Dark Guardian #1: Moonlight by Rachel Hawthorne

Dark Gaurdian #1: Moonlight
Author: Rachel Hawthorne

• Reading level: Young Adult
  
• Paperback: 272 pages
• Publisher: HarperTeen (March 3, 2009)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0061709557
• ISBN-13: 978-0061709555

Synopsis:

I see him and know what this turmoil inside of me means: He's the one. My forever.

kayla is the nature lover, the all-American beauty who can't understand why she's so drawn to distant, brooding Lucas. Adopted as a young child, she has no way of knowing that she's inherited a terrifying—and thrilling—gene that will change her life forever.

lucas is dangerous, gorgeous . . . and a werewolf. As leader of the Dark Guardians, shape-shifters who gather deep within the state park, he has sworn to protect his pack. But when Lucas finds his true soul mate, his love could put them all in harm's way.

As Lucas and Kayla struggle with their feelings for each other, a greater danger lurks: Humans have discovered the Dark Guardians and are planning their destruction. Kayla must choose between the life she knows and the love she feels certain is her destiny.

MY TAKE:
WOW! A young adult novel that I actually couldn't put down. This book started slow, mainly introducing the different characters that will be coming into the mix during the book. Once you get past the first chapter though, it takes off on a wonderful ride of young love and suspense. You can't help but fall for the quiet and intimidating Lucas. You just know he is the Alpha in the wolf world and human group. He is protective and a character that commands attention in the book. This was such a delightful young adult book that has plenty of intrigue and action throughout the story. Just when you think it is slowing down, the author throws in another action scene or love scene. A true teen soul mate kind of book. Aahh, young love. Girl meets boy, boy shape shifts, girl shape shifts, they mate for life. A great read for all adults as well. This was suppose to be the first in a three part series, but the author has noted on her web site that there will indeed be a fourth.

MY RATING:
I am giving the following only four flames only due to the slow start.

Very Good! Worth Spending Your Money on!

Q&A with author Michelle Rowen!!

Today on My Overstuffed Bookshelf I have a special treat for everyone for Halloween! Author Michelle Rowen is my featured Q&A guest. I hope you all have a Spooky and happy Halloween!

To start off, welcome and can you tell the readers a little about yourself?

Sure! I’m a full-time, national bestselling, award-winning writer of paranormal romance and young adult fantasy novels. Since 2005, I’ve sold sixteen books to five different NYC publishers and some of my books have been/will be translated into five different languages. I live in Southern Ontario in a tiny condo with two needy cats and a really fast internet connection.

Can you tell us a little about your new and/or current releases?

I’ve had three releases out in the last three months. Tall, Dark & Fangsome came out in September and it’s the last book in my Immortality Bites paranormal romance series about a fledgling vampire. October was the release of my debut young adult novel (the first in a series) Demon Princess: Reign or Shine about a girl who finds out that her father is a demon king and that makes her a half demon princess and heir to his throne. And November brings my first Harlequin Blaze release, Hot Spell, about two paranormal investigators who find an enchanted clock that helps to reveal their true feelings about each other.

How did you decide what to write?

My ideas find me, mostly. But I find a couple of themes that seem to be consistent in all of my work is the “normal” person who falls into a “not normal” adventure. I also have a habit of making the monsters the good guys.

When you’re not writing what kind of books do you like to read? Do you have any favorite authors, that are must reads?

I love YA most of all right now. I have a lot of favorite authors but a few off the top of my head along with my book recs are: Richelle Mead’s Vampire Academy series, Suzanne Collins’ The Hunger Games trilogy, I’m a big, unapologetic fan of Stephenie Meyer’s Twilight Saga, and right now I’m reading and loving Lesley Livingston’s Wondrous Strange.

What are 3 things that are "must haves" for you when you sit down to write a new book?

When I sit down to write a new book I must have 1) an outline (I am a plotter, not a pantser, and when I try to write without an outline I am always headed for trouble and a lot of revision work), 2) Silence (some people can write with music playing or at Starbucks, but I need silence in order to concentrate and get into the heads of my characters), and 3) Diet Coke (it fuels the muse. She used to require more fattening fare, but she has adapted nicely).

What are your favorite things to do in your downtime?

I love going to the movies, watching trashy reality TV, and going out for lunch or dinner with friends.

Where can we purchase your books?

All of my books are still in print, so you can purchase them at online booksellers. The more recent titles would be available on the shelves of most bookstores.

Do you have a blog or website that your readers can keep up with you and your books?

Absolutely. Readers can find me at www.michellerowen.com where I also have a blog and lots of info about my books. You can also find me on twitter at www.twitter.com/michellerowen.

If you could pick one character from your books to join you on a deserted island for a month, who would it be and why?

Oooh, I like this question. Hmm, let me see. I would probably choose Darrak, the demon hero from my new paranormal romance series out next May with The Demon in Me. He’s resourceful, strong, gorgeous, and funny as hell. He’d definitely entertain me during our stay.

Thank you so much for joining me for a Q&A Session for our readers!

My pleasure. Thank you for asking me!

To Desire A Devil by Elizabeth Hoyt Blog Tour

Welcome everyone to My Overstuffed Bookshelf for the TO DESIRE A DEVIL Blog Tour! I am happy to have read and reviewed this book for author Elizabeth Hoyt and thank you to Anna from Hachette Books for hosting the giveaway!

SYNOPSIS:
NOTHING IS MORE INTOXICATING-
Reynaud St. Aubyn has spent the last seven years in hellish captivity. Now half mad with fever he bursts into his ancestral home and demands his due. Can this wild-looking man truly be the last earl's heir, thought murdered by Indians years ago?


OR DANGEROUS-
Beatrice Corning, the niece of the present earl, is a proper English miss. But she has a secret: No real man has ever excited her more than the handsome youth in the portrait in her uncle's home. Suddenly, that very man is here, in the flesh-and luring her into his bed.


THAN SURRENDERING TO A DEVIL.
Only Beatrice can see past Reynaud's savagery to the noble man inside. For his part, Reynaud is drawn to this lovely lady, even as he is suspicious of her loyalty to her uncle. But can Beatrice's love tame a man who will stop at nothing to regain his title-even if it means sacrificing her innocence?

MY TAKE:

This is the final book in Elizabeth Hoyt's Legend of the Four Soldiers Series. Even though I hadn't read the previous books in this series, this book was so well written that you didn't need to have read them. This book captured the love and suspense that I love in a historical romance that you come to expect. The characters captured me from page one and they were characters that were so believable that you actually cared about what would happen. Their love story was so touching and I didn't want to put this book down. The story is well paced and keeps you guessing at the traitors identity. Mixed with steamy passion and intrigue, this will be a great read for everyone who enjoys this genre!

MY RATING:


Outstanding Book That Will Stay On My Bookshelf
For Rereading!

Now for the giveaway. Anna from Hachette Books has agreed to spread the love of this book! She has offered to give away 5 copies of this great romance! This contest is open to US and Canada only. NO PO BOXES.
All you have to do is leave a comment on this post with your email address to enter.
The contest is open until Friday November 6th, 2009.

Good Luck!

You Know You Are Addicted to Reading When......

I saw a few of these on the internet and had a few of my own to add! How many do you relate to?

You know you are addicted to reading when....

When you have a book stashed in every room in your house including the bathroom.

When everytime you're going away for the weekend you pack more books than clothes.

When you are willing to spend $14.99 for a hardback new release, but you can't believe they want the same price for a new T-Shirt!

When your local librarian starts to point out which books you haven't yet read.

When getting around your house is like navigating a maze because of all the bookshelves.

When you're forced to read the telephone book because you've read everything else it in the house and it's a holiday so the library's closed.

When the clerks at the book store start putting books aside for you before you ask for them.

When you pre-order the next book in a series a year before it's going to be released.

When you take a job in a book store and get paid in product.

When the manager of the book store starts asking you for recommendations.

When you clean out all the books you feel you can part from and still don't have room for anything new.

When your spouse/roommate's first response upon seeing you with a bag is "now what books did you buy?"

When you choose your clothes because they have pockets big enough to carry trade paperbacks.

When you know what a trade paperback is.

When you have a special line on your budget related to books and bookshelves.

When you have a scanner so you can keep track of your collection.

When you take the morning off the day of the library or AAUW book sale.

When your family doesn't bother to look for a book because you'll know exactly where it is.

You have bookshelves/boxes in every room, including the bathroom, car, and kitchen.

No one bothers to ask you 'are you reading that?' anymore.

When you stop in a town on vacation your spouse doesn't bother to ask you where you'd like to start. (the bookstore)

Instead of CDs, video games, or built-in video systems, you have a tradition of reading to each other while you drive.

You chose garage sales from the paper based on how prominently the world BOOKS is used in the ad.

Your brothers refuse to move you anymore.

When you have an excel spreadsheet to track every book you read, the number of pages, how many days you spent on it and the date you finished it

When your bookshelf breaks from the weight

When your mother wishes aloud that she never taught me to read.

When you "buy" all the free Kindle books on Amazon.com even though you know you will NEVER EVER get to reading them all.

When you are short on cash and consider using your credit card for a new release and tell your spouse that it IS considered and emergency!

When you're halfway through a book before you realize you've read it before.

When you have been so into a book that you have forgotten to feed your kids dinner.

When your teenage daughter locks up her books in a trunk so you don't sneak them onto your bookshelf!

Jack Daniel's Spirit of Tennessee Cookbook

JACK DANIEL'S SPIRIT OF TENNESSEE COOKBOOK
Author: Lynne Tolley & Pat Mitchamore
Special Thanks to: Thomas Nelson Publishing

• Paperback: 192 pages
• Publisher: Thomas Nelson Inc (October 13, 2009)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 1595553010
• ISBN-13: 978-1595553010

SYNOPSIS:
The rich tradition of country cooking, the distinctive taste of Jack Daniel's Tennessee Whiskey, and the heritage of rural America are all elegantly captured in Jack Daniel's The Spirit of Tennessee Cookbook. Included are more than 350 recipes, stunning full-color photographs, and stories of the people, places, and traditions of Middle Tennessee.

MY TAKE:
Who knew you could make such great recipes with Whiskey? I am not a heavy drinker, but now that I know I can use this whiskey for cooking great dishes, people might start seeing me in the alcohol department more at the store. There are some amazing, mouth-watering recipes in this book that I can't wait to try. Here are just a few of the recipes you will find in this cookbook:

Hot Toddy (which my mom made when I was little and sick.)
Whiskey Nut Bread
Flaming Tennessee Tenderloin
Black Jack Cake

You get the idea! Yummy sounding recipes with a little kick in them! Go ahead and give them a try! Even if you don't like the recipe, you always have the whiskey for afterwards!

MY RATING:

Very Good! Worth Spending Your Money on!

My Tuesday TBR Tackle Book

WICKED NIGHT GAMES
Author: Kathleen Lawless

• Paperback: 224 pages
• Publisher: Pocket (May 8, 2007)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 1416532730
• ISBN-13: 978-1416532736

SYNOPSIS:
What's your fantasy tonight?

Welcome aboard the Fantasy Cruise Line, where luxurious private cabins use virtual reality to create any fantasy you've ever dreamed of -- and a few you've never imagined.

Cassidy Ferrill's fantasy is to get revenge on her teen crush, Sloan Hardt, who broke her heart when he rejected her long ago. She wants to seduce the man, then leave while he's panting for more. When she discovers they'll both be guests on a Fantasy wedding cruise, Cassidy knows she's found the perfect opportunity. If she can just keep from losing her heart all over again....

Sloan doesn't immediately recognize the curvy auburn-haired beauty as his long-ago "pity date" to the prom, but he certainly recognizes what he's feeling: pure, unadulterated lust. The fantasy-themed cabins are a perfect opportunity for some truly wicked night games with this new, grown-up Cassidy. But while Sloan has always been a love-'em-and-leave-'em kind of guy, this fling somehow seems different. Why does he find himself fantasizing about a life with Cassidy after the cruise is over?

MY TAKE:

This was the first book I picked up out of my TBR pile for this weeks challenge. I read it and was not happy with it. Two people who knew eachother growing up end up reuniting on a cruise at a wedding and having a bunch of sex. Now don't get me wrong! I love erotica books. It's when an erotica doesn't have any other plot BUT sex that annoys me. Every other page was these two characters having sex and I was getting so tired of it! There was so much sex going on that I forgot what the reason of the book was. I am still not sure if I even rememeber what the whole point of the book was. Authors please note, just because we may want to read an erotica, doesn't mean we don't want the story to have a plot! This book felt like a nudie magazine without pictures and in book form! Hopefully my next pick will be better!

MY RATING:

I did not enjoy this book.

TUESDAY TBR TACKLE! on wed

I know. It's Wednesday not Tuesday. I had my blog tour yesterday though and didn't get a chance to put this up. So we are doing Tuesday's thing today. Sorry for the confusion.



Every Tuesday I challenge you to read a book (or two) from your TBR pile. NOT a book that is set aside strictly for review. I know we all have those books we have been dying to read and never get the chance. Here is your motivation to get it read!

When you finish your book for the week, just leave your link on this post or the following weeks post. That way we all can stop by and see which book was conquered out of your TBR pile and congratulate you!

Are you up for the challenge??

Anna Campbell CAPTIVE OF SIN Blog Tour

Today I am so excited to be hosting my first blog tour. I am featuring a new release titled Captive of Sin by Anna Campbell! Her new book is released today and she was kind enough to also do a Q&A session for all of us! Before we get to that I wanted to provide my review for Captive of Sin.

CAPTIVE OF SIN
Author: Anna Campbell
Special thanks to : Christine from Harper Collins

• Mass Market Paperback: 384 pages
• Publisher: Avon (October 27, 2009)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0061684287
• ISBN-13: 978-0061684289

SYNOPSIS:

He pledged his honor to keep her safe . . .

Returning home to Cornwall after an unspeakable tragedy, Sir Gideon Trevithick comes upon a defiant beauty in danger and vows to protect her whatever the cost. He's dismayed to discover that she's none other than Lady Charis Weston, England's wealthiest heiress—and that the only way to save her from the violent stepbrothers determined to steal her fortune is to wed her himself! Now Gideon must hide the dark secrets of his life from the bride he desires more with every heartbeat.

She promised to show him how to love—and desire—again . . .

Charis has heard all about Gideon, the dangerously handsome hero with the mysterious past. She's grateful for his help but utterly unwilling to endure a marriage of convenience—especially to a man whose touch leaves her breathless. Desperate to drive him mad with passion, she would do anything to make Gideon lose control—and fall captive to irresistible, undeniable sin.

MY TAKE:

I was always hesitant on reading historical romance books. I always thought that I would not understand the wording and that they might seem a little boring. I now know that when you have an author like Anna Campbell, there is no reason to hesitate. She made it feel like I was right there going through everything that the characters were going through. The wording was easy to comprehend even when using the old style of speaking. She captured me from page one all the way to the last page. A sweet and tender journey of two people with problems that end up facing them together so that they are no longer burden by their inner demons. A book that captures true romance and enough intrigue to keep me up all night reading. Ms. Campbell has now shown me the wonderful world of historical fiction. I am now hooked on finding more books from this author.

MY RATING:

Outstanding Book That Will Stay On My Bookshelf
For Rereading!

Q&A

To start off can you tell the readers a little about yourself?


Hi Amy! Thank you so much for having me as a guest on My Overstuffed Bookshelf. It sounds like my place! I’m an Aussie who lives on the east coast near the sea. After a variety of jobs, specifically chosen because they left me time to write, I started writing full time in 2006. I’ve always been a complete bookworm – I’ll read a milk packet if nothing else is available!

Can you tell us a little about your new release?


CAPTIVE OF SIN is a passionate, dramatic story set in the late Regency. Sir Gideon Trevithick returns to England as a national hero after suffering torture and imprisonment in India. He’s battling the physical and mental effects of his ordeal and is convinced he’ll never lead a normal life. When he pledges himself to save a runaway heiress from her greedy and violent stepbrothers, he has no idea his chivalry will lead to marriage. Lady Charis Weston refuses to accept a marriage of convenience and she’s determined to conquer Gideon’s ghosts and win his love. So the battle lines are drawn! There’s an excerpt here: http://www.annacampbell.info/captivesin.html

When did you start writing? How did you decide what to write? What do you enjoy about the Historical Romance Genre?


I started my first novel when I was in grade three, a snappy little number about horse-napping. Not long after that, I discovered romance novels and I was hooked, so naturally, that’s what I wanted to write. I finished my first romance novel in the holiday after high school. I still think my favorite story is a fabulous historical that sweeps me away into another world. I love the larger than life quality of a good historical.


When you’re not writing, what kind of books do you like to read? Do you have any favorite authors that are must reads?


How long have you got? I could talk about thousands of books! I’ll read pretty much everything, although my favorite genre is romance, especially a great historical. I read a lot of nonfiction too. Favorite authors include Laura Kinsale, Loretta Chase, Annie West, Kathleen O’Reilly, Tawny Weber, Christine Wells, Liz Carlyle, Madeline Hunter, Linda Howard, Anne Stuart… I could go on!

What are 3 things that are "must haves" for you when you sit down to write a new book?


Three cups of tea? I’m a bit of a tea addict and go through gallons of the stuff, especially when I’m working. Alright, here’s a sensible answer – a cup of tea, a radio and an idea of who my main characters are.

What are your favorite things to do in your downtime?


Read! OK, what else? I’ve recently joined a mail order DVD service so I’m catching up on a lot of films and TV I’ve missed. I have a pool and I love to float around – calling it swimming would be a vast exaggeration. I love to catch up with my friends. I live in a very pretty part of the world so walking is a pleasure around here. And Facebook seems to have become an obsession lately! Curse you, Facebook!

Where can we purchase your books?


At all good bookstores. You can also buy them online at places like Barnes and Noble and Amazon.com.

Any hints or previews on what your next book will be about?


MY RECKLESS SURRENDER should be out next summer. It’s about a dangerous seduction in Regency London. I’m completely in love with the hero, the Earl of Ashcroft. He’s my first non-tortured hero!

Do you have a blog or website that your readers can keep up with you and your books?


I’ve got a website that I update at the start of every month with latest news and a contest and a column called My Favorite Things where I talk about, you guessed it, my favorite things. My website address is: www.annacampbell.info

I’ve got a page at HarperCollins that I update a couple of times a month, so it’s a great place to see where I’m blogging. The address for that is: http://harpercollins.com/authors/31961/Anna_Campbell/index.aspx

I’m on Facebook. Man, am I on Facebook. Far too much! Here’s my profile page:
http://www.facebook.com/home.php?ref=home#/annacampbell.writer?ref=profile

I’m also on My Space, although not quite so much! http://home.myspace.com/index.cfm?fuseaction=user

I blog regularly with the Romance Bandits –http://romancebandits.blogspot.com

Thank you so much for joining us Anna, and I wish you all the success you deserve with this wonderful love story! Keep them coming and come by My Overstuffed Bookshelf anytime!

Possess Me At Midnight Is Now Here!

Possess Me At Midnight is now available!



Doomsday Brethren Series, Book 3 — Ice’s story
Publisher: Pocket Books
ISBN-10: 1416578463
ISBN-13: 9781416578468
Genre: Paranormal/Urban Fantasy Romance
Release Date: October 27, 2009

As a mysterious dark cloud drains the life of her beloved brother, Doomsday Brethren leader Bram, Sabelle Rion can think of little else. Still, every time she meets Ice Rykard’s intense green gaze, her body aches with need for the sexy warrior. Their attraction is explosive, incredible—and forbidden. As dangerous as he is unpredictable, Ice is her brother’s sworn enemy. But as Bram weakens, a more sinister force is gaining power. Evil Mathias and his ruthless Anarki army are on a bloodthirsty hunt for the Doomsday Diary. Sabelle must guard the potent book with her life—and Ice vows to protect the beautiful witch with his. Duty demands that Sabelle deny her lover’s fiery call of possession and mate with a man who can sway the magical Council against the impending rebellion. With the fate of magickind hanging in the balance, will she forsake the burning desires she can’t ignore or turn her back on her people for the courageous man she can’t resist?

For more information on this book and the series and to read an excerpt please stop by Shayla's blog

from Shayla's site.........

To celebrate release day, I’m giving away a signed copy of TEMPT ME WITH DARKNESS and SEDUCE ME IN SHADOW, plus free reads from some favorite authors including Maya Banks, Gena Showalter, Sabrina Jeffries and others. 10 books in all! To register to win, SPREAD the word about POSSESS ME AT MIDNIGHT. Mention the book, series and release day (blurb appreciated but optional) on your Twitter, Facebook, MySpace, blog, message/bulletin boards, etc OR review the book on an online bookstore or personal blog. Comment here with the link and you’re registered to win. The winner will be drawn on 11/3.

Be sure to go check it out and join in the fun!

SIMON'S CAT by Simon Tofield

SIMON'S CAT
Author: Simon Tofield
Special thanks to: Anna at Hachette Book Group

Trade Paperback 240 pages
$12.99

Publication date: September 24th 2009
Published by Grand Central Publishing

SYNOPSIS:
Simon’s Cat. Now in his very own book.

Based on Simon Tofield's animations that have taken YouTube by storm with over thirty million hits, SIMON'S CAT depicts and exaggerates the hilarious relationship between a man and his cat. The daily escapades of this adorable pet, who will do just about anything to be fed, and his exasperated but doting owner, come to life through beautiful black and white line drawings. With a huge fan following that is growing even larger by the day, SIMON'S CAT is set to become a major new comic creation.

Simon Tofield is an award-winning illustrator, animator and director at Tandem Films in London.

MY TAKE:

This book reminds me of those Garfield books I used to get at the library when I was younger. Except this cat doesn't talk. It features the dialogue as pictures only. I was not a fan of this book. Yes it had some funny comic strips in it and I can totally see my little hell cat doing some of the things this cat does in the book, but I just couldn't really get into it. It says that it could be for all ages but I think a child would enjoy this book better. Don't get me wrong! I love cartoon books! This one just wasn't my cup of tea I guess you could say. Would be great for a small gift for a child though.

MY RATING:

A Decent Read.
Has Some Drawbacks Though.

CHOCOALTE: A LOVE STORY by Max Brenner

Chocolate: A Love Story
Author: Max Brenner

• Hardcover: 144 pages
• Publisher: Little, Brown and Company (November 2, 2009)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0316056626
• ISBN-13: 978-0316056625

Special Thanks to: Anna at Hachette Books



SYNOPSIS:
With gigantic vats of churning chocolate, desserts like their famous chocolate pizza, and 12 varieties of hot chocolate served in custom mugs, Max Brenner, Chocolate by the Bald Man has turned their line of hip, colorful themed restaurants into an international sensation.. Chocolate: A Love Story is a vibrant new cookbook that includes 65 original recipes narrated in the quirky, captivating voice of Max Brenner, the restaurant's visionary founder and "bald man." Bold original illustrations inspired by Art Deco poster graphics, full-color photographs, easy-to-follow, delicious recipes, and a serving of Max's unique vision for spreading "chocolate culture" around the world make this book a must for every chocolate lover.

MY TAKE:
Raise your hand if you love chocolate! ME!!! What girl doesn't love the occasional chocolate in their diet? My Grandma used to tell me that A moment on the lips is a lifetime on the hips! Well, this book has all the recipes to make up for 12 lifetimes! Easy to follow recipes that include chocolate and heaven all in one! In this book there are over 65 dessert recipes from author Max Brenner's private collection. Here are just a few of the recipes included in this book:

Bohemian French Toast Chocolate Sandwiches
Handsome Tiramisu
Enticing Sugar Churros
Love and Hate Doughnuts
A Therapeutic Chocolate Pot Pie

So is your mouth watering yet? With the holidays here, I am so excited to have a cookbook for all the fattening goodies to make for everyone! The great illustrations/artwork by Yonatan Factor are throughout the whole book as well and they are wonderfully done. This book would be a great book to have for holidays, anniversaries, Valentines Day treats and for special nights with a spouse or date. This book would even be great to a newlywed couple for a gift.

I will leave you with chocolate cravings for now while I go see if I can whip up a few of these recipes for my hubby after taking such great care of me while I was sick!

MY RATING:

Outstanding Book That Will Stay On My Bookshelf
For Rereading!

I'm Back....Kind of....

Hi everyone! Sorry for not posting these last couple of days. The flu got ahold of me and wouldn't let go. Still feeling a little run down, but gotta keep going when you have kids at home. No rest for mommies!

So what has everyone been reading? For me, I have been reading my books for upcoming blog tours! Which in fact, I wanted to remind you all about the upcoming events for my blog!!

Tomorrow I have a Q&A session with Anna Campbell! She was gracious enough to answer some great questions for her readers! I will also be reviewing her new release Captive Sin. My blog is one of the blog tour stops and I am so excited! My first ever blog tour and I get to feature and amazing author! So be sure to check back for all the exciting stuff!

Friday I will be doing another blog tour and giveaway! I will be reviewing a new title by Elizabeth Hoyt titled To Desire A Devil. I will also be giving away copies of this great book! My blog is also featured on her blog tour and I super excited that Hachette Books gave me the chance to join in on it!

Then of course we have Halloween on Saturday! Any adults out there dressing up? I am! I am dressing as a sick mommy! LOL :D I am already looking forward to sneaking some of the kids' candy when they aren't looking! Shhh...don't tell them that mommy peeks at there candy stash when they are in school!

I also am going to be featuring a Q&A Session with amazing author Michelle Rowen! She was also kind enough to answer some great questions for all of us! As soon as I get the date squared away and confirmed with her, I will let you all know by posting it in my sidebar!

I have some reviews to write up and want to share with you. So look forward to some new posts later today! Hope all is well on your end of the internet! Until next post....

WINNER: Panverse One

The winner of the giveaway for PANVERSE ONE is:


VirginiaC


please email me within 48 hrs. with your mailing address
djsfoxylady@gmail.com

thanks to all that entered !!

Sorry for no posts Amy is sick with the flu .She is letting me pick the winner of the book give away later today .
Her Hubby Dan

THE HANDY ANSWER BOOK FOR KIDS by Gina Misiroglu

The Handy Answer Book for Kids (and Parents) 2nd Edition
by Gina Misiroglu
Published by Visible Ink Press (October 2009)
Paperback, 352 pages
Reading level: Ages 9-12
Thank you to : http://onlinepublicist.blogspot.com/

SYNOPSIS:
Why do dogs bark?
Why is the sky blue?
Why?
Why.....?

Do you care for or have kids? Then chances are you've encountered the 'Why' query now and again. Maybe you know how tunnels are built, or how clouds float, but what if you don't?

Well, lucky for you there's The Handy Answer Book for Kids (and Parents). This book has the answer to those and nearly 800 additional queries with enough depth and detail to both satisfy the curiosity of persistent young inquisitors and provide parents with a secure sense of a job well done.

Written with a child's imagination in mind, this easy-to-understand book permits kids to help themselves because it's organized by simple topical chapters: Outer Space; Planet Earth and Our Moon; Creatures Big and Small; Plant Life; People around the World; Politics and Government; How Things Work; Math, Measurement, and Time; All about My Body; and Daily Life. This book invites parents/grandparents/caregivers to turn those uncertain opportunities into valuable one-on-one learning experiences.

MY TAKE:
As a mother who has a four year old daughter at home, this was a book I needed when my other two daughters were this age. This book has almost every question a young child will ask you growing up! Some of the questions were common and some had me laughing so hard my side hurt! Great for the child stages of who?,what?,when?where, and how?
Here are just a sampling of questions that were in the book:
What are boogers?
Why do we pass gas?
Why do we burp and hiccup?
How old is Earth?
What airport is the busiest in the world?

This book has the funny questions, the red face questions and all the science questions we don't know how to answer. This is one book that will be on my bookshelf that will be passed to my kids when they have kids of their own! I loved this book!

MY RATING:

Outstanding Book That Will Stay On My Bookshelf For Rereading!

Leap Books Free Reads Online!

GIVEAWAY: Panverse One

I have one(1) copy of this new book, Panverse One, for a giveaway. Book is new and here is the blurb about it:
Panverse Publishing is proud to announce the publication of PANVERSE ONE, the first volume in a bi-annual series of all-original novella anthologies from Panverse.

WAKING THE CITY by Andrew Tisbert

In the far future, age-old tensions between the wilderness and the city erupt when a rebellious youth feels the stirrings of long-dormant technology embedded in his blood…

SHIVA NOT DANCING by Uncle River

Amidst the bitter water disputes of the desert Southwest, a peaceful meditation center shoehorned into the local culture becomes the center of an unusual scientific phenomenon…

DELUSION’S SONG by Alan Smale

In 1846, a space-time discontinuity has cut Haworth, Yorkshire, off from the surrounding countryside, and Emily is determined to discover the reason why…

FORK YOU by Reggie Lutz

A wild girl child armed with a pair of magic utensils and a lot of attitude is adopted by a clan of inbred, moonshine-swilling hillbillies…

THE SINGERS OF RHODES by Jason K. Chapman

A long-simmering vendetta comes to a boil as rival treasure-seekers face off on a vast, abandoned alien space station. And the small alien creatures who infest the structure seem to have their own agenda…

RULES:

1. You must be a follower or a subscriber to enter.

2. Leave a comment on this post with your name and email address.

I would appreciate you spreading the word about it on your blog, twitter, etc. It is not required but greatly appreciated!!

Contest ends Saturday, October 24th.

Harlequin Contest Winners!

For everyone who entered the contest For the Harlequin Intrigue book, THANK YOU! I am so happy that Harlequin gave me the chance to share this book with you! So I entered everyones name into Random.Org and the number fairy from the web picked the following names:

Crystal Adkins
Amanda
Virgina C
Brenda

I will email all four of you shortly or if you don't hear from me soon, please just email me your mailing info stating you were the winner at:
djsfoxylady@gmail.com

Stay tuned for another giveaway contest later today!

Understanding My Rating System

I don't know about some of you, but I find it hard how to use the ratings. Below is my rating system and a little description for each one. Hopefully this can clear up some of the confusion and if anyone has any other ideas on how to make the ratings better, let me know. I am still learning things as I go so all input is good input for me!

5 FLAMES-Outstanding Book That Will Stay On My Bookshelf For Rereading!

This rating is the top rating a book can get. If I enjoy a book so much I will make it a nice little home on my bookshelf. I have one bookshelf set aside for books that I plan on keeping until my hubby puts me in the ground. These are books that if for some reason I have no books in my TBR pile (OMG!), then I will pick these to reread again and again.

4 FLAMES-Very Good! Worth Spending Your Money on!

Ah, the 4 flamer. This rating is for books that I really enjoyed and I would definitely spend my money on. Whether if it is a book for me or for a gift, its worth owning, but not necessarily something I would reread first. Not a waste of money, but not one I would tuck in at night like my 5 flamers. LOL

3 FLAMES-A Good Book and Read! Perfect For Rainy Days From the Library!

If a book receives 3 flames then it means that it was a book that I enjoyed, but not enough to run out and spend what little money I do have. This is one that I would recommend borrowing from the Library and get a feel of the author's work before purchasing this book.

2 FLAMES-A Decent Read. Has Some Drawbacks Though.

If a book gets 2 flames then be wary of it. I hate using 2 flames because it means there were a lot of draw backs to it that I didn't like. These are books that I had to force myself to finish reading just because I am stubborn and want to see the ending after all.

1 FLAME- DNF:I did not enjoy this book.

If you see this rating, run, don't walk to get away from this book. LOL. This means there were so many problems with this book that I couldn't even finish it all the way. This rarely happens for me. Sometimes it does and I want to warn others about it.

I hope this clears some things up. I value everyones opinion on books. Please though, if there is a book you have been wanting to read, and my rating scares you from reading it, DON"T LET IT! This is only my opinion of a book. Yours might be completely different! If anyone has any ideas on making my rating system better just let me know!

STEPMONSTER by Wednesday Martin, Ph.D

STEPMONSTER
Author: Wednesday Martin, Ph.D.
Special Thanks to: FSB Associates

• Hardcover: 336 pages
• Publisher: Houghton Mifflin Harcourt (May 4, 2009)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0618758194
• ISBN-13: 978-0618758197

SYNOPSIS:
A groundbreaking and truly stepmother-centered way of understanding the tensions that seem to define relations between women and their stepchildren Half of all women in the United States will live with or marry a man with children. And what woman with stepchildren has not—in order to defuse the often overwhelming challenges of the role—referred to herself as a "stepmonster"? As Hope Edelman does in her book for motherless daughters, Wednesday Martin’s empowering and original Stepmonster unlocks the emotional mysteries of why stepmothers think and feel and act the way they do. Martin draws upon her own experience as a stepmother, interviews with other stepmothers and stepchildren, and fascinating insights from literature, anthropology, psychology, and evolutionary biology to reveal the little-understood realities of this most demanding role. Stepmonster illuminates the harrowing process of becoming a stepmother, considers the myths and realities of being married to a man with children, counteracts the cultural notion that stepmothers are solely responsible for the challenges they encounter, identifies the "Five Step-Dilemmas That Create Conflict," and considers the emotional and social challenges men with children face when they remarry. Finally, in an unexpected twist, Martin shows why the myth of the Wicked Stepmother is our single best tool for understanding who real stepmothers are and how they feel.

MY TAKE:
I wanted to read this book because I am a stepmother. I have 3 daughters of my own, but my husband had a son from a previous marriage. Being a stepmother is different than being a mom. We constantly feel like it is a competition for love and understanding with the child. Are we doing this right? Does the child love me? Are we suppose to discipline the child or leave it to the real mom? These are questions I needed answers to. In this book we don't only get to see the "how to" at being a stepmom but the steps needed to feel complete with the child. A wonderfully written book for a stepmom!

MY RATING:

Outstanding Book That Will Stay On My Bookshelf
For Rereading!

REDEFINING BEAUTIFUL by Jenna Lucado

REDEFINING BEAUTIFUL
Author: Jenna Lucado
Special Thanks to: Thomas Nelson Books

• Reading level: Young Adult
  
• Paperback: 240 pages
• Publisher: Thomas Nelson (September 15, 2009)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 1400314283
• ISBN-13: 978-1400314287

SYNOPSIS:

Not feeling very beautiful? Learn what beauty is from God's perspective.

Revolve speaker Jenna Lucado has teamed up with her dad, Max Lucado, to bring girls a fresh perspective on what they need to live a life of peace, joy, and confidence. What does God see when He looks at them? And how does a girl catch that vision?

Jenna reveals life accessories that are essential, and which single accessory is a real must-have to give teens a look they love-a look that says they are comfortable with who they are and secure and confident. What's the all-important accessory? Love from a father. But what happens when there is no loving father in sight, no daddy to tell them they are beautiful?

Through conversational "girl time" Jenna reveals that when we look to God as our Father, He can change our focus, our look, and our lives. With affirmation from Max, Redefining Beautiful will change the way girls look at God, themselves, and the people around them.

MY TAKE:
This was a read that hit close to home for me. I was always considered nerd girl, or four eyes in school. We all hate something about ourselves that we think defines us. For me, looking in the mirror was one of those horrible morning rituals that I did not look forward to while growing up. Now that I have read this book, I look at myself in the mirror and find myself finding the positive in myself. We don't all have to be the same in the looks department. We are each unique and what we think is ugly in ourselves, others find it as a beauty they love to look at. I am glad I had the chance to read and review this book. I am giving it to my daughter as she struggles with the teen years and as she tries to find her style. Yes, she has the all black going on and I have learned that it's okay to let her do it. It's what defines her. This is a wonderful read for teens going through the struggles of finding their style and self.

MY RATING:



Very Good! Worth Spending Your Money on!



At first this book had a 3 flame rating. But as J. Kaye pointed out in my comment section, I did really enjoy this book. So the more I thought about it, she was right. It really did deserve at least the 4 flame rating. Just because it is one I wouldn't normally buy, but one that did touch close to home and gave me a warm feeling.

Tuesday TBR Tackle

Tuesday TBR Tackle

Tuesday TBR Tackle is a meme I am starting for everyone who has a To-Be-Read pile that is out of control. I currently have a TBR pile of over 300 books. This pile doesn't include review books that I have received. These are just books I have picked up from yard sales, thrift stores or book stores. To help me get my pile down, I decided to start a weekly meme.

Now personally, I can read on average 2 books a day if the kids do not interrupt me too much. For this meme, your challenge should be to pick at least one book from your TBR pile, read it, review it and post it on your blog with a link referring back to me!

If you feel like leaving your link to your TBR Tackle, just leave a comment on the Tuesday post.

Q&A with author Shayla Black

Today I have another wonderful author to share a Questions & Answer post with. Please welcome Shayla Black to My Overstuffed Bookshelf. Let's get started!


To start off, welcome and can you tell the readers a little about yourself?

Shayla Black is the national bestselling author of 25+ sizzling contemporary, erotic, paranormal, and historical romances for multiple print and electronic publishers. She lives in Texas with her husband, munchkin, and one very spoiled cat. In her “free” time, she enjoys reality TV, reading and listening to an eclectic blend of music.

Shayla has won or placed in over a dozen writing contests, including Passionate Ink’s Passionate Plume, Colorado Romance Writers Award of Excellence, and the National Reader’s Choice Awards. Romantic Times has awarded her Top Picks, a KISS Hero Award and a nomination for Best Erotic Romance of 2007.

A writing risk-taker, Shayla enjoys tackling writing challenges with every book.

Can you tell us a little about your new and/or current releases?

The second book in my Doomsday Brethren paranormal romance series, SEDUCE ME IN SHADOW, just released.

Here’s a blurb:

Ex-Marine Caden MacTavish has shunned his magical heritage all his life, but he will do anything to heal his desperately ill brother, a Doomsday Brethren warrior in mourning for his missing mate. Posing as a photographer, Caden must convince firecracker tabloid reporter Sydney Blair to reveal the source of her recent exposé on a supernatural power clash. Unfortunately, keeping his hands off the sizzling redhead proves as hard as getting them onto the potent and mystical Doomsday Diary he discovers at her bedside. A bloody rebellion led by an evil, power-hungry wizard is imminent. If Sydney divulges the book’s existence, she will jeopardize magickind’s most deeply guarded secrets and become the ruthless wizard’s number one target. Caden has never trusted magic’s cruel and dangerous powers, but he will protect Sydney with his life and magic—even if it means risking his heart.

Book 3 in the series, POSSESS ME AT MIDNIGHT, releases October 27.

How did you decide what to write?

I’ve had the idea for this series since 1996 and have piecing it together in my head for years. When Pocket Books bought the first, TEMPT ME WITH DARKNESS, and it released in fall 2008, I was just itching to continue the series. I love all these guys. Despite the fact they’re magical, they have very human problems, and writing about them is a blast for me.

When your not writing what kind of books do you like to read? Do you have any favorite authors, that are must reads?

I read a lot of romance, a few selections of general fiction and some non-fiction. I don’t have favorite authors, per se. I do have some treasured reads from a lot of different authors, however.

What are 3 things that are "must haves" for you when you sit down to write a new book?

My completed storyboard, which outlines every scene of the book, a clear vision of the emotional flow and characters, great music indicative of the mood I want to convey.

What are Your favorite thing to do in your downtime?

Of course, I love to read. I also enjoy reality TV. It’s my guilty pleasure… We play a fair amount of Guitar Hero and Rock Band at my house as well.

Where can we purchase your books?

Doomsday Brethren series at Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/gp/series/94992/ref=pd_serl_books?ie=UTF8&edition=mass%5Fmarket SEDUCE ME IN SHADOW should also be available currently at most Borders, Barnes & Noble, and Books-A-Million locations, as well as many WalMarts.

Do you have a blog or website that your readers can keep up with you and your books?

Both—and more: Shayla site: http://www.shaylablack.com/bookshelf/
Blog: http://www.shelleybradley.com/blog/
Doomsday Brethren site: http://doomsdaybrethren.com/ MySpace: http://www.myspace.com/shelleybradley
Facebook fan page: http://www.facebook.com/pages/Shayla-BlackShelley-Bradley/132991689785
Doomsday Brethren Facebook page: http://www.facebook.com/home.php?#/group.php?gid=119626782686&ref=ts

If you do a book after Delicious, you can use Amy as the main female character...

The book after DELICIOUS will be titles SURRENDER TO ME, which features Hunter Edgington. I’ll keep Amy on the short list of heroine names. LOL!


Thank you so much for doing a Q&A Shayla! I look forward to reading more of your books!

Another New Moon Clip

Can Summit please quit teasing all of us with little snippets now? Can't they just move up the release date!!! This comes out right before my birthday, so I know my hubby will be taking me, but I am getting anxious for it to hurry and get here! Below is a small clip that you might enjoy.

Things That Make You Go Hmmmm....

I got these in an email and thought I would share them with everyone. Thought they might bring a laugh to your Monday morning!

THE DARKEST WHISPER by Gena Showalter

THE DARKEST WHISPER
Author: Gena Showalter

• Mass Market Paperback: 416 pages
• Publisher: HQN Books (August 25, 2009)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0373773927
• ISBN-13: 978-0373773923

SYNOPSIS:
Bound by the demon of Doubt, Sabin unintentionally destroys even the most confident of lovers. So the immortal warrior spends his time on the battlefield instead of the bedroom, victory his only concern...until he meets Gwendolyn the Timid. One taste of the beautiful redhead, and he craves more. Gwen, an immortal herself, always thought she'd fall for a kind human who wouldn't rouse her darker side. But when Sabin frees her from prison, battling their enemies for the claim to Pandora's box turns out to be nothing compared to the battle Sabin and Gwen will wage against love...

MY TAKE:
Oh why, oh why does Ms. Showalter make us wait so long between these books?? I am a HUGE fan of this series. I am always fascinated with how the author can take each demon and create a story with them and make it make sense! Sabin was one of my favorite characters and I was so happy that he finally got his turn to share his story of love and action with us! I wish we could just make the author release a new one each month. After the dry spell since the 3rd book, it was kinda difficult to remember some details. I almost had to reread the series since it took so long for this one to come out. This is number 4 in the series, so I recommend you read the first 3 before reading this one. The author writes them so well that I can't even pick a favorite out of this series. Another winner by author Gena Showalter!

MY RATING:

Outstanding Book! A definite favorite!

New giveaway contest!

CONTEST IS NOW CLOSED****THANK YOU!
Courtesy of Harlequin I have four (4) copies of Branded by the Sheriff up for grabs. You must be a follower to enter.

SYNOPSIS:
EVERY ONE IN TOWN WANTED HER GONE.
HE WANTED TO KEEP HER AND HER BABY SAFE.

Years ago, Sheriff Beck Tanner had believed the worst about Faith Matthews. Now she was back in their small Texas town, forcing him to question everything he thought he knew about her. And when the killer who'd murdered her family set his sights on Faith - and her innocent baby girl - Beck's protective instincts kicked into high gear.

As dangerous pranks turned into deadly games, Beck needed Faith to trust him with the secrets of her past. And with a sadistic killer circling closer, all of Beck's attention had to be on keeping her baby safe.and ignoring his inconvenient attraction to the beautiful mother..

Giveaway is open to all followers. Just leave a comment and an email address. I would love it if you blurb about my contest on your blog with a link back here, but it is not necessary. Good Luck!
You have until Wed. Oct. 21rst to enter.

I need help....lol

I want to revamp my blog. No I don't mean I want vampires all over it. I found the perfect picture to base my blog design with. My problem is I know nothing about blog designing! I want three columns with cool features like everyone else darn it! LOL...So, as I was saying I found the perfect picture to design it around and it fits perfectly with the name of my blog. Here is the picture:



See?! It fits my blog name perfectly! I want the 3 columns, the cute little links under the header, all the bells and whistles. I am so computer dumb though that I won't even attempt it. Anyone else as dumb as me at this stuff??

Wacky Wednesday Pic!

I found this on the internet yesterday and I knew I just had to share this with everyone! We could all use a laugh during the middle of the week!
Enjoy!

Giveaway Winner!

DEMON IN MY VIEW

Thank you to all who entered my contest/giveaway for this book. I entered everyone entered into Random.Org and the the winner is:

I Heart Book Gossip

Congratulations! Be sure to send me your mailing info within 48 hours, or I will have to pick a new winner. I will be having a new contest up soon and I welcome you all to enter it!

JORDAN by Lori Foster

JORDAN
Author: Lori Foster

• Mass Market Paperback: 224 pages
• Publisher: Harlequin (March 13, 2007)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0373198612
• ISBN-13: 978-0373198610

SYNOPSIS:
Jordan Sommerville was a healer of helpless animals, rescuer of strays, a man who could seduce a woman with his voice alone. Yet he

didn't use that power often. His brothers kidded that he was holding out for a paragon of virtue and not many in Buckhorn qualified. But then he met Georgia, and broke all his own rules.

Georgia Barnes supported herself and her kids as a dancer—an exotic dancer. If Jordan Sommerville didn't like it, he could take a hike. So what if he was the most caring, gentle, desirable man she'd ever known—he was still a man like all the rest. Surely he couldn't be as perfect as he looked—or could he?

MY TAKE:

I so needed a break from paranormal books for the moment. Off I went to the library and found this book. A true romance novel! Hot male? Check. Needy female? Check. Romance? Check. What really caught my attention in this book is the actual romantic story. It was a story that captured true characters that you would see in everyday life. Georgia was a single mom of 2 small children with her mom living with her who is sick. She worked as a dancer at a bar to make ends meet. Jordan was a well respected, single male of the town, and of course as in all romance novels, sexy to boot! He was even a Veterinarian. He falls in love with Georgia as soon as he meets her, and likewise when she meets him. She struggles with depending on a man to take care of her family and he struggles with wanting to be a family man instead of staying a bachelor. Typical romance and just what I needed. There are a few steamy scenes, but I like those. Just putting it out there in case you don't like those kind of scenes. This book moved along smoothly and now I must find the rest of the books in this series.

MY RATING:

Outstanding Book! A definite favorite!

Q&A with author Tierney 'O Malley

Today I am excited to have Tierney'O Malley, author of Wicked Proposal, as my guest on my blog today! She was kind enough to do a Questions and Answer seesion with me so let's welcome her to My Overstuffed Bookshelf! Let's get started!

Can you tell us a little about your new and/or current releases?

Wicked Proposal is my latest book published by eXtasy Books. If you are a Kindle user, good news! Wicked Proposal is now available on Kindle! Imagine a hero who has to resort to doing something wicked just to be with the woman he loves and a heroine who nearly lost her life trying to show her courage and surrendering herself to the hero believing his intention. That's the gist of this book. Lies, deceit, romance, hot sex, love. This book has it all! If you enjoyed reading To Trust a Wicked Man published by Cobblestone Press, you will surely enjoy this one.

When you're not writing, what kind of books do you like to read? Do you have any favorite authors that are must-reads?

I write spicy hot contemporary romance. But here is the secret- I am addicted to historical romance. LOL. I am just so addicted to the glitter of ballrooms, dashing heroes, and the courtship. Although, I don't write the genre, my contemporary stories contain the same elements. Yes, my characters aren't wearing gowns and kid slippers or cravats and Hessian boots. Instead, they wear slim boot Levi jeans, shirt or sometimes non at all, but they are just the dashing modern her and heroines struggling with their inner conflicts, getting hot and heavy in dark places, falling in love, and finding their own happy ever after ending. Books by Gaelen Foley are a must read for me!

What are 3 things that are "must haves" for you when you site down to write a new book?

1. My notebook. I always jot down notes!
2. A cup of coffee in the morning and a can of diet coke in the afternoon or at night.
3. Alarm clock. A must have so I wouldn't forget to pick-up my kids from school. :D

What are your favorite things to do in your downtime?

Read. I always have a book within my reach.

Where can we purchase your books?

Kindle, Barnes and Noble, eXtasy Books, Cobblestone Press, Mobipocket, eReader. I think there are other places where you can purchase my book. :D Soon my new books will be available for purchase from Red Rose Publishing.

Do you have a blog or website that your readers can keep up with you and your books?

Yes. My website address is http://tierneyomalley.com . I share a blog called Wicked Thorn and Roses with my fellow authors.

Thank you so much for being here! I read Wicked Proposal, and let me tell everyone, this book is HOT! HOT! HOT! You will definitely need a fan for this one. The characters come alive in this book! Tierney has the skill to make you feel like you are right there with the characters and the creativity to keep you entranced in the whole story with her writing. I easily gave this book 5 flames, not only for hotness, but for overall enjoyment of the book. Keep them coming Tierney! You have a new fan in me!

Outstanding Book! A definite favorite!