Cover Reveal: Magic Rises

So, thanks to many for showing me the error of my ways and introducing me into reading this AMAZING series (yes, I still don't know why it took me so long, but I'm here and LOOOOVING it.)

I'm sure many shared this cover yesterday, as it's outstanding!  But I'm sharing it today, a day late because I got sidetracked with real life yesterday.

Ready?

Here we go...

Magic Rises

By:  Ilona Andrews

Kate Daniels series #6

This cover is mind-blowing to me!  All that fire!  Oh my.  Something is seriously going down...or up in flames?  But dang.  Amazing.  Curran, there in the upper corner, looks peeved to the T.  Spells fight for me.  And Kate.  Oh Kate.  To me this model fits the image for me, I've liked all the models as they have that pull in their eyes that screams Kate.  I just keep thinking of the outfit Saiman sent to Kate for their 'not-a-date' to the Midnight Games.  I seem to have something in mind in way of a description from Saiman.  I don't think he said it, but I just think that outfit fits her wondrously.   I can see that description in this model easily, I think it's in the eyebrows.  And Kate looks ready to cut her way through a lot of mess.

Also... Did you see the new look to Ilona & Gordon's site?  W-O-W.  Really!  Kate looks like one tough chick and she has gone through hell.  Flames, blood, and one ticked off strong Kate.  Damn do I want this book!!


What do you think?  Screams action!  And Fight!!! LOL. (I do loOove a great fight)  Oh, and side note, if you aren't happy, I'm sorry but please don't ruin my wonder and love of this cover.  I'm totally syked about the series as I'm thrilled to have been shown the light.  I'm loving the cover and the new look of the site.  So much to look forward to!

Throwback Thursday (101)

I found this picture of Trinity College Library, and thought it would work for this meme with a little play with lighting and adding the words.

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:

Oh, this is another book I won, and it's got signatures too!  I do love the sounds of these stories, and by authors in worlds I want to get into. :)

Goodreads Synopsis:

Truly, Madly, Undeadly

This irresistible collection features stories of love amid vampires by five of today's hottest authors—Kristin Cast (Tempted), Richelle Mead(Vampire Academy), Alyson Noël (Evermore), Kelley Armstrong (The Summoning), and Francesca Lia Block (Pretty Dead).

From a fugitive vampire forced to trust a boy who might work for the group bent on destroying her to the legendary romance of two immortals whose love compels them to risk everything, this heart-pounding collection brings new meaning to the words "love you forever." Whether you're into romances that are dark and moody or light and fun, these stories will quench that insatiable thirst for enchanting tales of the beautiful undead.

I've heard back from a few bloggers that they would like to join in this meme post, so I'm adding a Linky for you to join in.  Grab the picture above, and join in.  All I ask, is if you can acknowledge my blog in the post so others know where to come back to and join as well.  Thank you.

Book Review: Leashing the Tempest by Jenn Bennett

Leashing the Tempest

By: Jenn Bennett

Published By: Pocket Star

Publish Date: December 17, 2012

Format: ebook, 65 pages

Genre: Fantasy/Paranormal

Series:  Arcadia Bell, 2.5

Recommendation:  For those that like a twist on magic and demons, plus a decent dose of quick-witted comments..

Synopsis:
Dating a demon, defeating evil, running a tiki bar: Arcadia Bell is a great occult mage in many respects. But then there’s the challenge of her boyfriend’s precocious teenage son…

Arcadia "Cady" Bell may have saved the Hellfire Club’s children from a local bogeyman, but she and her Earthbound demon boyfriend, Lon Butler, now face a more disturbing problem: his teenage son’s new demonic abilities. Jupe Butler can persuade you to do anything—or so he thinks. To test the limits of his newfound power, Cady invites the co-owner of Tambuku Tiki Lounge to be the teen’s guinea pig during an afternoon boat cruise. But when an angry storm whips the Pacific into a frenzy and Jupe puts them all in serious danger, will Cady's magick trump a teenager’s excess confidence?

First Sentence:
"It didn't seem like the sort of boat that got lost at sea."

Purchase At:

Amazon  /  Barnes & Noble

My Thoughts and Summary:

Cady is a Heka magician, meaning she can read symbols and create spells with them for protection...and possibly more. Because of her skills, she immediately notices something isn't quite right with the boat she's boarding with her best friend, her boyfriend, Lon, and his son, Jupe. As they get moving on their journey and meet the...interesting...skipper of the boat, Cady puts the drawings out of her mind, prepared for a nice calm day. Then all hell breaks loose.

The purpose for their trip was to take Jupe out to a quiet place to practice his "knack" The knacks are special abilities that Earthbound demons have, and it seems that there's quite a variety of them as evidenced by the small sample of people in this particular story. But Jupe's knack is a surprising one, particularly when he accidentally uses it, putting everyone at risk.

Early on, there was mention of a "relaxing three-hour cruise". From that moment, a different "three-hour tour" theme song began playing in my head. And much like the S.S. Minnow. the boat in Leashing the Tempest, the Baba Yaga, begins to hit some rough waters. From here on out, it's none stop action.

I really liked the pace of the story;  there didn't seem to be any dull moments. You know from Cady's curiousity over the the protective ward there's going to be a mystery slowly unveiled as Cady and her family have to contend with the bad storm that hits the boat hard. There are a few twists and turns to throw the reader off course (that's a little boating humour for you there  ;)  ), keeping you engaged to the very end.

Cady is a cool character. She has the ability to cast magic on the Earthbound demons, which appears to be a rarity in this world. There is also a hint that she can do other things after dark. This isn't mentioned further in the story but made me want to learn more about it from the full length books.

The other characters are equally interesting. Lon, Cady's much older boyfriend seems a man of few words but shows great loyalty and faith in Cady, that's refreshing. The boat's captain is a despicable man but Bennett creates the perfect circumstances to tie all the action in through this character. (He definitely deserves a plank walk if there are pirates in Arcadia Bell's world, I tell you!) But for my money, Jupe is the one that steals the show. Where Lon is laid back and even-toned, Jupe is antsy, quick to temper, and funny as hell. He has some of the best one-liners in the story.

Add all these elements together, with some neat world building and you have a well rounded short story. I can't wait to see the full extent of Cady's abilities as a human/Heka magician and just how much trouble Jupe can get into. I have a feeling there's a lot more in store.

Reviewed by Jackie

*Received as a review copy from Simon & Schuster

Who? What? Where? (100)

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.

his 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 )

This Week:

I'm 60 pgs from the end, so I have to be very vague...

I'm with Scorcha and several others (see vague).  We have just come together at this house, and things are looking dire for the Order and citizens of the kingdom.  Geists are starting to stir.

Wrayth
By:  Philippa Ballantine



Others have shown interest in joining in this post, and linking up.  So I've created a linky for that.
My only requests; copy the picture to use, and link back to My World...in words and pages.
Please visit any joining in.
Thank you!

Cover Reveal & Book Trailer

I've read the first two books in this series and the third will be out shortly.  But, until then here is the cover and book trailer.

Masquerade

Sevy Series #3

By:  Sarah-Jane Lehoux

Due Out:  February 26, 2013

Description:

Starting over isn’t easy, especially when the world isn’t ready for you to change. Sevy, thief turned assassin turned mercenary, isn’t having any fun adjusting to a normal, law-abiding life. Luckily for her, an old partner in crime arrives with an irresistible proposition: a getaway to a tropical island, an adventure of a lifetime, and an amazing friendship ready to blossom into an even more amazing romance.

Things are looking up for Sevy. That is, until a pack of maniacal fairies with a taste for human flesh arrive on the scene.

Now she must unravel a web of magical intrigue hidden behind the outwardly idyllic atmosphere of the islands of Belakarta. Nothing is as it seems, and no one can be trusted. Trapped under the spell of a handsome and mysterious stranger, Sevy must fight fairies and tricksters to regain her freedom.

Or spend an eternity as a sorcerer’s plaything.

Book Trailer:

and....

Tales from the Archives Vol 2 ~ #8

Tales from the Archives Vol. 2 - #8

By:  Pip Ballantine & Tee Morris

Written & Narrated by:  Shaun Farrell

Format:  Podcast, 36:56 minutes

Genre:  Fantasy, Steampunk

Series:  8th in Tales of the Archives Vol. 2 podcasts, part of A Ministry of Peculiar Occurrences series

Recommendation:  Nice way to meet new characters and authors in this steampunk-ish world particularly if you enjoyed the book; A Ministry of Peculiar Occurrences Novel, Phoenix Rising.  The archives are full of stories to be told.

Synopsis:
Curtain Call

Cordelia is called to a strange theatre by a message from her estranged father, and she hopes for a joyful reunion.  Her father though has been treading on dangerous ground while trying to impress the Director the Ministry of Peculiar Occurrences.  Still Cordelia cannot possibly know the strange and terrifying details of what lies within this particular play house.

My Thoughts and Summary:
Wellington works to keep the case from Eliza, as she struggles to get it, it rips in two...it's from the theater, and knowing Eliza's experiences with theaters...well...

Cordelia receives an unexpected note from the father who abandoned her and her mother for adventure.  When Cordelia shows up to the theater she can't believe what she finds.  Now Cordelia will have to share this amazing and horrid tale with Dr. Sound, whom her father mentioned in the letter.

This story tells a shocking tale from Charles Fitzroy to Cordelia on Lenore.  It's neat to see how Fitzroy controls the "show" of the theater from his box, with knobs and gears.  And the energy created and absorbed from the audience.

This story ends with an ending, but a possibility of revisiting these characters.  I'd be curious to see more of these characters and what's created around Lenore and Charles Fitzroy.



Would you like to listen to these? For a taste of the characters or in addition to the book... Visit The Ministry of Peculiar Occurrences.

You can find these for your Reading pleasure in any eFormat you would like at Smashwords.

NEW!! The Tales from the Archives: Volume 1 can now be found on Kindle as The Ministry's 99-Penny Dreadfuls.  You can find the Archives on Kindle for your Reading.

There are short stories always added to the listing. So keep checking back!

I listened to this short story for my own enjoyment.

Teaser Tuesday (148)

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:

However, before she completed her downswing, green fire enveloped her.  It did not hurt, but she could feel the little strength left in her limbs drain away.

Wrayth
By:  Philippa Ballantine
178pg

Book Review: Night's Darkest Embrace by Jeaniene Frost

Night's Darkest Embrace

By:  Jeaniene Frost

Published By:  Pocket Star

Publish Date:  November 13, 2012

Format:  ebook, 100 pages

Genre:  Fantasy/Paranormal

Series:  None. Originally appeared in the Haunted By Your Touch anthology.

Recommendation:  Yes! For fans of demons/fallen angels, fate, and feisty heroine's that don't hold back.

Synopsis:
Enter the dark realm of Nocturna in Jeaniene Frost’s redhot tale, where blisteringly sexy Raphael dominates the demons of a lawless dimension and tries to help a beautiful young woman avenge her cousin’s disappearance.

First Sentence:
"The sun's rays slipped further behind the Bed Bath & Beyond sign across the parking lot."

Purchase At:

Amazon / Barnes & Noble

My Thoughts and Summary:

We're catapulted right into the action in this short story as the main character, Mara, bound for revenge for the abduction (and worse) of her best friend Gloria. Mara waits patiently for the right moment to, um, run straight for a garbage dumpster that will take her to Nocturna, a parallel world accessed through portals such as these. Frost makes this time constraint so tight that you feel the trepidation of missing it by a fraction of a second and ending up with a raging headache.

Fortunately, Mara doesn't miss and we get to see this other world, home to demons, either half blood, Purebloods, and if we're unlucky enough, some of the Fallen too. This is what left the biggest impression on me throughout the story; the world building here was very well done. The author describes Nocturna as "a cross between the Victorian era and the Wild West." This was enhanced by the fact that the world is shrouded in darkness and had no electricity, setting the mode for a rough and tumble society with a dash of romance from all the candles needed. What a cool mix!

Aptly blended with the setting was Mara's vigilante mindset. She'd had to wait years to come back to Nocturna to see if she could find out what happened. That's bound to give her an itchy trigger finger (no pun intended here; this girl wears a gun belt!) The thing is, Mara has her suspicions about who the guilty party is: Raphael. This is where we see just how far Mara is willing to go to exact her revenge. From a very steamy scene in the back of a horse drawn carriage to the what happens shortly after at Raphael's castle, the story has enough twists to keep you reading from beginning to end....in one sitting.

I really enjoyed the back story in this tale and would love to see more interactions with Mara and Raphael in the future (if he makes it to the end of the story ;)  ) Mara was a good, strong character that let her heart lead her on the task at hand. But, like all good heroines, sometimes head and heart get mixed signals and it's the road to clarity that makes the story so interesting.

The world building here was different from any I'd encountered before, starting with our own, then working through different dimensions that had unbreakable rules about who could traverse through them. I'm always a sucker for Victorian settings, even if, in this case, it's full of demons, so this was a great starter book for me to read about these creatures (more like humans, apart from the Purebloods eating habits *shudders*) that I didn't think could be more than just 'the bad guys'.

I enjoyed Frost's writing so much that I'll definitely be reading more of her work now!

Reviewed by Jackie

*Received as a review copy from Simon & Schuster

Monday's Beginnings (178)

Well, it's Monday...

So, what did I do this past week...hmmm, it felt awfully long that's for sure.  Work is...well work.  And I'm tired of the messes there.  Everyone makes everything so damned hard, and it shouldn't be.  I think it might be time to spread my wings.  Or not.  Maybe it's just the mood of the week.  We'll see.

But I did get through one whole book, read a beta read/backstory for the beta reads I've been doing and start a new book.  I also got a few hours in on my latest Nano project.  Wow, lots of stuff there and takes some serious time to figure out if I want to us it or not.  (Oh and Blodeuedd & Jackie, I kept the cows for now. ;P lol).  I'm hoping to do a post over at Challenged Writers on how the first month has gone with the project, with Jackie of course. :) So that could be about the end of the week...hopefully!

I'm working hard on a new project and meme here.  It'll be on Mondays, so this post will be bumped to Sunday's...if I keep up with it.  I'm not sure if I want to do a roundup any more or not.  Doesn't seem to really draw any readers, and takes time to do.  We'll see.  But I have my brother working on a picture for it, and I've got posts coming in for it. So we are looking good to go. ;)  That will be starting March.

Current Read:
Wrayth by Philippa Ballantine

Finished Last Week:
Outpost by Ann Aguirre
and a Beta/back story Novella


Reviews to Come:
Also!!  I have a friend blogger who will be posting reviews from time to time.  Jackie.  She has at least 2 reviews to come your way here as well.
Endgame by Ann Aguirre
Gunmetal Magic by Ilona Andrews
Magic Gifts by Ilona Andrews
The Crown Tower by Michael J. Sullivan
Grave Peril by Jim Butcher
Outpost by Ann Aguirre

Book Reviews Posted:
Curran POV Vol 1 & Vol 2 by Gordon Andrews

Podcast Reviews Posted:
Tales from the Archives 2012 Christmas Special ...with Verity!

Movie Review Posted:
No movie review, sorry, been running out of time.

Books and Covers Shared:
I didn't have anything last week.

Special Posts:
Freebie and Deals, on Nook too (39)
I was Interviewed and A GIVEAWAY!! 2 of my Favorite books.

I did not do a Flash Fiction Friday.  I'm going to have to schedule my time better to do this.  I really enjoyed these.  I'll try.

My WANT List...It looks like I've added 1.  Well...you do know this list is up to 512 books, right? That is an unreal number of books I want. LOL! I don't think I'll ever get to read them all.

Received Last Week:
Free Ebooks:

This is a free novella starting a new series.  Sounds good!
Seven Wonders Journals: The Select by Peter Lerangis
Goodreads Synopsis:
From the lost Journals of the Seven Wonders saga comes the story of Burt Wenders—one of the first of the chosen kids to be marked as "The Select." In this thrilling prequel to Book 1, delve into the mystery and the magic of Seven Wonders, the brand-new adventure series from Peter Lerangis, the bestselling author of several books in the 39 Clues series.

It's the year 1894, and thirteen-year-old Burt and his father are on an archaeological expedition gone wrong. After a tumultuous boat ride, Burt and the archaeologists find themselves stranded on what seems to be a deserted island. That is, seems to be deserted until Burt starts hearing music that no one else can hear . . . and blacking out with no explanation. Maybe there is something to Burt's father's expedition after all? All but tortured by his surroundings, Burt ventures to find out. He can only hope to survive.

This is a collection of free short stories published on Tors site.
Some of the Best from Tor.com 2012 Edition 
Barnes & Noble Synopsis:
A collection of some of the best original short fiction published on Tor.com in 2012. Includes stories by Elizabeth Bear, Adam Troy Castro, Paul Cornell, Kathryn Cramer, Brit Mandelo, Pat Murphy, Charles Stross, Michael Swanwick, Rachel Swirsky, and Gene Wolfe.

So, on to a new week.  How was your week last week?  And do you think the new one looks good?

Here's wishing you all the best in words and pages.

Freebies and Deals, on Nook too (39)

Barnes and Nobles has their Freebie Friday as always.

Freebie:
Thanks to a friend bringing this one to my attention, I wanted to share it with all of you as well.
It's a Novella prequel starting a new series that sounds adventurous!

Seven Wonders Journals: The Select by Peter Lerangis
Amazon - Kindle   /   Barnes & Nobles - Nook   /   Or any other format!
Goodreads Synopsis:
From the lost Journals of the Seven Wonders saga comes the story of Burt Wenders—one of the first of the chosen kids to be marked as "The Select." In this thrilling prequel to Book 1, delve into the mystery and the magic of Seven Wonders, the brand-new adventure series from Peter Lerangis, the bestselling author of several books in the 39 Clues series.

It's the year 1894, and thirteen-year-old Burt and his father are on an archaeological expedition gone wrong. After a tumultuous boat ride, Burt and the archaeologists find themselves stranded on what seems to be a deserted island. That is, seems to be deserted until Burt starts hearing music that no one else can hear . . . and blacking out with no explanation. Maybe there is something to Burt's father's expedition after all? All but tortured by his surroundings, Burt ventures to find out. He can only hope to survive.

I read the first two books in this series and enjoyed them.  They were quick reads for me.
Immortalis Carpe Noctem by Katie Salidas
Amazon ~ Kindle   /   Barnes & Nobles ~ Nook
Goodreads Synopsis:
Explore the emotional upheaval that is the transformation from human to vampire.Bleeding to death after brutal mugging on the campus of UNLV, Twenty-five year old Alyssa, is rescued by the cold and aloof, vampire, Lysander. Taking pity on her, he shares the gift-and curse-of immortality. She awakens as a vampire and is soon devastated by harsh realities of her new way of life: An unyielding thirst for blood as well as the loss of her friends, her independence, and her humanity. As if having her humanity stripped away was not enough to make life interesting, Alyssa finds out her "turning," did not go unnoticed by the rest of undead society. Old enemies; an ancient sect of vampire hunters, known as the Acta Sanctorum, as well as a powerful Vampire mistress, each set plans in motion to destroy both Alyssa and Lysander. Only by accepting her new-found immortality, seizing the night, will Alyssa hope to survive. She and Lysander must fight together against two sets of enemies bent on destroying them both.


I think that's it this week.  Not much.  Sorry about that.  Do you have any deals or freebies to share this week?

Book Review: Curran POV 1 & 2

 Curran POV Vol 1

By:  Gordon Andrews

Publisher:  Gordon & Ilona Andrews

Publish Date:  October 9, 2010

Format:  eNovella of short collections

Genre:  Urban Fantasy

Series:  1st of Curran POV, and Kate Daniels Series: Magic Bites, Magic Burns, Magic Strikes, Magic Bleeds, Magic Slays; Curran POV 3 & 4

Recommendation:  OH GODS YES!!

My Thoughts and Summary:
Oh it's wonderful reading Curran's view.  He's such a perfect match for Kate it's unreal.  I love Curran's banter with Kate.  He has me constant smiling while reading them again, and from Curran's POV, just as brilliant.

This is definitely a collection to read AFTER the books.  It's wonderful to go back and read these and remember.  Actually, it makes me want to go back and re-read the series as I loved it that much.

Each book has a Curran view here:
Magic Bites:
When Curran first meets Kate in Unicorn Lane.  He knew some of Kate from Jim, as Jim works with her and strange as he's a cat and works alone or with a few from Pack.

I still full smile at the "Kitty, kitty, kitty" call from Kate.  And Curran's reaction! LOL!  This is the Beast Lords first impression of Kate.

Magic Burns:
When Curran brought Kate to the South East office to be healed, from slashes on her back and the poison.

Curran seems to realize his feelings and knows Exactly what he was doing with the soup.  These two are a pair!

Magic Strikes:
Curran pieces together why key members of his pack have gone rogue and who's at the lead while in the Loupe cage.

Oh what Curran calls Kate!  LOLOL!  He always has choice words in his mind about his love.  But we get to see Curran's chat with Julie before she lets him out.  Gods that girl is quick, smart and so good.  I do love her.  Curran sees the alpha in Kate and notes it to himself here.

Magic Bleeds:
The meeting of Alphas and The People when Curran sees Kate all dolled up...and with Saiman.

Oh, oh, oh!  I was hoping for this POV from Curran.  That is all I can say.  But this is the thoughts running through his head at that moment, before he gets called back to the meeting.

Then there is a teaser of the first chapter for Magic Strikes here as well.

##########

Curran POV Vol 2
Fathers and Sons

By:  Gordon Andrews

Publisher:  Gordon & Ilona Andrews

Publish Date:  May 19, 2011

Format:  eNovella

Genre:  Urban Fantasy

Series:  2nd in Curran POV, and Kate Daniels Series: Magic Bites, Magic Burns, Magic Strikes, Magic Bleeds, Magic Slays; Curran POV 3 & 4

Recommendation:  OH HELL! Read it.  And learn what happens between Curran and Mohan.

My Thoughts and Summary:
Curran wakes from his two week coma to Kate at his side and to hear another has come to challenge her.  He has other plans and goes to the Alpha Pack Council meeting.  Then Curran tells Mohan, his adoptive father, to stay.  Curran knows this is it, they need to have this out about Kate now.

This is why Curran is THE Beast Lord.  Right up front.  This is not the banter and fun witted man we see with Kate.  This is the Beast Lord taking control of the Pack and the way things will go, his way.

In this one we get more.  We get Curran and Mahon.  I always wondered where he disappeared too after being known he didn't much care for Kate as Curran's mate.  This will settle that.

There is fun, but The Beast Lord makes his presence known, and there is fighting to please all.



You can find both these ebooks for free on Ilona Andrews site.



**I read these for my own enjoyment.

Throwback Thursday (100)

I found this picture of Trinity College Library, and thought it would work for this meme with a little play with lighting and adding the words.

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:

Ah, this one I won and love the sounds of it.  Kind of has a wonderland twist or feel to it.

Goodreads Synopsis:

Fin Barrett is a survivor who believes her life is in order once and for all. Unfortunately, she is wrong. As Fin attempts to make a fresh start with her new puppy Zipper, she has no idea that Creeps from another world are stalking her. But then, late one night in a nearby sculpture garden, Fin suddenly finds herself sprinting after Zipper through a mosaic arch. In mere seconds, she is transported to a strange place called the land of Blunder.

In Blunder, sparkly goo makes solid objects penetrable, an old woman's Mercedes travels at unimaginable speeds, and people read handcrafted objects rather than printed words. To top it off, a few of Blunder's citizens seem to know Fin-and not all of them are happy with her. After Fin dredges up terrifying memories of her first visit to Blunder, she remembers it is up to her to stop the Creeps who receive thrills from randomly attacking innocent people.

With the help of an irritating shaman, the ridiculous Sullivan brothers, and a host of other oddball characters, Fin is unwittingly propelled into the role of savior as she and Zipper traverse through an outlandish world where nothing will ever be normal.

I've heard back from a few bloggers that they would like to join in this meme post, so I'm adding a Linky for you to join in.  Grab the picture above, and join in.  All I ask, is if you can acknowledge my blog in the post so others know where to come back to and join as well.  Thank you.

I was Interviewed, and a Giveaway!

I was interviewed by Jaclyn Canada for her blog celebration this week.  AND she asked for 2 books I enjoyed so she can give them away!  Really! TWO books I loved.  Well, you want to win them, I know you do. ;)  So go over and visit Jaclyn's blog.

And while you are there, maaaybe you'll learn something new about me?  Well, if not you'll at least learn what series I seem to not be latching onto like everyone else. ;P

Go ahead!  Go see my interview at JC's Book Haven, and enter to win an AMAZING read!


And while you are at Jaclyn's blog today, check out the whole weeks posts (5) as she's having a week long of blogger appreciate with giveaways on each one!  Check out the previous two and visit again to see who's to come with their favorites. :)

Who? What? Where? (99)

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.

his 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 )

This Week:

I'm half way through and seeing why the kid enjoyed reading this one.  I don't want to stop!

I'm with Deuce and several guard.  We are at the outpost and a freak (those humanoid creatures that are thought to mindless meat eaters) made it's way through camp doing something rather strange, and it's not sitting well in my mind or Deuces.

Outpost
By:  Ann Aguirre

Tales from the Archives 2012 Christmas Special

Tales from the Archives 2012 Christmas Special

By:  Pip Ballantine & Tee Morris

Written & Narrated by:  Philippa Ballantine

Format:  Podcast, 23:14 minutes

Genre:  Fantasy, Steampunk

Series:  A special episode in Tales of the Archives Vol. 2 podcasts for Christmas, part of A Ministry of Peculiar Occurrences series

Recommendation:  This is a story centered around one of the Ministry Seven, Verity.  Wonderful to see her again and continue with a few pieces from her first story.

Synopsis:
It's Christmas Eve, and Verity Fitzroy finds herself distracted from her duties with the Ministry Seven.  When she endangers her fellow urchins, she begins to question her role in their life.

My Thoughts and Summary:
Christmas Eve, 1891.

Verity is in the snow watching for the home owner or anyone to return while four of her fellow urchins search inside for evidence for Harrison Thorn, in order to arrest the owner.  Waiting in the boring cold her mind wonders back to her ever distracting past, and what she thinks might affect her future as well - her uncle thought to be dead but alive and a murderer.  Then Verity recognizes the sound of a familiar ticking noise in the back of her head.  Verity's distraction results in trouble, and she questions her time with her family with the Ministry Seven.

I'm a Verity fan.  I've said before in the short story about Verity, and I'll say it again now, there is something special about this girl.  I love her.  She hears the ticking of clockworks and cogs, and it seems she might be the only one.  There is a new element dropped here, and I'm curious of the connection to Verity and her piece she took from her Uncles.  Oooo, so good.  And makes me WANT more from Verity and what she's connected too.

We get a touch of Verity's family past, her parents.  We also we see Harrison Thorn here, and Dr. Josepha Blackwell.  Oh Dr. Blackwell and her machines... giving Verity a taste of what she thought if she never met the boys, for the boys safety...or is it?

Oh there is a neat little warning device she has with the boys inside.  I really liked this.  Then there's Dr. Blackwell's machine that Verity uses.  Oh so interesting in this world of mechanics.  And, it seems Verity has a knack for wanting to investigate mechanical items.  Sounds like the girl has a great future.



Would you like to listen to these? For a taste of the characters or in addition to the book... Visit The Ministry of Peculiar Occurrences.

You can find these for your Reading pleasure in any eFormat you would like at Smashwords.

NEW!! The Tales from the Archives: Volume 1 can now be found on Kindle as The Ministry's 99-Penny Dreadfuls.  You can find the Archives on Kindle for your Reading.

There are short stories always added to the listing. So keep checking back!

I listened to this short story for my own enjoyment.

Teaser Tuesday (147)

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:

I was already shaking my head.  "No matter what you said to him or how you said it, this wasn't right.  It was his failure, not yours.  It wasn't your fault."

Outpost
By:  Ann Aguirre
133pg

Monday's Beginnings (177)

Well, it's Monday....and I'm late with the post, again. *sigh*  And my sinuses are a mess today.  I hate this crazy weather up, down, up, down.

The week didn't go exactly as I has suspected.  I always seem to take longer than I hope.  I did finish the beta read, and a second one over the weekend.  And finally started Outpost by Ann Aguirre.  I even did a few pages of the Nano project, which I realized I need to keep up with it on a regular bases to remember everything.  So I need to start doing that.

Current Read:
Outpost by Ann Aguirre

Finished Last Week:

I finished the long beta read, and a short one.


Reviews to Come:
Also!!  I have a friend blogger who will be posting reviews from time to time.  Jackie.  She has at least 2 reviews to come your way here as well.
Endgame by Ann Aguirre
Curran POV Vol 1 by Gordon Andrews
Curran POV Vol 2 by Gordon Andrews
Gunmetal Magic by Ilona Andrews
Magic Gifts by Ilona Andrews
The Crown Tower by Michael J. Sullivan
Grave Peril by Jim Butcher

Book Reviews Posted:
Red by Kate SeRine
The Iron Maiden by Resa Nelson

Podcast Reviews Posted:
Sorry, nothing last week.  But I have 2 to come.  And I'm thinking of starting a new story.

Movie Review Posted:
No movie review, sorry, been running out of time.

Books and Covers Shared:
I didn't have anything last week.

Special Posts:
Freebie and Deals, on Nook too (38)
Book Chat...on Fey series, which you see me chatting with the authors.

I did not do a Flash Fiction Friday.  I'm going to have to schedule my time better to do this.  I really enjoyed these.  I'll try.

My WANT List...It looks like I've added 7.  Well, that's a step in the right direction...or maybe wrong, *sigh* I want so many, and have to get to the series I've already been reading too! Oh, books.

Received Last Week:
Won:
I won this book over at Books & Things from Melissa's giveaway.  Eep!

Crimson Frost by Jennifer Estep
Goodreads Synopsis:
For a moment, a face flashed before my eyes—the most hideous face I’d ever seen. No matter how hard I tried to forget what had happened, I saw him everywhere I went. It was Loki—the evil god that I’d helped set free against my will.

I should have known that my first official date with Logan Quinn was destined to end in disaster. If we’d gotten into a swordfight, or been ambushed by Reapers, I’d have been more prepared. But getting arrested mid-sip at the local coffee hangout? I didn’t see that one coming.

I’ve been accused of purposely helping the Reapers free Loki from his prison—and the person leading the charge against me is Linus Quinn, Logan’s dad. The worst part is that pretty much everyone at Mythos Academy thinks I’m guilty. If I’m going to get out of this mess alive, I’ll have to do it myself…

For Review:

Mr. Real by Carolyn Crane
Goodreads Synopsis:
He finds the girl of his dreams…with the secret agent of his nightmares.

Alix Gordon is a woman who doesn’t take life too seriously. What’s the fun in that? So when she stumbles across occult software that can bring any computer image to life, she conjures up lots of awesome outfits and accessories. And then, on one drunken, horny night, she conjures up Sir Kendall, the sexy TV ad spy . . . who looks exactly like Paul Reinhardt, the super-sexy martial arts teacher who kicked her out of class three years ago.

Fighter Paul Reinhardt has good reason to hate Sir Kendall, the character he brought to life to land a part in a TV ad; he’d do anything to forget him. A cross country road trip seems just the thing . . . until Paul finds himself inexplicably drawn to Minnesota and is shocked to discover Sir Kendall - in the flesh - with the girl he’d once loved from afar. He barges into Alix and Sir Kendall’s love nest, determined to stop the madness - somehow.

But is superspy Sir Kendall transforming into something more dangerous anyone can imagine? And what will Sir Kendall do when Paul and Alix finally give into their mad lust for each other?

Well, how was your week last week?  And hoping this one looks like a great one for you.

Here's wishing you all the best in words and pages.

Book Chat...on a Fey series

I was included in a Live Google chat with the authors S.A. Archer and S. Ravynheart in chatting about their fey series's I've been reading.  Yes plural series's.  They have three book lines that cross over in the same world.

If you are curious about the chat you can watch the video of the three of us at Fey Cast.

I tried to get a few pieces of juicy details for you, but Ravynheart put his foot down. ;D Lol.

The first book in each story line:  (note: each of these 1st books are FREE on Amazon Kindle)

These stories are all done in novella length series.


If you would like you could read the Prequel to Champion of the Sidhe series:  In Whom You Trust (goes with End of the World starting book series).  I did enjoy this one and it starts at Fey Cast and hops to a few blogs for each section.

Freebies and Deals, on Nook too (38)

We have Barnes & Nobles Freebie Friday thread.

Again, do remember, I don't know how long these deals and freebies will last.  So get'em while there hot!

Freebies:
Oh I read and REALLY enjoyed this one.  So as a special treat to you I'm thrilled to share that it's free for only a week.  Only a short time left to get it!

Red by Kate SeRine
Amazon - Kindle   /   Barnes & Noble - Nook
Goodreads Synopsis:
“My name is Tess Little. But everyone calls me Red.”

Once upon a time, a spell went awry, stranding Make Believe characters in the ordinary world. Since then, Tess “Red” Little—a/k/a Little Red Riding Hood—has worked as an Enforcer for the Chicago branch of the Fairytale Management Authority. But, consider yourself warned—she’s not just some waif with a basket of goodies. All grown up and with nothing to lose, a gun and combat boots is more her style. And Red’s new assignment threatens to be short on happily ever afters…

Someone is murdering transplanted Tales in gruesome fashion. The list of fictional characters capable of such grisly acts is short and includes more than one of Red’s old flames. And if that wasn’t bad enough, there’s another complication, in the form of sexy, enigmatic Nate Grimm, the FMA’s lead detective and part-time Reaper. Used to following her own rules and living life on the edge, Red has managed to avoid taking on a partner until now. But Nate’s dark side makes him perfect for a case like this. That is, if she can trust him. Because if there’s one thing Red knows for sure, it’s that believing in the wrong person can have big, bad consequences…

Storm Dancer by Rayne Hall
Amazon - Kindle

Goodreads Synopsis:
See alternate cover edition here

Demon-possessed siege commander, Dahoud, atones for his atrocities by hiding his identity and protecting women from war's violence - but can he shield the woman he loves from the evil inside him?

Principled weather magician, Merida, brings rain to a parched desert land. When her magical dance rouses more than storms, she needs to overcome her scruples to escape from danger. 

Thrust together, Dahoud and Merida must fight for freedom and survival. But with hatred and betrayal burning in their hearts, how can they rebuild their fragile trust?

'Storm Dancer' is a dark-heroic fantasy. Circa 150,000 words. British spellings. Caution: this book contains some violence and disturbing situations. Not recommended for under-16s.

Deals:
I saw this by chance on Amazon.  I shouldn't get any more books, but these ebook prices...*sigh*

For $1.99:

Kiss of Steel by Bec McMaster
Amazon - Kindle   /   Barnes & Noble - Nook

Goodreads Synopsis:
When Nowhere Is Safe

Most people avoid the dreaded Whitechapel district. For Honoria Todd, it's the last safe haven. But at what price?

Blade is known as the master of the rookeries—no one dares cross him. It's been said he faced down the Echelon's army single-handedly, that ever since being infected by the blood-craving he's been quicker, stronger, and almost immortal.

When Honoria shows up at his door, his tenuous control comes close to snapping. She's so...innocent. He doesn't see her backbone of steel—or that she could be the very salvation he's been seeking.

For $2.99:

Firelight by Kristen Callihan
Amazon - Kindle   /   Barnes & Nobles - Nook

Goodreads Synopsis:
Once the flames are ignited . . . 

Miranda Ellis is a woman tormented. Plagued since birth by a strange and powerful gift, she has spent her entire life struggling to control her exceptional abilities. Yet one innocent but irreversible mistake has left her family's fortune decimated and forced her to wed London's most nefarious nobleman.

They will burn for eternity . . .

Lord Benjamin Archer is no ordinary man. Doomed to hide his disfigured face behind masks, Archer knows it's selfish to take Miranda as his bride. Yet he can't help being drawn to the flame-haired beauty whose touch sparks a passion he hasn't felt in a lifetime. When Archer is accused of a series of gruesome murders, he gives in to the beastly nature he has fought so hard to hide from the world. But the curse that haunts him cannot be denied. Now, to save his soul, Miranda will enter a world of dark magic and darker intrigue. For only she can see the man hiding behind the mask.

Anything else?