Tuesday, February 28, 2012

Indie Spotlight - Deadly Obsession by Kristine Cayne

Deadly Obsession (Deadly Vices)Deadly Obsession by Kristine Cayne

My rating: 4 of 5 stars


This is an adult romance novel.


Book Summary

When an Oscar-winning movie star meets a department-store photographer…

Movie star Nic Lamoureux appears to have a playboy’s perfect life. But it’s a part he plays, an act designed to conceal a dark secret he carries on his shoulders. His empty days and nights are a meaningless blur until he meets the woman who fulfills all his dreams. She and her son are the family he’s always wanted—if she can forgive a horrible mistake from his past.

A Hollywood dream…

Lauren James, a widowed single mother, earns barely enough money to support herself and her son. When she wins a photography contest and meets Nic, the man who stars in all her fantasies, her dreams, both professional and personal, are on the verge of becoming real. The attraction between Lauren and Nic is instant—and mutual. Their chemistry burns out of control during a photo shoot that could put Lauren on the fast track to a lucrative career.

Becomes a Hollywood nightmare

But an ill-advised kiss makes front-page news, and the lurid headlines threaten everything Nic and Lauren have hoped for. Before they know what’s happening, their relationship is further rocked by an obsessed and cunning stalker who’ll stop at nothing—not even murder—to have Nic to herself. When Nic falls for Lauren, the stalker zeroes in on her as the competition.

And the competition must be eliminated.

My Review

Overall this was a good read. As much as this book was somewhat predicable, I found myself wanting to read even after I had to put it done for mundane things like life. Even still, despite its predictability, I was still surprise by some of direction the author took at times. That helped keep the eye roll to a minimum.

I enjoyed the main characters. Lauren was a typical single mom who hadn’t dated in a while. Nic was probably the most untypical of characters. As an Oscar winning actor and “Nic the Lover”, he wasn’t the bad boy he should be. Which in a way is fresh but in another hard to believe at times. I personally think Nic was written to be every woman’s dream man. So the analytical side of me was eye rolling but the romantic side of me was swooning.

The storyline of the book was almost like a new twist on an old tale. So it was worth the read. As mentioned above, I couldn’t help but want to pick it up to read to the end. I love a good mystery and this romance had a bit of a mystery in it. I second guessed myself a lot on “the who done it”. But in the end, I didn’t feel cheated on whether or not I’d guessed right. I did have one main problem, “instant love”. I talk about this all the time, but in this case, I was able to look past it for the most part and enjoy the book.

There is a next book with one of the character’s from this story. I’ll pat myself on the back because I knew that would be the choice and I know who will be the love interest. Well, at least I think I do.

Will I recommend this book? Yes, for all romance lovers who like their books spicy with a bit of mystery and intrigue. I know I will be reading more from this author in the future.

My book boyfriend was almost Kaden, almost Jake, but in the end I had to go with Nic.

Nic

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Review to come.



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Wednesday, February 22, 2012

The Firelight of Maalda by Blog Tour and Interview

The Firelight of MaaldaThe Firelight of Maalda by Melissa Douthit

My rating: 4 of 5 stars


This is a young adult fantasy novel, second in a series.


Book Summary

The Firelight of Maalda: A story that unites the real with the fantastical and turns science into magic …

Chalice and her group leave Barenthren to travel to Portalis. There she and her friends discover the beautiful city, its people, its history, and its secret that has been kept hidden for thousands of years. During their stay, they learn that Dar’Maalda has the Firestone and that he plans to use it.

What is the Firestone and what does Dar’Maalda plan to do with it? What are the Naezzi? What does the title, The Firelight of Maalda, really mean? And … what is the secret of Portalis, the secret that has been guarded so jealously for so long – so jealously, that many have given their lives to protect it?

In The Firelight of Maalda, the second novel of the trilogy, The Legend of the Raie’Chaelia, you find out. It is a tale of intrigue and wonder where two opposite worlds collide in an explosive journey that leads Chalice and her friends to the dark islands lurking just beyond the horizon of Ielieria, where the Firelight of Maalda sits … and waits.

My Review

This book takes place not far from where the first book left off. Chalice has a whole lot of thing happen to her right from the beginning. Things change and Chalice and Jeremiah romance is tested and they won’t have it easy.

Basically starting in a new place, this author stays true to her style and world builds with rich Technicolor. The vivid imagery helps build the palate in your mind as you read. I found the story line very interesting and captivating. Sometimes, I wanted to plunge forward but I had to wait for events to unfold.

This ending will leave you waiting for the next. As I will be.

So for those readers who enjoyed the first in the series, this one will not disappoint. Pick it up now and read. For those fantasy lovers, pick this story up. It’s fresh and new and will hold your interest.


INTERVIEW with Melissa Douthit

1. When did you realize you wanted to be an author? Did you always want to be a writer? If not what did you want to be?

I began writing notes for this trilogy back in 2005 but never really got around to writing the first novel until 2007. It was when one of my favorite authors died. I wrote about it in the preface of The Raie’Chaelia:
On the morning of 21st of September, 2007, I sat down at my computer with a cup of coffee and clicked a familiar bookmark on my internet browser. The link took me to a website that I knew well. In doing so, I learned that one of my favorite authors had passed away. His name was James Oliver Rigney, Jr., also known as Robert Jordan. The website was www.dragonmount.com.

Ever since I was seventeen, I have been reading his epic fantasy series, The Wheel of Time. I remember buying the first book, The Eye of the World, from a local bookstore and rushing home to read it. I remember it like it was yesterday. To this day, after twenty-one years, I am still reading his series as it quickly draws to a conclusion in its final completion by Brandon Sanderson.

I never thought I could be a writer given that my talents lie in other areas, mostly in mathematics and science, but when I learned of Jordan’s passing, I decided to start writing a story that I had been tossing around in my head for a while. The ideas were there but the realization of those ideas into a book was a problem. I didn’t believe that I could do it. So, that morning, inspired by Jordan’s life story, I sat down and started typing.

2. If you had to summarize your book The Firelight of Maalda it in less than 25 words what would you say?

A sequel where Chalice and friends discover more of their world, the dangers in it, and what is required overcome the forces set against them.

3. Can you tell us a little more about your book The Firelight of Maalda? What was your inspiration for your Raie’Chaelia series?

The Firelight of Maalda is the second book of the trilogy, The Legend of the Raie’Chaelia, and is a continuation of the story where The Raie’Chaelia left off. In it, the characters learn more about their world and themselves. They actually do a lot of growing up. Chalice learns more about herself and her abilities and Jeremiah discovers the reality of the resentment between the two races - the Terravail and the Naeon. The book introduces new characters, as well, who discover that Chalice is not the princess they think she is or that they want her to be. Personalities clash and tempers flare when they find just who she is and what she has to do. I loved writing this book, especially the explosive ending that is both triumphant and heartbreaking at the same time.

4. How do you come up with the names for your characters and places?

Sometimes they just pop in my head and sometimes I come across a cool name of someone or something in a different country and/or a different time period and I use that as an inspiration for a name. I don’t use the exact names I come across but instead I use them as a sort skeleton for one that I make up - like the sound or resonant of the word.

5. If you had to choose to be one of your characters in your book/books which would you be? And why?

I would be Bunejab because he gets to ride the Naezzi!

6. What genre would you place your books into?

This story is very hard to place. Some say it is epic fantasy. Some say Sci-Fi or paranormal or dystopian. I would say it is a futuristic fantasy.

7. After you complete the Raie’Chaelia series, what is your next project?

I have several books that I want to write. I have already written the notes for them. They won’t be a fantasy though. More like urban paranormal.

8. Do you choose a title first, or write the book then choose the title?

I choose the title first.

9. How long does it usually take you to write a book, from the original idea to finishing writing it?

It depends. My first book took a long time from notes to finished product. The second took only about six months.

10. What piece of advice would you give to a new writer?

Don’t try to write to the market. Write what you love and you will be much happier ... and it will show in your writing. Also, when you decide to publish, know that there are many choices out there now for writers. You can try to break into the traditional publishing world (large press or small press), which right now is very hard. Or you can go indie - publishing on your own. Research both avenues and decide which is best for you.

EXTRAS

Contest for Free Kindle from Melissa Douthit:

Enter a drawing and win a free Kindle by answering the following question:
What genre is The Firelight of Maalda?

To answer the question go to this link and fill in the information (place answer in Message field):

http://melissadouthit.com/contact-me-2/
Contest ends March 10, 2012. Winner will be announced March 11th on Melissa Douthit's Blog.

The Firelight of Maalda on Amazon and B&N:

Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/Firelight-Maalda-Legend-RaieChaelia-ebook/dp/B006V9WMIM/ref=as_li_tf_ssw?&linkCode=wss&tag=cookingcalifo-20

B&N: http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/the-firelight-of-maalda-melissa-douthit/1108346111?ean=2940013707153

Book One and the Prequels are free on Smashwords and Amazon:
Book One:

http://www.amazon.com/The-RaieChaelia-ebook/dp/B00534QD18/ref=as_li_tf_ssw?&linkCode=wss&tag=cookingcalifo-20

http://www.smashwords.com/books/view/62611

Prequels:

http://www.amazon.com/Vanishing-Legend-RaieChaelia-Prequel-
ebook/dp/B005DRX5Q6/ref=pd_sim_kstore_22

http://www.amazon.com/Journey-Begins-RaieChaelia-Prequel-ebook/dp/B005D3FZXQ/ref=pd_sim_kstore_17

http://www.smashwords.com/books/view/75235

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Monday, February 20, 2012

First Grave on the Right (Charley Davidson #1) by Darynda Jones

First Grave on the Right (Charley Davidson, #1)First Grave on the Right by Darynda Jones

My rating: 5 of 5 stars



This is an adult paranormal romance mystery type novel.

Book Summary

A smashing, award-winning debut novel that introduces Charley Davidson: part-time private investigator and full-time Grim Reaper

Charley sees dead people. That’s right, she sees dead people. And it’s her job to convince them to “go into the light.” But when these very dead people have died under less than ideal circumstances (i.e. murder), sometimes they want Charley to bring the bad guys to justice. Complicating matters are the intensely hot dreams she’s been having about an Entity who has been following her all her life...and it turns out he might not be dead after all. In fact, he might be something else entirely.

This is a thrilling debut novel from an exciting newcomer to the world of paranormal romantic suspense.

My Review

THE ABSOLUTE BEST READ FOR ME THIS YEAR (in this genre)

In fact, I think this book has ruined me for all books to come. What do you have when you combine all my favorite genres into one? Well, let me tick them off. Police Procedural, Mystery, and Paranormal Romance. You have this book, this series.

Charlotte Davidson, a P.I., better known as Charley to some and Charles to others, is snarky, sarcastic, witty, heroic, loyal, and so down to earth she could be my best friend.

The writing in this book is fantastic. Dare I say, I didn’t find any or if I did they weren’t important plot holes. I laughed a lot which is always great. Yet there was a dark side to this story as well.

And that, well , the who is Reyes Alexander Farrow. Fan yourselves girls, because this guy is smoking hot. Okay, Garrett is great too. But he pales next to Reyes, literally, lol.

So for all you lovers of paranormal romance, urban fantasy and mystery, pick this book up fast. You won’t regret.

My book boyfriend is Reyes of course. Naturally. He’s been moved way up on my list of book boyfriends. I dare say he might rival some of my top three.

I’m not sure I could adequately find a picture for Reyes. That’s because he’s is pure sin. And what is more sinful than chocolate. YUM!

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Indie Spotlight - Grade-A-Sex Deal (College Fun and Gays, #2) by Erica Pike

Grade-A-Sex Deal (College Fun and Gays, #2)Grade-A-Sex Deal by Erica Pike

My rating: 4 of 5 stars



This is a m/m romance/erotica novella.

Book Summary

When College professor Daniel Corrigan was brutally kicked out of his home after revealing his true sexuality to his wife, he had to make a whole new life for himself. For the first time in two years Daniel’s main heartache isn’t the none-existent relationship with his two kids, but the fact that the grade-A-sex deal with his student Troy Anderson is about to expire. After a whole semester of office fun, Troy has managed to squeeze his way into the core of Daniel’s soul. Daniel, however, is positive he’s nothing more to Troy than a teacher who can modify a grade.

A Grade-A-Sex Deal is the second of five in a series of short stories.

My Review

I received this novella from the author in exchange for an honest review.

This book is another quick bite from Erica Pike. I enjoyed this story as well. I wasn’t Mr. Corrigan’s biggest fan for a number of reasons. *****spoiler***** He married a woman knowing he was gay and not bi. He had two kids with her and stayed in that marriage long enough to cause severe emotional damage to his wife and two kids because he was selfish, bottom line. I understand that the pressure to conform to what some people term the “normal” way of things. But he didn’t have to get married nor did he have to have kids with an unwilling participate (because she didn’t know who he was). *****end od spoiler******

But I don’t have to like the characters to enjoy the story. I think sometimes stories are fashioned out of people we don’t respect. So for me I still enjoyed the story. Now Troy *****spoiler***** to say I didn’t like him much either in the beginning was an understatement. I just didn’t agree with his values for a grade. But all that turned around in a nice way by the end. And I have to say, that I even started liking Daniel a little too. ****end of spoiler*****

So again, Ms. Erica Pike, keep things interesting and steamy bringing in a social issue to tie all the things together. I look forward to reading more from this author.

So my book boyfriend is Troy.

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Indie Spotlight - Hot Hands (College Fun and Gays, # 1) by Erica Pike

Hot Hands (College Fun and Gays, # 1)Hot Hands by Erica Pike

My rating: 4 of 5 stars



This is a m/m romance/erotica novella.

Book Summary

For weeks, college student Casper has been the victim of sail-by goosing and groping. The problem is that Casper would very much like to get more than groped by those wonderful, big, hot hands. With a journal full of clues, he sets out to discover who his mystery groper is. However, he may be in serious trouble once he discovers the ominous identity, and it’s not because of the light bondage the groper seems to prefer.

Hot Hands is the first of five in a series of short stories. Each story is independent of the others and each covers a deep issue. Hot Hands focuses on the effects of high school bullying for being gay.

My Review

I relieved this novella from the author in exchange for an honest review.

This was a lightning fast read, but frankly something I need that. It’s like ordering an espresso. So what to say about this novella? I think the biggest thing I could mention is that this story is based around being bullied. And I think it is an important topic to discuss.

When I started reading this book I thought it was kind of cheeky, lol. But in the end, I thought that the message was powerful. More than anything ******spoiler******** because the story doen't start at the time when the bullying occurred, the reader can however see that Cass obviously survived because it was a couple years later. So that alone is important. That we didn’t touch on his suicide attempts or that Cass doesn’t mention that he is happy to have survived, maybe only because this was meant as a short short story. *****end od spoiler******

Also, *****spoiler****** for me it seemed quite easy for Cass to give up his virginity so blindly. But I am neither male nor gay, so I can’t say this isn’t possible or more norm than not??? Because this was a short story we don’t learn as much as we might about the characters had the story been longer. ******end of spoiler******

But still I found this story really good and I quite enjoyed it immensely. Erica Pike has a way in this story to make things steamy and interesting.

Who do I chose for my book boyfriend. Now that would be too easy and give to much away. But I liked to think that this is the outcome.

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Touch Me by Callie Croix

Touch MeTouch Me by Callie Croix

My rating: 4 of 5 stars



This is an adult erotica novella.

Book Summary

Arriving home on leave from his tour of duty, Army Captain Alex Montoya knows there's a beautiful woman waiting for him-his best friend's sister. She's always been off limits...until now. He fully intends to move them out of being "just friends" and encourage her to release the sexual needs he senses she's buried deep.

Tianna McIntyre is starting over after her marriage ended. Her ex-husband weakened her self-esteem and caused her to deny her true sexual desires. But being around Alex brings all her dormant fantasies to the surface, and now Tianna feels the stirrings of her secret, submissive wishes.

Determined to help repair the damage Tianna's ex did to her self-worth, Alex will use whatever means necessary to convince her they're meant for each other, including tying her down to make sure he has her full attention while he takes her to the heights of pleasure she's always dreamed of...(

My Review

I received this book in exchange for an honest review.

Quick, sexy, hot. Those are the first three words that come to mind when I read this story. What do you do when a hot serviceman comes home from duty? Well take care of him the best way you know how. I’ve enjoyed other reads from Callie Croix, and I wasn’t disappointed with this one. She managed to get things steamy with a storyline too.

For those erotica readers this tasty bite might just be up your alley.

My book boyfriend is Alex of course. HOT!

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Indie Spotlight - Confessions of a Rentboy by T.R. Verten

This review was orginally posted on TanaRaeReads book blog.

Confessions of a RentboyConfessions of a Rentboy by T.R. Verten

My rating: 5 of 5 stars





This is a m/m romance/erotica novel.


Book Summary

Acerbic twenty-something Andy is living the dream in London. Too bad he's totally broke. The way to getting paid is getting laid -- or at least that's what he discovers when his friend Michelle introduces him to her somewhat-highly-paid and definitely not glamourous world of call girls and boys. Told with frankness and biting humor, Andy sleeps his way through London: for the sex, the glory, and the rent money.


My Review

I received this book through Tana from the author in exchange for an honest review.

I wasn’t sure what to expect when I got this book, but boy was I in for a ride. I love a story that sucks you in and doesn’t let go until the end. That is exactly what happened to me while reading. What can I say without giving away spoilers? This book is like “Secret Diary of a Call Girl,” with a m/m twist.

Andy is a “bi-sexual” man, but really a m/m romance guy at heart. The author tells the story as if you are sitting in their listening to his confessions. The story was dark and parts and well, the ending was not what I expected. I’m not sure that is a good or bad thing. Maybe because I’m a hopeless romantic at heart and wanted more.

But that is beside the point. This is a 5 star short story and well worth the time to read. The author has a wonderful way of writing.

The characters that matter most are well developed. The scenery set and let the tears flow at least for me towards the end. This story would blow me over the moon, if it were longer and we got to know more about Nathan and more back story about Nick. But all in all, Great job!

I recommend to all readers of m/m romance.

My Book Boyfriend is Andy. (I heart Andy)

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Sunday, February 19, 2012

The Willing Blog Tour - Review and Intereview - Check it out!


The Willing (Crayder Chronicles #2)The Willing by C.S. Splitter

My rating: 4.5 of 5 stars

Book Summary

Book Two in "The Crayder Chronicles"

How far would you go to protect your friends and family?

Tom Crayder is the All-American guy next door with a business, a wife, a son, a mortgage, and an expensive hobby. He is also a politically incorrect, wisecracking operative working for a shadowy organization dedicated to administering justice outside of a broken system. Not even his wife knows of his other life when she finds herself unwittingly involved in a drug war.

Strap in with Tom as he navigates his way through the strata of a drug cartel. Lock and load with Lorena, a hard-hearted assassin, as she lends her deadly skills to Tom’s fight for his family. Sit back to watch Tom and Lorena figure out how to work together without killing each other.

Join the rest of the cast from "The Reluctant (Crayder Chronicles)" as they pitch in to track down the hitmen that threaten their associate.

Some mysteries are solved. Some questions are answered. Some live. Some die.

My Review

I received this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
After the first book, I wasn’t sure exactly where this book was going to leave. I wasn’t exactly Tom’s number one fan after some questionable things he did in the first book. But I’m happy to say that Tom rubbed off on me by the end of this story and I’m certainly looking forward to the next book.

To start, I like to say for me it was a real treat to read this book written by a guy from a guy’s perspective. It reminded me that I have a lot of favorite male authors with great male characters I follow such as James Patterson (Alex Cross and Michael Bennett series), Douglas Preston and Lincoln Child (Pendergast series),Jim Butcher (Dresden files series) and of course one of my favorite authors John Grisham. Although this series doesn’t exactly remind me of those series per say. It did remind me of my reading roots.

The cast of character’s in Splitter’s Crayder series are vast and well developed. They each have their uniqueness that make you want to love them. Especially Tiny. He is so great. And while Lorena grew on me, I’m still leery of her. But my heart still belongs to Jake. Tom Crayder’s wife did step it up in this one. I have to give her due for she did show she had balls of steel.

This story was different in the last and I guess not having to world build we were off to the races with the first page. There was action, mystery, crime, punishment, hair raising air dramatics. It was a story that really kept the pages turning.

I can’t wait for the next book.

******spoiler******

I have to say, a women showed up in the story named Cambria. I have to wonder if that Cambria is the one in the same author Cambria Herbert. She bore a similar resemblance if pictures don’t lie.

If so, I have to ask, because it never hurts to do so. Can I be written in with Jake? I like Donna I do, but well, like I said, it never hurts to ask, lol.

*****end of spoiler*****

So readers, go pick up this series if you like crime mysteries with thrillers. And no pictures of hot guys this time. (check out previous post)

Instead I have an interview with C.S. Splitter.

1. When did you realize you wanted to be an author? Did you always want to be a writer? If not what did you want to be?

I wanted to pitch in the Major Leagues but a glaring lack of talent prevented that! I always wanted to write, but a good idea for a fiction story (I am a huge fantasy fan) eluded me. There were many books that were started and stopped once I realized that someone had done a similar story before and probably better than I ever could.
But, when the story for The Reluctant and the character of Tom Crayder hit me, there was no stopping the flow of words. It really was one of those lightning bolt moments you hear about.

2. If you had to summarize your book the Willing it in less than 25 words what would you say?

Friends will help you move. True friends will help you move bodies.

OR

It's a Wonderful Life meets Death Wish (weird combo, huh?)

3. Can you tell us a little more about your book The Willng? What was your inspiration for your Crayder Chronicles series?

Tom Crayder is the main character in the series thus far, but he is actually the sidekick of a hard-hearted femme fatale named Lorena. She introduces Tom to an organization that administers justice outside of a broken system. The good guys are complicated and the bad guys are nasty.

By the end, you'll be rooting for “good guys” that do some pretty terrible things.

In The Willing, Tom's wife unwittingly gets herself into some trouble with a drug cartel. Lorena and other unlikely characters join Tom, much to his surprise, in his quest to save his wife and himself.

Planes, guns, intrigue, mystery, humor, and dangerous women. All of those things are wrapped in the ribbon of a regular guy in way over his head but learning quickly.

4. How do you come up with ideas for your characters and setting for the book?

Characters come first for me. I take pride in making fairly outlandish characters believable and real. I love it when someone says they started out hating a character but ended up loving them. The conflicts, which every good story must have, come from throwing these disparate characters together and watching them figure out how to work with one another.

The story for The Reluctant came from a police acquaintance at a dinner party. I had given up writing fiction when I heard him say that criminals got caught because they left stupid clues and bragged about their exploits. I got to thinking, “Well, what if they had a little means, could keep their mouths shut, and had a little intellect?”

I didn't want to write about a stone-cold criminal or someone that was forced into a life of crime. I wanted it to be a choice. I wanted to answer that question: If you had to do something really bad for very good reasons, would you? Could you? (maybe that's really two questions...).

By the time we got home from that dinner, the story for The Reluctant was formed in my head along with Tom Crayder's character. It was miraculous.

5. If you had to choose to be one of your characters in your book/books which would you be? And why?

Everyone would expect me to answer “Tom” because people think we are so much alike. But, I like Jake, the leader of the local motorcycle club. I don't ride motorcycles and I don't rule over a crime ring, but if there is one “cool guy” in my books, it's him.

Lorena and I have some things in common, but I don't look as good in heels as she does. My wife hated her at first but now she loves her. Most people come to love Lorena and that's why the third book, due out in June, is going to focus on her. She is probably the deepest, most mysterious character. Everyone seems to want to know more about her and she is a blast to write.

Not your typical, formulaic heroine.

6. What genre would you place your books into?

Primarily, they are action and adventure, but there is a lot of suspense, thriller, a touch of mystery, and some hard boiled detective. Plus, I like to throw in a healthy does of humor to keep the reader's attention while I develop the characters.

7. After you complete the Crayder Chronicles series, what is your next project?

You know, I spent more than a decade without what I thought was a good idea for a fantasy character and story. Now that the dam has broken, I finally have a good fantasy story and character rolling around in my head. It's a different take on the standard hero and definitely a departure from the trite fantasy themes we have seen for so long. I think it's good, at least.

But, the Crayder Chronicles will go on for some time. I know how Tom's story ends, I am just not sure of all the steps I will take to get there. And there are other characters who might need some attention along the way...

8. Do you choose a title first, or write the book then choose the title?

First, I come up with the characters and then the story forms. Early on in the writing, the working title takes shape but I do not decide on a title while writing. You really have to go researching such things to make sure no other books in a similar genre have a similar title.

I like the one-word titles for this series because they imply a general theme for the story. In the first book, Tom was truly “reluctant” to do many things. In the second book, he has already made his decisions and is “willing” to do what is necessary.

The third book's working title is “The UnMasked.” Since it tells part of the story of the very mysterious Lorena and gives us a look into the forces that formed her character, it fits.

9. How long does it usually take you to write a book, from the original idea to finishing writing it?

I can kick out two books per year, maybe more. The writing takes about three months for 80K words...which is really 100K words before I start whittling it down to send to my editor. I do a lot of outlining and writing character backgrounds before I start writing a book, but with every book thus far, the storys stray from the original outline in a good way.

As an example, Lorena has one notable trait that makes her different from any other woman with whom Tom has come into contact. That trait (which I am purposefully not telling so as not to ruin the first book for readers) was not part of her character until my very last rewrite before letting anyone see it. Prior to that rewrite, she was a pretty typical femme fatale with no unique characteristics. She was bland.

Heck, even going into book two, she was not supposed to be such a large part of the story. But she wouldn't let me leave her out and kept pestering me for more screen time. That's the way she is.

10. What piece of advice would you give to a new writer?

Write! I know everyone says it, but it is SO true. I lost a decade looking for the perfect idea. I spent a lot of time and energy trying to find it and, in the end, the idea that got me going had nothing to do with the genre in which I wanted to write. It was a lightning bolt from left field.

Had I been writing, I think the process would have started years ago. You won't get that idea that turns you on unless you are writing. You won't become a better writer without writing. Go sit down and write something every day even if it just ends up languishing on a hard drive somewhere. You will be better for it and when you hit that story that flows out of you so quickly you have trouble typing fast enough to get it out, you will know it is the story you have to write.

I would also say, GET AN EDITOR! Life is tough for those of us breaking into the business. There is a stigma attached to indie and self pubbed writers and we don't help our cause by putting out work that is sub-standard (and standards from Big Six publishers are low to begin with!). If you need an editor, contact me because I know several good ones who are very reasonable. A good editor can make an average book good and a good book great. So, do us all a favor and help yourself at the same time.

Thank for having me, Terri It great to see your blog doing so well!

***end interview****

I'd like to thank you to for taking the time to answer my questions. I didn't read through your interview before writing my reviews and I found it interesting you chose Jake just like me. "Great Minds!" as the saying goes.

I certainly look forward to the next book in June.







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Indie Spoltlight - The Reluctant (Crayder Chronicles #1) by C.S. Splitter

The Reluctant (Crayder Chronicles #1)The Reluctant by C.S. Splitter

My rating: 4 of 5 stars


This is an adult action aqdventure thriller novel.

Book Summary

Action, adventure, suspense, and thriller in one story told with a liberal dose of humor.

Tom’s problems are not unique. His business is failing and his wife has to work too many hours to make ends meet. He is under some rather large financial pressures and wants more from his marriage and his life.

He finds his respite in the air as a private pilot. Unfortunately for Tom, he is behind on payments for his plane and is forced to take odd jobs from a local crime boss. Tom is no criminal, but the errands he is running are just slightly on the wrong side of the law and the money is almost good enough to allow him to make his plane payments.

Just as things begin to come under some semblance of control, he meets a woman who just might represent the adventure he seeks. He soon discovers that appearances, and beautiful women, can sometimes be deceiving.

“The Reluctant” is the first in the Crayder Chronicles series and yet is a stand alone story with a satisfying conclusion of its own.

My Review

I received this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
This story is about Tom Crayder a failing consultant and unlikely events that change his life. When I’m reviewing a bout, I typically go in cold. I may read the summary but by the time I actual read the story I may have forgotten what the story is about. I like reading cold, because my view on the story is untainted. I’m also not looking for events that the summary may elude too.

With that said, I literally had no idea what I’d gotten myself into when I began reading. So without given spoilers I’ll give you the play by play as I read. It went something like this. Well, this is interesting and new, wow what a feat, I wonder what’s going to happen, gosh he’s such a guy, tell me he’s not going to do, OMG he is going to do it, he got what he deserved, I wonder where this is going, really, wow, hmmm, not likely, okay, can’t wait for the next one.

I don’t have to like the main character of a story in order to enjoy this. And yes, I really didn’t like Tom much. My poor husband paid the price of me reading this book and coming home late. But really it was a very interesting story.

So do I recommend reading it. Yes, I liked it. It brought me back to some of my favorite male authors I’ve neglected as of late. You if you like thrillers, mysteries or crime novels, this is for you.

My book boyfriend is Jake. He’s not t he main guy of the story but Tom’s just not my type, lol. Now the picture I’m adding probably resembles a younger thinner Jake. But I can’t pass up a chance to post a picture of a hot guy.

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Sunday, February 12, 2012

Indie Spotlight - Howl by Annalise Grey

HowlHowl by Annalise Grey

My rating: 5 of 5 stars



This is a college age/adult paranormal romance.

Book Summary

Nineteen year old Sophie Matthews is a line-walker between two worlds - human and werewolf. She lives around humans but is never truly part of their world. That is, until she is spotted by a hiker.

What should have been a passing glance becomes so much more as Sophie falls for the one thing she is forbidden from ever having: a human mate.

Adding to her stress is newcomer Daniel, the arrogant wolf on Sophie's tail.

Then several humans are killed by a mysterious and dangerous beast within the pack's hunting grounds. The humans begin whispering of wolf-men roaming the forest and the threat of discovery looms heavy around the pack.

Everything is falling apart and Sophie realizes just how little control she has over her future.

Will she risk everything - her heart, her family, and her safety - for a chance to control her own fate?

My Review

I received this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
Wow, what a book. It is amazing what talent and imagination there is out in the world. So this story was really good and I’m itching to get my hands on the sequel. I haven’t read a lot of solitary werewolf stories, but this was as good as or maybe better than some.

I was capture in a world of forest and wildlife. I could visualize as I went along. Sophie’s world was rich with characters. Some of which we didn’t get to know well, but I didn’t find that to distracting. Tristan, Sophie’s brother, owns my heart. But Jamie and Daniel weren’t too far behind.

Although this wasn’t a short story, it was a quick read. I did however have a few questions.

**********Spoiler***************

• A few pop culture references were made by Sophie though she claimed to not watch tv or movies. I was thrown for a bit, but later then it was mentioned that Sophie had gone to the movies with her brother Thomas and maybe earlier it was mentioned that she may have with a high school friend Emily as well. But then it was weird that it was pointed out that she wouldn’t know about movies or actors when mentioned. Yet, one reference was made to Texas Chainsaw Massacre movie??

• It wasn’t really made clear about previous relationships. In fact, it seemed like she didn’t because when talking to Thomas and Tristan, she never mentioned dating a human. Yet it was clear she and Jamie had sex. No big deal was made about it being her first time however. Nothing was mentioned about other wolves that she could have dated either. And at home all the unmated males were family. So it was quite odd, that she seemed to have sex so causally without it being mentioned it was her first time.

************End Spoiler*************

Overal, I give it 4.5 stars. Really good and I recommend to paranormal romance lovers. There are very mild sexual scenes with little or no description, so there is no worry.

Despite what I said above, my book boyfriend is Jamie and I’m rooting for him. If you want to know why, you’ll have to read.

Jamie

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And I’ll thrown in Daniel because well, you have to read.

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My heart belongs to Tristan though.

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Thursday, February 9, 2012

Hide & Seek (Games of Zeus #1) by Aimee Laine

Hide & Seek (Games of Zeus #1)Hide & Seek by Aimee Laine

My rating: 4 of 5 stars



This is an adult paranormal romance novel.

Book Summary

Lie, cheat or steal, no one can catch Tripp Fox. Except one woman.

Lexi Shepherd’s knack for finding whatever is asked of her isn’t sheer luck. It’s a gift from the Greek god Zeus.

That Lexi doesn’t use her ability to search for “Mr. Right” comes from one of many personal rules she has set for herself. Number one is not to let fate dictate her future.

Falling in love with Tripp breaks all the others.

Despite her principles, Lexi’s unable to stay away from the bad boy, and she finds herself toeing the grey line of the law for him.

Zeus, though, didn’t give Lexi and Tripp their talents to make their relationship a simple, easy alliance. He designed it to be exactly the opposite. Impossible. Always.

With their separation, Lexi expects Tripp to forfeit love in favor of destiny. He, on the other hand, intends to beat Zeus at his own game. With a plan in place, Tripp challenges Lexi to take the one action no one else can.

Find him.

The question isn’t can she ... but will she?

My Review

I received this book from the publisher as a part of the Read 2 Review program.

Talk about swept off your feet. Let me just say that this was an enjoyable read. The Zeus fox and hound as the basis for the love story that unfolds is an interesting one. Not familiar with the tale, I was sucked in to read more.

Lexi, the female lead, was a well grounded girl not like some of the silly girls I’ve been reading lately. For the most part her actions were believable and admirable on occasion. Tripp, the hunky male lead was just enough bad boy to entice you but not enough to scare you away.

Now onto the romance. ***Spoiler**** For those that follow my reviews, I’m a stickler when it comes to love at five minutes. So when my hunky semi bad boy Tripp confesses more to himself that he has fallen in love with Lexi in such a short period of time, instead of falling in love with her, the book lost some steam for me.****End Spoiler****

But by the end of the story I was a puddle in the pool of romance, none of what I mentioned above seemed to matter anymore.

However, I did have a few other questions.

****Spoiler***** Just two and nothing big. But the timing in the book seemed to be off.

• When Tripp and Lexi first meet he says to her something to the effect that it is after two in the morning. But when her POV comes back, she mentions coming home at one in the morning. I re-read a couple of times, but I don’t think the problem was me. A minor fix though.

• One other point, Lexi or someone mentioned it was the first day of fall. Then later in the book there is a reference made to the coming Fall season.

Both are minor points and didn’t totally take away from my enjoyment of the book.

Oh, I guess I must say, I did wish for an Ian and Emma hook up that never came.
*****End of Spoiler*****

Overall, I would recommend to my paranormal romance lovers. Especially to those who like a little more romance in their story.

My book boyfriend would be Tripp of course.

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Sunday, February 5, 2012

Indie Spotlight - Taken by Charlotte Abel

TakenTaken by Charlotte Abel

My rating: 4 of 5 stars



This is a young adult paranomal novel.

Book Summary

Bound by love and magic. Betrayed by those they trust. Not everyone survives.

Gasp-out-loud action, heart-pounding romance and an OMG ending that leaves you hungry for the next book.


My Review

I received this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.

It’s always exciting to receive an advance copy of a book you’ve been dying to read. You feel a little special and nervous at the same time. You wonder will this book be as good as the first. Will I be able to honestly give a great review after the author shared their hard work with you?

Let me just say, I have no problems here. This book starts off about right where we left off. Channie and Josh together at last but in a perilous situation no less. But if you thought that Channie and Josh would have a break with at least being together, think again. Charlotte Abel imagination is vast. This story is no less “heart on the edge of our seats” than the last.

I can’t say anymore because I honestly hate giving spoilers away. I think a reader should go in with an unbiased mind to enjoy and get the whole experience. I only leave spoilers when I really need to make a point. So if you enjoyed Enchantment, you will not be disappointed with this story. The cliff hanger was a killer, but aren’t they all if they are written well?

For all those that read book one, don’t delay. Get reading already. For those that haven’t, check out Enchantment, then get to reading Taken.

I recommend for mature audiences. The book is not overly explicit but there are mild sexual scenes in the story.

My book boyfriend is Hunter. I love Josh, but he is not available. So, a girl goes for who is available.

Hunter

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I can’t forget Josh

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