he continued to remain in the special ops and accomplished one amazing thing after another. I am sure there is an audience out there for this book, but unfortunately, I am not one of them. If you are into stories of the special ops, this is the book for you.
Disclosure: I was provided a copy for review purposes.
The year is 1760 and Jamie Fraser, paroled prisoner-of-war is living in the Lake District thanks to Lord John Grey. He is satisfied with his life. He works with the horses and he is close enough to his son that he can't claim. Sadly, his life is starting to unravel. He is having increasing dreams of his lost wife and Tobias Quinn, a friend of Jamie's from the Rising has made an appearance.
Lord John has come into possession of some documents that exposes corruption in the ranks. Part of the document is in "Erse," the tongue favored by the Scottish Highlanders. Lord John thinks that Jamie may be able to translate; but will he? Lord John and Jamie separated on not so friendly terms on their last meeting. Lord John and Jamie find themselves unwilling partners on the road to Ireland in hopes of discovering the truth.
I have had my copy of The Scottish Prisoner for some months. I finally decided my pressing review pile would have to wait a couple of days until I read this one. Anyone who is a Diana Gabaldon follower can understand where I am coming from. This book is from the Lord John Grey series, and even though they are actually part of the Outlander series, they focus on the times when Lord John is not seen in the main series. This particular novel also focuses on a part of Jamie's life not covered in the main novels. These novels take place between 1756 and 1766. This one is set in 1760. This is my absolute favorite Lord John novel. That is probably because Jamie Fraser is so centered in this book.
I don't think there is anything I can possibly say about this book that has not been said about any of Diana Gabaldon's books before. The stories are just absolutely fantastic and the characters are wonderful. I think I can speak for any of Diana's fans when I say that her books are gripping and few put them down until they are finished. The accuracy of the history and the characters is beyond belief. If you have never read one of Diana's books, you are missing out on some wonderful reading. The worst part is I have to wait for another year until the next book in the overall series comes out. If you are into historical fiction, you absolutely cannot go wrong with any of Diana's books. Just be sure you are up for a good long read.
Today it is my pleasure to welcome Jenna Scribbles to my blog. Jenna and I have decided to swap book reviews for the day. I will turn it over to her now.
Thank you, Eva, for having my on your blog today. I’m so
happy to be here.
Today I am reviewing - Death of a Cantankerous Old Coot.
Death of A Cantankerous Old Coot
Teresa Watson
Kindle Edition
What a fun little book. I am a lover of
cozy mysteries that have an interesting premise or female lead. Joanne Fluke
and Cleo Coyle rank among my top picks. Of course I’ve also read
most of Sue Grafton’s novels – although those are a touch above a cozy.
For anyone looking for a cute quick read
with a splash of color and mystery, I suggest you pick up Death of a
Cantankerous Old Coot.
Here is the description from Goodreads – Amos Gardner, one of Brookdale's leading
citizens, has been found dead in the town park. The sheriff wants to know if
his murder has anything to do with the lawsuit he filed against his
granddaughter, Lizzie Crenshaw. When someone tries to kill Amos' wife, she
points the finger at Lizzie. Teaming up with a gorgeous new deputy, Lizzie must
figure out who is behind it all...before she becomes the next victim.
I'm giving this ebook a 3.5 but rounding up
to 4 for rating purposes. I found the author's writing style to be fun - I
laughed out loud in a few places. The situations and setting were quite unique.
The townsfolk are interesting, the storyline was entertaining, and we are also
offered a touch of romance.
It was almost great… Unfortunately, I found
the information and build up on the characters and small town a bit lacking. I
wanted more. I read a lot of novellas, so that’s not the problem. It's hard to
care about the situation when you don't know much about the people first. It
seemed we were given an event, then introduced to the people. Hmmm... a
bit backwards in my mind.
I know I would have loved it had there been more introduction to each person and
the town in the opening chapters. Let the reader get to know everyone then hit
us with events. So close to being a five star read.
Don’t let my views taint your opinion. I did like this ebook. It’s going to
be a series and I'm very glad for that. I will be buying the next title.
I give this book 4 stars
Thanks again for having me as a guest reviewer on your blog,
Eva. I hope we can do it again sometime.
Jenna
Everyone make sure you swing by my blog today. Eva is my
guest and is reviewing Backstage Pass Sinners on Tour by Olivia Cunning
It is my pleasure to be included in the Shadow of Kings Blog Tour with author, Jack Whitsel. Jack Whitsel is a native Californian, but has made Oregon his home since 1982. He holds a Bachelor’s Degree of Finance from Portland State University, but studies medieval history in his spare time. His favorite genres are fantasy and historical fiction with a medieval emphasis.Shadows of Kings, the first novel of theDragon Rising Seriesis the love child born of these two passions. Lets get to know Jack a bit better.
1-Tell the readers a
little bit about yourself.
I am an avid lover of all things fantasy. When I write, I
attempt to be more of a storyteller than writer – giving you a bard-like feel
to the story. And my plots are primarily character driven, allowing my cast to
take the story exactly where it needs to go.
Aside from writing, I spend my time
with my two sons – who are the catalyst of my writing endeavors.
2-I know you have a Degree
in Finance from Portland State University. What made you decide to study
medieval history?
I have always been
romantically drawn to this period in history. Wars were won by sword and wits.
Europe discovered its identity during this time – a history and legacy that
seems so foreign to the fledgling United States. There was a brutality in the
medieval era that was almost…poetic. That period was only a sea of grey – the
world of black and white was rarely seen.
3-What was the inspiration
for Shadows of Kings?
Of all the
questions that are thrown at me, that one is always the most difficult. There
has never been a solitary idea or moment that brought Shadows of Kings to life. However, I have three passions in my life
– medieval history, all things fantasy, and my sons. Between the three, Shadows of Kings morphed into existence.
4-Do you have a WIP? If
so, can you tell us about it and when can we expect to see it?
I do. The tentative release date for Shades of Virtue is Spring 2013. Shards of Malice,Queens and Daggers, and Dragon Rising: The Guide to the Hugue and Vol Thaldane are still to be announced. All are part of the Dragon Rising Series.
5- What is your favorite genre and why?
Fantasy is my favorite. There is something about magic and monsters nixed with a medieval backdrop that makes my muse sing.
6- Do you have a favorite author? If so, why or why not?
The father of contemporary fantasy- J.R.R. Tolkien. The Lord of the Rings changed many things in my life on many levels. Tolkien inspired my imagination to create worlds and fill them with wonderful characters. And most importantly...his books encouraged me to keep reading the fantasy genre.
7- What do you do for fun and relaxation?
I love movies...I mean really love them. Outside the cinema, I enjoy my time with my sons- telling them stories about knights and wizards and playing x-box.
Instead of a brief synopsis of the book, I am including the book trailer.
This is the first book in the Dragon Rising Series and a great read it is. At the beginning the story dragged just a bit and I was having trouble getting into it; but it eventually took off and it was full of action. This is a wonderful fantasy read and lovers of fantasy are sure to be pleased. The story is packed full of adventure, sorcery, witchcraft, fey, dragons, and other creatures. I have to admit I was having some difficulty keeping up with all the characters and all the different names of places in the story. I really think it would have benefited from having a map and a glossary of terms, places, and such in order to keep track of everything. Even with this issue for me, I was able to get through the story without much difficulty. Our protagonist Lucia, was a spoiled rich girl who was difficult to love in the beginning. As the story continues, she grows and develops into a most extraordinary young woman. Lord Boudouin faces many challenges and realizes one of his major mistakes by the end of the book. I, like other women, would have liked to have seen more of a romance between him and his mistress. This is the romantic talking in me. To much blood and guts in the story for this. The story is quite descriptive and you have no doubt what is happening during battle. It is not for the faint of heart. I will definitely be watching for the next book in the series, Shades of Virtues due out in the spring of 2013. If you enjoy a good fantasy read, check this one out.
Disclosure: I was provided a copy for reading and reviewing purposes.
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