Cover Release: The Immortal Rules

See, this is what I get for actually doing work when I'm at work and not playing on the computer.  Geez.  Somehow I missed this lovely cover!  Or, at least I think it's the cover for the book seeing the author has it on her site...

Yes, the new series by Julie Kagawa!  This cover is stunning!

The Immortal Rules

By:  Julie Kagawa

Due Out:  April 24, 2012

Who? What? Where? (56)

Who are you with? Where are you at? What's happening?

Share with us just a little bit of what is happening in the book you are reading, right where you are now.

Just a tiny taste of what's happening, remember try to not give spoilers of the book.

(This is a new meme I'm going to try and will tweak as I go. And please don't laugh at my lame attempt at drawing. ;D )

Charity and I just arrived at the Library at her all girls school, Hawthorn.  She just knows Nicholae will be here (Charity thinks deep down, he is her soulmate), but she needs to talk to him and warn him about what his friends, the other exchange students, plan to do according to the inscription on the wall of the gymnasium.  She thinks he's the one in danger!  I'm thinking they all are. ;)

The Graveyard Gymnasium
By:  Kelly Lougheed

It's available today!

We have 2 novella's up for grabs today.  Two I'm thrilled and excited about!

In no particular order, as I'm thrilled to get both!!

Carolyn Crane has Simon's eNovella out today.  If you didn't get it in the Newsletter, you can now purchase it in eformat today!  It's $2.99. I found it on Amazon, Smashwords, Barnes & Nobles

Goodreads Synopsis:
THERE’S A THIN LINE BETWEEN LOVE AND DOOM. 

No wager is too outrageous for Simon Fitzgerald, the most reckless of the Disillusionists. His dark secrets drive him to take increasingly extreme risks, but he’s never lived so quite so dangerously as when he hooks up with Midcity’s most powerful prognosticator. 

Fawna Brady is tormented by the destinies she sees for those around her. To Fawna, knowledge of the future is a cage she’d do anything to escape. She’s stunned to discover a taste of the freedom for which she yearns at the side of Simon, the one person in the world who despises everything she is, everything she stands for. 

Simon’s defiant attitude toward destiny captivates Fawna, but will her love destroy him? And will Simon rush headlong into the delicious doom she offers? 

AND

We have Skyla Dawn Cameron's eNovella of 3 short stories.  Yes 3!  She added; Zombie Faeries after I heard about it.  Which is where Zara meets Juliette.  Cool!
Mundania Press has different formats for you to download, depending on what ereader you have.

Goodreads Synopsis:
Whiskey Sour: One night without protection led to French-Canadian fae bartender, Juliette Aubrey, catching lycanthropy. Now half faerie, half werewolf, and entirely pissed off, Juliette has the chance for revenge when the last person she wants to see strolls into her bar needing help. 

This short story download also contains: 

A Vampire Walked Into a Bar: Pat knows there are vampires in his city, and now he has visual proof. He's set up a meeting with someone who might be able to stop them...but there's a vampire or two who might have something to say about that. 

Zombie Faeries: When a vampire entered her territory uninvited, faerwolf Juliette Aubrey decided to teach her a lesson. Unfortunately for her, that vampire is Zara Lain. And unfortunately for the both of them, they aren't the only big, bad creatures of the night in the cemetery when they meet. 

Yes, I'm going to get Skyla's book asap, as I already have Carolyn's. :)

Congrats Ladies!!  Best of luck to you both.

Teaser Tuesday (108)

Teaser Tuesday

is a weekly event

Sponsored by MizB of Should be Reading

Here's how it works:

Grab the book you are currently reading (anything at all)

Open the book to any random page.

Share 2 teaser sentences from anywhere on the page

Please Make Sure They Are Not Spoilers!

(Don't Give Too Much Away)

Just enough to pique our interests

This Week:

It was as though she were living in a bad black-and-white horror movie.  Vampires existed!

The Graveyard Gymnasium
By:  Kelly Lougheed
82pg

Book Review: Devil's Luck

Devil's Luck

By:  Carolyn Crane

Publish Date:  February 28, 2012

Format:  eBook

Genre:  Urban Fantasy

Series:  3.5 in Disillusionists series; Trilogy: Book 1 ~ Mind Games, Book 2 ~ Double Cross, 2.5 ~ short story Kitten-Tiger & The Monk, in Wild & Steamy, Book 3 ~ Head Rush

Recommendation:  Oh YES!!!  You learn more of Simon, and Fawna.  And if you like a little romance, this one's for you.

Book Synopsis:
THERE'S A THIN LINE BETWEEN LOVE AND DOOM.

No wager is too outrageous for Simon Fitzgerald, the most reckless of the Disillusionists.  His dark secrets drive him to take increasingly extreme risks, but he's never lived so quite so dangerously as when he hooks up with Midcity's most powerful prognosticator.

Fawna Brady is tormented by the destinies she sees for those around her.  To Fawna, knowledge of the future is a cage she'd do anything to escape.  She's stunned to discover a taste of the freedom for which she yearns at the side of Simon, the one person in the world who despises everthing she is, everything she stands for.

Simon's defiant attitude toward destiny captivates Fawna, but will her love destroy him?  And will Simon rush headlong into the lelisious doom she offers?

First Sentence:
Fawna Brady stood at the front of the crowded sideshow tent, watching breathlessly as the Great Bertolt turned his face upward toward the flaming knife he held in his hands.

My Thoughts and Summary:
Fawna is at the fair wondering on the man swallowing flaming knives ~ What kind of future would he have? Fawna is fighting the urge of looking into his future.  This is her addiction, she needs to look, and keep looking for the sad part she knows is there.  She's working with her therapist on the issue, but it's hard to fight what she's done all her life.  As Fawna walks to the gaming tent, she sees Simon, whom she is not fond of for his ability with recklessness.  These two opposites, might be able to teach each other something about themselves and what fate has in store for anyone... if they will let it happen, and not fight it.

Oh, I just loved reading this novella!  Carolyn has done a wonderful job of pulling Simon to the front lines, along with Fawna.  Even thought I had "heard" of Fawna in the first two books of the trilogy, we didn't physically meet her until the third book.  I didn't really know much about her going into this read, but I love her now.  We learn of Fawna's past, where she had been, what she did as a captive, and why she doesn't like Simon, feeling someone needs to keep an eye on him.  Fawna finds she wants to be proven wrong for what she sees as the future, but doesn't feel it's possible....but maybe there's something more Fawna doesn't realize.

Then we have Simon! Oh.... I love Simon now.  Oh do we learn so much of Simon!  Why he's the way he is, with Simon being true to his form.  Simon always seems to find trouble, and enjoys it!  He is the one who takes us on the adventures we follow, being he does live a little on the dangerous side.

Did I mention a romance buds here?  Well, our resident bad boy just might find some love along the way.

Carolyn does a wonderful job of doing different chapters from each view, which gives us the full rounded story of our two characters.  This novella takes two who are complete opposites and possibly, if they let each other, could help and teach each other something in the end.

So much feeling and emotion in this novella!  I didn't want it to end, and now I want more of Simon, and Fawna too!


I read this Novella for my own enjoyment.

Skyla Day! Winner!

Okay, after searching to verify all the entries for the Skyla Day giveaway, and calculating... Wow!  We have a winner.

You all really put loads of effort out!  I wish I could send a copy to all of you, as you all sound like you are looking forward to the series.  Hope you all get it and enjoy it as much as I did.

Congrats to Skyla for Lineage release last week and Whiskey Sours release this week. :)

And congrats to the winner, who choose Bloodlines to kick start into the series....

Melliane!

Congrats hon!  I'll be emailing you shortly.

Cover Release ~ Starling

Now, this is one author I desperately need to get reading.  I have heard wonderful things, from people I trust, that the Wondrous Strange trilogy is amazing.  And love the sounds of this first book of a new series.

Check it out!

Stunning cover!  I love it, and the sounds of the new series! WOW!

"Love is just the beginning... of the end." 

Mason Starling is a champion fencer for Gosforth Academy, but she’s never had to fight for her life. Until now. When a ferocious storm rips through Manhattan and unleashes terrifying creatures onto Gosforth’s campus, Mason barely escapes alive. Without help from the mysterious stranger who appeared in the midst of the storm, she might not have made it at all. But now, in the aftermath, Mason’s life begins to spin dramatically, mystically out of control, and the only one who seems able to help her is the stranger who can remember nothing but his name: Fennrys Wolf. 

As Mason and Fenn uncover more about Fenn’s past and the strange events that surround them, they realize that Mason’s family — and its dark allegiance to the ancient Norse gods — is at the center of everything. A predetermined fate seems to be closing in on Mason, but is it possible to change one’s destiny? 

Readers who fell in love with Lesley Livingston’s Wondrous Strange trilogy and those who love Cassandra Clare’s Mortal Instruments series will be captivated by the sweeping romance and pulse-pounding action of Starling.

Monday's Beginnings (131) Vlog Style (16)

It's Monday, again.  Where did the weekend go?

Finished Last Week:

Lodestone: Book 3: The Crucible of Dawn by Mark Whiteway

Aladdin and His Wonderfully Infernal Device by Tee Morris

Devil's Luck by Carolyn Crane

Current Read:

The Graveyard Gymnasium by Kelly Lougheed

Reviews to Come:

Silver-Tongued Devil by Jaye Wells

Lodestone: Book 3: The Crucible of Dawn by Mark Whiteway

Aladdin and His Wonderfully Infernal Device by Tee Morris

Devil's Luck by Carolyn Crane

Reviews Posted:

Lineage by Skyla Dawn Cameron

In Whom You Trust by S.A. Archer & S. Ravynheart

Movie Review Posted:

Stardust

Podcast Reviews:

Not yet. :) 

Covers Shared:

Aladdin and His Wonderfully Infernal Device by Tee Morris ~ This was a cover and description as it was released on Amazon Thursday!

Special Posts:

We celebrated Skyla Day here on Tuesday for the release of Lineage.  We did a celebration, Review of Lineage, Teasers, and Big News!  Please stop over at all three and check them out.  The giveaway is now closed, and with the extras I did, please give me a little bit to figure out the winner. :)

Freebie eBooks and Deals for Nook.

Next Blog Book Chat!  In March.

I did do a Flash Fiction Friday last week.  Which is a continuation of Liam and Cheyenne.  I was trying to not do a story with the flashes (as I had done before) but it's not turning out as such.  Sorry.  But hope you enjoy it.

My WANT List...Well, I've added 8 books last week.  But again, I've gotten at least 3 books on my Nook that was not on the WANT List.  So I've really added more. ;)  Then on the Curious-About-List I've added 2.

Received:

Purchased:

Goodreads Synopsis:

One bad corpse can ruin your whole day. 

No one knows that better than Rhiannon Murphy. 

She left behind the flash and sass of Miami for the no-nonsense groove of New York City, eager for a clean slate and a fresh start. A bartender by trade, a loud mouth by choice, and a necromancer by chance; she managed to keep her nifty talent hidden from those around her—until now. 

The deliciously good-looking vampire, Disco, knows her secret. When he strolls into her bar to solicit help investigating the mysterious disappearances of his kind from the city, Rhiannon discovers he’s not the kind of person that appreciates the significance of the word no. 

But in a world where vampires peddle their blood as the latest and greatest drug of choice, it’s only a matter of time before the next big thing hits the market. Someone or something is killing vampires to steal their hearts, and unlike Rhiannon, this isn’t their first stroll around the undead block.

Goodreads Synopsis:

Vampires, and werewolves, and demons, oh my. 

Rhiannon thought facing off against a deranged child vampire was the most dangerous task she would ever have to undertake, but she’s about to discover making a deal with a demon is far, far worse. Sent forward into another reality, one in which vampires are now dominating nearly extinct humans, she realizes the sooner she returns to her vampire lover, Disco, the better. 

Unfortunately, time changes a lot of things; including those most trusted around her. When she’s faced with a loss and betrayal unlike any she has ever known, her focus shifts from severing the debt between the demon that wants to kill her, to exacting a revenge that will bring forth consequences she never could have fathomed. By reaching out to the darkness lingering within her, she’ll find the strength to push forward despite the circumstances that would see her dead and buried. 

After all, when it’s all said and done, all that she has left to lose is her soul.

Goodreads Synopsis:

From the imagination behind the award-winning Ministry of Peculiar Occurrences series comes a steampunk novella to a legend from A Thousand and One Arabian Nights. 

Aladdin is a street-wise thief that finds himself under the tutelage of a world-renown illusionist. He is escorted deep into the deserts in search of a treasure beyond his wildest dreams, and discovers instead something far more valuable—a destiny.

Goodreads Synopsis:

Riley Blackthorne just needs a chance to prove herself – and that’s exactly what the demons are counting on…

Seventeen-year-old Riley, the only daughter of legendary Demon Trapper, Paul Blackthorne, has always dreamed of following in her father's footsteps.  The good news is, with human society seriously disrupted by economic upheaval and Lucifer increasing the number of demons in all major cities, Atlanta’s local Trappers’ Guild needs all the help they can get – even from a girl. When she’s not keeping up with her homework or trying to manage her growing crush on fellow apprentice, Simon, Riley’s out saving distressed citizens from foul-mouthed little devils – Grade One Hellspawn only, of course, per the strict rules of the Guild. Life’s about as normal as can be for the average demon-trapping teen.

But then a Grade Five Geo-Fiend crashes Riley’s routine assignment at a library, jeopardizing her life and her chosen livelihood.  And, as if that wasn’t bad enough, sudden tragedy strikes the Trappers’ Guild, spinning Riley down a more dangerous path than she ever could have imagined. As her whole world crashes down around her, who can Riley trust with her heart – and her life?

Nook Book Freebies:

Goodreads Synopsis:

Sold into slavery to pirates at the young age of four, Summer learns to survive the rough seas of subterfuge and thieves through silence. When the boat she &lived on most of her life is destroyed, Summer finds herself washed up on the shore of a new world, a phantom universe full of the bizarre and extraordinary. She meets Gage, the one boy who understands the girl with no speech. But when their lives are put on the line, will Summer finally call out? Or will all be lost in the fathomless depth of silence?

Goodreads Synopsis:

This is a short story based on the Demon Trappers' world featuring Riley Blackthorne and her very first solo demon trapping experience. It's free!

Received in Authors Newsletter for Free:

Goodreads Synopsis:

THERE’S A THIN LINE BETWEEN LOVE AND DOOM. 

No wager is too outrageous for Simon Fitzgerald, the most reckless of the Disillusionists. His dark secrets drive him to take increasingly extreme risks, but he’s never lived so quite so dangerously as when he hooks up with Midcity’s most powerful prognosticator. 

Fawna Brady is tormented by the destinies she sees for those around her. To Fawna, knowledge of the future is a cage she’d do anything to escape. She’s stunned to discover a taste of the freedom for which she yearns at the side of Simon, the one person in the world who despises everything she is, everything she stands for. 

Simon’s defiant attitude toward destiny captivates Fawna, but will her love destroy him? And will Simon rush headlong into the delicious doom she offers? 

So, another week to come.  I'm hoping to have a very good week.  Hoping.  I have my Nano Project and Jackie's of Novel Nation, which we both are reading and making notes on.  And I want to get back to an exercising routine.  But kid is done with Basketball, so it gives me a little time to get the exercising in. :)

How does the week look for you? 

Here's to a hoping you have a great week in words and pages.

Book Review: In Whom You Trust

In Whom You Trust

By:  S.A. Archer and S. Ravynheart

Format:  Online read

Publisher:  Authors on blogs

Publish Date:  February 2012

Series:  Prequel to Champion of the Sidhe series
Affiliated with Rise of the Unseelie, and Touched series

First Sentence:
"Celebrating prematurely, aren't you?"  Lugh used his glass to indicate the party filling the grand ballroom of the Seelie Court.

My Thoughts and Summary:
I really liked this prequel.  It's available on line, through six blogs - one chapter at each.  I don't normally review online stories, but I've been getting more into short stories so thought I'd share it, and I'll keep it short.

For me this prequel of the Champion of fey series not only gives a closer look at Lugh, but feels as a great tie to the other two series it is acquainted with: Rise of the Unseelie and Touch.  There is mention and explanation of the cursed touch of the Sidhe, the Unseelie are mentioned as to the rival there, and shows Lugh knows more than we had suspected.  As well as Lugh is a lot more than just a shiny pretty muscle.  Oh, he is a lot more and a deeper history than could have thought.

Where I thought Lugh to be the portrait of the "boring good-guy" and single minded, he's not here.  He knows more than he leads on because he's loyal and follows his King as every great champions do.  This piece shows Lugh very strong and protective, which I kind of thought him to be from the first two short stories, BUT Lugh isn't the 'boring good-boy' I originally thought.  There is more there than meets the eye, and he'll use it when he has to, to get what he needs.  (but he tries for the good guy first)  So much history hinted at here with Lugh, now making me want more of his story.

This even explains some of the major idea in the Touch series.  Giving you a feel of how important the Sidhe touch is to humans, after the first touch.

We get a look into who Aiofe is, a theory behind why she is gone and who took her.  Then we get to see the All-Mother Danu as well.  And we get descriptions of the Seelie ways and beliefs.

If you would like to read this prequel you can start at:
    Chapter 1 - Fey Cast blog
    Chapter 2 - My World...in words and pages
    Chapter 3 - Reading and Writing Urban Fantasy
    Chapter 4 - Gathering Leaves
    Chapter 5 - Urban Fantasy Reviews
    Chapter 6 - The Sidhe Touch

Do enjoy! :)

Blog Book Chat (24) Schedule

Our next book is picked and awaiting us.  March will be here before we know it, so thought I'd share this now so you can have time to ready for the chat.  So, we are continuing with a new series we are attached to now.  What is it you ask...

Magic Strikes
By:  Ilona Andrews
Drafted to work for the Order of Knights of Merciful Aid, mercenary Kate Daniels has more paranormal problems these days than she knows what to do with. And in Atlanta, where magic comes and goes like the tide, that's saying a lot.

But when Kate's werewolf friend Derek is discovered nearly dead, she must confront her greatest challenge yet. As her investigation leads her to the Midnight Games- an invitation only, no-holds-barred, ultimate preternatural fighting tournament- she and Curran, the Beast Lord, uncover a dark plot that may forever alter the face of Atlanta's shapeshifting community.

Schedule:
Again, another book we are only dividing in 2 sections.  Can't handle the three weeks of torment on these quick reads.
Stop 1 ~ March 8, 2012 ~ 154pg End of Chapter 17
Stop 2 ~ March 15, 2012 ~ End of Book

Hope you will join us for the chats

Freebie & Deal Nook eBook Friday

So, I don't have many deals this week, but thought I'd share the few I found...

Did you know there is a short story by Jana Oliver in the Demon Trappers series?  I didn't realize it until now.  This one is listed as 0.5 in the series.  A prequel type story maybe?  Well, it's free for download on Nook.

Book Description:
A Demon Trapper’s bonus story.

Before Riley Blackthorne can take on Grade Five demons, she has to trap her very first. Her debut solo trapping experience should be a breeze, just a harmless Grade One after all. But throw in some dippy hippies (whose peace signs and Patchouli really aren’t driving any demons away), one mischievous demon, and a run-in with the police, and Riley might not be able to pull it off...

Then we have the first book in the Demon Trappers series for only $2.99! And yes, I'm curious about the series, even though its YA, so I got it.

Book Description:
Riley Blackthorne just needs a chance to prove herself – and that’s exactly what the demons are counting on…

Seventeen-year-old Riley, the only daughter of legendary Demon Trapper, Paul Blackthorne, has always dreamed of following in her father's footsteps.  The good news is, with human society seriously disrupted by economic upheaval and Lucifer increasing the number of demons in all major cities, Atlanta’s local Trappers’ Guild needs all the help they can get – even from a girl. When she’s not keeping up with her homework or trying to manage her growing crush on fellow apprentice, Simon, Riley’s out saving distressed citizens from foul-mouthed little devils – Grade One Hellspawn only, of course, per the strict rules of the Guild. Life’s about as normal as can be for the average demon-trapping teen.

But then a Grade Five Geo-Fiend crashes Riley’s routine assignment at a library, jeopardizing her life and her chosen livelihood.  And, as if that wasn’t bad enough, sudden tragedy strikes the Trappers’ Guild, spinning Riley down a more dangerous path than she ever could have imagined. As her whole world crashes down around her, who can Riley trust with her heart – and her life?

I just heard last night about this one.  The author shared it on Twitter!

Book Description:
Sold into slavery to pirates, Summer learns to survive the rough seas of subterfuge and thieves through silence. When the boat she's lived on most of her life is destroyed, Summer is washed up on the shore of a new world, a phantom universe full of the bizarre and extraordinary. When death looms, will Summer finally call out? Or will all be lost in the fathomless depth of silence?

Hope you enjoy all the new books, and I'll try to keep up with you on Fridays...even if only 1 book is found. :)  There are really so many more free or discounted eBooks out there, sorry I can't share them all with you.

Flash Fiction Friday (38)

Dottie over at Tink's Place have come up with the idea for a Monday Morning Flash Fiction challenge. Each Monday a new picture prompt will be posted and if you choose to participate you post your story on Friday - 350 words, give or take.

I have to thank Blodeuedd at Book Girl of Mur-y-Castell for introducing me to this fun meme. I don't know if I'll be able to keep up with every week, but I'll give it a try from time to time.

The Image This Week:

Dottie has provided 2, (yes 2!) images this week to pick from.  And I went ahead with both.  But she said nothing of the order to write them in...

(artist:  Luis Royo)

Story by:  Melissa

(This is Part 3 of a story started 2 weeks ago: Part 1, Part 2)

The man they called Phoenix looked to Cheyenne then Liam, seeing the twinkle in Cheyenne's eyes, and a look of disbelieve from Liam toward her.

Phoenix bowed his head and spoke, "Welcome home Cheyenne, your city of Cyntha.  There is only a hand full of us remaining, so it's an event to have one return to us.  We will have plenty of time to talk.  Why don't you let my daughter escort you to chambers where you can refresh your selves.  We'll eat and talk after."

Cheyenne nodded toward Phoenix, "Thank you."  Then looking to Liam, "I am a bit grimy from searching for you."  Liam nodded his okay.

"Linnie."  Phoenix spoke.

Then a swirl of purple and lavender sparkles picking up speed.  Cheyenne could have sworn to the gods she had seen a flicker of scales in the cyclone once.  In the blink of an eye, the dust fell to the ground.  In the place before them, was a beautiful woman decorated with a crown and light sensual armor.

"Yes father?"  Linnie said sounding bothered by her fathers call, flipping a long strand of dark hair over her shoulder.

"Linnie, take our guests to two chambers so they can refresh."  Phoenix indicated Liam and Cheyenne standing behind her, staring at Linnie from her sparkly entrance.

Linnie spun around, "Guests!"  Seeing Cheyenne her eyes grew wide, then spying Liam she smiled a sweet smile to melt any mans heart.  "Welcome," she purred.

Cheyenne turned to see Liam, blinking.

Cheyenne and Liam followed Linnie down the dusty halls as she tried to walk close to Liam.

Coming to an arched stone door Linnie indicated, "Cheyenne, this is your chamber.  You will find a pool to bath, and I'll see if I can find clothing for you."  Linnie linked her fingers into Liams hand,  "Liam, you will be down here."

Cheyenne cut Linnie off, "No, this chamber will work for both of us."  Realizing her boldness, she softened her voice,  "We'll stay together."

Linnie smiled, "Mhmm, Well, shame.  Do enjoy.  The chamber."  Linnie walked between Cheyenne and Liam, brushing against Liams chest as she passed.

Cheyenne's breath escaped her as she looked around.  Inside the chamber it felt like a cave, but it was an eye catching cave.  There were stones glowing green and flowers lighting the room as well.

Liam came behind her, "So, what was that about?  Jealous?"

Cheyenne walked to the pool of water for bathing, starting to remove her soiled clothing, "No.  I thought it best we don't separate down here.  I don't know what their plans are."  Cheyenne felt the water with her toes, warm, and started descending into the water.  "And mention of only a few of my kind left.  Can't lead to anything good."

Cheyenne was waist deep when she heard Liam follow her into the pool, she paused.  Cheyenne felt Liam's hands on her waist, then with practiced touch tickle her skin as they skimmed to her shoulders.  She leaned back on his chest, feeling her amulet of protection hanging to his chest.  

Liam leaned to Cheyenne's ear, grazing with his lips as he whispered, "You're jealous.  Just admit it."  

Cheyenne felt the smile stretch across his lips as he nipped at her ear then massaging her cheek and neck with his soft lips; he was playing with her, teasing.  Cheyenne reached up putting a hand in Liam's blond thick hair, holding his head to her.  Her other hand meeting his on her shoulder, working to remove the shift she wore, all modesty gone along with their remaining clothing.

Looking Forward To... (89)

There are so many amazing books already on the shelves and new ones coming out.

For a list of books yet to be released I'm looking to get, you can also look on my right Sidebar at the ever growing list titled Desired Reads - just scroll down. Of course there are tones of other new books to come out that are amazing as well, but these ones are part of series I have already started or for one reason or another caught my eye (and haven't seen much on other blogs yet). But I will highlight one here each week.

(mentioned in order of Release Date then Alphabetical if there are more than one book coming out on the same date.)

Next Book Is...

Devil's Luck

Novella of Simon, in Disillusionist world

By:  Carolyn Crane

Due Out:  February

Oh, I have loved the Disillusionist trilogy.  The "magic" that Carolyn uses is wonderful and creative.  So when I heard about this novella, I could not wait!  We have a blurp and cover to share this week!  Yeah!!  Now, if you are like me, and subscribe to Carolyn Crane's Newsletter, you may already have a copy.  Yes, Carolyn sent a limited time free offer of the novella in her newsletter.

Do enjoy!  I'm hoping to read this over the weekend.

Description from Carolyn's Blog:

There’s a thin line between love and doom.

No wager is too outrageous for Simon Fitzgerald, the most reckless of the Disillusionists. His dark secrets drive him to take increasingly extreme risks, but he’s never lived so quite so dangerously as when he hooks up with Midcity’s most powerful prognosticator.

Fawna Brady is tormented by the destinies she sees for those around her. To Fawna, knowledge of the future is a cage she’d do anything to escape. She’s stunned to discover a taste of the freedom for which she yearns at the side of Simon, the one person in the world who despises everything she is, everything she stands for.

Simon’s defiant attitude toward destiny captivates Fawna, but will her love destroy him? And will Simon rush headlong into the delicious doom she offers?

Movie Review: Stardust

Stardust

Released:  2007

Rated:  PG-13

Genre:  Fantasy, Romance

Length:  127 minutes

Recommendation:  Oh yes.  If you love fantasy with a blend of a budding romance.  Do get this one.

Synopsis:
The passage from this world to the fantasy kingdom of Stormhold is through a breach in a wall beside an English village.  In the 1800s, a boy becomes a man when he ventures through the breech in pursuit of a fallen star, to prove his love for the village beauty.  The star is no lump of rock, it's a maiden, Yvaine.  Tristan, the youth, is not the only one looking for her: three witches, led by Lamia, want her heart to make them young; and the sons of the dead king of Stormhold want her because she holds a ruby that will give one of them title to the throne.  Assisting Tristan are his mother, the victim of a spell, and a transvestite pirate of the skies.  Will Tristan win his true love?

My Thoughts and Summary:
Tristan lives in a small town, called Wall - named so for the guarded wall that runs beside it, with his father.  No one is allowed to cross the wall, into the strange fantasy world on the other side.  One night, trying to win his hearts desire, a beautiful young woman from town, he promises to bring her back the fallen star they just saw zing through the sky, for her hand in marriage.  Tristan learns of his mother, and a way to meet her, but is derailed in his thoughts of finding the fallen star for he local girl he feels strongly for.  Tristan finds his way into the fantasy kingdom of Stormhold, learning the star is a woman, Yvaine, and determined to take her back to his future wife.  But Tristan's not the only one looking for her.  Three long lived witched need the stars heart to bring back youth for them.  Prince sons are killing each other to get to the ruby necklace that knocked Yvaine from her seat in the sky, the very necklace that will decide which of the Princes will rule the kingdom.

This is one movie I've heard just a little about, and thanks to Elaine Corvidae, I had it sent to me from NetFlix.  I even bumped it to #1 to get asap.

I didn't know what I was getting into, but I was very pleased shortly in to the movie, and even loved it by the end.  You know, when this was all over, it left me with the feel of a fantasy with a blend of The Princess Bride type feel.

Tristan is a young man learning his way by learning things he never thought he would, and getting to know his heart along the way.  The world created in Stormhold.  I loved it!  Yes, I'm a fantasy lover, and this world caught my attention.

Michelle Pfeiffer plays the witch on the search for the star as her two sisters stay home helping her from there.  They had one last dose of the last star to give her youth to go in search, but it was funny watching her as she losses her youth through the movie.  When her chest drops, we both laughed out loud.  Well played!  Then we have the Sky Pirate who helps Tristan and Yvaine.  Oh that was a trip!  LOL!  I loved the way Robert De Niro played Captain Shakespeare.  Oh, he was fun.


I think my husband thought I was goofy, once again, by this pick when he saw the ghost brothers.  But I had to chuckle at the state they were in.  *giggle*  Sorry, they struck me strange, but goofy.  But then my husband relaxed and seemed to enjoy the movie as well.  I think the husband was a little so-so on the movie and enjoyed many parts of it, but I loved it. Thank you Elaine Corvidae for bringing this one to my attention.  And I will note, after watching it, I will seriously consider buying the book by Neil Gaiman!

Throwback Thursday (55)

Let's talk about those books already on the shelves, yours or the stores.

I have a post for books I'm looking forward to coming out;

Looking Forward To...

But what about all those wonderful books that are ALREADY on the shelves.

Whether it be on your shelf waiting to be read or on the shelves in the stores waiting for you to give it a good home.

So, I thought I would share a book a week that is just waiting for me to travel through it's world.

Now... where do I start? Lets go by Published Date on the books...

This Week:

Aaah, this one is going to get me a LOAD of slack.  Yes, for not reading it.  But I will say, it is now moved to the shelf of must reads.  AND I plan on picking it up in the next few weeks here.  I've put it off long enough.  So don't yell at me to bad, I'll be getting to it very soon.

Goodreads Synopsis:

My name is Gin, and I kill people.

They call me the Spider. I'm the most feared assassin in the South — when I'm not busy at the Pork Pit cooking up the best barbecue in Ashland. As a Stone elemental, I can hear everything from the whispers of the gravel beneath my feet to the vibrations of the soaring Appalachian Mountains above me. My Ice magic also comes in handy for making the occasional knife. But I don't use my powers on the job unless I absolutely have to. Call it professional pride.

Now that a ruthless Air elemental has double-crossed me and killed my handler, I'm out for revenge. And I'll exterminate anyone who gets in my way — good or bad. I may look hot, but I'm still one of the bad guys. Which is why I'm in trouble, since irresistibly rugged Detective Donovan Caine has agreed to help me. The last thing this coldhearted killer needs when I'm battling a magic more powerful than my own is a sexy distraction...especially when Donovan wants me dead just as much as the enemy.

New Novella, in a Steampunk fashion!

Aladdin and his Wonderfully Infernal Device

What a title for a new Novella, right!  And this is by the wonderful author Tee Morris.  He has created a novella with a twist of fairytale and steampunk.  Cool!  *nods head*  I liked the blend he and Pip did with the Christmas Carol, and all the podcasts of Tales From the Archives.  So I have to read this one.  And it's only $1.99!  Really!

If you would like you can jump over to Tee's post on his blog about it, and learn more.

Blurp:
Aladdin is a street-wise thief that finds himself under the tutelage of a world-renown illusionist. He is escorted deep into the deserts in search of a treasure beyond his wildest dreams, and discovers instead something far more valuable—a destiny.

I've ordered this one up!  I know it's only on Amazon, so I'll read it on my computer or phone, but that's okay as it's only Novella length and Tee is, well Tee.  Being a Novella, I will read very soon for you...

Who? What? Where? (55)

Who are you with? Where are you at? What's happening?

Share with us just a little bit of what is happening in the book you are reading, right where you are now.

Just a tiny taste of what's happening, remember try to not give spoilers of the book.

(This is a new meme I'm going to try and will tweak as I go. And please don't laugh at my lame attempt at drawing. ;D )


Well, I'm in the same book as last week, and the week before that.  Yes, I'm struggling. With kids sports and life, I'm kind of held up in the same place.  So...I'll think of something to share with you...

Cariboo Mountain, from Wikimedia

I'm with Alena climbing a rocky mountain side at night, trying to get away from the trogins behind her.  Which seems that her plan is working as they are having a hard time climbing the rocks with those hoofed hands they have.  Seems to be working as Alena has not idea what waits at the ledge she's coming to.

Ok, so this isn't a book anywhere...it's a place in my Nano project.  I'm trying to work on, but I had nothing else to share with you today.  Sorry, hope you don't mind.

Skyla Day, Big News!

Skyla shared with me last night great new BIG news.  I'm excited about this one, and NEED to share it with you.

If you have not read any of Skyla's work and want to sample it, there will be a eNovella of 2 short stories available in eFormat on February 28, 2012!

Yes!  The first story, I've read and loved.  Which it's the title and cover.  Whiskey Sour is also available in the anthology, Bad-Ass Faeries, Just Plain Bad. (which I reviewed, so click the title to learn about the book.)  But now instead of ordering up a whole book you can get Skyla's story alone, and a bonus short and there is an appearance by Zara Lain.

2 Short Stories, 1 Place

In the same world as Demons of Oblivion series.

(maybe even a few characters you saw quick in the books)

Whiskey Sour

By:  Skyla Dawn Cameron

Due Out:  February 28, 2012

Formate:  eBook

Whiskey Sour
Blurp:
One night without protection led to French-Canadian fae bartender Juliette Aubrey catching lycanthropy. Now half faery, half werewolf, and entirely pissed off, Juliette has the chance for revenge when the last person she wants to see strolls into her bar one night needing help.

My Quick Thoughts:
Skyla did a wonderful job in a short story of bringing Jules into her powers.  Skyla makes short story writing seem so easy here!  I loved meeting Juliette!  Jules is a smart woman, and knows how to take charge.  She is one tough chick that I want to see again in the future.  I loved the quick fix for action and this world.

And I'm looking forward to reading:
A Vampire Walked Into a Bar
Blurp from Skyla's Site:
This is a short story that takes place several years prior to the start of BLOODLINES. It features a few new characters, as well as some familiar faces.


Pat knows there are vampires in his city, and now he has visual proof. He's set up a meeting with someone who might be able to stop them...but there's a vampire or two who might have something to say about that.

There is an appearance by Zara Lain, which also takes place 4 years before Bloodlines.

There will also be the Blurps and First Chapters of Bloodlines, Hunter, and Lineage.  A great way to try out Skyla's work and style, then get a few short stories set in this world as well.

Both short stories are spoiler free of the Demons of Oblivion series.  In now way will they ruin your experience to come with the series.

If you are curious about Skyla Dawn Cameron, do stop by her site.  You can learn about her books, and her Serial reads as well.  Do enjoy your visit.

So, what do you think?


If you would like to enter to win one of Skyla's books go to Skyla Day! Post and enter!