Christmas Awards 2011

Saturday 31 December 2011

Wicked Werewolf Night


Wicked Werewolf Night by Lisa Renee Jones

Publisher: Lisa Renee Jones

December 2011

Pages 67



Contemporary, Paranormal


Aylia Richardson is a witch that has been helping what is called the Vampire Wardens against some rogue werewolves that has been out trying to destroy the vampires, her coven and also the true werewolf society. Aylia is also trying to deal with the fact that even though a year has past she still isn’t over Nico Moore, the alpha werewolf that is the leader of the Royal Guard of Werewolves. Knowing that they come from two different worlds doesn’t make it any easier to convince her heart that they don’t’ have a future. Now if she can just get her pendant back from Nico she can move on with her life.

Nico Moore may be an alpha in his world but that doesn’t seem to matter to Aylia since she doesn’t always listen to what he says or do what he feels she should be doing. Being away from her has been hell for the past year and now that he has her back in his life he is determined to protect what is his and make sure that she knows exactly where she belongs which is right by his side. Nico is going to have his work cut out for himself as he made some mistakes in the past with Aylia that he has to make up for.

First they are going to have to take care of the obstacles that are in their path so that they can have the future together they both want so badly. There have been traitors that had to be found and taken care of. Now they just have to be sure they have gotten them all because Aylia paid the price the last time there was a traitor and Nico is determined that this time around she will be completely protected.



This is another wonderful story in the series started with the Vampire Wardens. While this one can be read as a stand alone it is much better when read with the first three books. The characters are well written and the reader will find them easy to relate to and enjoyable. The story moves along quickly and keeps the readers attention very well. This one is a must have.


I give this one 5 red roses

Forever and a Day


Forever and a Day by Delilah Marvelle

Publisher: HQN

December 2011

ISBN: 978-0-373-77636-8

Pages: 384




New York City 1830


Georgia Milton may be the head of the forty thieves but she is known for being very forthright with everyone that she deals with even when she would be better off not saying anything at all. When another thief steals her bag a man that she doesn’t know comes to her rescue. Now Georgia feels responsible and is determined to help heal and get better so that he can get on with his life. What she never expects is the passion they share or the truth about Roderick.

Roderick Gideon Tremayne tries to help Georgia out when her bag is stolen unfortunately by helping her out he ends up getting hurt and forgetting who he is and anything about his former life. Now he is finding out more about life than he ever knew and seeing things in a completely different way than he has ever seen them before.

Roderick and Georgia are falling for each other but will what they have found together be able to withstand the truth of Roderick’s life when he remembers who he is and the fact that he his father is a Duke. Roderick is going to have to decide just what means the most to him. The love he has found with Georgia or his life that was ruled by society. Now they will find out just what they are made of and what is most important to each other and to themselves.



This is a wonderful twist on the Prince and the Pauper. The story makes 1830 New York City come to life for the reader and gives them a wonderful glimpse into what life was like for the people that had to work for everything they had in life. It also gives the reader a glimpse of what those same people might dream about for a better life. The characters are very human and the reader is completely able to relate to them even though the time period is completely different. This one that is worth getting and will have the reader eagerly turning the pages just to see what the character will be up to next.


I give this one 4-1/2 red roses

Tuesday 27 December 2011

Amazon Awakening


Amazon Awakening by Caridad Pineiro

Publisher: Harlequin Nocturne Cravings

December 2011

ISBN: 978-1-4592-8276-6

Pages: 87


Paola Lopes is an attorney in New York that lately has not been satisfied with her life and work. She feels like something is missing she just isn’t sure what that something is. She has also been thinking about her father’s family that she has never really known. When Rey Peralta first walks into her office she isn’t sure what to thing of the sexy man. When he first mentions her grandmother though she is instantly wary about just what he wants from her and if she is going to be able to do what he asks of her.

Rey Peralta has been running the Lopes family business for years. Now Patricia Lopes the matriarch of the family wants him to go get her granddaughter in New York and bring her to the family plantation. Once Rey meets Paola the instant connection he feels with her tells him that there is going to be a lot more between them than just her families business. First though he is going to have to convince her that she needs to go and meet her grandmother.

As soon as Paola gets to the family plantation she knows there is a lot more going on than she was first told. She has to figure out what is going on and find out the truth about the family legacy and if she is up to doing what her grandmother is asking of her. For to do what her grandmother wants is to leave behind the life and career she has spent building. Paola is going to have to decide just what she wants in her life and just what she is willing to give up. Giving up the legacy will also mean losing Rey and she is not sure that is something she really wants to do.


This is a very well written story that gives the readers plenty of twists so that they will hate to put this one down. The world comes alive as the reader learns more and gets more into the story. The words give life to the sights and sounds that the characters see and hear. Part of the story is in the Amazon and reading about the area makes it really come to life and is almost a character by itself. This is one book to pick up and read and as it is a novella it is also a very quick, satisfying read.



I give this one 5 red roses

Thursday 22 December 2011

A Vampire for Christmas


A Vampire for Christmas by Laurie London, Michele Hauf, Caridad Pineiro & Alexis Morgan

Publisher: HQN

October 2011

ISBN: 978-0-373-77644-3

Pages: 378



Enchanted by Blood by Laurie London

Trace Westfalen is ready to take over his late father’s council seat but things don’t seem to be going his way. Just when he thinks his life can’t get any more complicated he meets Charlotte Grant. Trace is finding it harder and harder to hide the fact that he is a vampire from Charlotte who is not. Now Trace is going to have to decide what he wants the most, his seat on the council or Charlotte.

Charlotte Grant is an event planner that has just been hired to do Trace Westfalen’s home for the holidays and specifically for a Christmas party. Trying to ignore the attraction between them because she doesn’t want to mix business with pleasure makes her job a lot harder than it should be. Now if she can just convince her heart that her place isn’t with Trace her life would be a lot easier.



Monsters Don’t Do Christmas by Michele Hauf

Daniel Harrison knows since the day he was attacked by vampires and turned into one himself is the day he turned into a monster. Now he is trying to get by the best that he can but with Christmas here that makes him remember what he had before he was turned and that isn’t helping him deal with what his life is like now.

Olivia Adorata is a singer that takes the time around Christmas off so that she can remember what it is like to be normal even for a short while. She may be happy with her life but she knows there are things that are missing and one of those things is a man that loves her for herself and not what her life is like. A chance meeting with Daniel changes her life and she isn’t sure if she is going to come out of this encounter in one piece.



When Herald Angels Sing by Caridad Pineiro

Damien has been waiting for Angelina to come back to him. He knows that if he can find the patience to wait she will come back even if it is a slightly different form. She has come to him twice before and while both times ended in tragedy he is determined that this time it wont end the same way.

Angelina has a job to do that doesn’t seem to be getting any easier. Now if she could just figure out the best way to accomplish what she needs to do she would be very happy. Angelina wasn’t supposed to fall in love with Daniel but now that she has she will do anything she needs to so that his life becomes a much better place. First they are going to have to overcome the one that is after them both so that this time they will have their happy ending.



All I Want For Christmas by Alexis Morgan

Eagan McHale is a cop that hunts supernaturals that are causing problems for both humans and supernaturals alike. The supernaturals are trying to keep their existence a secret and it doesn’t help when there are some out there that are bent on causing problems. Eagan’s job is to protect the innocent so that they don’t get hurt and so they don’t find out about what is really out there.

Della Breit is happy running her little diner and serving her regulars who are like family. Her life is going just fine until the day Eagan walks into her diner and suddenly Della is having a whole love of inappropriate thoughts that would be much better left alone. There is something about Eagan that she just can’t seem to figure out.




This one give a whole new meaning to hot for the holidays. The stories are fun and the characters are wonderful. This one really is heating up the holidays with the vampire in each of these stories that will make the reader want a vampire left under their trees. This one is a great book to read that will help put the reader into the holiday spirit. This one is a must read for the holidays.



I give this one 5 red roses

Tuesday 20 December 2011

A Christmas Sleeping Beauty


A Christmas Sleeping Beauty
Lindsay Townsend
Published by Museitup

When Orland arrives to rescue his princess from her sleep he discovers that it isn't as simple as a kiss. The beautiful girl just keeps on sleeping. He is nonplussed until her fairy godmother explains that he must deserve her before he can claim her. The Prince who has never thought of much but his own cleverness and his own pleasures before must become a better person before Rosie will wake.

This is a new take on Sleeping Beauty and great fun for Christmas.

Enjoy this tale of morality and love

Five red roses
linda Sole

Thursday 15 December 2011

Quinn's Need


Quinn’s Need: A Whispering Pines Ranch Novel by SJD Peterson

Publisher: Dreamspinner Press

November 2011

ISBN: 978-1-61372-197-1

Pages: 260



Quinn Taylor has spent the past year trying to deal with the fact that Lorcan James moved away. Quinn has used the work that needs to be done on his ranch as one way of dealing with his loss and escaping to a club that deals in the world of BDSM has helped him handle his emotions. Quinn now makes others beg him instead of doing the begging himself. He is determined that no one will ever get him to beg them again.

Lorcan James is back in Pegasus and while his feelings for Quinn haven’t changed he is still with Jess that one that he originally left town with. Lorcan is dealing with his emotions when it comes to Quinn knowing that even if they are now living in the same town things between them haven’t changed. Lorcan is with Jess and has managed to find a measure of happiness. Now if he can just get his feelings for Quinn under some control he will be even happier in his life.

While Lorcan and Quinn’s feelings for each other may not have changed the fact is now Quinn has caught the attention of Ty Callahan and Lorcan still has Jess in his life. Now Lorcan and Quinn are working on finding their own happiness even if that means that happiness isn’t with each other. Only time will tell if they will be able to find what they are looking for and where that might be.



This story is well written and the reader gets to see the journey each character takes to get where they end up. This is one story that should be read with the first story in this series otherwise the reader will be left feeling they are missing parts of the story. While the first story ends with a happy for now storyline this one closes some of the character’s story line quite nicely. This one may not be for all; but those who read this one won’t be disappointed in the emotional path that the author takes the reader on. Once the reader starts this one they will find it very hard to put down until the very last page.



I give this one 4-1/2 red roses

Tuesday 13 December 2011

Hot Vampire Touch


Hot Vampire Touch by Lisa Renee Jones

Publisher: Lisa Renee Jones

December 2011

Pages: 78



Contemporary, Paranormal Nevada


Cassie Moore is a werewolf and is also part of the werewolves’ societies’ Royal Guard that protects the werewolf king and the werewolf society. Cassie has made a place for herself with the royal guard and she does a job she loves and is very good at. She is a fighter that knows how to take care of herself and others but when it comes to Troy she isn’t sure she can protect her feelings where he is concerned. Now that Troy is back in her life she needs to find out what happened months ago on their last mission.

Troy Brooks is a vampire that was attacked by a werewolf months ago when he and Cassie were working on a mission together. Now he is neither completely vampire nor werewolf but a combination of both. Troy isn’t sure yet what that means for his future since things isn’t looking really good right now. Troy is looking for answers and those answers have brought Cassie back into his life and while he has been fighting his feelings for her he doesn’t think this time around he will succeed in keeping his distance from her.

Troy is determined to get to the bottom of what happened to him but he doesn’t count on his lack of control when it comes to Cassie nor his need to keep her safe from everyone even himself. Cassie is just as determined to find out what happened so that she can help Troy and maybe have a future with him that she has wanted for a long time now. First they are going to have to get to the bottom of what happened before so they can find out what the future might hold for the two of them.


This is an excellent addition to the Vampire Wardens series. This one will have readers trying to figure out just who the bad guys are and what is happening to the characters in this one. This one delivers some great twist and turns that keeps the story moving along quickly and will have the reader hating to put this one down until the very last page. It will also have the reader eagerly awaiting the next story in this series.


I give this one 5 red roses

Monday 12 December 2011

Echoes of Magic


Echoes of Magic by Donna Grant

Publisher: Donna Grant

December 2011

Pages: 198


Western England, Summer 1127


Adrianna is one of the last bana-bhuideach, better known as a witch, in England. Adrianna is relatively happy with her life even if she doesn’t have the happiness she has always dreamed of. As her kind has always lived under a curse she is resigned to her fate at least until she helps Grayson then everything changes. Adrianna isn’t so sure she can accept what her life has become once she sets eyes on Grayson. All she knows for sure is that Grayson is going to change her life completely but is it going to be for the better or make her life and wishes worse? Only time will be able to tell her for sure.

Grayson knows there are some men after him he just isn’t sure exactly why they are after him. When he is injured and saved by Adrianna he is thankful and while he is attracted to her he doesn’t want to drag her into all of his problems. Unfortunately just by her saving him she is now involved and he will do everything he can to protect her. Grayson was traveling to find out the answers to his past and to see if he could find out exactly who he was and what happened to his mother and to avenge her death. All he remembers is as a child he was torn from her arms and that is the last time he saw his mother. But will finding those answers bring him peace or will it bring about his death. Grayson figures he will die in the search for answers and he is resigned to that fact or at least until the day he met Adrianna. Now things aren’t as clear as he would like and he is determined to find his answers but to also protect Adrianna as she becomes more and more important to him.

There is an evil hunting Grayson and if he doesn’t find his answers that evil just might come out the winner in the battle that is coming for Grayson. Grayson knows there is more to what is going on than he knows but it will be a race against time to find the answers and to find a way to defeat the evil because it is not just his life at stake anymore, it is Adrianna and a man that has been a friend to Grayson for years. Only time will tell if he will be able to stop the evil from winning.



This is the second book in this series and while it can be read as a stand alone it is much better read as a series as some characters make cameos in this one and the reader will understand the story line better. The characters are very rich in detail and the story takes some great twists and turns that will have the reader turning the pages just to see what is going to happen next and what will be revealed in the next chapter. It also sets the scene for the next book which the reader will be eagerly awaiting to see how things turn out. The common thread tying the books together really makes for some great reading. This is one series worth getting for those that love historicals and suspences. This is one not to miss.


I give this one 4-1/2 red roses

Friday 2 December 2011

Demons Like It Hot


Demons Like It Hot by Sidney Ayers

Publisher: Sourcebooks

December 2011

ISBN: 978-1-402-25177-1

Pages: 416



Contemporary Paranormal


Serah SanGermano has always just thought of herself as a very successful caterer. At least until her best friend, Lucy and she unleashed some demons from a chest. Now Serah is trying to hide her new abilities and deny that anything is different about herself. Everything in Serah’s life is changing and she isn’t sure if she can keep up with all the changes. Serah wishes she could convince her friends and Matthias that there is nothing special about her that she is just a normal person and she doesn’t have to face all that is happening around her but as much as she would rather not face facts fate seems to have other ideas for her.

Matthias Ambrose has been a demon mercenary for a very long time and now he is making some changes in his life. Part of those changes is his new mission and that is to protect Serah from the demons that are now after her. Matthias has secrets though that he would rather Serah never found out but if he isn’t careful that is exactly what will happen. Matthias needs Serah to trust him but when she can send that he is hiding information that makes it hard to earn trust. Matthias is going to have to decide if he can live with Serah knowing the truth about him and if it would help him to protect her better.

Matthias is falling in love with Serah but he is convinced that even though he fights on the right side his past will keep him from Serah as she won’t be able to deal with it or forgive for what he has done in the past but his heart isn’t about to let him leave Serah even if it would be for the best. Serah is not sure what to do with Matthias as much as she denies her attraction for him she is sure that he doesn’t want anything to do with her. With the demon gunning for her Matthias and Serah are finding out that they make a better team than they ever thought possible and if they can survive what is coming they just might be able to figure out what each of them feels for the other.



This story is well written and will keep the reader guessing as to what will happen next with all the action happening. This one will also give the reader a different twist to what they have read about angels and demons and other paranormal characters. This is fresh take on a theme that has been covered by others but with this one it will seem like a completely new type of story. This is one that is worth picking up and reading and will have readers looking for more books by this author.


I give this one 4 red roses

Lorcan's Desire


Lorcan’s Desire: A Whispering Pines Ranch Novel by SJD Peterson

Publisher: Dreamspinner Press

May 2011

ISBN: 978-1-61581-888-4

Pages: 193




Lorcan James knew he was loved and accepted at home with his family but he wanted more than he had at home so he decides to walk away and find out more about life. What he didn’t expect to find was desperation to find a job so that he can feed himself and get the money he needs to go back home. Even if by going home he will get the good natured ribbing from his family. That is better than what he is dealing with now at least it was until he meets Quinn Taylor.

Quinn Taylor is doing his best to keep his ranch running and that would be a lot easier if he could get his neighbor to leave him alone and accept that he isn’t going to sell his ranch. The last thing Quinn needs is a complication and that seems that is exactly what he is getting the minute he lays eyes on Lorcan. Quinn has always kept his life private from his friends and neighbors’, figuring it was easier for everyone that way. Now Quinn has to re-evaluate his life and he will need to figure just what is most important to him.

Lorcan is finding in Quinn something he never knew he was looking for but he is not willing to be hidden from everyone in Quinn’s life. He needs and wants more than that. Jess is another hired hand on Quinn’s ranch and he is more than willing to tell the whole world how much he loves Lorcan and how proud he would be to have him in his life. Unlike Quinn who seems more determined to hide his feelings from everyone including himself. Lorcan is going to have to figure out just where his happiness lays. Lorcan is determined that he will not be hidden and that the man that gets his heart is one that will be more than willing to show the world jut how he truly feels.



This is a good story but it doesn’t have the typically happy-ever-after. It has a happy for now ending. It is also the first book in a least a two book set that the ending is picked up in the second book with a break between the ending of the first and the beginning of the second. The characters are well written and will be pulling at the emotions of the readers. All three of the main characters are very sympathetic and will have the reader torn on how they wish for this story to end. While some readers may have problems with the subject matter this is a story that is a very enjoyable read.


I give this one 4 red roses

Colonel Brandon's Diary




Colonel Brandon's Diary by Amanda Grange
Published by Robert Hale of London


Now in paperback, this is the story of James Brandon's life before he met Marianne and the Dashwood sisters. At 18 he is idealistic and filled with plans for his life with Eliza, the girl he loves. However, his father needs an heiress for the estate and the elder brother Harry being a wastrel he determines to marry his ward to Harry
for the sake of the estate. Neither Eliza's feelings or James are allowed to matter and the doomed marriage goes ahead. Devastated, James enters the army and becomes a colonel until both his father and then his brother are dead and the estate is his. Although his search for Eliza is successful she is dying and he takes on the guardianship of her daughter.

The rest of the story is known to millions but this insight into the early years was beautifully done and I found it an enjoyable read. Grange tells her story in a way that is in keeping with Jane Austen's work, but, dare I say it, easier to read and therefore will appeal to some who would not pick up the original.

I did not want to put it down and have nothing but praise for this talented author.

I award the book five red roses for merit. Linda Sole

Thursday 1 December 2011

Dreaming of the Wolf


Dreaming of the Wolf by Terry Spear

Publisher: Sourcebooks Casablanca

December 2011

ISBN: 978-1-4022-4555-8

Pages: 384



Contemporary, Paranormal Colorado


Alicia Greiston is a bounty hunter that is determined to bring down a mob family. Because of her career choice she has made sure that she doesn’t have relationships with men for fear of them being killed because they are involved with her. All that changes when she meets Jake Silver. Alicia knows it is a very bad idea to get involved with him but she just can’t seem to help it.

Jake Silver took one look at Alicia and was determined to protect her. Luckily for her Jake is a lot more than he seems and knows how to protect himself and her from whatever threats might come their way. Jake’s instincts are telling him to protect Alicia but when they starting having very real passionate dreams together Jake knows that Alicia is more to him than he first realized and now he will show her how a wolf protects his mate.

With the passion that flairs between Alicia and Jake they are going to have to find a way to take down the bad guys and keep themselves safe while dealing with their attraction for each other. Alicia may not realize at first just how capably Jake is at taking care of them both but she is about to learn just what kind of man Jake truly is.


This is a wonderful continuation to a series that is sure to please reader that love werewolves. The premise of this series really makes it stand out in a genre that has a great many wonderful stories in it. The author has managed to write a series that stays fresh and will keep the reader interested and addicted to the series. This will bring back some characters that readers familiar with this series will recognize and get a chance to visit again. This is one worth reading.


I give this one 4-1/2 red roses

Lord of the Abyss


Lord of the Abyss: Royal House of Shadows by Nalini Singh

Publisher: Harlequin

December 2011

ISBN: 978-0-373-83775-5

Pages: 288





Liliana may be the daughter of the Blood Sorcerer but she is nothing like him. Liliana knows that there is only one hope for the land of Elden and that is to brave the place that Micah the last heir to Elden is at. Forced to live under the rule of her father she knows what it will take to defeat him. Now she just has to help Micah do what needs to be done to defeat the Blood Sorcerer.

Micah is now Lord of the Abyss and has no memories of Elden and the fact that he is the heir to the land. All Micah remember is the Black Castle he lives in now and the Abyss, until a woman braves the land and castle to come to him. Now Micah is starting to remember things that he didn’t know existed and his whole world is changing.

Liliana never expected to find a man that would attract her the way Micah does, but will he still want her when he finds out exactly who she is and what her father has done? Liliana knows that by helping Micah remember the past may destroy her future but she also knows that there is no choice is she wants to save Elden and the people that live there. Only time will tell if she will be able to have the happiness she has only found with the Lord of the Abyss and whether she will be able to survive the battle that is coming because her father has no intention of loosing.


This take Beauty and the Beast and gives it a very unique twist that will make sure the reader never looks that that tale the same again. This story is wonderfully written and very emotionally charged. The reader will hate to put it down for any reason once the start reading this tale. The character come to life for the reader and the reader will get emotionally involved in this one. The trials that the characters have to face make the story line move along quickly and will keep the reader reading until the very end. While this one brings the series to an end the way it ends is very satisfying and will have the reader wishing for more stories by the authors of this series. The whole series is worth getting and reading as readers will not be disappointed in this one.

I give this one 5 red roses

Wednesday 30 November 2011

Because of the List



Because of the List by Amy Knupp

Publisher: Harlequin

December 2011

ISBN: 978-0-373-71748-4

Pages: 282



Contemporary, Madison, Wisconsin


Taylor McCabe is a computer whiz that is more comfortable dealing with computer code than she is with people. She knows it is now time to get over her childhood crush and start looking to the future. That is harder than she thought since Alex has been in her life for so long and the fact that he was her brother’s best friend makes things more complicated. Taylor thinks she has come up with a solution that will help her find a man that will help her get over her crush and be the type of husband that she is sure will be perfect for her. The plan is easy enough for Taylor who loves to make lists and that is to list the top ten traits she wants in a man. Perfect solution for a computer whiz.

Alex Worth is an injured Army pilot that is trying to get over his injury so that he can go back to the job he loved, flying. While he is home though he is determined to honor his friend by keeping an eye on Taylor, even if that means checking out the men she thinks will be perfect for her. Spending this much time with Taylor is giving Alex a whole different view of her though and he isn’t sure that is such a good thing.

Taylor isn’t sure she will be able to find anyone with the way Alex is acting more like a boyfriend than a protective older brother. The more time they spend together the more she is attracted to him and not getting over her crush at all. The only problem is that he doesn’t even come close to meeting any of the criteria on her list.


This is a wonderful story about just how perfect opposites can be for each other. The storyline is emotional at times and helps the story move along very well. The character are well written and well developed and the reader is completely able to relate to them. The reader is also able to feel what the characters are going through and will be completely engrossed in the story until the very end. And being published by Harlequin the reader is guaranteed a happy-ever-after. This is one book that will be sure to lift the spirits of any that read it. This is worth getting.


I give this one 5 red roses.

Thursday 24 November 2011

Christmas Awards 2011





THIS YEAR WE ARE GIVING THE AWARDS TO THE REVIEWER'S CHOICE RATHER THAN VOTING. NEXT YEAR WE HOPE TO RETURN TO THE VOTING FOR YOUR FAVOURITE.

REVIEWER'S CHOICE OF SHORT NOVEL
HOT VAMPIRE KISS BY LISA RENEE JONES

REVIEWER'S CHOICE OF LONG NOVEL
COFFESSIONS OF AN IMPROPER BRIDE BY JENNIFER HAYMORE
AUTHOR CYNTHIA EDEN


CONGRATULATIONS TO BOTH THESE AUTHORS.

To receive your award
PLEASE SEND YOUR EMAIL ADDRESSES TO
linda@lindasole.co.uk


Linda's Special Award this year is for producing books that are emotional, sympathetic and always readable.

THE WINNER OF MY SPECIAL AWARD IS RAVEN STAR


CONGRATULATIONS RAVEN

You will receive notification of your award.

Keep sending in your books for review to Larena

Happy Christmas to all our readers and authors from Larena, Linda and other reviewers.

Friday 18 November 2011

Teacher Plus Two


Teacher Plus Two by Valentina Heart

Publisher: Dreamspinner

October 2011

ISBN: 978-1-61372-178-0

Pages: 200


Futuristic


Orrin, is a human that because of his sexual expertise he is close to reaching the revered status of Teacher. The one thing Orrin never expected was to be kidnapped and forced to teach other slaves how to pleasure those that will be their new masters. While he is a prisoner Orrin meets Fai and has to find a way to save his as Fai is in very bad shape. Just as he gets Fai purring again they have a new occupant to their cell, Hara. Hara has been a slave for a very long time so he knows how things are done but he never expected to find the other two or the bond that soon develops between the three of them.

Fai is a Mattain, which are like small lion that purr. Fai is thrown into a situation that is completely beyond anything he has known in his life. Fai is going to have to learn quickly if he has a chance to survive even with both Orrin and Hara there to take care of him.

Hara has been a slave for so long that he has begun to forget what his life was like before he became a slave. Things change though when he meets both Orrin and Fai but that might not be enough when he is sent clear across the universe to his new master. Now he is separated from the two people that mean the most to him and he wonders if they will ever have a chance to be together again.


Now the three men are going to have to find a way to survive so that they can be together again and have a future that isn’t dictated by others. Their bond is being tested and none are sure just how strong it is or if it can survive what they are all going through.


This is a good story and different from most. The world building is very interesting and comes to life for the reader as they read. The characters are well written and engaging and interesting. While this story may not be for some it is worth taking a chance to read.


I give this one 4 red roses

Thursday 10 November 2011

A Still, Small Voice


A Still, Small Voice by D. W. Marchwell

Publisher: Dreamspinner Press

September 2011

ISBN: 978-1-61372-150-6

Pages: 200


Contemporary, Canada



Noah Lowe loved his job as a teacher until the day he was falsely accused of a sexual assault by a student. That was when he had to find another career. Now six years later he has found a career he loves more but he still needs to rebuild the confidence he lost due to the accusations. Noah is now a computer programmer during the day and a drag queen with his best friend, Aiden in the evenings he is finally finding a measure of happiness that they accusation stole from him.

Oscar Reynolds is the owner of the club that Noah and Aiden perform at. Oscar has watched Noah from afar for a while but has never gotten the courage up to ask Noah out. That all might be changing. Now as Oscar and Noah are starting to see each other and see if they might have a chance at a future together the past comes back to haunt them.

Noah’s past and a part of the past is suddenly moving in next door and he as to see if he can finally put the past behind him where it belongs. Noah also has a chance to find some answers to what happened six years ago that might give him the closure he so desperately needs so that he can build something lasting with Oscar. Noah is going to find out just how strong his and Oscar’s relationship is and if it can survive the revelations from the past.


This is an excellent book that will take the reader on an emotional roller coaster ride with the characters. The story is very well written and have the reader eagerly turning the pages to find out exactly what happened to Noah in the past and what exactly the truth was. The characters are sympathetic and will get the reader emotionally involved in the story. The story plot is different and well written. This story while is very good it may not be for all readers. This is one that once the reader starts will be very glad they picked it up.


I give this one 4-1/2 red roses

Wednesday 9 November 2011

Avenger's Angel


Avenger’s Angel A Novel of the Lost Angels by Heather Killough-Walden

Publisher: Signet Eclipse

November 2011

ISBN: 978-0-451-23522-0

Pages: 416


Earth 2000 BCE, Texas modern day


Eleanore “Ellie” Granger has always been different and never understood why only she had to hide what she was. Ellie never had much of a chance to really make friends as her family always moved around throughout her childhood. Ellie knows that she can never truly trust anyone because someone has been hunting her for a very long time and if she trust the wrong person she could end up as a test subject or something worse for someone that will never see her as a person.

Uriel is the Archangel of Vengeance. He and his brothers, the archangels Michael, Gabriel & Azrael have been on earth for thousands of years trying to find the female angels that were made just for them. The females had to be protected from those that would deny the archangels their destiny so they have been searching for a very long time. Now it seems that everything is about to change. Uriel has found Ellie and he knows that she is the one meant just for him, but if he wants a chance with her he is going to have to first get Ellie to trust him. He will also have to protect her because his enemy is after her too so their bonding is stopped.

Uriel and Ellie are going to have to race against those that would hurt them to get what their enemies ultimately want, but first they are going to have to find a way to trust each other and depend on each other because if they don’t then their enemies will win. Ellie’s world is suddenly turned upside down and she isn’t sure if she can trust what Uriel is telling her but if she doesn’t she just might not live long enough to have a future with or without Uriel.



This is a story that takes the story of the archangels and gives is a very unique spin that will have the reader hating to put the book down for any reason. This is an excellent start to a new series that starts out with a bang and the action doesn’t stop throughout the book. The characters in this story are sure to remind readers of people they know in their lives. The characters are very believable despite their special abilities. The reader will be eagerly awaiting the next book in this series just to see what will happen next and who will find their mate next and how they will win her over. This is one that is worth checking out.


I give this one 4-1/2 red roses

Tuesday 8 November 2011

The Storm that is Sterling & Lisa Renee Jones Post

How about what Thanksgiving means to you?





It’s almost Turkey Day! This year I plan to celebrate the release of THE STORM THAT IS STERLING and say thanks for the ability to do something I love for a living. For years, I was in the corporate world, and I worked 80 hour weeks. I still work like crazy because it’s just inbred in my DNA. My mom worked 2 and 3 jobs as a single mom raising me. I didn’t realize what a blessing it was to do something you love for a living until I started doing something I love for a living.
Each Thanksgiving we put up our tree and start making our holiday CD that we mail out to the first 25 fans who email me wanting them. We also pick two holiday mugs each year that we start using on Thanksgiving. So today – just tell me your favorite holiday song, so I can consider putting it on the CD to win one of my backlist ebooks and a copy of the CD!
And for an extra entry go to Amazon and LIKE the ebook version and the print version of THE STORM THAT IS STERLING! (http://www.amazon.com/Storm-That-Is-Sterling-ebook/dp/B005UEF4DO/ref=ntt_at_ep_edition_2_1?ie=UTF8&m=AG56TWVU5XWC2)

“A wild ride of love and lust,
betrayal and trust.”
—For The Love of Books

He may be invincible to everyone else…
Sterling Jeter has remarkable powers and has shown himself
to be just about indestructible. But beautiful, brilliant Rebecca
Burns knows that even a Super Soldier needs comfort, and so
much more…

But she can see that deep down,
he’s just a man…
Sterling and Rebecca’s teenage romance was interrupted,
but years later the heat between them flares back to life.
Even though it endangers everything they’re fighting for, it’s
impossible to resist picking up right where they left off…

Great new Booklist review of THE STORM THAT IS STERLING!! YAY!
The Storm That Is Sterling.
Nov 2011. 384 p. Sourcebooks/Casablanca, hardcover, $6.99. (9781402251597).
The exciting Zodius futuristic suspense series features soldiers enhanced by a GTECH secret military experiment. Sterling Jeter, who is assigned to guard Rebecca Burns, the scientist working on an antidote for the highly addictive and fatal drug ICE. But Rebecca is also the high-school dream Sterling was never able to realize. She has cancer and tangling with bad guys who want her science skills for their ends has left her an ICE addict, too. She wants to take advantage of her time left with Sterling, while Sterling wants to protect her. As danger mounts, they try to sort out who is trustworthy. The GTECH and science details can best be followed with the help of the index, but they do not overwhelm the appealing characters or action. Jones’ suspense truly sizzles with an energy similar to FBI tales with a paranormal twist by Julie Garwood or Suzanne Brockmann. Alpha, military, and paranormal romance readers will want Jones’ entire series.

Read an excerpt HERE:
http://www.lisareneejones.com/books/the-storm-that-is-sterling/sterling-excerpt/

Sunday 6 November 2011

Christmas Awards 2011


This year we are going to have a slightly different type of award. Rather than have people voting for their favourite Our reviewers will nominate their favourite books and the winners of the awards are invited to send in their email addresses to me at

linda@lindasole.co.uk

they will then receive their award.


Reviewer's choice of short lenth book.

Reviewer's choice of full length book.

Linda's special Christmas award for a favourite book.

Apologies


I am sorry to tell regular visitors that I closed the group because of nasty emails coming through. A lot of people had unsubscribed so I though the best thing to do was to take it down. The review site will not be affected in any way. We may start a new group called redrosesfor authors2 - and if you would like this please comment on this post so Larena and I can set it up for you. Larena was dealing with it but I felt the culprit would simply return under another name so thought it best to remove the group. Please let us know if you would like the group to be reopened as redrosesforauthors2

Thank you
Linda

Wednesday 2 November 2011

Shadow Magic


Shadow Magic by Donna Grant

Publisher: Donna Grant

November 2011

Pages 224



Historical, England



Serena of Hawthorne is a witch that has been cursed. Serena knows that her future entails her being alone. She has accepted her future even if she wishes there was a way to change that. That was before she saw Drogan and started wanting more than she has let herself want before. Now that he has stirred a passion in her that will not be denied she has to decide what she can live with and accept.

Drogan of Wolfglynn has a lot of secrets and sins in his past that has left him with a darkness inside him. Drogan now fears that he is losing himself to the darkness and that he will never escape it. The only time he feels the darkness leaving him is when he is with Serena. Drogan has to decide if he is willing to take a chance on the future with Serena or if he is going to allow the darkness to claim him once and for all.

Now Drogan and Serena are going to have to see if they can find a way to conquer the past so that they can have the future they both so desperately want now that they have found each other. If they are going to have a future they are both going to have to trust in the love they have found with each other. Otherwise they will not have the promising future that suddenly seems within their grasp.



This is an excellent story that is the first in a trilogy that is sure to please readers of historical stories. The imagery comes to vivid life as the story unfolds and draws the reader in. This is a story that has several twists that will keep the reader guessing as to what will be revealed next. The plot is well written and definitely worth reading. This one will have readers eagerly awaiting the next book in the series.


I give this one 4-1/2 red roses

Ecstasy Untamed


Ecstasy Untamed by Pamela Palmer

Publisher: Avon

November 2011

ISBN: 978-0-061-79473-5

Pages: 384





Hawke is one of the last nine feral warriors. He and his brothers protect the world from the evil that would take over if allowed. He is a shape shifter that is slowly losing his animal and if that happens it will kill him. Hawke needs to find a way to heal the rift between his animal and himself if he has a chance to continue to live and fight at his brothers’ sides. With his life completely out of control the last thing he expects is to find a measure of peace but that comes whenever Faith is around him.

Faith is drawn to Hawke in a way she has never experienced before. Though it is Maxim who holds her in thrall and is determined to bend her to his will. Faith is not sure what is going on only that something is wrong and she needs to figure out quickly because whatever is happening it is getting stronger and soon she won’t be able to escape it.

Hawke knows there is more going on between Faith and Maxim than he can see. And though Hawke is damaged he is figuring out that he is the only one that can free Faith from Maxim. Now he is going to have to find a way to heal himself so that he can help Faith escape what is coming. Because only together will they be able to fix what is wrong. To do that they will have to embrace the wildness within themselves and surrender to each other.


This is another great story in this series. The stories are much better when read together because while each one has a happily-ever-after the stories are linked together by the story line and the reader might find themselves a little lost with the story line. The premise of the books is very unique and intriguing and will definitely hook the reader on this series. This is one series that shouldn’t be missed.


I give this one 4-1/2 red roses

A New Winner

And the new winner is: Eva's Flowers (Eva Perez)

Congrats Eva. You will be getting an email but if you don't receive one please email me at: lrhubble@q.com and so we can see about getting your prize to you. Thanks to all who visited and participated.

Monday 31 October 2011

And the winner is:

Joder

Congrats Joder. I hope you enjoy your prize. I will be contacting you shortly so if you don't hear from me please email me at: lrhubble@q.com

Congrats again Joder.

Wednesday 26 October 2011

Guest Post and a Contest

Werewolf’s, Vampires, and things that go bump in the night…..
In the past few months I’ve been writing werewolves and vampires. But November 1st is THE STORM THAT IS STERLING! YAY! I can’t wait. This is the second book in my Zodius series with Source books. I hope you will grab a copy. I really hope readers will love Sterling as much as I do. That character really is one of my favorites of all I have written.
Then at the end of the month I will be wrapping up THE VAMPIRE WARDENS TRILOGY though there will be more Wardens! November will be Troy’s story who in mind looks so much like Eric. It’s a hard comparison to avoid because Troy was bitten by a werewolf that mysteriously turned his black hair to blonde. There just aren’t many fair haired guys with long hair that are hot like the actor who plays Eric. I hated it when they cut his hair. I loved that long hair! Troy’s story will be late November. At the time I wrote this post I wasn’t happy with the 3rd Wardens cover yet so I’m not going to share it just yet.



Then next up on December 13th will be WICKED WEREWOLF NIGHT which will be a character you meet in Hot Vampire Touch! It will be in the same world as the Wardens and going forward there will be stories with both the Vamps and the Wolves. This story is going to be released as the final story in a 7 week span of Alluring Tales stories with my Allure pals that I did Alluring Tales 1 and 2 with. http://www.allureauthors.com/




So how about an excerpt from HOT VAMPIRE KISS and then a contest?





Excerpt from 99 cent HOT VAMPIRE KISS:


Three hours later, the bar was closed, but Evan had ensured that Marissa lingered in her seat, a drink in front of her. He wasn’t about to allow her to leave without him, and not just because of the wolf he was certain would have her in his sight. No – there was more to his desire to keep Marissa nearby. Plain and simple, he wanted her, and not just physically, though there was no question, she got him hot and hard. He was, after all, a male, a vampire male, with primal, sexual instincts that had him imagining all kinds of wicked ways to make her scream his name. But what really had him by the balls was not the desire she created in him, but the way she’d made him laugh when he’d have sworn it wasn’t possible. The way she’d made him smile when he was certain he had no reason. The way she’d made him realize how empty a century of hunting had made him and he wanted to know why, and how, a woman he barely knew could do such things. The time for discovery, both in and out of bed, was not now though.
He wiped down the counter, working toward closing up the bar, focused on getting Marissa out of here safely. To ensure the wolf didn’t target her, as he normally did the friends and acquaintances of his victims.
All but done with the façade of this night’s bartender duties, he cast a quick, seductive glance at Marissa, making no attempt to tame the primal heat in his stare. She wasn’t for him, he told himself silently. She was a forever kind of girl, and not the kind of forever he could give her. Nevertheless, when she smiled shyly at him, his groin tightened, cock thickening against his zipper, and he knew he wasn’t walking away without fucking her every which way she’d have him.
He tossed the rag down, and rounded the bar, eliminating the counter that had separated them all night, to stand beside her, his hand on the back of her stool. She turned to face him, the scent of her teasing his nostrils, his arm creating an intimate enclosure, trapping her between the counter and his body. She was his in that moment and the idea appealed to him far more than it should. One tilt of his head and his teeth could touch that delicate, pale neck. His lips her lips. His body her body.
She glanced up at him, her long, dark lashes fluttering with a combination of uncertainty and desire, her pupils dilated with the effects of the alcohol she’d consumed.
“You really are…tall,” she whispered.
“And you,” he said, brushing a finger over her chin, “really are beautiful.” And innocent. Too innocent and perfect for the likes of him.
She shivered. “Tall and a smooth talker, I think I should be afraid.” Her palm slid down the bar. “Ouch!” She drew her hand forward, red pooling on her index finger, a splinter of wood sticking out from the red center.
Instant lust fired through Evan as he took the opportunity presented and snatched the splinter away before he drew her finger to his lips. The sweet taste of her blood exploded on his taste buds, filling him with lust, desire — fueling the sexual side of his vampire nature, when he already wanted this woman to the point of white-hot demand. His gums tingled, his recessed cuspids threatening to extend.
His eyes met hers, the scent of her arousal, the taste of her blood, seeping through him with a demand that he claim her, claim satisfaction. Somewhere in the back of the bar a door slammed shut. The sound was a jolt of reality that shook Evan just enough to calm the beast inside him threatening to take control of him, of her.
Slowly his tongue swirled around her finger, and then he released it, inspecting the area where the splinter had been.
“All better,” he said.
A stunned look etched her features. “I was right,” she whispered.
His brows dipped, “Rright?”
“When I said I should be afraid of you,” she explained. “Because there is no way that what you just did should not bother me but it…”
He leaned close, sliding his face against hers, his lips near her ear, his mouth far too close to the vein he hungered to puncture — for his own good – most certainly for her own good. And yet, he found himself asking, “Aroused you?”
She drew a breath. “Yes.”
“As it did me,” he assured her, and silently wondered if perhaps it was him that should be afraid of her, for the way she stole his reserve, his caution. His control.
He leaned back, offering her his hand to help her stand. “I won’t bite,” he promised. “Not unless you ask me to.” And damn how he wished she would, how he wanted to convince her she should.
She laughed, nervously. “I’ve never asked a man to bite me in my life,” she said, pressing her palm against his.
He brought her fingers to his lips. “Then I could be the first.”
Her eyes went wide, “To bite me?”
“In the most pleasurable of ways,” he assured her.
She blushed. “I must be drunk,” she said, “because I so believe you. Probably a sign I need to go home.”
“I’ll drive you and take a cab home,” he offered. “Then you’ll have your car tomorrow.”
She considered him a moment. “I should say no.”
“But you’re going to say yes.”

BUY IT HERE
OR
BUY IT HERE

Now – for the contest!
To win a goodie bag of Vampire love – red candles and Vampire Blood hand sanitizer from Bath and Body works and a few other surprises – just tell me who your favorite character on television, movies, or a book is in a paranormal series. A vampire, a wolf, a….whatever! Give me some sexy hot character love!:)


Also as part of the contest you need to answer Lisa's question and become a follower of this blog.

Chasing Seth


Chasing Seth by J.R. Loveless

Publisher: Dreamspinner Press

September 2011

ISBN: 978-1-61372-144-5

Pages: 220



Contemporary, Senaka, Wyoming



Seth Davies thinks he has found the perfect small town where if he can just get the people to trust him as a veterinarian he just might have a chance to have a nice quiet life. The prejudices against those that are considered outsiders by the town’s folks might not be as easy to get around as he thought it would but thinks it will ultimately be worth everything. He also needs it to work because he took all of his money to take over the veterinary clinic. Now if he can just get Kasey Whitedove to get over his dislike of white people he just might be okay.

Kasey Whitedove is the sheriff of Senaka and is sure that white men just don’t know how to treat animals; at least not the Cheyenne people know how to treat them. Kasey isn’t sure what to make of Seth but he is sure that he doesn’t want Seth in his town. At least until an accident that makes Kasey see Seth in a whole different light.

Kasey being a werewolf isn’t sure how to keep Seth safe in his world but Kasey knows that he will do anything to keep Seth in his life once Kasey realizes that Seth is his mate. Now Kasey is going to have to convince Seth to give him another chance since Kasey didn’t show his best side. Seth is hiding something from his past and Kasey is going to have to find out what that is because someone is stalking his mate and if he doesn’t find out what is going on he just might lose his mate for good.


This is a very different werewolf story that has a great twist to it that will have the reader on the edge of their seats. The characters are very well developed and interesting to read and learn more about. This is one that some readers might not enjoy as the subject matter is m/m but it is a very well written story. The story will keep the reader riveted to it as the characters work out their problems to find a way to have a future together. This one is hard to put down once the reader starts reading it.


I give this one 5 red roses

Night Moves


Night Moves: A Shadow Force Novel by Stephanie Tyler

Publisher: Dell

October 2011

ISBN: 978-0-440-42305-8
ebook ISBN: 978-0-440-42306-5

Pages: 368



Contemporary, Mexico & Texas


Kell Roberts is a soldier that knows how to get into and out of tight spots. It is place he has known for a very long time and that has kept as a loner as he feels that is the safest for everyone around him. On his latest mission one thing he doesn’t count on is a woman getting caught in his firefight with a Mexican drug lord. Now is he finding himself drawn to Teddie even though he knows there is a lot more to her story than she is telling him. Now he is going to have a new mission and that is to keep Teddie alive because someone is after her and he has to find out just who and what is after her.

Theodora “Teddie” Lassiter knows that Kell has saved her life but she has very dangerous men after her and she isn’t sure that Kell isn’t more dangerous than them. She is drawn to him despite the danger that radiates off of him. Now she has to decide if she can trust him enough to let him protect her from what is coming because she is fast realizing that no matter how well she can protect herself those after her are just a little bit better and if she wants a chance to survive she will need Kell to do it.

Kell and Teddie know that the attraction between them could be a distraction that can get them killed if they are not careful but the strength of that attraction isn’t going to go away any time soon either. Now they are in a race to find a place that is safe from those that are after them and if they are not careful a misstep will get them both killed.



This story is part of a series and while the characters from the other stories make an appearance in this one it can still be read as a stand alone. The story is action packed with enough twists to keep it fresh and engrossing. The character have enough flaws to make them believable and will keep the interest of the reader as the characters work their way through their past so that the can have a future together. It is obvious that the author took the time to do research to make this story very believable and entertaining. This one is definitely worth reading.



I give this one 5 red roses

Thursday 13 October 2011

Forever Mine


Forever Mine by Donna Grant

Publisher: Donna Grant

September 2011

Pages: 50



Historical Scotland


Jean MacKay isn’t sure she is going to survive when she is taken prisoner by Niall MacDougall. Not sure how she is going to manage to escape Niall and his men are surrounded by the man those in the Highlands call “the ghost”. Once she sees Braden MacAlister for the very first time she knows her life will never be the same again.

Braden MacAlister has been after Niall since Niall killed Braden’s family. The only thing Braden has been after is vengeance and to stop the man responsible. Just when Braden thinks he is about to stop Niall once and for all Niall uses Jean as a shield to stop Braden. Niall knows the one thing Braden will never let happen is an innocent to be used.

Braden has had only one goal in mind but once he sets eyes on Jean his priorities change and now he needs to find a way to bring Niall to justice but also find a way for Jean and him to have a future together because suddenly Braden wants a future he never thought he would have a chance at. Braden and Jean will risk everything to stand together and bring down Niall but more importantly to have a chance at what their hearts are telling them and a love that will last a lifetime.



This is a short story that is a great way to take a break and escape to the highlands. The story is quick with enough twists to keep the reader turning the pages until the very end. The characters are well written and come to life for the reader. This is a story that is definitely worth picking up and reading. The reader won’t be disappointed in this one. It is another excellent story from this author.


I give this one 4-1/2 red roses

Lord of the Wolfyn


Lord of the Wolfyn Royal House of Shadows Book 3 by Jessica Andersen

Publisher: Harlequin Nocturne

November 2011

ISBN: 978-0-373-61870-5

Pages: 288





Reda Weston has always been interesting in the fairy tale Little Red Riding Hood, and after reading her latest sexy version she never expected to suddenly end up in another realm where it seems the wolf from Red Riding Hood really exists. Now Reda is going to have to figure out what is going on and fast because something is going on and she is afraid she is actually loosing her mind.

Dayn has been waiting for the day when the guide his father promised would come to him would help him get back home to stop the Blood Sorcerer and get the vengeance his soul craves. After the Blood Sorcerer cursed him with need to change into Wolfyn form Dayn has to find a way to deal with the consequences of the curse and find a way to accept what he is now. It just might be the only way he will be able to save his home and to conquer the Blood Sorcerer. It might also be the only way that Dayn will be able to save Reda, who Dayn is fast learning he can’t live without.

Reda might think she has lost her mind but she is coming to realize that what she has always believed in, in the human realm isn’t all there is out there and she just might have the answers Dayn needs to get home after all. Reda is also starting to think that the man she has always been searching for just might actually be real and she has found him in the last place she ever thought possible. Now Reda and Dayn have to find a way to survive the Blood Sorcerer and reclaim Dayn home so that they might have the future that they both want together.



This is a wonderful twist to Little Red Riding Hood that will have readers looking at that story in a whole new light. This story will be unforgettable and will have the reader sorry to see the end of these characters. The story is fresh and new and makes it a lot of fun to read and see all the twist this story takes. This is the third book in the Royal House of Shadows series and will it can be read as a stand alone it is much better and a fuller story when read with the other books in the series. The whole series takes fairy tales that most reader will recognize and gives them twists that make the reader feel they are reading the stories for the very first time. The series is written by some very talented authors that bring the realm of Elden to life.


I give this one 4 red roses

Wednesday 12 October 2011

The Storm that is Sterling


The Storm that is Sterling by Lisa Renee Jones

Publisher: Sourcebooks Casablanca

November 2011

ISBN: 978-1-4022-5159-7

Pages: 384



Contemporary, Texas and Las Vegas

Rebecca “Becca” Burns is a scientist that just might be the only one that can help the super-soldiers known as The Renegades against other super-soldiers knows as the Zodius. Becca has just come back from Germany where she was undergoing treatments to save her life. Returning home she finds on her doorstep the very last person she ever expected to see, Sterling Jeter.

Sterling Jeter is of the Renegades and he also knows Becca from when they were teens in Texas. Now he has to find a way to convince Becca to help the Renegades get a new drug off the streets. Sterling has always been one to act first and question later, but he is finding that with Becca he is more inclined to question first before acting. He isn’t sure that is such a good thing because the Zodius are after Becca and it will take everything he has to protect her and keep her safe.

Becca has been given the new drug and she is now finding out that she has some new powerful abilities and that the only way she has a chance to control them is to stay with Sterling. Becca is going to have to decide if she can trust him because if she can’t she is in a lot more trouble than she first thought. Sterling knows this is a second chance with Becca he never thought he would have and he isn’t about to loose this chance or her to either death or the Zodius. Sterling will do anything and everything to keep Becca in his life because he is finding out that he doesn’t have a life without her. Sterling is determined that this time he going to let anything stand in his way to the one person that can make his life complete.



This is the second book in the Zodius series and it lives up to the promise of the first book. The action is fact and non-stop and the story will pull the reader in and won’t let go until the very last page. While this story can be read as a stand alone it is greatly enhanced by the reader first reading the first book in the series. The characters are very believable and will have the reader hoping that everything works out for Sterling and Becca. The attention to detail really brings this story to life for the reader and pulls the reader into the story. The book will also have the reader eagerly awaiting the next one in this series and hating the wait that will ensue. This is one that should be picked up and read.


I give this one 5 red roses

Monday 10 October 2011

Donna Grant Winner

Raonaid is the winner.

Thank you everyone for stopping by and participating. Also thank you Donna for stopping by it was fun.

Raonaid please contact me at: lrhubble@q.com

Wednesday 5 October 2011

A Guest Post and a Contest

Note: Contest now closed



Halloween stories anyone?

I was never one to pick up themed (Holiday, Valentines, ect…) books before I was asked to participate in a Halloween project. This was a couple of years ago, and I saw it was a way to push myself. Not only was it supposed to be revolving around Halloween in some way, but it also had to be a contemporary setting.

At the time I was very happy writing my historical paranormal. Oh, yes, I had dipped my preverbal toe in the contemporary waters by writing a time travel, but an entire novella? Hmm…

And then there was the fact that it had to involve either werewolves or vampires. I love reading about vampires, but have just never had the desire to write about them, so I chose werewolves.

It was a tough project I had ahead of me, but I dove into it and let my imagination soar. I had a lot of fun writing the novella. There was much more freedom for my heroines than I had in my medieval settings. But I had seen several authors try to switch time periods to disastrous effects so I was more than worried.

Imagine my surprise when this little novella sold and sold and sold. So when the rights came back to me, I snatched them up and set about redoing the cover and expanding the story a couple of thousand words.

The novella isn’t just a paranormal, I added a bit of science fiction in there as well. I blame it on all the Doctor Who and Torchwood episodes I was watching at the time. 

Yet, it seemed to work for the story. A heroine who doesn’t quite fit in and a hero who isn’t from this earth. Together they not only find love, but save the people of Cardiff from a very bad end one Halloween.

Though, I have to admit, there’s no way I’d take any kind of dare into any building that looks even remotely like its haunted. Lol. I’m one of those people who won’t sleep for months after just watching a commercial preview of a horror movie.

And after sleeping in a haunted castle in Scotland – and being touched by said ghost. Twice – I don’t mess around with fate that way.

What about you? Are you the kind that’s loves the scary stuff? Or are you more like me and a scardy cat? 

I’ll be giving one lucky winner their choice of one of my ebooks (Highland Fires, Highland Magic, Dragonfyre, or Mesmerized)

To read more about my books and the bestselling, award-winning Dark Sword series, watch book trailers, or sign up for my newsletter, please visit www.donnagrant.com.

Hugs,
D



Also as part of the giveaway you need to be a follower of this blog and answer Donna’s question. Winner will be picked at random.

Late note: A winner will be picked on Sunday.

Tuesday 4 October 2011

Where Demons Fear to Tread


Where Demons Fear to Tread by Stephanie Chong

Publisher: Mira

August 2011

ISBN: 978-0-7783-1247-5

Pages: 368



Contemporary California and Las Vegas


Serena St. Clair is a guardian angel whose latest assignment is the latest hot Hollywood actor. Serena now has to enter into a club by the name of Devil’s Paradise to rescue her assignee and keep him from harm. What she doesn’t count on is getting caught by the owner Julian Asher. Now she has to find a way to rescue her assignee, Nick and herself from the situation she suddenly finds herself in.

Julian Ascher is an arch demon that seems to have caught an angel for himself. Julian’s sole purpose is to tempt those that are seeking pleasure and corrupt the human that are determined to have that pleasure. Julian isn’t about to lose the latest soul he has a chance to corrupt without getting something out of it for himself. The only way he will let Nick go is if Serena accepts his dangerous proposition.

What Julian and Serena didn’t count on is the passion that flares between them. Julian is determined not to let any woman be his downfall, again but that was before he met Serena. Now as they play out a game of seduction the stakes are a lot higher than either of them counted on, Their passion with either lead them both to everlasting damnation or to a love the will last an eternity.

This story will be pulling on the heart strings of the reader. The reader will be pulled into this emotional story that will have them hating to put it down until the very last page. The characters are written so well that they will have the reader cheering them on and feeling what they are going through throughout the story. This one takes the classic story of good against evil, angel against demon and turns it on its ear. This is story that will have the reader eagerly awaiting the next book in this series.


I give this one 4-1/2 red roses

Friday 30 September 2011

Primal Heat


Primal Heat by Donna Grant

Publisher: Donna Grant

September 2011

Pages: 52



Cardiff, Wales, United Kingdom


Krista Evans is an American living in Britain, which she isn’t finding as easy as she thought it would be. It gets even more difficult when she agrees to a dare by her co-workers. Now if Krista could just stop the erotic dreams she has every night her life just might be a little easier.

Orrin Black is a tracker whose job it is to track down weres before they have a chance to feed from the humans. Landing on Earth he never expects to find the woman that has been haunting his dreams. Now Orrin is going to have protect Krista because the weres he has tracked to earth are not interested in the humans but in Krista.

Krista never knew there was anything out there until she came to Cardiff and suddenly she is finding that a lot of the beliefs she had are not the truth. Suddenly she finds herself with a man she recognizes from her dreams but and an attraction she thought she was only able to have in her dreams. Krista is also being hunted by the leader of the weres because he is convinced that she is the mate he as been searching for. Now Orrin is going to have to everything in his power to make sure that Krista doesn’t end up in the hands of the weres because she just might not survive the experience.


This story is a wonderful mix of paranormal and sci-fi. It is a quick read but completely worth the time it takes to read this one. The story comes to vivid life and pulls the reader into the story. The reader will be mourning when they finish this one as they will be wanting to read more about the characters. This is great story for readers to pick up to help them to get in the mood for Halloween.


I give this one 4-1/2 red roses

Hot Vampire Seduction


Hot Vampire Seduction by Lisa Renee Jones

Publisher: Lisa Renee Jones

September 2011

Pages: 66



Austin, Texas – contemporary


Kelly Riggs is a medical examiner in Austin. Kelly has always been dedicated to her work and determined to help the police catch those that have killed. Now there is a serial killer in Austin that is killing women and she is determined to help stop the killer so that no one else dies. What Kelly didn’t count on is bringing the attention of the killer to herself. Now she is in the path of the killer that uses werewolf and vampire blood to make women have desires that if they aren’t satisfied the women will die.

Aiden Brooks is a vampire that is also a Warden. It is his job and the job of his brothers to protect the humans from vampires that have gone into bloodlust and werewolves. Aiden is finding his current job more personal once he meets Kelly. Aiden’s past has made it difficult for him to love as he has loved and lost in the past but Kelly is making him wish for the impossible. Aiden will do whatever he has to do to make sure that Kelly doesn’t become the victim to the killer he is hunting.

Kelly and Aiden will have to find a way to draw out the killer so that they catch him before he gets to Kelly. Aiden will also have to find a way to get the happy ever after he didn’t get last time. Kelly is determined show Aiden that it is possible to have a future together because she knows she has found someone that she isn’t ready to give up.



This story is sure to have the reader sitting on the edge of their seat as they read it. The reader is never sure what will happen next and the story is fast paced that will keep the reader turning the pages just to see what happens next. The characters are well developed and keep the reader engrossed in the story just to find out more about them. This is the second story in the trilogy and while it can be read as a stand alone it is much better when read with the first book in the trilogy.


I give this one 4-1/2 red roses

Thursday 29 September 2011

Lord of Rage


Lord of Rage Royal House of Shadows Book 2 by Jill Monroe

Publisher: Harlequin Nocturne

October 2011

ISBN: 978-0-373-61868-2

Pages: 288



Princess Breena dreams of having a fairly tale love in her life with a warrior that haunts her dreams nightly. What she doesn’t count on is being ripped from her home when it is attacked. Now Breena has to find a way to survive the world that she has always been protected from and to find a way to get home and conquer the one that has taken her world and people over. Wandering and trying to find a safe place she comes across a cottage in the middle of a forest that just might offer her all that she is looking for and some things that she didn’t know she needed.

Osborn was a warrior and mercenary that gave up that life to live quietly in the forest with the simple pleasures he has there. Until the day Breena comes into his life and turns everything upside down and makes Osborn remember all that he is missing by cutting off the world around him. Now Osborn is going to have to decide if he wants to really start living again and give his princess the happy ever after she is looking for or doom them both to a life that is anything but happy.

Breena is determined that she isn’t going to be a helpless princess anymore and the only one that can teach her what she needs to know is Osborn now if she can just convince him of that. If Osborn wants to give his princess everything he feels she deserve he is going to have to help her learn to survive and fight the evil that is stalking her. Soon Osborn and Breena find that they only hope they have of surviving is go it together. They are also learning that the future they thought they wanted isn’t necessarily the one that is best one for them or now that they have met the one they truly do want. If they are to have a future together though they are going to have to find a way to conquer the evil that has taken over the land of Elden, Breena’s home.


This brings the fairy tale Goldilocks and the Three Bears to life in a way that isn’t the same fairy tale from childhood. The twist on this one makes the fairy tale fresh and will have the reader believing they are reading it for the very first time. This is the second story in a series of four books and while it can be read as a stand alone book it is greatly enhanced by reading the first book first. Readers won’t be disappointed in the series up to date and will be eagerly awaiting the next book in the series.


I give this one 4-1/2 red roses

The Stuart Agenda


The Stuart Agenda by Alan Calder

Publisher: Willow Moon Publishing, LLC

July 2011

Pages: 301


Scotland & France 2035 – 2038


Robert Stuart has always been fascinated by the story and history of his ancestor Bonnie Prince Charlie and the way history was airbrushed to change the truth about his direct descendants. Now Robert is determined to find a way to get the Scottish throne that should have been in the family from the very beginning. He will have to find a way to get it away from the Hanoverian hands that it is currently in. But to get the throne is to change the past and to turn the future from the path that is has been on for hundreds of years.

Princess Victoria is the Hanoverian princess that when she meets Robert she is not sure what to make of him. What she feels is that though he should be her enemy he is anything but. And what starts as a way to find out what Robert is after turns into something that is much deeper for both Victoria and Robert as they fall in love.

Now Robert is going to have to find a compromise that both the Stuart side and Hanoverian side can accept because he is sure that one thing he doesn’t want to live without is Victoria. Both Robert and Victoria are going to have to find a way to overcome the obstacles that will be in their path if they want to have a future together. Robert’s Uncle Leo has been planning and plotting for many years to get Robert on the throne of Scotland but will he be willing to compromise and let Robert have both the throne and Victoria or will Leo force Robert to pick one or the other.


The intrigue in this story makes it a page turner as the reader is never completely sure what will happen next. There are characters in this story that will do anything to make sure that Robert doesn’t get what he is after and in typically royal fashion this makes it an engrossing read. The reader is never completely sure which side each character is on and just who is doing what until the very end. The flow of the story makes it hard to put down once the reader starts reading. The easy flow of telling history and bringing the current setting together makes it easy to follow what is happening and keeps the reader from getting lost while reading the story.


I give this one 4-1/2 red roses

Saturday 24 September 2011

Entangled


Entangled A Paranormal Anthology Edited by Edie Ramer and Misty Evans

Publisher: Authors4thecure

September 2011

Pages: 335



Halloween Frost by Jennifer Estep
This one is part of her Mythos Academy series though readers reading this one really won’t feel lost if they haven’t read the other books in the series. Based on the myths and gods and goddess it is story that is different and fun to read.

The Fat Cat by Edie Ramer
This story gives new meaning to witches and their love of cats though the cat in this story is anything but a typical cat and has a personality that makes this story very entertaining. Tory is the witch in this one that went to find the right cat and what she ends up with is not what she had in mind.

Medium Rare by Nancy Haddock
Has ghosts that keep things hopping in this one. The ghosts add humor to this one among other things to the story. The story line is interesting and brings history to life. The ghosts also add a mystery to the story that really moves the plot along.

Sweet Demon by Misty Evans
Kali Sweet is a demon that gives the reader a completely different view of the typical demon. This one has vampires too that make this an interesting story to read. With demons and vampire you can’t go wrong with this one.

Sian’s Solution by Dale Mayer
Sian is a vampire that has her eyes opened to the world she is living in and one that she didn’t expect at all. She knows she is going to have to act to stop those that she believes are acting in a way that is bad for everyone.

A Bit of a Bite by Cynthia Eden
Sheriff Ava Dushaine seems to suddenly have a problem on her hands and not just in the form of the local werewolf alpha, Julian Kasey. Something is going on between the local humans, werewolves and vampires. Ava just has to try and forget her attraction to Julian to get to the bottom of what is going on.

Sinfully Sweet by Michelle Miles
Chloe O’Shea is a witch that is enjoying her life just the way it is. Then the sexiest man she has ever seen walks through the door of her bakery and everything changes. Only time will tell if it is for the best or not.

A Night of Forever by Lori Brighton
This one takes the reader back in time when the world was different. Mary Ellen knows there is something different about Aiden Callaghan she just doesn’t know what that is. She might be attracted to him but she is sure that he isn’t the one for her though she just might be wrong about that one.

Feel the Magic by Liz Kreger
Jenna is a witch that is about to make history as long as she can do her job correctly if not then things are about to go bad very quickly. Jenna just has to keep control of herself long enough to get everything done.

Breaking Out by Michelle Diemer
The action here is very good and keeps the story moving along very quickly. The opening sentence pulls you into the story until you don’t want to stop reading until you find out what is going on with this one.

Ghostly Justice by Allison Brennan
This is part of the author’s Seven Deadly Sins series that seems to stand on its own quite well. It will also have the reader looking to get the other books in the series to find out more about the characters.



This is a book guaranteed to have a story for everyone. This is paranormal book that covers all the different spectrums of the paranormal world. The stories are short and very fast reads but the reader will not be left wanting. This one is sure to have something for everyone that reads it.

This one has a lot of big name authors writing in this book. It also has a wide range of authors which gives readers a chance to try an author they may have been thinking of trying. It also gives readers a chance to support a worth while cause in that the proceeds go to support the Breast Cancer Research Foundation.

This book has it all with ghosts, vampires, demons and shape shifters. The stories are engaging and with them being short they are the perfect way to take a break and enjoy some fun.




I give this one 5 red roses