Winner!

The winner of the 3 anthology set is:

Heather!

This looks like such a great set of books!

Congraties!!

The Spider (Elemental Assassin #10) by Jennifer Estep

Series: Elemental Assassin #10
400p.
Publisher: Pocket Books
Available TODAY!
Source: from Edelweiss and publisher for review

How did I end up in a career where I always have blood on my hands? Well, let me tell you a story about an assassin who thought she could do no wrong...

Ten years ago. A blistering hot August night. I remember like it was yesterday. The night I, Gin Blanco, truly became the Spider. Killing people is what I do best, especially now that I've honed my Ice and Stone magic. But back then, I had yet to learn one very important rule: arrogance will get you, every single time.

This particular job seemed simple: murder a crooked building contractor with ties to ruthless Fire elemental Mab Monroe. My mentor, Fletcher Lane, had some misgivings, but I was certain that I had the situation under control... right up until I exposed my weaknesses to a merciless opponent who exploited every single one of them. There's a reason assassins aren't supposed to feel anything. Luckily, a knife to the heart can fix that problem, especially when I'm the one wielding it...

My thoughts:
If you have followed this blog for long, you know I love this series. In fact, I've read it in order (don't faint)! So happy to get to read #10. This is one that you could probably read a bit out of order, but not too early in the series. Only because it would spoil a few revelations in Gin's life. Hm... na, read them in order, you'll enjoy it more. :)

In this story we get a bit of Gin's background, when she was still learning and becoming "The Spider". You knew that there would be hard lessons to learn or she wouldn't have been as skilled as she is and as smart. In this one we get a naive young adult Gin still learning how to be patient, how to read people. You see her falling for the wrong guy and you are yelling at her to take heed to what her loved ones were saying to her. Even in her happiness, you do not feel it because you just know it will end in tragedy... or someone's blood. This isn't a huge spoiler since you know it from about the moment Fletcher starts getting the vibe that something is off. He had it from the beginning.

What was also enjoyable is seeing how many people important to her life now passed through when she was so young. Also, I must warn you.... as with all other Gin books, do not read this one on an empty stomach. All these books revolve around good food and this one is no different. You will want her to come cook for you even if you are putting yourself on the line by doing it. Just check out those food descriptions! :D

I give this book a 4 1/2. I really enjoyed my time with the young spider and wouldn't mind more stories like this! This series is recommended to those that enjoy UF and a bloody good time.

Bloggy note:

Want to try out something a bit different from Jennifer Estep? Notice that a lot of the great fashions come from Fiona Fine (who is that?) Well, you can find out who that is and get a great fun collection of books. Her Bigtime series of superheros is now on sale for $.99! The e-bundle includes all Bigtime books/stories to date, which is 4 full-length books -- Karma Girl, Hot Momma, Jinx,  Nightingale, and A Karma Girl Christmas. The price should be good until the end of Jan.

Go to your fave ebook seller to get the bundle:

Amazon
Barnes & Noble
Kobo
All Romance eBooks
Smashwords

Book Blitz and $50 Giveaway!

The Double Life of Incorporate Things
by Leanna Renee Hieber

Series: Magic Most Foul #3
Genre: Young Adult, Paranormal (gaslamp fantasy)
ISBN: 9781494324551

"Just when we think our nightmares are over, the Society has invented a new horror. Around every corner a shadow, behind every whisper a demon. If we don't end what the devils began, we will die haunted..."

The Magic Most Foul saga takes a deadly turn as The Master’s Society unveils its next ungodly avenue of paranormal experimentation. First, souls were split from bodies. Then the dead were reanimated. Now, a mind-altering chemical has been unleashed in Manhattan. Demonic trauma and terror escalates for the dashing Lord Denbury and brave, feisty Miss Natalie Stewart. Together with their stalwart friends and unlikely heroes, they take the fight directly to the Denbury estate, where a collective evil has awakened. But are Natalie and Jonathon prepared for all the sacrifices that shall be asked of them? With their very lives and the sanctity of their mortal souls at stake, these lovers are past the point of no return...

Excerpt

I set the paper down slowly enough to see the thin edges shake as the full, personal impact of the newspaper article hit me.

"Natalie, what is it?" Jonathon asked, staring at me with those eviscerating blue eyes of his. I opened my mouth but no sound came out. Damn my unpredictable, inconstant voice.

For the past many months now, I'd been pummeled by one strange event after another, pulled into the center of a paranormal whirlpool. At least in this case, we had an inkling, some sense of the next onslaught. Still, a foreshadow was hardly a comfort. We couldn't have guessed the scope.

Now it wasn't just myself or Jonathon Whitby, Lord Denbury in danger, with the occasional collateral victim. Now it was a crowd. I knew the Association. I adored them. They weren't hooligans or criminals, they were gentle souls, artistic and individual. Overdramatic, yes, but a threat? Hardly. This maligning was the work of The Master's Society, turning lambs into lions in ungodly experiments, leaving them for fodder in sensational, indelicate journalism. It could only get worse. Exponentially worse.

"It's begun," I finally managed to reply quietly, sliding the paper across the lacquered console table behind the sofa toward Jonathon's reach. "Another phase. They've gone after the Association. And the papers will vilify those poor dears, every last one of them. Jonathon, the demons won't give up..."

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Buy Links:

Amazon -  http://amzn.to/19mdmN0

Barnes and Noble - http://bit.ly/1cG5C9o

First two books in the series:

Darker Still

Twisted Tragedy of Miss Natalie Stewart

About the author:

Leanna is a proud member of member of the Science Fiction and Fantasy Writers of America and the International Thriller Writers. She is a proud co-founder of Lady Jane's Salon Reading Series in New York City. A member of Actors Equity Association and SAG-AFTRA, Leanna works often in television and film on shows like Boardwalk Empire. Active in Harry Potter fandom, answers to the name Lady Malfoy. When not on deadline or on set, she loves a good Goth club, wandering graveyards and visiting Family in Salem. She resides in NYC with her husband and their beloved rescued lab rabbit.

Social Networking Links:

Website - http://www.leannareneehieber.com
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/LRHieber
Twitter - https://twitter.com/Leannarenee
Goodreads - https://www.goodreads.com/author/show/1651952.Leanna_Renee_Hieber

Fill out rafflecopter form below for the $50 Amazon giftcertificate. The giveaway is sponsored by the author and publicist and is being given away by them. The giveaway ends on Jan. 6th.

Puppy Birthday Giveaway Winners!!

The winners for the giveaway are:

Alina P.
(confirmed)

Carol M.

(confirmed)

Do check back at the post HERE and see what everyone has done for animals. Big or small all things count and Felicia and I would love to thank you all for doing your part!!

Don't forget that there is a giveaway still going on for 3 anthologies. Go HERE to go to that giveaway post. 

Anthology Giveaway!

Tor has contacted me for a very good giveaway! 3 of this years anthologies! Yes! You can win all 3!!

The books:

21st Century Science Fiction
Anthology
576p.
Publisher: Tor Books

Twenty-First Century Science Fiction is an enormous anthology of short stories—close to 250,000 words—edited by two of the most prestigious and award-winning editors in the SF field and featuring recent stories from some of science fiction’s greatest up-and-coming authors. 

David Hartwell and Patrick Nielsen Hayden have long been recognized as two of the most skilled and trusted arbiters of the field, but Twenty-First Century Science Fiction presents fans’ first opportunities to see what their considerable talents come up with together, and also to get a unique perspective on what’s coming next in the science fiction field. 

The anthology includes authors ranging from bestselling and established favorites to incandescent new talents including Paolo Bacigalupi, Cory Doctorow, Catherynne M. Valente, John Scalzi, Jo Walton, Charles Stross, Elizabeth Bear, and Peter Watts, and the stories selected include winners and nominees of all of the science fiction field’s major awards.

One of Publishers Weekly's Best Science Fiction Books of 2013

Year's Best SF 18
Anthology
416p.
Publisher: Tor Books

Once again, the finest short-form SF offerings of the year have been collected in a single volume.

With Year’s Best SF 18, acclaimed, award-winning editor and anthologist David G. Hartwell demonstrates the amazing depth and power of contemporary speculative fiction, showcasing astonishing short stories from some of science fiction's most respected names as well as exciting new writers to watch. In this anthology, prepare to travel light years from the ordinary into a tomorrow at once breathtaking, frightening, and possible with some of the greatest tales of wonder published in 2012.

Dangerous Women
edited by George R. R. Martin and Gardner Dozois
Anthology
736p.
Publisher: Tor Books

The Dangerous Women anthology contains following stories:- Introduction by Gardner Dozois- “Some Desperado” by Joe Abercrombie - A Red Country story- “My Heart is Either Broken” by Megan Abbott- “Nora’s Song” by Cecelia Holland- “The Hands That Are Not There” by Melinda Snodgrass- “Bombshells” by Jim Butcher - A Harry Dresden story- “Raisa Stepanova” by Carrie Vaughn- “Wrestling Jesus” by Joe R. Lansdale- “Neighbors” by Megan Lindholm- “I Know How to Pick ’Em” by Lawrence Block- “Shadows For Silence in the Forests of Hell” by Brandon Sanderson- “A Queen in Exile” by Sharon Kay Penman- “The Girl in the Mirror” by Lev Grossman - A Magicians story- “Second Arabesque, Very Slowly” by Nancy Kress- “City Lazarus” by Diana Rowland- “Virgins” by Diana Gabaldon - An Outlander story- “Hell Hath No Fury” by Sherilynn Kenyon- “Pronouncing Doom” by S.M. Stirling - An Emberverse story- “Name the Beast” by Sam Sykes- “Caretakers” by Pat Cadigan- “Lies My Mother Told Me” by Caroline Spector - A Wild Cards story

- “The Princess and the Queen” by George R.R. Martin - A Song of Ice and Fire story

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

I can see everyone's eyes go wide at several of these authors especially George R. R. Martin, Diana Gabaldon, Jim Butcher, Carrie Vaughn, John Scalzi, and Cory Doctorow.

Interested? Well, then fill out the rafflecopter form below. US/Can only. The giveaway will be open until the 28th.

Puppy Birthday Giveaway! International!

Felicia of the Geeky Blogger has decided to join me again in this event celebrating my puppy's birth. Her pup also has a b-day this month and both wanted us to do something for the animals out there that aren't as spoiled! So, in the last few years I have decided to give away some books (or gift certificates) to those that help out animals. That way the good is spread to more people than both Felicia and I could do ourselves. Some of the places you might donate to online are listed below. Please feel free to add your own. The list will exist on the page above listed as "Animal Links". Oh and don't forget to visit Felicia's new FB page for animals. It's called... Friends Saving Animals (hint: you get an extra entry for liking the page... it's on the rafflecopter form).

To make this easy here are the rules:

• You must do something for animals. It can be giving money, volunteering, or supporting them in some major way this year (you can read last year's comments to see what people had done).
• It has to be something you wouldn't normally do for an animal. Cleaning out your own catbox, feeding your own dog aren't acceptable. These things are expected when owing a pet and are not what we are looking for. 
• You must tell me what you did or where you donated (do not tell me the amount if it is money) in the comments. That way people can also find out what to do or where to donate. You can also add your organization to the links above if you like.
• You could also donate to organizations listed above or any local organization. It doesn't have to be about money. It could be time. You could have helped prevent BSL by writing to your congressman (see my left side for those links). Walking a neighbor's dog who cannot do so themselves. Donating needed items to a local shelter. Finding a dog and bringing it back to it's home. Blogging about your favorite charity or cause. There is a lot out there you can do. 
• Fill out the Rafflecopter form which also has prompts to remind you to do this.

*And as it was every year... it's on the honor system. Please do not lie. Sarah McLachlan will find you and make you cry if you lie. She can do it. I've seen those commercials. Yes, same threat, but I think it was a good one.

The giveaway will be open until the 20th.

Oh and if you will help promote this, the animal gods will smile down on you... just sayin'... ;)

Here is the button (you'll also get an extra entry for doing so!):

<a href="http://melissawatercolor.blogspot.com/2013/12/puppy-birthday-giveaway-international.html"> <img src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhF6sX09O8MStOvFaN0hq1-DUeDp64eMPH4h9tj-5RORBdYH771JxLYdPF8hKQVhyphenhyphenf1YNDz-1OkYlrKFcXi5x7Qh7LTmQe4hyphenhyphenj_m_SDycM5uQBaD8xggjmUnelBZJzyZjqIPgtObWnOAQM/s320/Untitled-3.png" width ="200"></a>

Prize!
2 winners! International!
$15 in a gift certificate to Amazon or B&N... or the same amt. in books at the Book Depository!

Fill out the rafflecopter form below:

Something About Harry by Dakota Cassidy

Series: Accidentally Friends #8, Accidental Werewolf #2
320p.
Publisher: Berkley Trade
Available Now
Source: Goodreads First Reads Program for review

He’s in a furry situation. 

Accountant Harry Ralph Emerson has always been a by-the-numbers kind of guy. But when he finds himself trapped at work sprouting an obscene amount of hair, he knows his odds for maintaining normalcy are zero to none. After a frantic internet search, Harry goes through the OOPS—Out in the Open Paranormal Support—checklist and comes to a disheartening conclusion: He’s turning into a werewolf and he needs help ASAP. 

She might be the only solution. 

Werewolf Mara Flaherty has long carried a torch for Pack Cosmetics’s sexy single accountant, even after her attempt to seduce him went down in flames. When her sister-in-law, Marty, shows up to handle Harry’s OOPS emergency, she tasks Mara with showing the hirsute hottie the ropes. But Mara knows Harry’s condition is a result of her lab experiment gone wrong—and the previously mild-mannered object of her affection is about to give her a piece of his mind…

My thoughts:
This book read much like the first book I just reviewed, The Accidental Werewolf. It has much of the same kind of formula to it and it is no less enjoyable. Even though this sounds quite predictable and much of it was, I still found myself loving the characters in the book. It actually made me WANT to read the rest of this series and really dive into these characters... especially Nina! Love that snarky gal. :)

Now despite what I just said about the predictability... the ending threw me a curve! I didn't expect that. I was totally going in the wrong direction but at least I was on the same page as the characters. Oh and no, I'm not telling you what "that" is...  :) Seriously, stop waiting for me to tell you what "that" was because you should know by now that I'm not going to tell. You'll just have to read it for yourself. Oh and can you read this book out of order? Well, yes. Granted I did read book 1 to start and I would suggest doing at least that because it is a great way to be introduced to the main characters. I don't think it is completely necessary though... and I do believe you will end up like me and wanting all the rest even sooner than planned. :)

I give this book 4 stars. If you are looking for a light PNR with a bit of fun and snark, do try this series. I can't wait to dive into the rest of them.

The Accidential Werewolf (Accidentally Friends #1) by Dakota Cassidy

Series: Accidentally Friends #1
326p.
Publisher: Berkley
Available Now
Source: tbr pile

When Marty Andrews gets bitten by a mangy mutt while walking her teacup poodle, her blond hair darkens, the hair on her legs starts growing at an alarming rate, and her mood swings put her dream job as a sales rep for Bobbie-Sue Cosmetics in serious jeopardy. 

Then a drool-worthy man shows up at her door claiming that he accidentally bit Marty. And since he's a werewolf, she is now, too. Thinking Keegan Flaherty is clearly insane, Marty refuses to believe a word until a kidnapping makes her realize there's more at stake than just her highlights. And she must put her out-of-control life in the hands of the man who makes her blood run wild in more ways than one...

My thoughts:
 Okay, I got the newest edition of this series for my review pile. I had #1 on my pile, so I still may not completely read in order, but at least I do have the introduction to many of the characters down with the first book! I've been wanting to read this series so I was happy to dive in!

I do love humor PNR and so I just knew I would enjoy this book. Plus, if anyone has the pleasure of reading Dakota Cassidy's social media posts, you knew she had a great sense of humor. I was not disappointed. :)

In the beginning I admit I did worry. Marty was someone who, at first glance, could really get on my nerves. She seemed shallow and a bit too pert and perfect. However, that lasted for about half a second before we really started to get to know Marty. While it did take a while to know her, it didn't take me long to know I would enjoy this character. Oh and speaking of characters... LOVED Nina, a secondary character and Marty's friend. You need snark? Nina has it in spades.

I give this book 4 stars. It has everything I enjoy: snark, humor, good secondary characters, swoony guy, and character growth. Oh and can't forget Muffin... the teacup poodle with an attitude. :) This was a good first book in introducing these characters. I will read them all! :)

Craft review: Simple Sewing: 30 Fast and Easy Projects for Beginners by Katie Lewis

Craft: Sewing
182p.
Publisher: Cedar Fort, Inc.
Available Now
Source: From publisher for review
blurb:

Unleash your creativity and become the successful do-it-yourself sewer you've always wanted to be! Using the tips, techniques, and 30 assorted sewing projects in this guide, you'll be able to create custom household items and gifts in no time. From baby bibs and tote bags to Christmas decorations and children's toys, every project in this book will build your sewing skills while adding a tasteful handmade touch to your home.

My thoughts:
This book is really a good beginner book if you haven't sewn before. I will add that it is a good book if you have. I really enjoyed the simple projects in this book. Yes, I could have probably figured them out on my own, but you have all the dimensions for the projects here and you don't have to figure them out! Oh and this would also be an excellent book to teach someone how to sew.

I took a couple of projects from this book and added my own bit to them. I think anyone with a bit of sewing knowledge could do the same. It makes it more fun. :)

Projects:
Sleepmask

Now this project was a simple eye mask. I had to adjust the length of the elastic and added 1" (it was 15" but 16" felt better). I just filled the mask with the lavender before the final sewing. Now to refresh the scent the person only has to gently crush it.

Handwarmers

Now with this project she just made the inside part with flannel. I didn't have flannel, but decided to make these so the outer portion could be washable. I was thinking that it being in the pocket, it could get quite dirty so I made a "pillow cover" so the inside part can be easily slipped in and out. You don't have to do this much, but it was fun coming up with a way to change it. You just warm these up in the microwave for a minute before you stick them in your pocket. (Go Broncos!)

I give this book 4 stars. It was a great jumping off place for someone like me who likes to fool around with simple projects. It's also great for those just starting to sew. I don't have any great skills (I have aunts who blow me away with their skill) but I do enjoy sewing for enjoyment and crafts. Plus, these are going to make good stocking stuffers. :)

Throwback Thursday: Alice in Zombieland

Meme hosted by Melissa My World in Words and Pages. It's about books that are already on the shelves and are waiting to be read. Go to her website to join in!

My submission this week:

Alice in Zombieland
by Gena Showalter

She won’t rest until she’s sent every walking corpse back to its grave. Forever. 

Had anyone told Alice Bell that her entire life would change course between one heartbeat and the next, she would have laughed. From blissful to tragic, innocent to ruined? Please. But that’s all it took. One heartbeat. A blink, a breath, a second, and everything she knew and loved was gone. 

Her father was right. The monsters are real… 

To avenge her family, Ali must learn to fight the undead. To survive, she must learn to trust the baddest of the bad boys, Cole Holland. But Cole has secrets of his own, and if Ali isn’t careful, those secrets might just prove to be more dangerous than the zombies…

I was gobsmacked when I got this in the mail. My little book angel sent this to me! I can't wait to dive in!!! :D 

Early Review: Taste of Darkness (Healer #3) by Maria V. Snyder

Series: Healer #3
400p.
Publisher: Harlequin MIRA
Published date: 12/31/13
Source: From publisher and NetGalley for review

She's fought death and won. But how can she fight her fears? 

Avry knows hardship and trouble. She fought the plague and survived. She took on King Tohon and defeated him. But now her heart-mate, Kerrick, is missing, and Avry fears he's gone forever. 

But there's a more immediate threat. The Skeleton King plots to claim the Fifteen Realms for his own. With armies in disarray and the dead not staying down, Avry's healing powers are needed now more than ever. Torn between love and loyalty, Avry must choose her path carefully. For the future of her world depends on her decision.

My thoughts:
I've reviewed the other two books, Touch of Power and Scent of Magic. Both were well done and I was excited for this book especially since the last book ended on a horrible cliffie. :P I also didn't know that this book was the last and so coming to the end of this book I was becoming horribly disappointed there would be another cliffie. I was wrong. *cheers*

The adventure is the same kind of harrowing always in trouble kind and even Tohon is making waves again. He wasn't as scary as he was in the last books, but if you read the last books you would know why. Still, he still was imposing enough to make you wonder if our heros can get out of their predicament. There are new villains (and a few old ones) but none like the Skeleton King. Oh yea, he was adequately horrifying.

The ending is a bit too easy in some ways, but in others I would say it couldn't have ended much differently. It just seemed that some things were just a little too easily and suddenly dispatched. I think the only way to handle that would be another book, but then you would wonder if it was just dragging out the inevitable. So, while I don't know what would have been perfect, the ending was written well enough that I was satisfied. I guess that is all you can ask. :)

I give this book 4 stars. I enjoyed my time with these characters especially the monkeys, Flea, Poppa Bear and, of course, Avry and Kerrick. I recommend this series to those that enjoy YA fantasy.

Tell Me Something Tuesday: Cookies!

Tell Me Something Tuesday, a meme started by CambriaHebert, but now hosted on Rainy Day Ramblings. It is a chance to get to know your fellow bloggers by sharing fun stuff, discussions and more. Grab the question and post your answer on your blog and link up at Rainy Day Ramblings! Have fun!

This weeks question:

Cookie Exchange: Share some of your favorite holiday cookie recipes.

I have to admit something... I don't cook. Okay, I hate to cook, but sort of the same thing. I am a slice and bake kind of cookie girl. Love it that way since you can make them hot and fresh at a moments notice. However, one of my fave cookies is peanut butter. Right now, for reasons untold, I cannot have my fave treat, but I did spy something on the web. It is from The Savy Saving Couple: Super Easy Three Ingredient Peanut Butter Cookies #Recipe #GlutenFree. I've also spotted this recipe on Instructables.

Ingredients:

• 1 egg 
• 1 cup of creamy or chunky peanut butter 
• 1 cup of sugar-I found 3/4 of a cup also works!

I think when I make it I will substitute natural sugar (you can get it in the health food section) or see if I can convert it with agave nectar or Manuka honey. I'm just not a fan of processed refined sugar.

Instructions:

• Preheat oven to 350* 
• mix ingredients 
• place on ungreased cookie sheet in balls
• smoosh (technical term) down with a fork
• bake for 8-10 min.

Okay, I also found this (even though it's not cookies, still looks yummy!!):

Then you must eat! Tell me what I'm missing. I know this is a strange way to sell a cookie.. one that I haven't eaten, but these look so easy and yummy!

Early Review: How to Run with a Naked Werewolf (Naked Werewolf #3) by Molly Harper

Series: Naked Werewolf #3
352p.
Published: 12/31/13
Publisher: Pocket Books
Source: Edelweiss and Publisher for review

Caleb Graham is a werewolf by nature, a tracker by profession. He uses his “extra gifts” to find people, and not always in the most legal or ethical manner. He doesn’t care what they’ve done, or who wants them found, as long as his considerable fee is paid. He likes his life simple and uncomplicated. 

Anna Moder, former physician to Caleb’s pack, happens across Caleb during a particularly violent “negotiation” that has left him bloodied and unconscious. She helps him, despite the fact that he’s cost her a car, so he insists that she stay with him on the road for a while. As they grow closer, Anna looks past the gruff exterior and and the questionable job to thoroughly decent werewolf underneath. 

Anna – who is careful to edit her involvement with Caleb’s pack from their conversations – doesn’t talk about why a nice girl wants to live in the middle of frozen nowhere, but she’s obviously on the run from something. When Anna’s past collides with Caleb’s current assignment from one of his sleazier contacts, Caleb finally has to make a choice—protect his job…or his potential mate?

My thoughts:
First, I have to say that I miss the cartoonish covers. This one is just way too serious for me. :) Plus, I don't see Anna/Tina wearing that in the cold. Okay, now that I've talked about the outside... here is the inside of the book:

This book is not as humorous as the previous two. However, this is still a Molly Harper book so don't be too disappointed, there is plenty of snark and humor still within the pages. Even with the snark, there were still somethings that sort of bothered me. Sort of until I chose to ignore them. Anna has a form of PTSD and so some of the things Caleb does would trigger her. Also, some of his attitude is totally not warranted if she was so scarred. However, once I decided that it is a PNR and magic could totally make these things "okay" to ignore (magic started the healing process), then it didn't bother me so much. I mean I read these books for entertainment. It did entertain.

I do like the way Anna/Tina grew. Even if it isn't totally on a believable path, I really did like the way Caleb handled things in the end. That really endeared me to him. I also loved the secondary characters... especially Maggie. She was funnier in this book than in her own.

In the end I give this book 4 stars. It is entertaining if nothing else. I needed something to make me laugh and this did the trick. I recommend this book for fans of Molly Harper! :) Don't forget to preorder your copy.

Throwback Thursday: The Hallowed Ones

Meme hosted by Melissa My World in Words and Pages. It's about books that are already on the shelves and are waiting to be read. Go to her website to join in!

My submission this week:

The Hallowed Ones
The Hallowed Ones #1
by Laura Bickle

Katie is on the verge of her Rumspringa, the time in Amish life when teenagers can get a taste of the real world. But the real world comes to her in this dystopian tale with a philosophical bent. Rumors of massive unrest on the “Outside” abound. Something murderous is out there. Amish elders make a rule: No one goes outside, and no outsiders come in. But when Katie finds a gravely injured young man, she can’t leave him to die. She smuggles him into her family’s barn—at what cost to her community? The suspense of this vividly told, truly horrific thriller will keep the pages turning.

Oh yea! I won this one and I can't wait to read it. It is because of all you great book bloggers that made me want this one!

Any books on your tbr you got because of great reviews? 

The Art of Seducing a Naked Werewolf (Naked Werewolf #2) by Molly Harper

Series: Naked Werewolf #2
336p.
Publisher: Pocket Books
Available Now
 Source: TBR pile

Generations of werewolves have been secretly residing in a secluded valley a stone’s throw from Grundy, Alaska. So when a snooping Outsider comes to Grundy to investigate rumors of lycanthropic shenanigans in the area, the valley’s pack alpha, Maggie Graham, resolves to chase him away, even if doing so takes a quick bite on the butt. 

What a pity that researcher Nick Thatcher turns out to be so drool-worthy, and that his kisses make Maggie want to sit up and beg. Maggie just can’t seem to convince Nick to leave . . . and even worse, she can’t convinceherself to stay away from him. Cross-species dating is problem enough for a harried alpha female, but on top of that, a rival group of werewolves is trying to move into the valley. With interpack war threatening, Maggie can’t afford to be distracted. 

Combining romance and a career can be tough for anyone; for a werewolf in love with a human, it may be disastrous...

My thoughts:
 I have to admit, I do enjoy Molly Harper's humor in her PNR books. I enjoyed this second installment and I even read the first (proof: How to Flirt With a Naked Werewolf review). In this one we get Maggie, the kick-arse alpha near Grundy AK. No one messes with her, but there is something strange going on and there is this hot nerdy guy that keeps getting under her skin.

I enjoyed revisiting this world and really enjoyed both Maggie and Nick. I actually wasn't sure I was going to like Nick, but was quickly charmed by him not taking crap from Maggie and even standing up to the surly werewolf. Not even her second has that kind of bravery. I also liked the twists in the end which kept with the feel good feeling of this book.

I give this book 4 stars. If you enjoy humor, lots of smexy weres and a cute romance, I suggest this series. I can't wait for the next installment.

Quotes:

“You are so whipped.” “Baby sister, when your wife looks like that”—he pointed toward Mo’s kitchen ballet—“and cooks like this”—he scooped up some homemade chips and popped them into his mouth—“being whipped isn’t so bad.”

She made a face and whispered fiercely, “You know I didn’t. Hell, I didn’t have a good time at my baby shower. Baby showers should be reserved as punishment for betrayers in the Seventh Circle of Hell. But I went. Why? Because that’s what being part of a family is all about, spending a Sunday afternoon doing stuff you really don’t want to do.”

As a matter of fact, the idea that he’s trying to exploit innocent furred people instead of modeling for underwear ads—the way God obviously intended—is reason enough to kill him.

Bloggy note: 

As of me writing this review, the ebook is on sale for $2.99 on Kindle. :D 

Top Off Tuesday: Gentlemen Prefer Succubi

"Every once in awhile there are covers that just make you say Oh My! Sometimes it is good, sometimes it is bad, and sometimes it is head scratching. The point of Top Off Tuesday is to show you the ones with their Tops Off! Seriously y’all hunting out Top Off Tuesday covers is one of my favorite pastimes and you should join the fun!" ~from the Geeky Blogger

I have been enjoying this meme on Felicia's The Geeky Blogger's blog and have finally found some time to join in. The other players are Amanda from On a Book Bender, Christi from Smitten with Reading. Button made by Missie at The Unread Reader

My submission: 

Gentlemen Prefer Succubi
by Jill Myles
Series: Succubus Diaries #1

Who Knew An Angel Could Get A Girl In So Much Devilish Trouble? 

Jackie Brighton woke up in a Dumpster this morning, and her day has only gotten weirder. Her familiar B-cups have somehow become double Ds, her sex drive is insatiable, and apparently she had her first one-night stand ever...with a fallen angel. All she remembers is gorgeous Noah's oddly hypnotic blue eyes...and then a dark stranger whose bite transformed her into an immortal siren with a sexy itch. With help from Noah, Jackie begins to adapt to her new lifestyle; until she accidentally sends Noah into the deadly clutches of the vampire queen and lands herself in a fierce battle for an ancient halo with the queen's wickedly hot righthand man. Who just happens to be the vampire who originally bit her. How's a girl supposed to save the world when the enemy's so hard to resist?

I read the first book (shocker) and so I got this one when it was on sale. I still need to get the second one to catch up to that third. LOL

So any angel/demon books on your ToT? 

Copperhead (Ironskin #2) by Tina Connolly

Series: Ironskin #2
304p.
Publisher: Tor Books
Available Now
Source: From publisher for review

Helen Huntingdon is beautiful—so beautiful she has to wear an iron mask. Six months ago her sister Jane uncovered a fey plot to take over the city. Too late for Helen, who opted for fey beauty in her face—and now has to cover her face with iron so she won’t be taken over, her personality erased by the bodiless fey. 

Not that Helen would mind that some days. Stuck in a marriage with the wealthy and controlling Alistair, she lives at the edges of her life, secretly helping Jane remove the dangerous fey beauty from the wealthy society women who paid for it. But when the chancy procedure turns deadly, Jane goes missing—and is implicated in the murder. 

Meanwhile, Alistair’s influential clique Copperhead—whose emblem is the poisonous copperhead hydra—is out to restore humans to their “rightful” place, even to the point of destroying the dwarvven who have always been allies. 

Helen is determined to find her missing sister, as well as continue the good fight against the fey. But when that pits her against her own husband—and when she meets an enigmatic young revolutionary—she’s pushed to discover how far she’ll bend society’s rules to do what’s right. It may be more than her beauty at stake. It may be her honor...and her heart.

My thoughts:
I read the first book Ironskin and I just loved the cover. I like this cover too, but I admit not as much. Now to what is inside that cover. :)

If you didn't already know, this is a retelling of Jane Eyre. The characters names are the same, but the relationships are very different. And although we get some of the same personalities, they are also quite different. In this one we follow Helen who we did not get to know much past childhood in the original book. In this series, Helen is selfish, beautiful, and vain. She also has quite a bit of a self esteem problem. This can be a problem for a character unless they have a lot of growth in the story. Rest assured, she does grow exponentially.

My biggest problems stem from some of her relationships. I would have liked to have had them further developed. Rook is an interesting character, but he just seemed a bit underdeveloped for me. Granted he was a secondary character, but an important one. I didn't quite buy their romance nor he ability to keep within society with her background. I also didn't get all my questions answered about Jane from the first book and this one even added a couple. Hopefully there will be further installments where I will finally get those answers. Still, I do enjoy growth in a book so these problems didn't seem overly pronounced to me.

I give this book 3 1/2 stars. I enjoyed it more than the first book, and I enjoyed this ending much more than the first. I still want that ending in the first book (you will probably know what I'm referring if you have read the book) explained. Looking forward in getting those answers. :)

Happy Thanksgiving or just Happy Thursday!

Going to take a short break and be back Monday. Figured it would be a good time to have a break because so many people will be MIA anyway. :) So, I just wanted to wish everyone a Happy Thanksgiving or a Happy Thursday depending on where you are in the world. :)

Don't forget, if you want to participate in:

I've been joined by Felicia the Geeky Blogger in the past and she is joining in with me this year as well! If you would like to join us in doing something for this, give me a e-mail shout. Just put Puppy Celebration in the subject line so I know what it is about. (Example of what I did last year)

If you have a favorite charity do link up below or chose one to support:

This will also show up on the animal linky page above.

Also, Don't forget if you have extra books (even ARCs) then think about giving to Candace from Candace's Book Blog. She is doing a book drive to give to the people of the Pine Ridge Reservation. Go HERE for the deets!

Also...

Many cool things for you to join up in the coming months:

You can always see what is going on on the giveaways/contest page.

The Second Chance Dog: A Love Story by Jon Katz

288p.
Publisher: Ballentine Books
Available Now
Source: LibraryThing Early Reviewers for review

From New York Times bestselling author Jon Katz comes a wise, uplifting, and poignant memoir of finding love against all odds, and the power of second chances for both people and dogs. 

“I had no idea that Frieda would enter my life and alter it in the most profound way, but that’s one of the beautiful things about animals. They change you, and you almost never see it coming.” 

In 2007, a few years after purchasing Bedlam Farm in upstate New York, Jon Katz met Maria Wulf, a quiet, sensitive artist hoping to rekindle her creative spark. Jon, like her, was introspective yet restless, a writer struggling to find his purpose. He felt a connection with her immediately, but a formidable obstacle stood in the way: Maria’s dog, Frieda.

A rottweiler-shepherd mix who had been abandoned by her previous owner in the Adirondacks, where she lived in the wild for several years, Frieda was ferociously protective and barely tamed. She roared and charged at almost anyone who came near. But to Maria, Frieda was sweet and loyal, her beloved guard dog and devoted friend. And so Jon quickly realized that to win over Maria, he’d have to gain Frieda’s affection as well.

While he and Maria grew closer, Jon was having a tougher time charming Frieda to his side. Even after many days spent on Bedlam Farm, Frieda still lunged at the other animals, ran off into the woods, and would not let Jon come near her, even to hook on her leash. Yet armed with a singular determination, unlimited patience, and five hundred dollars’ worth of beef jerky, Jon refused to give up on Frieda—or on his chance with Maria. 

Written with stunning emotional clarity and full of warm yet practical wisdom, The Second-Chance Dog is a testament to how animals can make us better people, and how it’s never too late to find love.

My thoughts:
I haven't read Jon Katz's other dog books, but have always wanted to read at least one. When I was given a chance to read this one I was happy to read a dog story that I knew did not have a unhappy ending. In other words, I knew this dog would always have a home and nothing tragic happened to her before I picked up this book. Those that shy away from dog books for this reason, rest easy. :)

This book was really half of what Jon and, his now wife, Maria went through to be together. One of Jon's biggest obstacles was gaining Frieda's, Maria's protective dog, trust. I have to admit, I wasn't involved in the story until Jon started unraveling Frieda's past and he gained insight into being a generous person to the people he loves. After this happened, I couldn't wait to read how things progressed with Frieda and Maria.

My one complaint is really a general one. Whenever someone, especially dog trainers, adamantly complain and decree that dogs should not ever be anthropomorphized, I usually scoff and then roll my eyes. Why? Because you can always catch them doing just that. In the book, yes, I did catch him several times putting human emotion or reasoning to an animal... and sometimes he even caught himself. I mean I do it all the time, but I don't tell people to "how dare you" not ever do it. I mean, they do have emotion, right? :) Anyhoo... at least this wasn't a major part of this book so it didn't get in the way too much.

I give this book 3 stars. For dog lovers you will really enjoy how he never gave up on a dog that seemed determined to never be a part of the farm's life. You will enjoy the dedication he gave to this dog and his, now wife, Maria.

http://www.bedlamfarm.com/

http://www.fullmoonfiberart.com/

Top Off Tuesday: Taken by the Cowboy

"Every once in awhile there are covers that just make you say Oh My! Sometimes it is good, sometimes it is bad, and sometimes it is head scratching. The point of Top Off Tuesday is to show you the ones with their Tops Off! Seriously y’all hunting out Top Off Tuesday covers is one of my favorite pastimes and you should join the fun!" ~from the Geeky Blogger

I have been enjoying this meme on Felicia's The Geeky Blogger's blog and have finally found some time to join in. The other players are Amanda from On a Book Bender, Christi from Smitten with Reading. Button made by Missie at The Unread Reader

My submission:

Taken by the Cowboy
by Julianne MacLean

HERO AND PROTECTOR

Former bounty hunter, expert gunslinger, and the toughest sheriff Dodge City has ever known, Truman Wade is a real man from the tip of his black Stetson right down to his spurs and leather boots. He’s never met his match in a gunfight, but he’s never met a gorgeous, gutsy woman from the twenty-first century either…

TORN BETWEEN TWO WORLDS

Newly single after a rocky breakup with her self-absorbed fiancé, newspaper columnist Jessica Delaney crashes her car in a lightning storm and soon finds herself dodging bullets in the Wild West. Before the night is out, she’s tossed in jail for a murder she didn’t commit, and if things don’t seem complicated enough, the impossibly handsome sheriff in charge of her arrest has danger written all over him - and a sexy swagger to die for. Jessica knows she needs to get home, but when Sheriff Wade’s enticing touch sets her passions on fire, she begins to wonder if fate has other plans for her, and soon she must choose between the life she longs for in the future… and the greatest love she’s ever known.

Yes, those that keep wanting me to get into cowboy novels can rest easy... I got this one and I bet you can guess why... :) 

Crash into You (Pushing the Limits #3) by Katie McGarry

Series: Pushing the Limits #3
474p.
Publisher: Harlequin Teen
Published: 11/26/13
Source: Publisher and NetGalley for review

From acclaimed author Katie McGarry comes an explosive new tale of a good girl with a reckless streak, a street-smart guy with nothing to lose, and a romance forged in the fast lane

The girl with straight As, designer clothes and the perfect life-that's who people expect Rachel Young to be. So the private-school junior keeps secrets from her wealthy parents and overbearing brothers...and she's just added two more to the list. One involves racing strangers down dark country roads in her Mustang GT. The other? Seventeen-year-old Isaiah Walker-a guy she has no business even talking to. But when the foster kid with the tattoos and intense gray eyes comes to her rescue, she can't get him out of her mind.

Isaiah has secrets, too. About where he lives, and how he really feels about Rachel. The last thing he needs is to get tangled up with a rich girl who wants to slum it on the south side for kicks-no matter how angelic she might look.

But when their shared love of street racing puts both their lives in jeopardy, they have six weeks to come up with a way out. Six weeks to discover just how far they'll go to save each other.

My thoughts:
 This is the book I was waiting on. Ever since we met Isaiah in the first book I have wanted to know this character. He was interesting and you couldn't help feel for someone who had to deal with unrequited love. Your heart just broke for the guy.

Isaiah is someone who has not had a generous life. Yet, he finds the good in it and holds onto that with a fierce edge. He has a f.u. attitude which gives him space to do what he needs to do to make his life better. It also makes him quite lonely. He has a hard time trusting others, but when he does he is loyal to a fault. He also has narrow vision and has a hard time seeing the bigger picture. That makes sense if your main concern is survival from a very young age.

The other POV is Rachel. A girl who has panic attacks and the world on her shoulders. I wanted to really like her family, but as caring as they are they are also extremely selfish and uses Rachel for their own goals... all the while claiming they are protecting her from some unnamed threat. The reasons for her dysfunctional family seemed contrived, but I've seen people who do nothing but tiptoe around the elephant in the room. I did feel for Rachel, but I couldn't stand her family.

These two come together over cars and a threat from a character who rules a good portion of the streets. Isaiah tries to help Rachel out of her situation and in the mist of it all, they fall hard for each other.  I also admit that throughout most of the book I was worried that the author had written herself into a hole so deep that nothing could save it. However, she seemed to pull it off for me. As you might guess from the other books in this series, there is an HEA, but it does have a twist at the end. One that made me cuss at the book and then smile. It was a cheestastic ending, but what can I say... call me a mouse. :)

I give this book 4 stars. I really have enjoyed this series and I can't wait for the next installment. The ending is cheesy as I stated above, but if you like those kind of things and just want to be entertained, you will enjoy the book as well.

Winner!

The winner of:

is...

Carol M!

(confirmed)

Congrats!

AimeeKay Review: The Unseen by J. L. Bryan

Available Now

Source: From author for review

Cassidy is a young tattoo artist living in the Little Five Points neighborhood of Atlanta. She’s always suffered terrible nightmares, and sometimes the hideous creatures seem to follow her out of her dreams and into her waking life, though she’s the only one who can see them. Drugs and alcohol can blot them out, but never entirely chase them away.
When a demonic cult begins to take control of the people in her life, including her younger brother, Cassidy discovers that the unseen world of monsters is very real. She can no longer avoid it. To protect those she loves, she must accept her own hidden supernatural talents and face the forces of evil before the sinister cult achieves its twisted goals and casts the world into darkness.

AimeeKay's thoughts:

I love reading J.L. Bryan’s work. I am always amazed at the different worlds he is able to create in his novels and The Unseen is no exception. I will say that The Unseen runs darker than his other novels that I’ve read, but it still drew me in from beginning to end.

The main character, Cassidy, is on big hot mess. She has the ability to see creatures that aren’t there, but she doesn’t realize that they are real. She ‘copes’ with her ‘hallucinations’ by getting as high and drunk as she can, all day, every day. In her defense I think she has a wicked sense of humor and Bryan does an awesome job at having her grow into a kick ass heroine. As I mentioned above this novel is on the darker side. He also does a great job with the supporting and side characters as well. For instance, I actually felt bad when one of the ‘extras’ died. (Nope not saying who, don’t want to spoil anything) But seriously she was funny and I had gotten to where I was looking forward to seeing what she would say next.

I love the detail Bryan puts into his work. Not only does he bring his characters to life, but he makes the world they inhabit feel real enough to walk into. The unseen creatures that Cassidy sees feeding on the people around her make my skin crawl. I can just see them in all their creepy crawly glory. Another great example of his descriptive prowess is when Cassidy is going through physical therapy from her accident. He just describes the pain and her reactions perfectly.

As for the overall story itself, as I said above it pulled me in from beginning to end, but it is dark. There is violence, gore and some very twisted sex. If you are a fan of his other series’ I think you will definitely like this one too. The ending does have some loose ends, but they are written as the perfect jumping off point for the next novel. No overly steep cliff hanger or anything.

I would definitely recommend this one to anyone over 18. It’s good, but it is for mature audiences only people! I’m saying this because the holidays are a comin’ and J.L. Bryan is an awesome writer and his books would make awesome prezzies. So if you know someone that likes fantasy/horror that is over 18 I would recommend this one as a great gift. However if you are shopping for a younger teen, I would recommend going with his Songs of Magic series instead.

The Unseen is only $3.99 on Kindle!

$3.99 at Barnes and Noble as well for Nook!

Throwback Thursday: Blood by Moonlight

Meme hosted by Melissa My World in Words and Pages. It's about books that are already on the shelves and are waiting to be read. Go to her website to join in!

My submission this week:

Blood by Moonlight
by Jocelynn Drake
Terri Garey
Caris Roane

Just in time for the scariest season of all, three popular paranormal authors come together to tell original tales of romance where Anything can happen under a Halloween moon... 

Tempers flare and passions rise in Jocelynn Drake's Of Monsters and Menas the local werewolf pack clashes with the Winter Court's Wild Hunt...

In Terri Garey's The Ghoul Next Door, a witch and a warlock battle it out for possession of a haunted house, but the ghost may have her own agenda... 

And, in Trick or Treathen by Caris Roane, a master vampire struggles to stay away from the mortal woman who enflames his very soul.

I won this one and I can't wait to dive into this anthology.

Any anthologies on you tbr?