Friday, December 31, 2010

"Zan-Gah and the Beautiful Country" Review

"Zan-Gah and the Beautiful Country"
by Allan Richard Shickman

Publisher: Earthshaker Books
Release Date: Sep 265, 2009

Source: sent by publisher

My Rating: 4.5 out of 5 stars

Summary from goodreads.com:


The prehistoric saga continues in Zan-Gah and the Beautiful Country, the sequel to the award winning Zan-Gah: A Prehistoric Adventure. In this story, Zan s troubled twin brother, Dael, having suffered greatly during his earlier captivity, receives a ruinous new shock when his wife suddenly dies. Disturbed and traumatized, all of his manic energies explode into acts of hostility and bloodshed. His obsession is the destruction of the wasp men, his first captors, who dwell in the Beautiful Country. When he, Zan-Gah, and a band of adventurers trek to their bountiful home, they find that all of the wasp people have died in war or of disease. The Beautiful Country is empty for the taking, and Zan s people, the Ba-Coro, decide to migrate and resettle there. But the Noi, Dael s cruelest enemies and former tormentors, make the same migration from their desert home, and the possibility develops of contention and war over this rich and lovely new land.

My review: 

In the sequel to "Zan-Gah", Zan and his  tribe move to a more fertile land called The Beautiful Country. While we don't see quite as much of Zan in this book, we do get to meet fascinating new characters in his world.
Dael, Zan's twin brother, descends into darkness again after his wife's death, which causes even more problems for Zan and his tribe.

We meet Zan's wife, Pax, who is a match for him in all ways. She's a fantastic hunter, very rare for women in their tribe. Zan's twin, Dael, looks down on Pax's skills as a hunter but Zan admires her and sees her as an equal. I love Pax's character, she's such a strong girl, but vulnerable in her love for Zan.


I also love the character Rydl, the boy from the opposing tribe that Zan took under his win in the first book. Rydl marches to the beat of his own drummer and because he's small, he uses his wits to win battles instead of brawn. Rydl's relationship with Sparrow is very well-drawn and heartbreakingly honest. 



Main Characters: 5/5
Supporting Characters: 5/5

Setting: 4/5

Romance: 4/5

Uniqueness: 5/5
Cover: 3/5
Writing: 4/5



Bottom Line: I enjoyed this book just as much as the first in the series, because I got to see how interesting the other people in Zan's life are. I hope to see another installment of Zan's story, he's a great hero with a great story to tell.


 

Readers Choice Award! (Results)

Well, Happy New Year!
(what? It's not time yet? Shoot!)
Okay, so according to like everyone on the planet, it won't be 2011 for a few more hours yet, but as we say goodbye to 2010, let's celebrate and acknowledge all the wonderful books that made their way into out shelves (and our hearts) this past year! Some of you may have checked out the post I did on my favorite reads from 2010, but try as I might, I couldn't read all the books all the time.
I picked some of the highest rates, most raved about reads this year, put them in a poll, and had you (The Readers) vote on the one you thought was the best. I was so thrilled to see all the results come in and should really take the time to point out that while there can only be one winning book, all the nominees were voted on and spoken of highly.
But what's life with out a top dog? Without further adieu, time to give you guys the results!

The race was tight, but with 32% of the overall votes, The Readers Choice Award for Best Book in 2010 (historical) goes to:
'Nine Rules To Break When Romancing A Rake'
by Sarah MacLean
-My Thoughts: Sadly, this was one of the books I didn't get a chance to read in 2010. It's been order, and is (slowly) on its way to my house, but won't get here until the new year. From all the reviews and ratings, this was one of the most beloved books to come out in 10' and I can't wait to read and agree!

On the online ballot, there was a section for Additional Comments. Here's what one voter had to say about "Nine Rules..":
"This was a hard poll. There were three books on this list that I adored. I felt like I was betraying one author by picking another. LOL! I finally choice Nine Rules to Break because it had the most humor in it and thats a must for me in romance. It kept me up laughing half the night!"
-Congrats on the win Miss MacLean!

Coming in 2nd place, with 31% of the votes is:
'Awakened By A Kiss'
by Lila DiPasqua
-My Thoughts: Excellent choice! There's a reason that it received the second highest amount of votes! This was a great read! In my review I said: "What it boils down to is this: Miss DiPasqua is probably one of the most promising debut authors to hit the scene so far in 2010. Her short stories were well-written, well-paced and flavored with an insane amount of heat and spice." And DiPasqua sure proved me right when her second set of Fiery Tales hit the shelves and stole my heart! This is an author to look-out for!

This is what a voter had to say in the additional comments section about "Awakened...":

"So happy to see more in the Fiery Tales Collection...just love to read DiPasqua's take on these fairy tales...keep it up!!"
-Way to go, Lila. Like the voters said, PLEASE keep em coming!!

And coming in third with 10% of the votes is:
'Love In The Afternoon'
by Lisa Kleypas
My Thoughts: Well Done! This was another favorite from 2010 for me! It's Kleypas, what more needs saying? This book was funny, delightful, and deep. Just hows I likes them! ;)


What the voters had to say?:
-All the best, Lisa! We'll miss you in 2011, but hopefully you'll brighten the next new year with more reads!
--
As I said above, every book in the poll got some votes and had some wonderful comments. One in particular, 'The Truth About Lord Stoneville' by Sabrina Jeffries, received lots of praise in the comments.

One voter who voted for 'The Truth..' said:
"i love love love hallstead hellions!!! i've also read jarret's story A Hellion in her bed and eagerly anticipating minerva and gile's story How to woo a reluctant lady (out in Jan 2011) what a great way to start the new year!!!"
It was a smashing book, indeed!

Now, it's time for some Honorable Mentions! On the ballot, there was a write-in section where voters had the opportunity to bring to my attention books that they believed should have made the nominee cut. Here are some books that received multiple write-in votes:

 --
Thanks again everyone for Voting and helping to pick some amazing books to spotlight. 2010 was a spectacular year, and it was wonderful to share it with all of you. I can't wait to see what 2011 has in store for us!

Happy New Year!!!

Until Next Post Year<3....

"I am never disappointment  in Lisa`s books.
I can buy one without even reading what it is about, I know it will be good."

Top Pick Book Awards for 2010 by Reviewer "Ronda"

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Catagories: Historical, Futuristic, Fantasy, and Paranormal Romance / Erotica / M-M

HISTORICAL ROMANCE:

Marion Zimmer Bradley's Ravens of Avalon
By Diana L. Paxson, Marion Zimmer Bradley
http://www.mzbworks.com/

Marion Zimmer Bradley's beloved Avalon saga continues in "a fine tribute to Bradley and the real-world triumphs and tragedy of Boudica."(Publishers Weekly)

Epic in its sweep and peopled by the remarkable women who have always inhabited Avalon, Marion Zimmer Bradley's Ravens of Avalon expands the legendary saga that has enchanted millions of readers over the years and is sure to please Bradley's loyal readership and anyone who loves wonderfully told stories of history, myth, and fantasy.


FUTURISTIC ROMANCE:

True Believers
By Maria Zannini
http://www.mariazannini.com/

Something is killing off immortals, one by one.

Taelen Jessit is an alien emissary on a mission sanctioned by the U.S. government to search for ancient gods. His hunt leads him to a dig headed by archaeologist Rachel Cruz. When his military entourage forces Rachel's team out of the cave they were exploring, a flash flood hits the riverbed and threatens to tear them through the ravine.

In the aftermath of the flood, Taelen witnesses the incredible healing of Rachel's broken ankle and believes his gods have blessed her. He is inexplicably drawn to her, and she to him.

What Taelen doesn't know is that Rachel is Nephilim—a descendant of the gods his people worship—masquerading as a human to find the god-killer and destroy it. Rachel needs help to bring down the tech that is manipulating the Earth's magnetosphere and frying her people alive. She's given Taelen her heart, but can she trust him with her secret?


FANTASY:

JARKA RUUS (HIGH DRUID OF SHANNARA #1)
Terry Brooks
http://www.terrybrooks.net/

Jarka Ruus, the first installment in an exciting new Shannara series, takes place 20 years after the events of the Voyage of the Jerle Shannara trilogy. Grianne Ohmsford, the former dreaded Ilse Witch, has devoted her new life to bringing peace to the Four Lands, but after so much time leading the Third Druid Council, she still has bitter enemies anxious to see her destroyed.

There are Druid members of the Council -- like Shadea a'Ru -- who openly despise Grianne and plot against her. When she mysteriously disappears, Shadea immediately points blame at Grianne's Rock Troll guards and "temporarily" takes over as Council leader while Grianne is missing.



TANEQUIL (HIGH DRUID OF SHANNARA #2)


STRAKEN (HIGH DRUID OF SHANNARA #3)










PARANORMAL ROMANCE EROTICA:

Siren's Call (Dark Tides #1)
By Devyn Quinn
http://www.devynquinn.com/

A new paranormal romance series that follows desire into the depths of the ocean

Lighthouse keeper Tessa Lonike savors her solitude on Little Mer, an island off the coast of Maine, guarding her true identity as a mermaid. But when Tessa spots a man thrashing around in the ice cold waters during a storm, she must use her ability as a mermaid to pull him to shore. And a year later, when Kenneth meets her again, he's determined not to let Tessa slip away. But when Tessa'a archaeologist ex-lover comes back to town with a clue to her heritage, she may be forced to leave her happiness behind...



PARANORMAL ROMANCE M-M EROTICA SERIES:

Bound by Blood (Soul Mates #1)
Jourdan Lane
http://www.jourdanlane.com/

Houston nightclub Rave is famous for nearly-naked male dancers and beautiful bartenders, like Peter, a young man with a strict rule about one-night stands. He breaks that rule for Lucien, the owner of The Den, a rival gay nightclub where there are no boundaries, no taboos. Anything goes at The Den, including vampires.

When Peter finds out about Lucien's vampire nature, he figures he should have stuck to his rule, because Lucien pulls him into a dark world of vampires, werewolves and feuding in-laws. No one approves of the human vampire match, and Peter and Lucien have to struggle to stay together. Can they beat the forces that will try to tear them apart forever?






Deceptions (Soul Mates #2) , Sacrifice (Soul Mates #3), Secrets (Soul Mates #4)

Favorite Paranormal Romance Series I read this year:

Dark Hunter series by Sherrilyn Kenyon
http://www.dark-hunter.com/series.php?id=7#s_species

We, alone, stand between mankind and those who would see mankind destroyed. We are the Guardians.

The Soulless Keepers.

Our souls were cast out so that we would not forewarn the Daimons we pursue. By the time they see us coming, it's too late.

The Daimons and Apollites know us. They fear us. We are death to all those who prey upon the humans.

Neither Human, nor Apollite, we exist beyond the realm of the Living, beyond the realm of the Dead.

We are the Dark-Hunters.

And we are eternal.

Yeah, yeah. Enough of the doom and gloom because, baby, that ain't us. You want to know what a Dark-Hunter is? We are what the intro says. We're Mad, Bad and Immortal. We're ancient warriors with attitudes who fight rough, and play hard.

We are the scary things that go bump in the night. And we love every minute of it. So when you think you're being watched. You just might be. The question is...is it something evil or is it one of us?

Immortals After Dark Series by Kresley Cole

http://kresleycole.com/books/immortals-after-dark-series.html

Every creature or being that was thought to be mythical . . . isn’t.
They all secretly exist alongside humans and enjoy the gift of immortality. There are hundreds of different kinds: from Vampires to Lykae, from Furies to Shifters, from the Fey to Valkyries.

These immortals call their world The Lore.

You may have had a brush with one of Lorekind already. The eccentric billionaire with hypnotic charisma—and an aversion to sunlight. The ethereal waif of impossible beauty—whose fingernails look more like claws. The Highlander with a seventeenth-century Scottish accent and animal magnetism—who can never be penciled in on the night of the full moon.

They walk among us, but they war among themselves. Each faction has its strengths, weaknesses, and age old prejudices against the others. Every five hundred years, the Accession, a battle for supremacy, rages. That time is now. . . .



Cook Book:

Desserts 4 Today
Abigail Johnson Dodge
http://www.abbydodge.com/

Whether you’ve had a hard day at work, have been on the go all day, or are planning an impromptu get together for friends, nothing will end your day better than something sweet and satisfying. Thanks to baking expert Abigail Johnson Dodge, you can whip up a delicious dessert with just 4 ingredients in about half-hour. The recipes in Desserts 4 Today rely on simplicity--no outrageous ingredients, no difficult-to-master techniques, and no hours of prep work. Each of the 125 flavorful desserts uses pantry ingredients, is ready from start to finish in about 30 minutes, and provides flavor variations sure to please any palette and any craving. Desserts 4 Today enables cooks of all skill levels to effortlessly create delicious desserts.

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TOP READS OF 2010 for me. . .Cynthia

This wasn’t as easy as I thought it was going to be. There were quite a few books that I really, really did lose myself in this year. So, I went to the Lists, sorted them various ways, and started culling, culling, culling. Okay, done. These are listed in no particular order. No, wait, alphabetical order by genre, just because I’m that way: anal. All of the 2010 Top Reads are works that were published this year only.

Without further ado, drum roll please….



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TOP READS OF 2010




Erotic Romance: Sinful by Charlotte Featherstone

HE MUST FIND REDEMPTION IN THE MOST UNLIKELY BEDCHAMBER...

In Victorian England vice of every kind can be purchased, and Matthew, the Earl of Wallingford, makes certain he avails himself of every possible pleasure. Bored and jaded, he is as well known for his coldness as for his licentious affairs with beautiful women.

While these numerous dalliances fulfill Matthew's every physical need, they secretly leave him numb and emotionally void. Until one night when he finds himself beaten, eyes bandaged and in the care of a nurse with the voice of an angel--and a gentle touch that sooths the darkness in him and makes him yearn for more.

Yet Jane Rankin is a lowly nurse, considered shy and plain by most. There is no place for her amongst the lords and ladies of aristocracy--despite Matthew's growing craving for the fire that burns behind her earnest facade. And then there is Matthew's secret. A secret so humiliating and scandalous it could destroy everyone he loves. A sin, he fears, not even the love of a good woman can take away...



Historical Romance: Wicked Intentions by Elizabeth Hoyt

A MAN CONTROLLED BY HIS DESIRES

Infamous for his wild, sensual needs, Lazarus Huntington, Lord Caire, is searching for a savage killer in St. Giles, London's most notorious slum. Widowed Temperance Dews knows the area like the back of her hand—she cares for its children at the foundling home her family established. Now that home is at risk…

A WOMAN HAUNTED BY HER PAST

Caire makes a simple offer—in return for Temperance's help navigating the perilous alleys of St. Giles, he will introduce her to high society so that she can find a benefactor for the home. But Temperance may not be the innocent she seems, and what begins as a cold bargain soon falls prey to a passion neither can control—and may well destroy them both.




Novella: Leave No Trace (from Deadly Promises) by Cindy Gerard

These heroes are 100% raw, dangerous, and . . . undeniably sexy.

New York Times bestselling authors Sherrilyn Kenyon and Cindy Gerard and rising romance star Laura Griffin mix seduction and suspense in three irresistible romantic adventures. From sultry international jungles to the rugged terrain of the American southwest, join the larger-than-life, scorching-hot alpha heroes of the Bureau of American Defense, Black Ops Inc., and the U.S. Navy SEALs for the pulse-pounding, heart-racing, toe-curling excitement. They’re cool under pressure, steamy under the sheets, and when the enemy strikes, there’s not a lethal mission these gorgeous men can’t handle.




Paranormal Romance: Entwined by Elisabeth Naughton

ZANDER — The most feared of all the Eternal Guardians. It’s rumored he can’t be killed, and he always fights like he has nothing to lose. But as a descendant of the famed hero Achilles, he’s got to have a vulnerability… somewhere.

Forces of daemons are gathering and have broken through the barriers of the Underworld. Now more than ever the Eternal Guardians are needed to protect both their own realm and the humans’. Zander can’t afford to think about what might have been with the bewitching physician he once regarded as his soul mate. But with eternity stretching before him, he also can’t fathom spending his life without the one woman who makes him feel most alive. Perhaps he’s found his weakness, after all…




Paranormal Romance Suspense/Thriller: Enemy Lover by Karin Harlow

It’s Jax Cassidy’s first mission for L.O.S.T.—one that will give the former cop who went rogue a chance to prove herself. Her assignment: gain the trust of assassin Marcus Cross . . . eliminate him . . . then take down Marcus’s mentor, Joseph Lazarus, a man with a bold eye on the White House. But the woman who’s known by her team for being a femme fatale succumbs to passion, only to discover Cross’s deadly secret. He’s a vampire, and Joseph Lazarus is his creator.

Left for dead by his platoon in the violent hills of Afghanistan, special ops sniper Marcus Cross was given a second chance at life. His newly heightened skills make him the perfect killing machine, and as Lazarus's right hand man, he’s quickly rising to the top of his dark empire, purging enemies with speed and precision. Only when dangerous beauty Jax Cassidy is sent to bring him in does he begin to question Lazarus’s motives and his own actions. But when Jax’s life is threatened by the one thing that can destroy them both, Marcus must make a bitter choice—her death or his.




Romantic Suspense: Promises in the Dark by Stephanie Tyler

On the run, in each other’s arms, with one last chance to survive.

A rugged Navy SEAL, Zane Scott was part of a failed mission to rescue Dr. Olivia Strohm from abduction by the terrorist group Dead Man’s Hand (DMH)—and her anguished screams have haunted him ever since. So when he gets word that the beautiful physician has escaped from her captors in Africa, he’s got personal reasons to storm the continent and save her.

Like her would-be liberator, Olivia carries the burden of a dark secret from her past. Ruthless and relentless, the DMH has threatened to hunt her down – and to systematically hurt anyone she’s close to. The last thing she wants is to be rescued—even by someone as shockingly handsome as Zane. Yet the hot-headed special ops hero has come for her, and together she and Zane just might have a shot at not only stopping DMH’s reign of terror, but also saving what’s left of their souls.




Series Romance: 1-900-Lover & Silk Confessions by Rhonda Nelson and Joanne Rock

1-900-Lover by Rhonda Nelson
When high school teacher Rowan Crosswhite finds herself out of a job, she comes up with an ingenious way to make ends meet—she installs her own phone-sex line. But when Will Foster dials her number, Rowan is the one who gets all worked up. Will can't believe that a woman as sexy as Rowan has to resort to giving phone sex to strangers…especially when he wants her to give it to him instead! And once she does, it doesn't take long to convince her that burning up the sheets is better than burning up the phone lines. Still, Rowan is determined to give up the job only when she's ready. So what else can Will do but make sure Rowan is too "busy" to answer her phone…?

Silk Confessions by Joanne Rock
As a hotshot detective, Wes Shaw thinks he's seen it all—until he meets the luscious Tempest Boucher. She's a blend of artistic sensuality and no-nonsense practicality that he can't resist. Too bad he suspects one of her companies of being a front for an illegal sex ring…and possibly murder. Tempest has always lived by the rules. So to find herself the subject of an intense investigation by one sexy cop has sparked all kinds of rebellious impulses in her. Soon his interrogations lead to intimate confessions across the sheets…and even hotter explorations!


You may be wondering why I didn’t choose such-and-such book for this-or-that category ---When everyone knows IT was the BEST one ever! Because I am a selective, moody reader. (Don’t forget anal.) I may absolutely love the series or the author, but I have to be in the mood to select the book off of my shelf. There are times I will devour an author’s work. Then again, I may not pick-up another one from that same author for months on end.

Hence, The Honorable Mention category. And because Mistress Laurie asked for one book per genre, I was severely limited. But there are sooo many good works that may go unnoticed otherwise; my TBR shelves are ever expanding; my local library has a great stash. Don’t even get started on my Nook content! Again, these are in alphabetical order, but they may not have been published during 2010.



The Honorable Mentions

Caine’s Reckoning by Sarah McCarty
Jaded by Karin Tabke
Silent Truth by Sherrilyn Kenyon and Dianna Love
The Dark Highlander by Karen Marie Moning
The Madness of Lord Ian Mackenzie by Jennifer Ashley




One of my New Year’s Resolutions for 2010 was to devote more time to reading. According to my Goodreads stats, I read 129 books -- ‘Scuse me!?! That is above and beyond what I thought I would ever read in one year. I’m happy with that for the coming year also. My Reading Resolution for 2011 will be to discover new authors and read at least three of their writings. Looking at my TBR, I have a start on it. One and one and one…..

Lastly, I want to thank Laurie *take a bow* for giving me another opportunity to do what I love: Read.

And thanks to all of you for just being here and hanging out with us….it’s cool.

Cheers!




Review of PROMISES IN THE DARK

PROMISES IN THE DARK
(Shadow Force #2)
Stephanie Tyler
Mass Market Paperback, 400 pages
Published November 23, 2010 by Dell
ISBN 9780440245971
Romantic Suspense
Plucked from My Library Shelf
Stephanie Tyler Website




On the run, in each other’s arms, with one last chance to survive.
A rugged Navy SEAL, Zane Scott was part of a failed mission to rescue Dr. Olivia Strohm from abduction by the terrorist group Dead Man’s Hand (DMH)—and her anguished screams have haunted him ever since. So when he gets word that the beautiful physician has escaped from her captors in Africa, he’s got personal reasons to storm the continent and save her.

Like her would-be liberator, Olivia carries the burden of a dark secret from her past. Ruthless and relentless, the DMH has threatened to hunt her down – and to systematically hurt anyone she’s close to. The last thing she wants is to be rescued—even by someone as shockingly handsome as Zane. Yet the hot-headed special ops hero has come for her, and together she and Zane just might have a shot at not only stopping DMH’s reign of terror, but also saving what’s left of their souls.



My Ratings~~
Review



Sexual



If you’re looking for hot, hard, alpha males who live and thrive on the edge, look no further than PROMISES IN THE DARK by Stephanie Tyler. Ms. Tyler serves up not one, not two, but THREE military men that are sure to please.

!! RAWR !!

The three story lines are expertly weaved together to form a superb novel of suspense, action, and raw heat.

Zane and Olivia: Zane Scott and Dr. Olivia Strohm are carried over from LIE WITH ME, Book 1 of the Shadow Force Series. Olivia escapes from the terrorist group DMH (Dead Man’s Hand) with a bang, only to live on the run, hiding, in Africa. Zane has been obsessed with her since he heard her screams through his headset and wasn’t able to do anything about it. Now, Zane is in Africa and is willing to do anything, everything, to bring Olivia back safely to the States. And, of course, these two have deep dark secrets lurking in their pasts that are always getting in the way.

Besides, he already knew, judging from his next words, which were a rough growl against her cheek. “I know you think I’m some fucking pathetic puppy dog, following you around, believing whatever you say, taking you wherever you want to go, but there’s a hell of a lot you don’t know. And you’re severely overestimating my damned patience.”

Tristan and Rowan: These two emerge in the middle of the jungle in a missionary clinic: But that is not the whole story. The clinic serves multiple purposes. Not only is it a playground for Tristan and Rowan, but a pivotal springboard for Zane and Olivia’s relationship.

Caleb and Vivi: Meanwhile, back in the States, Army Delta member Caleb “Cael” Scott (yes, one of Zane’s older brothers) has his hands full of Vivienne Clare. DMH has somehow gotten its deadly hands on her computer program and is planning on using it for their dastardly deeds. It is up to Cael to prove Vivi’s innocence no matter how harsh the interrogation.

Cael glanced toward the bedroom and wondered how much Vivi would spill to him now that she was tired and secluded. Wondered how much of a prick he’d have to be to see if she’d been telling him the truth all along.





And in the end
PROMISES IN THE DARK
Earns for the month of December




Thursday, December 30, 2010

My (Laurie) Top pick book awards for 2010

I had such a great time running the blog this year! I hope to have much more to offer everyone in this next coming year.

This last year I read 222 books and  wrote 203 reviews, now I have no ideal how I am going to top that next year *sighs* There was 48 author interviews or guest authors and I meet some awesome authors. I hosted one  event, 7 days of summer erotica heat. This next year I have planned for 2 events and maybe more if all goes well.

Here is a list of my new favorite authors I discovered this year.
Stephaine Julian
Tina Folsom
Suzanne Rock
Kate Salidas
Patti O'Shea
Anitra Lynn McLeod
S.K Yule
Leah Braemel
I hope to find more in this next year.

I have read so may good books this year, that it made it really hard for be to decide on what to pick as my top pick books for this year. There were a couple that were hands down the best reads right off the bat. I really did try hard to only pick one book for each category, but sad to say there are a few I couldn't decide, so I am calling them a tie..

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Paranormal Romance


Nina Bangs
A magnificent creature, Utah wants vengeance against the bloodsuckers who murdered his brother. Once the beast within him is unleashed, he won’t rest until every vampire is destroyed. But he never expected to encounter a leader of his immortal enemies who was so beautiful, bewitching . . . and mortal.
 
It is Lia’s destiny and her duty to stop the renegade vampires who are intent on annihilating the human and non-human races alike. But she never dreamed that Utah, once a deadly foe, would now become her ally and protector, or that loving him would be more dangerous than anything she’s ever faced before. For when Utah frees his predator soul, there will be no end to the carnage.





Meagan Hatfield
 Vampire princess Alexia Feodorovna has been undead for 125 years, so it's been a while since any man has made her pulse race. Until Declan Black. One look at his bronzed body and a fire like no other consumes her. Then she discovers that he's a dragon lord come to take revenge on the vamps who killed his parents. And claim a crystal said to imbue its owner with incredible powers.

 
Alexia is ordered to torture and kill the dragon lord. Yet with each reckless encounter, she finds herself consumed by his fiery passion. A passion Declan battles, as well. Will he be able to resist the fire of lust she kindles within him and keep revenge in his heart? Or will he risk everything to quench the burning desire and claim the vampire as his own?



Erotica paranormal romance

Tina Folsom
Selfish and gorgeous Greek God Triton is cast out of Olympus after seducing Zeus’ mistress and can only gain reentry if he finds a woman who loves him for his kindness and selflessness, not his beauty. When the mortal Sophia – recovering from an eye operation and virtually blind – needs a home healthcare worker, he takes on the role, hoping she will be his ticket home.

While defending Sophia from an unknown adversary, Triton’s protective instinct emerges. At the same time rival Gods do everything to doom him to failure. And even if Triton can win Sophia’s love, will he throw it away to return home, or will he lose his own heart to the only woman who truly sees him?

A Touch of Greek is the first book in the humorous and sexy paranormal romance series Out of Olympus following the romantic adventures of four Gods: Triton, Dionysus, Eros, and Hermes.



Historical romance




Jennifer Ashley
 The year is 1881. Meet the Mackenzie family--rich, powerful, dangerous, eccentric. A lady couldn't be seen with them without ruin. Rumors surround them--of tragic violence, of their mistresses, of their dark appetites, of scandals that set England and Scotland abuzz.

The youngest brother, Ian, known as the Mad Mackenzie, spent most of his young life in an asylum, and everyone agrees he is decidedly odd. He's also hard and handsome and has a penchant for Ming pottery and beautiful women.

Beth Ackerley, widow, has recently come into a fortune. She has decided that she wants no more drama in her life. She was raised in drama--an alcoholic father who drove them into the workhouse, a frail mother she had to nurse until her death, a fussy old lady she became constant companion to. No, she wants to take her money and find peace, to travel, to learn art, to sit back and fondly remember her brief but happy marriage to her late husband.

And then Ian Mackenzie decides he wants her.

Urban Fantasy

Stacey Kennedy
Love is born between strangers, yet built upon a bond soul deep―one Alpha’s vow to protect his mate from looming danger, all the while, mending her soul and stirring her wolfish desires.

A vicious Werewolf attack in Plymouth, Minnesota leaves a young woman violated, bitten and now, transformed into a Werewolf. But Rynn Murphy doesn’t have to face this transformation alone—she has her mate by her side. And the charming Briggs is eager to ease her into this new life and mend her battered soul.

With only weeks to adjust to her new fur, Rynn begins to understand what it truly means to be mated to the Beta, secondhand man to Valor, Patriarch of Wolves. Their leadership over the Alphas brings them in contact with the Montana Alpha, Hendrix. He is in a desperate state to find his abducted daughter. Valor and Briggs agree to give aid in her rescue leaving Rynn to tag along.

But this mission is not without danger. And soon, they discover the ones who have taken this young wolf do not want her found and will stop at nothing to keep her hidden. Or so it may seem, as bodies begin to drop around them, the murderous attempts start to appear more as a hit than a smoke screen—leaving only one question, who is the intended target.



Suspense/Thriller



Cynthia Eden

FBI Special Agent Monica Davenport has made a career out of profiling serial killers. But getting inside the twisted minds of the cruel and the sadistic has taken its toll: She's walled herself off from the world. Yet Monica can't ignore fellow agent Luke Dante, the only man who ever broke through her defenses.

ONE DREAM TEAM
Luke has the unique ability to put victims at ease...professionally, he and Monica made a perfect team. Now they're reunited to catch a murderer who uses his victims' deepest, darkest fears for sport - but their investigative skills aren't enough. Luke and Monica will have to face the secrets from their past, the ones that terrify them the most, if they are to have a future together.

BUT CAN THEY CATCH A KILLER WHOSE WEAPON IS...
 DEADLY FEAR.





Emily couldn’t wait to visit her Aunt and Uncle in their quaint and mysterious little cottage near Stonehenge. But it doesn’t take her long to realize that her fairytale kingdom has a sinister twist. One night in her attic bedroom she is confronted by an evil entity that would taunt her for the rest of her stay and long after that. Who is this hideous creature and what does she want? When Emily meets the gorgeous Jonathan McArthur she is infatuated, consumed with lust and an odd familiarity, as if they had met before. Will he be coaxed by the peculiar old gypsy to enter the dreaded woodlot? Can the bloody ancient curse be removed before it’s too late? And will Emily ever get to feel his lips on hers? A chilling tale of love, passion, sorcery and sacrifice; laced with mystery and tied with humor. Inspired by the author’s own experiences in a remote little cottage near Stonehenge.


Futuristic

Anitra Lynn McLeod
Nothing has ever come easy for Jace Lawless, captain of the salvage vessel Mutiny. Forced into thievery after a virus unleashed by the InnerWorld Government killed his family, only one ambition burns at the back of his mind. Kill the next IWOG officer he has at his mercy.

Bargaining over goods with a middleman isn’t exactly his strong suit. But who in his right mind spends an entire salvage job’s profits on a woman, even if she has a body built for sin and eyes so fathomless a man could lose himself in them? He must be getting soft.

Once Kraft realizes Jace expects only the “cook” part of their cook-whore contract, she sets out to change his antiquated ideas about women. A challenge she relishes, especially if it earns her the freedom and money to get her own ship. Her big mistake is letting down her guard.

Shameless flirting only intensifies the itch to ride Jace hard and put him away wet—several times. It’s an itch it would be dangerous to scratch. Exposing her heart could reveal her secret, one that the still-grieving Jace must never know…or showing her mercy will be the last thing on his mind.

Warning: Contains a celibate ship captain who can’t abide swearing, a kick-ass woman with a marshmallow heart, a motley crew of misfits, interstellar battles, thwarted groping, sensual seduction, and a total bastard who owns his own planet.

Novella eBooks

Eve Langlais

 Evangaline is not a very nice witch, but ask her if she cares. She does however have a healthy sexual appetite, and when an uncouth shifter starts appearing in her fantasies, it's not long before she makes her erotic mind play a reality. But everyone knows a wicked witch can't fall in love, or can she?

Ryker, a hot and muscled shifter, knows his size and domineering presence intimidates women, all except for one curvy witchhe just can't get out of his mind. Set to a task only the two of them can accomplish, he discoverswickedness has its uses, especially in the bedroom.

Dealing with vamps, a wedding from hell and a cackling gnome named Rumpelstiltskin, will these two wicked beings survive and, even more disturbing, decide to stay together?




Mari Carr
Sometimes once is not enough...
After twenty-five years of marriage, Faith Wainwright wonders what she'll do next. Her kids have moved out and sometimes she feels so distant from her husband, Troy.
Right before their anniversary, Troy gives Faith an unexpected gift: a journey through their hometown to reenact all their "firsts." Their first date. Their first kiss. And especially the first time they made love—only better.
Each stop on their tour becomes an opportunity for Faith and Troy to rediscover how explosive their passion can be. Now Faith knows exactly what she's going to do—Troy, over and over again...







M/F/M erotic romance

Madison Layle & Anna Leigh Keaton

She couldn't believe her eyes.
Stressed out ad-exec Dakota wandered into Catamount Outfitters in search of a guide for a wilderness excursion. She didn't expect to be greeted by not one, but five of the most ruggedly delicious-looking men she'd ever seen. Not to mention a live cougar guarding the shop.
The Falke brothers have more than just good looks in their genes.
Eldest brother Axel agrees to guide Dakota on her mountain trek. In cougar form, Axel's twin, Gunnar, was there as a protection from predators—but he had his eye on the sexy client instead.
Into the wild...
While the rule with clients was "paws-off," both Axel and Gunnar couldn't resist Dakota's seductive Native American beauty and determination. As cold days led to hot nights in the cabin, Axel and Gunnar wondered if they'd finally found a woman strong enough to tame them...

Cookbook

The Clinton St. Baking Company is one of the hottest brunch spots in a city obsessed with brunch. A tiny thirty-two-seat eatery on Manhattan's trendy Lower East Side, the restaurant draws long lines of customers who come from far and wide to sample fresh-baked goods, hearty omelets, sugar-cured bacon, and light-as-air pancakes with maple butter.
In the Clinton St. Baking Company Cookbook, owners DeDe Lahman and Neil Kleinberg share more than 100 treasured recipes that have made their restaurant a sensation. Learn the secret to their house-made buttermilk biscuits and tomato jam, irresistible muffins and scones, delicious soups and sandwiches, and their decadent, eye-catching desserts. Helpful techniques, like Neil's patented omelet "flip and tuck," and gorgeous color photographs throughout will have readers cooking like pros in no time, and sharing the delicious results


I hope next year to expand my categories and make this post better.
 My other slaves *clears throat* I mean ladies (LOL) will be posting their picks in a few days, so be looking for their post.