March Re-Read Challenge (Review)

Oh man, I almost forgot to do this. I started one book that was supposed to be my re-read but I didn't finish it--Raven's Shadow by Patricia Briggs. It was all right, but it didn't grab me this time around.

So then I discovered a book club that meets once a month at one of my Barnes and Noble stores. The book selection for March was Born in Sin by Kinley Macgregor. I re-read that one and it was just as good the second time around as it was the first time! This isn't really a review, but more my impression of Born in Sin.

Kinley MacGregor
Born in Sin
Publication Date: January 2003

Blurb-Though few can equal her skill with the sword, Caledonia MacNeely fights an unfamiliar shiver when she is offered in marriage to the infamous "Lord Sin." Though Callie fears this mysterious, unreachable stranger -- less for the dark whispers that damn him than for the heat of his touch -- she is under the order of the English king. And with the fate of her troubled clan hanging in the balance, she has little recourse.

Banished as a child, "Sin" MacAllister learned to despise his Scottish heritage. Yet now, to unmask King Henry's foes, he must return to the hated Highlands -- wedded to a bewitching lass whose flaming red hair matches the fire of her spirit. A cold, hard heart has always been the key to Sin's survival, but this beauty awakens in him a perilous need he's never known.

I think maybe, just maybe the horrible life that poor Sin lived became a bit extreme in that there is so much focus on all the negative that happened to him. It seemed that every other page revealed one more hurtful thing of his past. The treatment he garnered from his step-mother and then how it resolved itself in the end was a bit far-fetched for real life, but it was still touching. It definitely made him the tortured hero :).

I loved Callie and how she stuck by him, insisting that he is a good person, deserving of some kindness in his life. Sin and Callie were such extreme opposites on their outlook in life that I thought they really complimented each other nicely.

Kinley Macgregor has some really great dialogue and scenes. And it's one thing that seems to be missing in her recent books. But that could just be me, I don't know. One of the scenes that I loved in this one, was their wedding night, and Sins way of proving that they consummated it even though they didn't :). The scenes that followed regarding how he handled it was humorous. Gave me some chuckles. Poor Sin!

Oh and Simon! I love Simon. He first appeared in Master of Desire. He is Draven's brother and also Sin's best friend. He does eventually get his own HEA in the anthology, Where's my Hero. You know, I think Simon really should have had a full length book. He was such a prominent secondary character. He needed more pages dedicated to him!

Second time around and it will still remain on my keeper shelf! I loved it :). I would recommend these books of hers to anyone! They're great, with some cute and tender moments, along with some witty, teasing dialogue.

Books in order:
Master of Desire
Claiming the Highlander
Born in Sin
Taming the Scotman
Where's My Hero
A Dark Champion
Return of the Warrior
The Warrior

The last three are a spin-off of the MacAllister brothers' series called the Brotherhood of the Sword. Accept The Warrior is actually the eldest MacAllister, but is tied into both series, and believe it or not, tied into the Dark-Hunters!

Reread Challenge hosted by Nath @ Books, Books, and More Books

Annaliese Evens - Night's Rose (Review)

Annaliese Evans (website)
Night's Rose (Book One)
Release Date: March 31, 2009
Buy here.
Click here for an Excerpt.

Book two, Prince of Frogs, is scheduled for release in September 2009

For nearly one hundred years, Rosemarie Edenberg has worked tirelessly to wipe the dreaded ogre tribe from the earth. Now the tribe has gathered in London to work a spell that will destroy the scourge of their kind, the one they call the Briar Rose.

Two magnetic men will unite to aid Rose--her mysterious fey advisor, Ambrose, and the vampire Lord Shenley, an earl of scandalous reputation and even more scandalous appetites. One will save her, one will betray her, and both will challenge her to face the past that haunts her.

Once upon a time, she was ensnared in the mists of enchantment, cursed to sleep one hundred years. But this beauty wasn't awakened with a kiss and has never known happily ever after. But with the help of her handsome allies, Rose may find it yet.

I don't know much about the original story of "Sleeping Beauty", not even the classic Disney version. I guess I was a bit deprived growing up :). Or maybe just a bit tom-boyish. I wasn't much into girly things. And I'm also not a reader of Urban Fantasy, but something about this book caught my eye a few months ago when I was browsing future releases, and I felt I had to read this one. With it being tagged Historical Urban Fantasy and not written in the first person perspective, it held a lot of appeal. This book is actually the first book I ventured to ask the author for an ARC to review. I'm glad I did.

In this fantasy world set in 1750 England, you will find a plethora of mystical legendary creatures such as the Fey, Ogres, water sprites, brownies, vampires, and even some fire-breathing Wyrms!! DUDE!! The lead character, Rosemarie Edenberg, is an executioner of Ogres. She is known as the scourge to them, the Briar Rose, Woman of many thorns. Rose finds herself knee-deep in a prophecy and a plan plotted by the vile, human-eating Ogres to end her life once and for all.

Rose is modeled after the fairy tale of Sleeping Beauty, but with a dark and twisted edge. She does no wake after a hundred years' sleep to a kiss, and fall hopelessly in love with a knight in shining armor. The details of Rose's awakening are none too pleasant. As the story unfolds, we learn more and more of the relationships between the two men in Rose's life, the vampire Lord Shenley, and her Fey adviser Ambrose.

I really enjoyed this book. The characters, the world, all of it was very entertaining. Some very nice and surprising plot twists that hadn't even occurred to me. The complex relationships between Ambrose, Rose and Lord Shenely made this story an awesome addition to my keeper shelves. I just loved all the scenes with Rose and Lord Shenely. He's such a good guy...I mean vampire. I think there was an even dose of plot, character, and relationship development throughout. I recommend this book to anyone who likes a good Urban Fantasy. Heck, I think anyone who likes a good paranormal would find this book engaging. The ending leaves you wondering if there may be some menage a troi action between Rose, Gareth and Ambrose in the next book! Rating - 4/5

Good stuff, and I'm looking forward to reading more of Rose's adventures in Prince of Frogs in September!

Click here for an Excerpt.
She has some amazing covers!

Mailbox Monday

I discovered Mail Box Monday's over at Blodeuedd's blog a few weeks ago and have been meaning to post my gatherings too.

Rules: What books arrived in your mailbox (home) this week? Visit Marcia at The Printed Page to leave a link to your post and see what other readers acquired!

This week I got a lot of great new books, both in my mailbox and at the bookstore!

At the bookstore I picked up -
Dragon Bound by Jade Lee
Dirty by Megan Hart
Double Enchantment by Kathryne Kennedy
Passion Unleashed by Larrisa Ione

At the E-Bookstores I downloaded -
Risky Business by Amanda McIntyre
Unfinished Dreams by Pamela Johnson
Booty Call by Fiona Jayde
Wolf Signs by Vivian Arend
Surrender Dorothy by RG Alexander

My mailbox had some pretty good stuff too! I received a signed copy of Highlander in her Dreams by Sue-Ellen Welfonder. She offered me a hard cover copy because we were discussing that book one day about how her love of Scotland can be felt while reading that book. She is such a wonderfully nice lady. And I also won a copy of Tall, Dark and Kilted from her when she guestblogged at WendyK's blog a few weeks ago. They both came together.
Another book arrived in my mailbox on the same day. One I had no idea I had won, an ARC of Carolyn Jewel's next paranormal that comes out in June, My Forbidden Desire! And the last book that came in the mail was The Eye of Night, by Pauline J. Alama!

I'd say I had a pretty good week of books :).

Off topic of books, my child was in the school spelling bee again this year! Five kids are selected from each class to participate! Needless to say, Imma proud mamma :).

Happy Monday and Happy Reading!

Faery Song (Review)

Tirnan'Oge by Amanda McIntyre
Click here for more info.
Crescent Moon Press
June 26, 2008
Fantasy Romance

I don't know if Amanda McIntyre meant for this book to be emotional and tear inducing, but the story of Roan McNamara broke my heart in a sad, yet wonderful way. He was simply an amazing guy. Some thought him crazy and mad, eccentric in his desire to be alone. But that was his fate after one beautiful, soul-shattering faery kiss when he was younger. From that moment on Roan's heart would forever belong to the Sighoge faery named Feeorin.

You won't find a traditional romance in Amanda McIntyre's Tirnan'Oge, but what you will find is a man and his touching, selfless sacrifice to pass along the stories of the Fey, without it, peoples beliefs will disappear as will eventually the Faery people. So Roan chooses a life of solitude in which he gathers faery stories that he writes for publication. And when he feels he's passed on enough of the tales maybe then his sacrifice to remain alone rather than take what his faery love offered him three times in the past will pay off: A mortal life with him, or an immortal life with her.

This may be a novella, but it had an epic feel to it, encompassing more than 50 years. And not one time did the story feel rushed. It just kept sucking me in, and sucking me in. Amanda McIntyre's writing voice in Faery Song was simply amazing. There is no action and fighting, heck there isn't even a raised voice in all the pages. It's just a simple, profound telling of Roan's lonely life and the small amount of people in it. Roan does have a happily ever after, but it's a lonely journey for him to get there. But he's okay with that, because he believes in his heart that he has made the right choices. I loved this story.

One thing I've come to appreciate about Amanda McIntyre's writing, is that her stories are so original in their set up. I've read three so far, The Diary of Cozette, Mirror, Mirror, and Tirnan 'Oge in Faery Song, and each one of them have there own path to get to the HEA. There isn't the typical formula. Her stories are fresh and original and she is an author I will never hesitate to pick up one of her books.

Lady of the Herd by Isabo Kelly
Isabo Kelly's Website

The second novella in Faery Song, Lady of the Herd, the fairy Diarmaid, a Tuatha De Danann must find Grainne, the Lady of the Herd, and also his lady love. After a terrible incident Grainne fled the fairy realm for the mortal world. For 5 centuries Diarmaid has searched for Grainne. He must find her now more than ever. For the deer herds in the fairy realm are suffering, which eventually affects the essence of the entire realm. The magics are tied together, and all must be in harmony.

Diarmaid finds Grace, and knows that it is his Grainne. She may look different after 5 centuries of being reborn a human, her spirit is still the same. Now Diarmaid must convince Grace who she is and that she must return with him to the fairy realm. Will Grace give in? Because Diarmaid also says he will stick by whatever decision she makes, even if it is a life forever to remain in the mortal realm...alone. You see, if Grace should die one last time in the mortal realm, Grainne's spirit will no longer be reborn. But Grace must believe.

I liked this story also. The relationship between Diarmaid and Grace was very sweet and sensual with the phantom touches from Diarmaid.

I love the fairy lore that was used in both Tirnan'Oge and Lady of the Herd. Two very fine fairy tales!

Recent Reads - E-Books

I was on an e-reading binge the last couple days. And all three of them were really great. I especially enjoyed Surrender Dorothy by R.G. Alexander. Anna introduced me to the first book, Not in Kansas. It was very cute and Z, the Wizard, well, with his golden body and dripping sex appeal, I just had to get his book, Surrender Dorothy, when it released this past week on the 24th. It was another really fun and engaging read! I love the tie ins to The Wizard of Oz. They'll make ya chuckle :). I'd definitely recommend looking into these two books.
Learn more here.


Next up was Vivian Arend's Wolf Signs. I had looked into her because her name is on the list of authors attending Lori Foster's Get Together in June and since my mom and I are going, I wanted to read a few things by some of them. Wolf Signs is her first published book with Samhain and it was well worth the read! I very much enjoyed it also. The Heroine is deaf, which added to the story. The hero's brother, TJ, was quite the character at times. I enjoyed him and hope to see him have a story of his own in the future. As well as the heroine's brother, Tad. Great shifter story with some hot lovin! Learn more here.

I squeezed one more in last night. I found this one from Lea's blog, which she learned from Beth Kery's blog. The blurb sold me

...Dan issues a challenge Nicole can’t refuse: if he can prove that mere mortals can have mind-blowing sex, Nicole’s next book will feature humans and not stamina enhanced werewolves or super-endowed aliens.

And rather than wait to see if I win a copy from Beth's blog, for 2.99, I bought it last night. It was good! Quick and fun, with some more hot sexy lovin. And Dan proves himself to be all that even though he isn't some paranormal, sexy god, superman! A lot of fun! Learn more here.

Overall, I'd recommend all three!

Last week I read two other e-books from the Spice Briefs line at eharlequin.com. Mirror, Mirror by Amanda McIntyre, and This is What I Want by Megan Hart. Both of them were very good! Mirror, Mirror had a twist at the end that made me laugh because I did not see it coming...At all! It was quite different, in that I wouldn't call it a romance. It was erotic, without a doubt. Very interesting story line and some really hot scenes :). This is What I Want was a romance, and I loved that Megan Hart used blogging as the main theme of the story. Very interesting, and highly engaging. I thought the set up was unique and made it interesting. I'd also recommend both of these Spice Briefs! Of course, I'd recommend The Diary of Cozette by Amanda McIntyre as well as Stranger by Megan Heart (It's the only Megan Hart I've read in her Spice books, or I'd likely recommend them all! As well as any future ones by Amanda. Both of them are fantastic writers!)

Amanda McIntyre
Megan Hart

I have another book by Amanda McIntyre to read soon. Thanks to her, I have it to read! I had ordered the anthology, Faery Song, with her and Isabo Kelly from the e-publisher, but I was never able to get a link to download the book. So, Ms. McIntyre sent me a print copy! Thank you, Amanda, for that! I'll be reading that one soon!

I hope you all have a great weekend :)

And the winner is...

Thank you all for stopping by and leaving a comment. And thank you, Jennifer, for the books! You guys are all so awesome :).

And now the winner of the ARC of Kiss of Darkness is...

Okibi-insanity!

Congratulations, Sue!

Also, if you wanted to try your luck at winning another copy of Kiss of Darkness, then head over to I Don't Want To Wait, I Want The Book Now's blog. She's interviewed Jennifer St. Giles and a copy of Kiss of Darkness is up for grabs. Winner will be drawn tomorrow!

Happy Reading!

Kiss of Darkness ARC Giveaway

*Contest Closed*

I received an email from Ms. St. Giles asking if I'd be interested in reading and reviewing her next book in her Shadowmen series that is scheduled for release on the 31st. I had read the first two as they came out, so of course I said yes.

I should have done this sooner, but better late than never, eh? I have an ARC of Kiss of Darkness to giveaway to one lucky commenter! So leave a comment and I'll pick a name Friday. afternoon :). I I I
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Kiss of Darkness
Jennifer St. Giles
Book 3 in the Shadowmen Series
March 31, 2009
Series order-
Touch a Dark Wolf
The Lure of the Wolf
Kiss of Darkness
Bride of the Wolf (4/28/09)

Blurb~A vampire bite has Sheriff Sam Sheridan on the fast track to hell and demons are taking over Twilight Tennessee. He's battling not only to save both his soul and his town, but also his love for one woman, Emerald Linton. Emerald has a secret that could destroy both her and Sam. She is an angel, and if she can't save Sam from turning evil, then she'll have to kill him, no matter how much of her heart belongs to him. Sam is determined to take as many demons and vampires down with him as he can and to protect Emerald, but as the seductive dark power in him grows will he condemn Emerald to share his doomed fate, or will they both find a way out of hell. ind a way out of hell.

I would recommend reading the first two books in this series before reading Kiss of Darkness, Touch a Dark Wolf and The Lure of the Wolf. With the continuing plot line I think the books should be read in order, or you may feel lost with who's who and what's what. There is a lot going on.

Enter a world with demons and vampires, angels and otherworldy warriors. The plot is quite thick and begins in the first book and builds from there throughout each book, adding and complicating things further. The bad guys wreak havoc in a quaint town set in the Tennessee Mountains called Twilight as their plan to unleash horrible evil into the world thickens. But a small group of people have come together over the course of the books to fight back and save the world.

At the end of the second book Sam, the hero in Kiss of Darkness, was bitten by a vampire. Now he struggles with the horrifying transformation. As the battle continues to keep the demons and vampires at bay, Sam and Emerald fight together the darkness that threatens their future. Emerald's secret past haunts her as does the tragic events of Sam's haunt him, complicating their already complicated relationship.

I enjoyed revisiting previous characters and finally seeing Emerald and Sam front and center. These books are very much centered around the plot with lots of action. There are some light moments that I really liked. For instance, the Truffle scene. Even in the midst of the end of the world as we know it, it was an uplifting scene to see the characters have a teasing moment.

I enjoyed this third book in the Shadowmen series. Another fine addition to a very detailed plot and vivid, well-crafted characters to go with it!

So leave a comment and I'll draw a name for an ARC of the book! And it's one of those arc's that doesn't have the cover. Well, it has a cover. It's that light blue cover, very neat! I have an Eve Silver ARC like this one. It's pretty cool, if you ask me :).

Comment by Friday morning! I'll announce a winner by Friday afternoon!

Thank you, Jennifer St. Giles, for the the books! So awesome of you, and so wonderfully appreciated.

One more thing...for my overseas bloggin friends, this is open to all!

JenniferStGiles.com

Happy Reading!

Now for something uplifting...

Books...There are two e-book releases today that I've been waiting for. This first one I discovered browsing the list of authors that are attending Lori Foster's get together. I believe this is Vivian Arend's first published book and it looks really good!

“Wolf Signs” by Vivian Arend

Read An Excerpt Online
Genre: Paranormal Romance
Length: Novella
Price: 3.50
Publication Date: March 24, 2009

Buy here.

Talk about getting your signals crossed…

Granite Lake Wolves, Book 1

Robyn Maxwell doesn’t care that her brother has to cancel out on their backcountry ski trip. She can do it alone. The fact she’s deaf doesn’t make her survival skills any weaker. The chance to get away from it all and relax in the Yukon wilderness is just what she’s been craving.

Meeting wilderness guide Keil at the cabin starts cravings of another kind. Keil’s one hot hunk of ripped, tasty male. Now she has to deal with raging hormones as well as strange questions about wolves and mates and challenges to the death.

Keil was trying for a nice reflective retreat before challenging for the Alpha position of his Alaskan pack. He wasn’t planning on meeting the woman destined to be his mate, or finding out she’s not aware she has the genes of a wolf.

Between dealing with his accident-prone younger brother, a deaf mate with an attitude and an impending duel to the death, his week—and his bed—is suddenly full.

Far from the relaxing getaway any of them had in mind...

Warning: Gives a whole new meaning to the phrase “talking with your hands”. Includes dangerous use of sarcasm and hot nookie in a remote wilderness sauna.


And this second is Surrender Dorothy by R. G. Alexander. Anna had read the first one and it looked fun and quick. So I read it and liked it and now here is the second one. The Wizard from the first one, Not in Kansas, is front and center in Surrender Dorothy. And it sounds yummy and I just love Samhains warnings :).

“Surrender Dorothy” by R. G. Alexander

Read An Excerpt Online
Genre: Fantasy Romance, Red Hots!
Length: Novella
Price: 3.50
Publication Date: March 24, 2009

Buy Here.

What Happens When a Wicked Wizard Woos a Wary Witch?

Sequel to Not in Kansas.

Dorothy knows her new neighbor is too wicked to be trusted. As a natural witch, she recognizes the Wizard for what he truly is. As a woman, she recognizes him as a threat to her sanity.

Z has tried everything. Pursued her in dreams, bribed her cat, enticed her with peep shows meant to whet her appetite and drive her crazy. And still she resists. What’s a Wizard to do? He came to Earth to have an adventure, not lose his heart to the one witch whose guard he can’t get past.

When he finally gets his hands on her, the power between them is undeniable. But Dorothy’s family secret could make him sorry she surrendered.

Warning: Voyeurism, lurid dreams, raunchy dirty wizard sex in public places.

Happy Tuesday :)
(There's some good books coming out next week that I can't wait to get my hands on. And Anna told me she has one of them signed that she'll be giving away :). I loved the first book, so I am so excited for this second book...Fantasy Romance! There just isn't enough of those out there. When one does come out, I get really excited. DragonBound by Jade Lee. If you're interested, look for the first book, DragonBorn. Great fantasy world and great characters. And I love the covers.)

One other thing, if you're still reading, I have an ARC...singed...of Kiss of Darkness by Jennifer St. Giles that I need to do a giveaway for. I think tomorrow, I'll post that. I'm trying to get things back in order. They're getting there.

Thank you all so much!

Race to Witch Mountain!

Today me and Devin went to see Race to Witch Mountain. The paranormal, special powers aspect of the movie appealed and of course the wrestling fans that we are in my house, I couldn't pass up watching The Rock (Can you smell what the Rock is cookin? HAHA!) on the big screen! And in a few weeks I imagine we'll be heading back to the theater to see 12 Rounds...John Cena...sigh...I'd never consider the movie otherwise :).

It turned out to be pretty good. A lot of action and special effects. I like wacthing the previews. I didn't know, but Devin did (I'm so not hip on what's out and coming soon), there is a movie for Dragon Ball Z! I thought that was cool. Devin used to love to watch that cartoon when he was younger and had all the video games for PS2. We'll be going to see that one too, I'm sure.

What about you, did you all do anything fun this weekend?

Some local authors I wanted to share with you...

I'm pokin my head out of the hole I've been in for awhile. I wanted to share a few things. I discovered last week that there is now a monthly romance book group that meets at my local B&N on the third Wednesday of the month. We happened to be in there and I saw a sign by a book, Born in Sin by Kinley MacGregor, that was advertising it as the March book group selection. My mom hadn't read it yet so she bought a copy and I was more than happy to pull it off my shelf and reread it. Sin and Callie are just so good together. I really love that book. My mom and I went this past Wednesday. It was fun. I really enjoyed discussing Born in Sin and look forward to next months book, which is Fantasy Lover. The lady who formed the group thought it would be fun to read one of each of her books. It's been awhile since i read Fantasy Lover, so I won't mind at all revisiting that one either.

I discovered two local romance authors in the last few weeks. One of them is published with The Wild Rose Press, Jocelyn Saint James. Her fist print book is Serenade the Moon. She happened to be signing at the Borders in the mall last weekend (where Anne Bishop will be again tomorrow!). Me and Devin stopped and talked with her for a few minutes. I look forward to reading her book and posting my thoughts. She was a really nice lady.

Here's a little about Serenade the Moon-

Serenade the Moon April 2008

Jade Novak is a beautiful gypsy fortuneteller longing to escape the burden of her past indiscretions and flee from an arranged marriage. Danny O’Brien is a magazine editor torn between his career and a doomed engagement. Destiny brought them together, but are they strong enough to battle tradition, family, and greed? A moonlight serenade holds the answer. Available from The Wild Rose Press.



I had to update and remove one of the books I had listed. Unfortunately, I would not recommend that one to anyone now that I've read some of it. And that's all I'm sayin :).


Happy Reading! And I hope you all have a wonderful weekend :)

The Battle Continues...

Eleven weeks and still not a single cigarette. I feel pretty darn good about that. But this last few weeks have been the hardest, and I think it's because I know I'm supposed to be done with the nicotine lozenges in one more week, and I know I'm not ready to give them up just yet.

The other day I was at the store and in the parking lot beside my jeep was this half smoked cigarette. I looked at it for a few seconds thinking, "That looks mighty good." Then I cringed thinking, "Gah, how disgusting is that? Drooling over someone elses old nasty half smoked cigarette?"

That night I had a dream that I did smoke that cigarette. Of course it wasn't that same one, but it was a half smoked one and I was at home, but I dreamed I smoked. I can't say that in the eleven previous weeks I've dreamed about it. I think now that I'm getting close the the finish line of truly being smoke and nicotine free, my brain is playing tricks. The little bastard!

Small things have turned into HUGE things, all in the name of Nicotine and the lack of it. I'm at the minimum time for how many lozenges to suck daily (3-4) and I'm supposed to cut back to zilch in one more week. And it scares the piss out of me that I won't be able to do it. It seems this week I have wanted to smoke more than ever. I don't know, but I feel like I've lost a friend or something. I miss stepping outside and puffing that tobacco stick. I miss when I get upset, mad or sad, and lighting up, that feeling it gives you as the nicotine works it's way through the body, easing and well...comforting. It sounds crazy, but it seems to take forever to get a grip when my emotions get riled.

Yesterday, my husband was out in the garage (where we smoke in the winter) and my first thought was to accuse him of smoking! I felt horrible that I would think he was sneaking one without me. I even did this secret sniff to see if I could catch a whiff. I got nothin. Needless to say, I was relieved. But felt guilty for being suspicious.

I've managed this long, I can manage a little longer. One day at a time.

Lovin This Cover

The ladies over at LIT posted the new cover to their anthology that's coming out in November. It's the first of three by Amanda McIntyre, Charlotte Featherstone, and Kristi Astor. The stories are based on various legends and lore of the Celtic year festivals. There are going to be three books in the series. This one being the first one, Winter's Desire. The second one is Beltane Fire and the third is Dark Pleasures. They're in the spice line so that means yummy hawtness.I hope each book carries a similar theme with a woman on the front as this one has. I love the Celtic lore, so this book is going to be much anticipated!

Catherine Kean - A Knight's Temptation

Catherine Kean
A Knight's Temptation: Knight's Series Book 3
April 2009
Medallion Press
Historical Romance (Medieval)
www.catherinekean.com
Available now at Amazon

I was thrilled when I opened up my email last month and Catherine Kean asked me if I'd be interested in reading and reviewing her new book releasing April 1st, A Knight's Temptation. She wasn't aware that I had already read the first book in her Knight's series, A Knight's Vengeance, a book which I really enjoyed :), so I was pretty excited with the offer.

The first book, A Knight's Vengeance, is about Geoffrey de Lanceau and his Lady Elizabeth. Geoffrey kidnaps Elizabeth as part of his plot for revenge for the foul deeds against his name and his murdered father's name. Geoffrey believes Elizabeth's father is responsible. Now enter a love sick fool who is deceived into believing that Geoffrey has hurt his Lady Love, Elizabeth. Aldwin Treynarde, the hero of A Knight's Temptation, shoots de Lanceau in the chest, thinking he is protecting Elizabeth and her father, but boy, was he wrong! Three years later, after pledging himself to serve de Lanceau, he finds himself kidnapping his own lady, the Lady Leona in A Knight's Temptation.

Twelve years earlier, a childhood game of Damsel in distress turns tragic when eight year old Leona is reluctantly tied to tree by her brother and a boy that he befriends that is visiting their household. Aldwin. Leona is not happy that they leave her there, alone, she wants to be part of the sword fighting also, not the trussed up lady needing rescue. But young Aldwin doesn't leave before he places an innocent kiss upon her lips, which just infuriates Leona even more. Then tragedy strikes when a swarm of bees sting her little body that nearly caused her death.

Now twelve years later, Aldwin and Leona's paths cross again over a stolen ruby pendant that belongs to de Lanceau. Aldwin believes all these years later that Leona died from the bee stings she suffered. His shame and dishonor from that fateful day and then the shooting of de Lanceau three years earlier weigh heavy on him.

Aldwin winds up taking Leona against her will to de Lanceau. And the journey begins as Aldwin and Leona discover an attraction that neither can resist. Between their battle of wills, Leona finds herself dreaming of the next kiss Aldwin might steal from her, wanting his heat and the feelings he provokes within her.

There were some interesting twists that added to the plot from A Knight's Vengeance regarding de Lanceau and Veronique. I enjoyed revisiting the characters from the first book. The two antagonists were once again front and center in this one. However in A knight's Temptation one gets what is deserving of their foul deeds, and one gets away to live another day, Veronique. Oh, she's a cruel, disturbed woman. I can only hope she gets whats due her in a future book. And I'm curious to see how one of the events plays out in future books.

If you like the kidnapped heroine who falls for her capture as they journey to their destination, a strong-willed heroine who isn't afraid to fight, a hero who wants honor and respect but doesn't quite go about it in the best of ways, a lot of action, and some stolen heated kisses, then check this book out. However, I would recommend reading A Knight's Vengeance first. There are a lot of references to that book in this one. I don't know if you would also benefit by reading A Knight's Reward (Book two in the Knight's series) before A Knight's Temptation. I didn't read it and everything seemed okay.

A Knight's Vengeance: Knights series Book One
Medallion Press
September 2006
Click here for more info


A Knight's Reward: Knights series Book Two
Medallion Press
April 2008
Click here for more info

The next book in Catherine Kean's Knights series, A Knight's Persuasion, is set for release in May 2010.

Happy Reading!

Sue-Ellen Wefonder - Seducing a Scottish Bride

Seducing a Scottish Bride
Sue Ellen Welfonder
February 2009
Book Six in the MacKenzie Series

Books in order
1. Devil in a Kilt
2. Bride of the Beast
3. Only for a Knight
4. Until the Knight Comes
5. Bride for a Knight

A strong heroine and a hero who thinks himself being honorable made this book another wonderful addition to Sue Ellen Welfonder's Highlander series.

Ronan MacRuari finds himself betrothed to the fiery-spirited Gelis, daughter of the Black Stag of Kintail, Duncan MacKenzie, when his grandfather propositions Duncan to pay back a debt inquired years past by giving his youngest daughter to the Raven, Ronan MacRuari. Thinking it best to keep her at a distance in hopes she leaves the blighted, cursed land his clan occupies, he attempts to deny her. He fears her fate will be no different than his two previous wives...an early death due to the curse he and his clan carry upon their shoulders.

But the stubborn lass refuses to see things as Ronan does, not after discovering she has the same Second Sight as her mother, Linnet. After having a vision of the Raven, Ronan MacRuari, she is determined that she is the one to save him and his clan from the evil that haunts them. He needs her and she will have it no other way.

The mystery of the curse upon the MacRuaris slowly unfurls throughout the story, but you don't really know until the end. I enjoyed that bit of crypticness that carried throughout the book. I think Sue Ellen writes such wonderful descriptions of the land of Scotland. The heather strewn hills. The mist clouded lochs and mountains. The life she breaths back into the castle ruins of today, giving them back the life they had in their time of greatness. I love reading her books because you can feel how much that land means to her. She always adds a bit of lore that I find interesting. I enjoy reading her books for more than the romance, I love being swept away to that medieval time.

Her website is such a wonderful place to explore. She has tons of pictures from her travels to Scotland, recipes, just all sorts of fun and interesting things! Click here to journey to her magical place.

The next book in Sue Ellen Welfonder's MacKenzie series is coming in October 2009. A Highlander's Temptation is Gelis's older sister, Arabella MacKenzie!

Blurb~
Darroc MacConacher spends sleepless nights dreaming of a raven-haired beauty that makes him ache with desire. Then his dream comes true: the lady with her lush curves and delicately fair skin appears shipwrecked on his shores. Darroc is immediately drawn to her strength and beauty, and from the moment she lays eyes on this powerful, broad-shouldered warrior, Lady Arabella MacKenzie knows she'll never want another man.

But theirs is a forbidden love. The MacKenzies drove the MacConachers from their lands and destroyed their honor. Now, Darroc can use this sapphire-eyed seductress to shatter his foes. Yet how can he deny the passion that burns between him and Arabella, and ruin the one woman who touches his very soul?

Anne Bishop - Daughter of the Blood

Hell's Fire, Mother Night, and may the Darkness be Merciful!

Fighting to remain on the edge of the Twisted Kingdom, to stay sane and one with reality so that she can tell Daemon Sadi what she saw on her Tangled Web. The living myth. Dreams made flesh. Witch. Is coming. Tersa's opening scene has such a dramatic, impacting flare, hooking and sucking me right back into the intrinsic beauty of the Realms Anne Bishop has written.

I was browsing through the book looking for a particular scene, one that pops in my head all the time and I wanted to make note of it. After I found it, I flipped to the beginning and read the prologue. I had no intentions of rereading, but, it's simply too amazing to put down once I started.

Several years ago I picked up Daughter of the Blood when I was recommended to browse the fantasy section for vampire novels after I finished reading Anne Rice's Vampire Chronicles. I was in heaven! Anne Bishop was one of the first authors I ventured into and I was awed by her world and characters. The darkly disturbing scenes with Daeamon and Lucivar are nicely countered with the relationship and incidents that occur between young Jaenelle and Saeten, Prothvar and Andulvar.

This is my third time reading Daughter. And I'm sure I'll continue with Heir and Queen. How can I not! I'm amazed and drawn into it as I was the first time. It's a trilogy to be savored. The characters. The relationships. The realms and the magic and how they work. It's fantastical. Brilliant.

Jaenelle Angeline. Dreams made flesh. The living myth. She is Witch. Carrying within herself an exuberant amount of power, unlike anything seen before. At the young age of seven, she begins her bond with the High Lord of Hell. Saetan SaDioblo. He is neither living nor dead. He is one of the living dead. A Guardian. Remaining in the Realms, waiting for Witch. The daughter of his soul. To train and serve her. Their poignant relationship builds heart-achingly throughout the book. At times he fears the power she holds, the things she is capable of doing, shocks him to no end, yet all he can do is protect her from those who would wish to mold her, destroy her for the power she wields. Even kill her. Only one man he truly fears can destroy her. Daemon Sadiablo.

Daemon. The Sadist. The Bastard. He is Hayll's whore, but inside he knows he is to be the lover, the consort to Witch. Not just another witch of the realm. But Witch. The one to right and destroy the evil that has corrupted the realm of Terreille. He is sexy, seductive, beautiful, dangerous, deadly. A pleasure slave held by Dorothea, Hayll's High Priestess--evil, power-hungry, greedy bitch. But deep down inside he fears that Witch will judge him and find him lacking, disgusting, for his year after long year of being a pleasure-slave.

In the territory of Chaillot lies a city, Beldon Mor, where Jeanelle is from, terrible things are happening. Unspeakable, horrible things. But she keeps an impenetrable mist around Beldon Mor. Hiding what is happening from Saetan and others that would send them on a killing rage. But she has her reasons for the secrecy.

Daemon finds himself in Beldon Mor. Sent by Dorothea. When he discovers a psychic thread belonging to Witch in the very house he is to entertain, he is overcome with hope and longing that he will finally serve Witch. Seven hundred years have passed since the night Tersa spoke to him of her vision. Seven hundred agonizingly long years of enduring the touch of other females due to his enslavement. Daemon expects Witch to be full grown. And when he discovers she is still but a child of 12 and his body reacts to her presence, disgust and repugnance fill him until her realizes that it's not the physical needs of his body reacting to her but something far deeper, a connection to Witch. Her power. What lies beneath the child body. He struggles with his needs regarding Jaenelle. Wanting her. Needing her. Needing her to need him. To serve. Because that is what Warlord Princes do. They serve. And are proud to serve. But Terreille has been so corrupted over the centuries, losing sight of the true ways of the Blood. Jaenelle, the living myth, dreams made flesh, is the hope for the Blood who still remember.

The dramatic, horrifyingly traumatic ending of Daughter of the Blood will have you on the edge. It is so insanely gripping. Sad, yet hopeful. Everything has a price. Of course you can't stop with Daughter, you have to continue with Heir to the Shadows in order to find out the outcome of that tragic moment. And then Queen of the Darkness. Ahh, the coming together of Daemon and Jaenelle in Queen, is absolutely breath-taking, tearful. And beautiful. For Daemon has a secret, one that will make your heart go out to him and love him all the more, if that's even possible!

Considering this is a fantasy and not romance, the romance, the connection between Daemon and Jaenelle, is so powerful that it sometimes overshadows the fantasy world. I've read some really great romances. Strong and beautiful ones, but this trilogy is still my most favorite and beloved set of books I own! I've read all of her books. All are extremely engrossing, but none have had the same impact as The Black Jewels Trilogy.

And the scene I was looking for...

Lucivar swayed, confused. Zuultah rolled on the floor, screaming, screaming. He tried to lick the moisture from his lips but something was in the way. He turned his head and spat.

For a long time, while guards pounded on the locked door and Zuultah screamed, he stared at the small thing his teeth had found to ease the hunger. At first he didn't understand what it was. When his flaccid organ finally slipped out of the orifice and he recognized the red for what it was, Lucivar lifted his head and let out a howling, savage laugh.

OMG...He bit off her nubbin!! The Queen bitch so deserved it though. The first time I read that scene. My eyes bulged. I couldn't believe it. The second time I read it, I forgot and had to close the book and cringe. Then I had the pleasure of meeting Anne Bishop back in March and I had to comment on that scene. It's so gruesome, yet so utterly deserved! Obviously there is nothing romantic about it, but it is one of the most memorable scenes I have ever read! I don't know, maybe you have to read the trilogy to appreciate it? To see and experience the treatment of both Daemon and Lucivar have endured over the centuries of their long-lived lives.

Coming in March 2009!
The Shadow Queen

In her national bestselling Black Jewels novels, Anne Bishop’s “surefire spell craft…leave[s] readers’ hearts pounding.”* Now her “feverish pacing and terrifying twists” (*Publishers Weekly) are showcased once again. In a tumultuous world ruled by witches and warlocks who wear their power as jewels, one Queen’s chance at redemption is the last hope for a desperate people…

Dena Nehele is a land decimated by its past. Once it was ruled by corrupt Queens who were wiped out when the land was cleansed of tainted Blood. Now, only one hundred Warlord Princes stand—without a leader and without hope…

Theran Grayhaven is the last of his line, desperate to find the key that reveals a treasure great enough to restore Dena Nehele. But first he needs to find a Queen who knows Protocol, remembers the Blood’s code of honor, and lives by the Old Ways.

Languishing in the Shadow Realm, Lady Cassidy is a Queen without a court, a castoff. She is not beautiful. She thinks she is not strong. But when she is chosen to rule Dena Nehele, she must convince bitter men to serve once again.

Theran’s cousin Gray is a Warlord Prince who was damaged in mind and body by the vicious Queens who once ruled Dena Nehele. Yet something about Cassidy makes him want to serve—and makes him believe he can be made whole once again.

And only Cassidy can prove to Gray—and to herself—that wounds can heal and even the whisper of a promise can be fulfilled…
Check out more of Anne Bishop's books here.

"You son of a whoring bitch!"
(I love her catchy lines! Just had to add that one!)

Amanda McIntyre - The Diary of Cozette

The Diary of Cozette

Amanda McIntyre Harlequin Spice
October 2008
Buy Here
Visit Amanda's Website Here.

The Diary of Cozette is just that, the diary of Anne Cozette Bennett, which spans from August 1869 to the winter of 1875.

At the age of fourteen, Cozette's mother becomes too weak from illness to care for her, and sends her away to an aunt and uncle's home to live. Her mother gives her a diary and tells her to keep track of her adventures. Of course, I doubt her mom would have thought Cozette's entries would be of the explicit sexual journey Cozette embarks upon.

After an incident with her cousin shortly after Cozette's arrival, she finds herself shipped off to an orphanage. There she meets a young man named Ernest. Eventually their relationship turns to one of a sexual nature, awakening her feminine passion. Ernest fears for her well-being and sends her to London with the promise he will follow her shortly.

He never shows and over a year later, after suffering terrible tribulations, Cozette finds herself serving a most unlikely lady. She gave Cozette a safe and secure home, even though she was a servant, there was still much respect, allowing Cozette to grow into a decent young lady. Within that home Cozette also learns of her inner passions and longings, that which is denied ladies of the time.

Men enter her life, offering her what her body craves since that night of passion with Ernest. Ernest awakened her passion. Francois breathed life into it. And Mr. Rodin refined it. But who will claim it and keep for themselves? For Cozette has a passion that will be neither banked nor denied.

I loved watching Cozette grow and change over the course of this book. Watching her go from inexperienced with Ernest, to thinking herself in love with Francois, to knowing that what she has with Mr. Rodin is no more than two adults enjoying the companionship of each others bodies. And then of course the one man who matches her and stokes the flames inside her that she dreamed she could spend the rest of her life with without worry he might tire and seek passion elsewhere. That one man she could love.

The Diary of Cozette is not really a romance, more erotic fiction with romantic elements. It's more what I said previously, Cozette coming of age and accepting and exploring her sensually passionate nature. It was very elegantly written. The words flowed very poetically. Ms. McIntyre can pen some really amazing sexual encounters. And the great thing, they are rather short but pack a walloping punch! Truly an awesomely talented writer Amanda McIntyre is<---hey, that was kinda like Yoda :). I also loved the unique set-up of this book, entry dates as if it really were a diary, rather than chapters. I am loving this Spice line with Harlequin. I've only read one other book, Stranger by Megan Hart, that was published in this line, and I love the "out of the box" motto it seems to have. Both of them have been so different from the normal romance book, yet still have that satisfying romantic ending. They have a more real life aspect to them that I love. I will read more in this line, without a doubt! Amanda McIntyre's next Spice book is Tortured and man, does it not sound like a great book. I couldn't find a blurb on her website for it though. I had read a blog post about it and, yeah, it sounds wonderful! And that cover is just beautiful, don't you think?

Tortured
Harlequin Spice Ebook
Coming August 2009!

To learn more, click here.

Megan Hart - Stranger

Megan Hart
Stranger
January 2009

I see Megan Hart’s books described as being emotional, compelling, and intense. You begin reading and it all seems so simple, but before you know it, you’re so twisted up in the emotions of Grace and you wonder how in the hell did this story get so complex?

Grace refuses to have any sort of long lasting, meaningful relationship. She discovered away to do that…pay for sex. But one night she picks up a stranger, the wrong stranger, and it sends her on a journey of self-discovery that just slithers right inside of you and takes you along for a deep, powerful ride.

I read over half the book the first night, and found myself dreaming about the characters, Grace, Jack and Sam. I don’t do that very often, dream about books I read. But I wanted to know the outcome so badly that my brain wouldn’t rest. But then again, I don’t see these characters leaving me anytime soon now that I have that outcome.

Grace, misguided Grace, thinking that if she avoided relationships she would avoid the grief and pain that she sees every day in her job running a funeral home. Neither does she want to be on the receiving end of that grief or the giving end. And Sam, he’s funny. Just a typical guy. Nothing fancy. He’s just a guy that fell for Grace, and no matter how much she rejected him, he kept at her, chipping away her defensive wall. Although his scenes may have been short and infrequent, considering the length of the book, Megan Hart wrote them in a way that you did not forget Sam. No, Sam’s a very hard guy to forget. His presence was very strong throughout the pages. And the relationship between Sam and Grace was phenomenal. But Sam has his own issues to deal with. The realism was simply amazing.

I think how Megan led up to the intimate scenes with Sam and Grace was feakin brilliant for the impact they had. Sam and Grace have one night of sex. That’s it. Then Grace calls and sets up appointment after appointment with Jack. They have sex. Yeah, it’s pretty hot, but something is missing. Emotion. And because of that when Sam and Grace finally get personal it is…OMG, it’s like an emotional melt down. It’s out of this world amazing. It's not the sizzling description of the sex, but the emotions that boil and flame. Your chest feels it as it constricts, your throat as it thickens, and your stomach as it somersaults.

This is undeniably one of the best books I have read in a long time. The characters and their relationships were so unbelievably real. Amazing and remarkable. The ending, I didn't think it was going to happen, the happily ever after part, but when it did, it was a profound moment of reading.

Without a doubt, a top read for 2009!

Denise Rosetti, The Flame and the Shadow

Denise Rossetti
The Flame and the Shadow
Book One in the Four-Sided Pentacle Series
Publisher - Ace Penguin Group
Erotic Fantasy Romance
Website

A sizzling new fantasy series from a hot new talent.

Some are drawn to the light. Some are drawn to the dark. Some desire both . . . Grayson of Concordia, known on countless worlds as the Duke of Ombra, is a mercenary, a sorcerer of shadows-a man whose soul is consumed by darkness. For Gray, the bleak savagery in his heart is manifest in an entity he calls Shad. He has long resisted Shad's enticements, but when he is hired to kidnap a fire witch, he seizes the chance to restore his soul-no matter the cost. Cenda's heart is ash. Since the death of her precious baby daughter, life has lost all meaning for the fire witch. Slowly, she has worked to master her powers and go on living. But when she encounters Gray, her will is no match for her desire. But her love may not survive the terrible discovery of Gray's betrayal . . .
Wow...This was quite a unique fantasy romance, but then again most fantasies are quite unique. Another author with an amazing way with words.

Cenda, the leading female protagonist finds herself mourning the loss of her baby, but with that loss she was given a most unique "gift"...the gift of fire. Once a witch who possessed nothing but a tall skinny form, a plain and forgettable woman, now she finds herself fleeing from people who want her so they can control her gift of fire, an extremely rare talent among witches.

Grayson, also known as the Duke of Ombra, has a secret. His shadow, otherwise known as Shad, is alive and of a separate mind from him. Once a mercenary, Gray is now a musician with the Unearthly Oprah. He sings most seductively, entrancing his audience. Hired by a technomage, his mission is to abduct Cenda and hand her over to her. But a wizard promises Gray that if he brings the fire witch to him he can restore his soul, relieving him of Shad, his once best friend, now his most hated, disgusting secret. Gray will do anything to eliminate the abomination that is Shad. His plan...seduce Cenda, hopefully to cause her to willingly accompany him to the wizard.

But what Gray does not realize is that Cenda holds the power to heal him in a way none other ever could. As his seduction of her intensifies he realizes that she is more to him than he ever bargained for.

Gray is a most complex character. His past, his relationship with Shad and the heartache and shame it has caused him, is gripping and engrossing. Denise Rossetti put together a fascinating story, rich with detail and well developed, multifaceted characters.

Speaking of characters. There is a boy, Slop is his name. He's maybe ten. Dirty, a beggar. His favorite thing to say is, "Fookin' 'ell". It's rather comical. Cenda asks him to come and stay with her. He asks if he would have to stay clean. She says yes and of course his reply is "Fookin' 'ell". It was a nice little touch of lightness to mix in with all the darkness of Cenda's and Gray's past.

The scenes were incredibly well written between Cenda and Gray. The role that Shad plays was an added bonus to the uniqueness of this story. The world had kind of a futuristic feel with mentions of otherworldly traveling but also had a historical feel as well. The two blended together, creating a fresh new world.

I really enjoyed this book and will definitely keep my eye on the lookout for the next books to follow. An intense and well satisfying read! A for sure keeper. If I were to do a grading system, I'd give it an A!

Lisa Hendrix - Immortal Warrior

Lisa Hendrix
Immortal Warrior
November 2008

Cursed to live an immortal existence, eagle by day, man by night, Ivar finds himself once again in the Kings gratitude. Usually he asks for gold, but this time, land stole past his lips. Tired and lonely, Ivar wants some normality back into his life. Not only does the King grant him his request for land, but offers a wife as well.

Ivar knew he'd be pleased with his wife, a woman is a woman, just the thought of having a wife all his own, for the short time he'd be able to have her was enough for Ivar. And Alaida pleases him more than he could have hoped for.

Ivar searches out his friends, Brand and Ari, also cursed immortal were-creatures. Brand has been continuously searching for the witch Cwen who placed this curse upon them centuries ago. He feels responsible for the long ago placed curse and reluctantly puts aside his search to travel with Ivar to his new lands and future wife.

But Ari, who also has visions, warns Ivar that he must stay away from his new bride, for their children will be just as cursed as he is. Ivar tries to deny it. He wants and needs Alaida too badly, but in the end he gives in, avoiding intimacies with Alaida.

I was not going to buy this book, but Anna bought it for me and I am really glad she did. I loved Immortal Warrior. I do believe that I have read my first book for the year that will make my top list. I was feeling some strong emotions while reading. Ivar's desperation to keep and hold onto Alaida, regardless of his curse and the vision, was so sad and it was done in a way that you knew he didn't have much of a choice but to stay away from her, rather than risk her bearing a child. But things don't always work out as planned :).

I love stories that involve curses and this one was extremely fascinating. I was intrigued from the prologue til the last page. I can't believe I had decided not to buy this book. So glad Anna went against my judgment and bought it for me anyway!

Loved this book!

THE LEGEND

In the early years of the raids upon Britain, it came about that Håkon IronToe, a high chieftain of the Norse, heard tales told among his Saxon thralls that the men of Odinsbrigga, in the Kingdom of Anglia, guarded a great treasure. Determined to have it, he sent his fiercest warriors, led by Brand Einarsson, called Thor’s Hammer, to take the village and bring the gold to him. But the treasure was protected not only by the swords of men, but by the sorcery of the witch, Cwen, who conjured warriors from her own blood and sent her son to lead them.

When Brand saw his men being slaughtered, a great rage came over him, and he gained the strength of ten berserkers. He set upon the ghosts, slashing and hewing until his blade found solid flesh, and he did kill the son of Cwen.

In the fury of her grief, Cwen used her magic to bind Brand and those of his men whose hearts still beat, and she had them carried before the treasure they had come to take, and she cursed them. She turned them into shadow beasts, living half as animal, half as man, each taking the form of his fylgja, the spirit companion whose image he wore on a chain. When she had done, Cwen took their amulets and scattered them across the face of the earth, and she drove the men off into the forest to be hunted.

When word of Brand’s fate reached Håkon, he trembled in fear and ordered his boats to sail, but a great wave arose and his ship vanished from the face of the sea. He never knew of the greater curse that befell his men, for Cwen also made the warriors immortal, so that their torment should go on and on. Forever.

After a time, the men of Odinsbrigga lost interest in their sport, and Brand searched out his men to gather them together. But those who were beasts set upon those who were men, and were set upon in turn when the sun fell or rose, and the vileness of the magic protected them from death but not from pain. When it grew clear they could not live together thus, each warrior set off to make his own way. Before they scattered, Brand swore a vow to every man that he would hunt Cwen until he found her, and that he would make her pay for what she had done.

The years passed into centuries, and still Brand hunted. One by one, his warriors learned to live among men once more. The first of these was Ivar, son of Thorli, called Greycloak, who spent his days in the form of an eagle . . . .

I won't hesitate to pick up the second book in this series!

Immortal Outlaw

June 2, 2008

For centuries he’s hidden in the woods. Now a maid has come to lead him out…

It’s been four centuries since Steinarr the Proud was cursed by a wicked sorceress-along with the rest of his Viking crew-to live for eternity as half man, half beast. By day Steinarr is like any other man-by night he is a lion. He has taken refuge in the woods of Nottingham, England, and there he encounters two young travelers, Robin and Marian.

Painfully aware of the danger he presents when the moon rises, Steinarr refuses to help guide them on their search for a special amulet. But a kiss from Marian awakens his desire. How can he protect the maid he so desperately wants to ravish? With motives of his own, Steinarr finally joins their quest, while the sorceress Cwen gathers her dark magic to destroy them.

As a legend spreads of an outlaw in the woods, their band is joined by others. But it is Steinarr who has the most to gain and the most to lose-if he is ever to be free of the curse and free to love as a man…

Jeri Smith-Ready - The Reawakened

Where do I begin? The Aspect of Crow Trilogy stands apart from anything I have ever read. The story may take place in it's own fantasy world but the reality of the events that happen is all too real. The invasion of the Ilions is no different from countries that wish genocide on other cultures and races across our world. Defeating a people because they are different and they fear what they do not understand and are unwilling to co-exist together because they feel they are right. But, really, who is right? No one has the right to make those decisions.

I know I won't aptly describe these books. There is so much in all three that the only way to understand is to read them yourself. It's no different than for me to try to describe The Black Jewels Trilogy. I can't do it. It's too amazing of a set of books that I know I could never give them the justice they deserve. But I will try with these ones :).

In the Aspect of Crow trilogy, people are gifted with the aspect of a Spirit. When they reach a certain age they venture into the wilderness for three days with no food or shelter and await their bestowing. But then there are the Ilions who are much like we are. They do not embrace the Spirits. They fear the magic and only want to claim the land and suppress the ones who embrace what they do not understand.

In the first book, Eyes of Crow, Rhia is bestowed with the gift of Crow. She helps people pass on to the other side, freeing their souls. On her way to Kalindos to train with another Crow, she meets Marek. Together, Marek helps Rhia accept her Crow aspect and Rhia helps him overcome his past. They may have found love but the inevitable war begins at the end with a battle with the Ilions. Tragically, lives are lost, but out of that battle an Ilion is saved and healed. Which leads you into the second book, Voice of Crow, and a wonderful romance. However there are some tough moments to get through in regards to Marek and Rhia. And now, 18 years later, in The Reawakened, the war between the ones who embrace the Sprits and the Ilion's is here. With the Ilions trying to gain full control over the two main cities, Asermos and Velekos, there is still resistance.

Several of the characters from the previous two books play important roles in this one, as well as the children and babies from Voice of Crow, now grown with their Spirit aspects bestowed upon them. In Voice of Crow a prophecy revealed that The Raven would bestow her gift on one child born of a Crow. The people have held on to that hope, because Raven has never bestowed her Aspect and they believe that when she does it will save their peolple. In Voice of Crow you're left wondering if one of two babies will be gifted with Raven.

In The Reawakened, it's battle to push back the occupation of the Ilions. To regain their land and freedom, to make a stand. The Aspect of Crow Trilogy is an Epic story encompassing all three books. The first book was wonderful, the second was fabulous, and the third was superb!! Combined together, producing one Phenomenal Trilogy!

The abundance of emotions I felt while reading this book was almost too painful to read at times, but I couldn't help but turn the page knowing hope was there. No matter how much violence and bloodshed it was there as long as they did not give up hope. No one person did not feel the affects of the war with the Ilions. Even the relationship between Dravik and Sura seemed hopeless. My insides were twisted through so many parts of this book. For Jeri Smith-Ready to be able to express in words, giving you that feeling over and over again, shows how truly talented she is. Not one time did I feel certain the outcome would be joyous and happy. She kept you on the edge of your seat, turning page after page, wondering what would happen next.

The Reawakened was a superb conclusion to this Trilogy. More than I ever bargained for. There is romance in all three books, but this Trilogy is soooo much more than three books focusing on two people in each book, searching for their HEA. This series is about survival and standing up for what you believe, fighting for what is yours.Each book enhances the previous creating one heck of a story.

I recommend this Trilogy to everyone. It's...well...it's simply Amazing! Perfect! An emotional roller-coaster you don't want to miss!!



Visit Jeri Smith-Ready's Website to learn more about the
Aspect of Crow Trilogy.