Vampire Mine by Kerrelyn Sparks

Goodreads Description:

Nothing on earth can make this vampire fall in love . . .

After 499 years of existence, Connor Buchanan has arrived at an inescapable conclusion: he is a cold-hearted SOB. He's been watching his friends—those poor romantic fools—plummet off the cliff into love like a dazed herd of sheep. But not Connor. He knows that love leads to nothing but heartache.

Until Marielle . . .

She is an angel cast down from heaven for disobedience. Trapped in mortal form, she finds a protector in Connor, a Scottish vampire haunted by a dark past. Marielle hopes to heal his broken heart and earn her way back home, but suddenly she has these . . . feelings. This strange yet pleasant physical yearning—for a vampire! Is this the work of a demon luring her into hell, or has this angel found heavenly bliss?

My Rating: 5 out of 5

My Review:
This book seemed to be written a little differently then the other books.  I highly enjoyed it.  The incorporation of angels and demons was very nice.  I loved how Kerrelyn finally let us see into Connors past and see him happy.  I was getting so sad for him.  I thought the end of the book wrapped things up very nicely.  I honestly can't think of what the next book will entail but I'm looking forward to it very much!  I don't want to give specifics so as to spoil any ones experience if they read this book.  But it is worth it especially if you've read the other books in the series!

Love Me Forever by Rosemary Laurey

Goodread Description:

The second book in my vampire series, Love Me Forever is set in German Village in Columbus Ohio and is the story of physician/vampire Justin Corvus and a blue-collar single mother named Stella. Neither Justin nor Stella expected the attraction between them, nor could they anticipate the act of violence that puts Justin afoul of the vampire code he helped establish.


My Rating: 5 out of 5


My Review:


I really enjoyed the first in the series, but I LOVED this story.  I enjoyed the mix with Stella being a mom.  Sam is adorable and I think his reaction at the end when he learns of his moms secret to be realistic and cute.  Kids always seem to shock me with how accepting they are of those who are different and seeing the positive in things!  I love the romance between Stella and Justin.  It is a romance so obviously they get together at the end but enjoyed how Stella has her own backbone just like Dixie and sticks up for herself and doesn't let the 'gentleman' push her around!  It's a good read all in all!

Sunny Interview, Writer of the Mona Lisa Series

RSVP for the chat and possibly win one of the prizes listed below!

FROM THE BITTEN BY BOOKS SITE:

Join us on 3/28 with author Sunny for a Release Party, chat and contest. This event starts at 12:00 pm Central and runs into the evening. For those visiting from outside of the US, here is the time conversion link. We are in the Chicago time zone: http://www.timeanddate.com/worldclock/

Sunny will also be talking about her new book Mona Lisa Eclipsing the newest novel in the Monere series. She will also be chatting about Mona Lisa Three which was previously published in the New York Times bestselling anthology, Over the Moon. This awesome novella is coming out as an eSpecial single read an excerpt herehttp://www.sunnyauthor.com/mona-lisa-three-especial/#excerpt in several days on March 25th.

“Roberto, a jaguar-shifter of mixed Monère heritage, arrives in Cozumel to kill a rival. But he finds a more valuable prize in Mona Lisa, a Monère who’s lost her memory and can be manipulated into believing anything-no matter how dark or dangerous.”

CONTEST INFO: The contest portion of the event runs until 11:59 pm Central on 4/1/11. Open to readers in the US and Worldwide as noted.

Prize 1: A $100.00 Electronic Amazon Gift Card (WORLDWIDE)

Prize 2: ONE lucky reader will win ALL of the following titles (US/Canada only)

ACCIDENTALLY CATTY Dakota Cassidy
MONA LISA ECLIPSING Sunny
BLOOD WYNE Yasmine Galenorn
NIGHTSHADE Michelle Rowen
SIREN’S SURRENDER Devyn Quinn
MASTER OF SMOKE Angela Knight
BLOOD CHALLENGE Eileen Wilks
NEVER AGAIN Michele Bardsley
A WEREWOLF IN MANHATTAN Vicki Lewis Thompson
ON THE HUNT Gena Showalter, Shannon Butcher, Jessica Andersen, Deirdre Knight

Eragon by Christopher Paolini

Goodreads Description:

When Eragon finds a polished blue stone in the forest, he thinks it is the lucky discovery of a poor farm boy; perhaps it will buy his family meat for the winter. But when the stone brings a dragon hatchling, Eragon realizes he has stumbled upon a legacy nearly as old as the Empire itself. Overnight his simple life is shattered, and he is thrust into a perilous new world of destiny, magic, and power. With only an ancient sword and the advice of an old storyteller for guidance, Eragon and the fledgling dragon must navigate the dangerous terrain and dark enemies of an Empire ruled by a king whose evil knows no bounds. Can Eragon take up the mantle of the legendary Dragon Riders? The fate of the Empire may rest in his hands….


My Rating: 5 out of 5

My Review:

I really enjoyed this book! It amazes me that a teenager wrote this intense story. I definitely see Tolkien influences but the author kept with his own style and story as well. I loved seeing Eragon grow and develop as a man and a future hero! I can't wait to read the others in the series to see how the future of Alagaesia unfolds and if Arya and Eragon advance into a romance!

Kiss Me Forever by Rosemary Laurey

Goodreads Description:

If there is one thing Dixie LePage does not need in her life, it's complications. And the man sitting across the table from her in a crowded English pub is a major complication. For starters, there's the broad shoulders. The slightly amused smirk. That smoldering look that makes it impossible to concentrate. No doubt about it, the guy is hot and sexy.

Of course, there is one wee little problem: He claims to be a vampire named Christopher Marlowe, as in THE Christopher Marlowe, famous playwright, contemporary of Will Shakespeare. Amend that to hot, sexy, and totally insane. So why can't Dixie seem to resist the warmth of Christopher's charm, the protective feel of his strong hands, or the tempting pull of his full mouth when the sun goes down. . .?

My Rating: 3 out of 5

My Review:

Very interesting world and take on vampires.  I highly enjoyed using a famous writer from history an turning him into a vampire.  I enjoyed the development of the romance and the dedication to each other once it was found.  I am happy how everything turned out too.  It was pretty predictable but the specifics were still interesting to read.  I loved how Dixie got Sebastian to talk :)  I will definitely pick up the next in the series.  I find myself anxious to read how the other vampires introduced in this book evolve and find their loves, if they find them at all!

And Now for Something Completely Different.....

OK so I'm in a reading slump...not really in the mood to pick up any of the many books in my TBR pile. And trust me there are plenty of them! SO I thought I'd blog about one of my favorite book sites. If you are like me and love to read but money is an issue with buying all those books, Swap.com is a great option. I know there are libraries or friends to borrow books from, but I like to own my books so I can re-read them if I have the urge. And if I get a book from a friend or library, I may not be able to find it again. Sometimes I just remember the plot but not the author or title, and owning them makes it easier to find the book I'm craving. Below is a link to the site. If you haven't been on there, check it out. They also have a new feature called Swap4Schools, where you can donate books to schools who need books. We all know how tough the economy has been and it's important to keep current books in the school system for kids to enjoy. And a great way to help is to donate books that schools want!

Swap.com - trade books, CDs, movies, and video games

Another great site I enjoy for keeping track of my books and it has an option to buy books from other readers (used) is Goodreads. Below is a link so if you've never been to the site, please check it out! It's most definitely worth it!

http://www.goodreads.com/

Hunting Human by Amanda E. Alvarez

Good Read's Description:

For two years, Beth Williams has run from the past, and the beast that dwells inside her. She is haunted by memories of
being kidnapped and the savage attack that killed her best friend. Now Beth finally thinks she's ready to move on...with
Braden Edwards, a charming, irresistibly sexy man who tempts Beth to embrace the present.

But the past lurks closer than Beth realizes. Markko Bolvek, one of the werewolves who kidnapped her, has tracked her
to Portland, Oregon, his pursuit fueled by a hunger for vengeance. Only Braden, a werewolf himself, senses the danger
shadowing her steps. The Edwards and Bolveks have been enemies for centuries—and despite the instant connection
he feels with Beth, Braden isn't sure which side of the war she's on.

With suspicion at odds with their attraction, Beth and Braden must learn to trust one another to stop Markko for good.
Can Beth accept the wolf within—and love a man who embodies everything she fears?

My Rating: 5 out of 5

My Review:

I was drawn to this book by the blurb which described a book about Beth and her traumatizing past and her new relationship with Braden that goes off course when her past comes to haunt her present. I highly enjoyed the dialogue between Beth and Braden and his family. The action and suspense was wonderfully paced and I absolutely loved the ending. I enjoyed the way Beth flashes back to her traumatizing past and how it fits with the telling of the story as a whole. Those flash backs are very powerfully written and I felt like I knew exactly what Rachel and Beth's felt. I hope to read more about the Edwards Clan in future books!

Of Dukes and Deceptions by Wendy Soliman

Good Reads Description:

When Nicholas Buchanan, the Duke of Dorchester, accepts an invitation to visit a country stud farm, he counters his boredom by striking a wager with his henchman that he'll bed the poor relation, Alicia Woodley, before the end of his stay. But he reckons without Alicia's disdain. She's disgusted by Nick's cavalier attitude, unimpressed by his grandeur and wants as little as possible to do with him.

Between her newfound role as family charity case and fending off the attentions of both her clueless cousin and the arrogant Nicholas, Alicia Woodley has quite enough to contend with...but when her life is endangered, quite possibly from those closest to her, surprisingly it is Nicholas who seems determined to ensure her safety. As they conspire to uncover secrets that the family wants hidden at all costs, they discover a passion that surpasses all obstacles.

My Rating: 5 out of 5!

My Review:
Wow thats my first though after reading this book.  I absolutely loved it and will definitely be forwarding many of my friends towards it.  I highly enjoyed the high spirited heroine Alicia and the determined hero Nicholas.  I loved their interactions together and found myself cheering Alicia on quite a few times through out the story.  Nicholas' transformation was slow but believable and highly enjoyable to watch.  I also loved the dukes Valet/Groom Gibson.  He was very humorous and entertaining as well.  This story puts me in mind of a Cinderella story with a twist.  The romance scenes were erotic and funny at the same time, which is hard to pull off.  So I have to say kudos to the Author for pulling off such an enchanting story that is full of romance, humor and mystery!

The Wedding Duel (The Dueling Pistols Series) by Katy Madison

Good Reads Description:

It was meant to be a duel like any other—defend a lady's reputation, teach a scamp a lesson in honor, and win the day. But from the first moment Keene Davies raises the cursed pistol things go awry. The shot goes astray, he wounds his best friend, and his displeased father threatens to disinherit him—unless he marries a scandalous little hoyden named Sophie.

Unbeknownst to Keene, Sophie Farthing has grown into a lovely young woman, albeit one still inclined to fall into scrapes. Her high spirits and tendency to ride hell bent for leather lead her into more than one disaster, but she's bound to make the most of this unexpected marriage to Keene. She's determined to teach her husband that honor begins with the heart, not the handle of a pistol, and that passion should go hand in glove with love...

My Rating: 4 out of 5

My Review:

I really enjoyed the suspense this book created. There was a lot of misunderstandings, misinterpretations, and assumptions that keep the two main characters from realizing the truth about each other. I also highly enjoyed the other characters who were involved and the twists and turns in the plot through out the book. At points I did find the conflict frustrating and yelled at the characters to just ask the one question that would fix it all the issues but I like that in a book.

Laird of Darkness by Nicole North

Good Reads Description:

Half-Fae Laird Duncan MacDougall is cursed. His nights are haunted by Otherworld creatures sent to kill him. The only way to stop them is to possess the magic bow currently in the hands of his enemy half brother, Kinnon MacClaren. In desperation, Duncan plans to take MacClaren's bride-to-be hostage and exchange her for the bow.

Lady Alana Forbes has never met her intended, but she hopes he is handsome—and a good lover, for Alana is no innocent virgin. On her way to Castle Claren, Alana and her escorts are intercepted, and she is kidnapped by a man with extraordinary abilities—and every attribute she longs for in a mate.

Duncan didn't expect the woman he thought of as a mere pawn to be so beautiful, and so arousing. Alana is drawn to him as well—but Duncan still needs the bow, and Alana is betrothed to another. How far will Alana go to save the life of the man she's come to love?

My Rating: 4.5 out of 5

My Review:

I really enjoyed this book. If I had only 1 complaint it is that it was over way to soon for me! I wanted to see if the brothers ever got to meet and how they'd react to each other. I wanted more information about the world in general because it seems so fascinating but I understand why the Author didn't elaborate on it more. It would have taken away from the story. I hope Nicole North turns this into a series because I really want to read more about Kinnon and Alana! I highly recommend to anyone who loves Romance or Fantasy Fiction! Great read!

With Seduction in Mind by Laura Lee Guhrke

Good Reads Description:

London Society is harsh for a young woman with no family connections who has to work for a living. But when Daisy Merrick is sacked from yet another job, the fiesty and outspoken miss comes up with a plan that could give her a future beyond her wildest dreams. There's only one problem. Her success depends on a man, the most infuriating, impossible, immovable man she's ever met.

sebastian Grant, Earl of Avermore, is England's most infamous author. Known for his notorious reputation, he is more interested in play than work, and has no intention of cooperating when Daisy shows up on his doorstep with a mad plan. The provoking, fire-haired beauty stirs his sense beyond belief, and Sebastian knows he has only one way to stop her. Seduction.

My Rating: 4 out of 5

My Review:

First let me say I really enjoyed this book from start to finish. The main characters, Daisy and Sebastian, acted real in my opinion. There wasn't a time when I thought that wouldn't happen. And unlike the previous two girl bachelor books, this ending seemed romantically realistic an not as rushed. It flowed very well for me too and I didn't get bored or find it lacking as a whole either. All in all, I loved this book, especially the main characters!

Secret Desires of a Gentleman by Laura Lee Guhrke

Good Reads Description:

Once Upon a Time . . .

Maria Martingale was going to elope. But Phillip Hawthorne, Marquess of Kayne, put a stop to those plans when he learned his younger brother intended to marry a cook's daughter. Now, twelve years later, Maria discovers that the man who holds her fate in his hands is none other than the haughty gentleman who sent her packing—and he's as handsome and arrogant as ever.

Happily Ever After?

Always the proper gentleman, Phillip will do anything to protect his family from scandal, and when Maria dares to move in right next door, he knows scandal will surely follow. She is as tempting as he remembered . . . and the more he sees her, the harder it is for Phillip to keep his own secret desire for her a secret . . .

My Rating: 3.5 out of 5

My Review:

The story was good and I loved the relationship between Maria and Phillip. Maria's strong will and determination to be her own employer and have her own bakery. Phillip is likable even though he is very selfish through out the story but he redeems himself in the last page. The only reason I don't rate this higher is because I felt the ending was too abrupt and fast. It left me wanting to read a chapter more so I'd know how things turn out. I'd still recommend this to any one who's enjoyed the other Girl Bachelor books or anyone who enjoys romance.

The Wicked Ways of a Duke by Laura Lee Guhrke

Good Reads Description:

She thought she was the luckiest woman in London . . .

Surviving on a seamstress' income and a steady stream of fantasies, Prudence Bosworth has always longed for love and romance. Then she inherits a fortune from the father she's never seen, with the stipulation that she wed in one year. Prudence is determined to marry for true love, and after seeing firsthand the splendid chivalry of a certain duke, only one man will do . . .

Rhys de Winter, the Duke of St. Cyres, hides his cynicism behind a quick wit and an even quicker smile. He must marry an heiress, and as luck would have it, the pretty little seamstress-turned-heiress is exactly what he needs. But he never expected to fall for Prudence, and when his shocking deception is revealed, he will stop at nothing to win her back . . . even if it means renouncing every last one of his wicked ways.

My Rating: 3 Stars out of 5

My Review:

I liked seeing the characters from the first Girl Bachelors book and I enjoyed the two main characters personalities. I thought Prudence's reaction to Rhys deception was realistic however I thought the ending rushed a bit and a bit unrealistic happy and 'perfect'. I enjoyed the story as a whole but not as much as the first Girl Bachelors book so I gave it a 3 out of 5 because of the little things that I though hindered full enjoyment of the story as a whole.

Badlands by Seleste DeLaney

Badlands by Seleste DeLaney

Goodreads Description:

After a brutal Civil War, America is a land divided. As commander of her nation's border guards, Ever is a warrior sworn to protect her country and her queen. When an airship attacks and kills the monarch, Ever must infiltrate enemy territory to bring home the heir to the throne, and the dirigible Dark Hawk is her fastest way to the Union.

Captain Spencer Pierce just wants to pay off the debt he owes on the Dark Hawk and make a life for himself trading across the border. When the queen's assassination puts the shipping routes at risk, he finds himself Ever's reluctant ally.

As they fly into danger, Ever and Spencer must battle not only the enemy but also their growing attraction. She refuses to place her heart before duty, and he has always put the needs of his ship and crew above his own desires. Once the princess is rescued, perhaps they can find love in the Badlands— if death doesn't find them first...

My Rating: 5 Stars

My Review:

This book has such an original story. I loved the character development and the twists and turns that kept me on my toes throughout the story. I absolutely LOVED the ending and didn’t see some aspects coming! I really enjoyed the world Seleste created and I hope to read more about it later!

Kiss of Darkness by Loribelle Hunt

Good Reads Review:

Winter, a hybrid, has spent her life at war. A group of humans who are part demon, the hybrids, along with the lupines and nightwalkers, have dedicated their lives to defeating demons and protecting humanity. Yet, despite their united cause, the three groups share an uneasy alliance.

When hybrid military compounds come under attack from demon insurgents, Winter has no choice but to turn to the lupines and nightwalkers for assistance. It's a partnership based on necessity and she has no intention of letting down her guard with either group.

Marcus, the nightwalker Lord, has other plans. The immediate attraction between him and Winter promises a passion he can't ignore. To claim her as his own, he'll not only have to fight the demons who seem hell-bent on destroying her, but her own misconceptions about him and the nightwalker race. It's a battle he refuses to lose.

My Rating: 5 Star

My Review:

Great concept and a great world. Loribelle Hunt, the writer, spun an amazing romance, and mystery. I highly enjoyed the dynamic between Winter and Marcus as well as between Winter and her team. I can't wait to read the next book in the series to see what happens between Gia and Luke.

I'd recommend this story to anyone who enjoys Fantasy Mystery Fiction or Fantasy Romance Fiction.

The Vampire Voss By Colleen Gleason

The Vampire Voss By Colleen Gleason

978-0778329527 ISBN

Publish Date : March 22, 2011

Amazon Description:

Voss, also known as Viscount Dewhurst, relishes the sensual pleasures immortality affords. A member of the Dracule—a cabal of powerful, secretive noblemen marked with a talisman that reveals their bartered souls—the mercenary Voss has remained carefully neutral…until Angelica.

Angelica Woodmore possesses the Sight, an ability invaluable to both sides of a looming war among the Dracule. Her very scent envelops Voss in a scarlet fog of hunger—for her body and her blood. But he is utterly unprepared for the new desire that overcomes him—to protect her.

Now Voss must battle his very nature to be with Angelica…but this vampire never backs down from a fight.

My Review:

4 Stars

I really enjoyed the writers take on the origin of the Dracule otherwise known as Vampires. I had no expectations for this book, since I have never read any of the Authors work prior to this story. I loved the story and interactions between Angelica and Voss. Since this is the first book in a series, there is a lot of description and explaining about the world. However it didn’t seem exhaustive or overly done. I can’t wait to read Dimitri’s story and read about Angelica’s sisters and brother some more!

The Goddess Test by Aimee Carter

5 Stars!

Book Description:

Expected Publication: April 19th 2011 by Harlequin Teen

ISBN 0373210264

Ever girl who has taken the test has died.

Now it's Kate's turn.

It's always been just Kate and her mom--and now her mother is dying. Her last wish? To move back to her childhood home. So Kate's going to start at a new school with no friends, no other family and the fear her mother won't live past the fall.

Then she meets Henry. Dark. Tortured. And mesmerizing. He claims to be Hades, god of the Underworld--and if she accepts his bargain, he'll keep her mother alive while Kate tries to pass seven tests.

Kate is sure he's crazy--until she sees him bring a girl back from the dead. Now saving her mother seems crazily possible. If she succeeds, she'll become Henry's future bride, and a goddess.

If she fails... (Provided by Goodreads)

My Review:

A vivid and powerfully worded story that had me laughing and crying, feeling happy and frustrated along side Kate. Very cleverly written, I just love the creative twist on the Greek Mythology. Aimee Carter produced one of the best YA books I’ve read yet and I cannot wait to read what happens next to the Gods and Goddess’! A great mystery and romance read as well as a great read for young adults, definitely something for everyone in this book!